Abstract: A bone wax applicator has a cylinder magazine for storing bone wax and a piston for movement within the cylinder in response to manual activation of a trigger connected to the piston. The wax is moved out of the cylinder magazine through a tube mounted to communicate with one end of the cylinder magazine. The tube has a free end extending from the cylinder magazine with an opening at the free end. A dissector tip is attached to the free end adjacent the opening. Wax exuded from the opening is available to be spread on bleeding bone surfaces using the dissector tip.

Abstract: Apparatus and process for correcting the condition of spondylolisthesis includes a split correction instrument for moving a displaced vertebra into correct position relative to an adjacent vertebra in conjunction with a disc space spreader that does not impede the corrective movement, but does impede return of the vertebra to its displaced position. The split correction instrument and disc space spreader are used to perform preliminary steps, such as disc space spreading and cutting threads that mate with a stabilizing fusion cage, as well as spondylolisthesis correction and maintenance of the correction prior to stabilization.

Abstract: A bone wax applicator has a cylinder magazine for storing bone wax and a piston for movement within the cylinder in response to manual activation of a trigger connected to the piston. The wax is moved out of the cylinder magazine through a tube mounted to communicate with one end of the cylinder magazine. The tube has a free end extending from the cylinder magazine with an opening at the free end. A dissector tip is attached to the free end adjacent the opening. Wax exuded from the opening is available to be spread on bleeding bone surfaces using the dissector tip.

Abstract: A process is described for insertion of a prosthesis within an intradiscal space during a posterior laminectomy. The process insures proper orientation and alignment of prostheses inserted in the intradiscal space. The process also involves minimal removal of bone from the facet joint, which assures retention of the major portion of a patient's spinal column weight bearing capability.

Abstract: A disc replacement prosthesis is described which is placed within the intradiscal space vacated by a removed deteriorated disc, and which affords mobility rather than fusion between adjacent vertebral bodies. The prosthesis also protects remaining discs from deterioration by providing a shock absorbing prosthesis portion. Structure is provided that affords resistance to shear force applied to the shock absorbing portion. The prosthesis adheres initially mechanically to the vertebral bodies and adheres through arthrodesis over a period of time.

Abstract: An insertable and removable disc space spreader is provided for maintaining proper space between adjacent vertebral bodies during laminectomy procedures. In general, the disc space spreader of this invention provides a more gradual and therefore gentler entry into the intradiscal space and subsequently fewer traumas to bone and tissue contained therein than previously known spreaders. The spreader, in one embodiment, is able to form grooves in the vertebral bodies to subsequently facilitate insertion of a tang retractor used in these procedures.

Abstract: A set of bone chisels is disclosed for use in laminectomy procedures wherein portions of the lamina, facet, and pedicle have to be removed for successful performance of the surgery. The chisels are shaped for use in conjunction with a tubular nerve root retractor which also spreads or spaces vertebral bodies in accordance with some surgical procedures.

Abstract: A disc replacement prosthesis is described which is placed within the intradiscal space vacated by a removed deteriorated disc, and which affords mobility rather than fusion between adjacent vertebral bodies. The prosthesis also protects remaining discs from deterioration by providing a shock absorbing prosthesis portion. It adheres initially mechanically to the vertebral bodies and adheres through arthrodesis over a period of time.

Abstract: A hemi-laminectomy retractor attachment device adapted for use with prior art retractors. In a preferred embodiment the device includes two hook-shaped members that are joined together by a length of strong, flexible cord. The hook-shaped members are narrow enough to fit between spinal bones to brace against the spinal ligaments, and the cord is engaged with the retractor arm.