Abstract: A method and device for percutaneously mating a spinal connecting rod to spinal screws utilizing guide wires. Numerous embodiments are described whereby a connecting rod is passed over a guide wire through the skin and into the heads of spinal screws.

Abstract: A method for treating disorders of the spine by placing a stimulating electrode into the disc space. The method of treatment and means of applying the technique are given.

Abstract: An intervertebral disc replacement prosthesis for placement between a first vertebra and a second vertebra adjacent to the first vertebra. In one embodiment, the intervertebral disc replacement prosthesis includes a resilient member, which is formed from a single flat member, and three support members. The support members are housed in the resilient member that is arranged, in use, to be secured to the first and second vertebrae. The intervertebral disc prosthesis can generate a coupled motion in more than one possible direction responsive to a possible movement of at least one of the first and second vertebrae, among the resilient member, the first support member, the second support member, and the third support member.

Abstract: A method for performing percutaneous interbody preparation and placement of an interbody device is disclosed. The method includes the steps of inserting a guide mechanism into the disc space from a posterolateral orientation and then working over the guide mechanism with cannulated, self-distracting tools and implants to prepare and place the desired implant. Means for performing the percutaneous interbody preparation and implant placement procedure are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for performing percutaneous interbody preparation and placement of an interbody device is disclosed. The method includes the steps of inserting dilators into the interbody space and then working through a tube to prepare the interbody space and place an implant. Once the device is placed, the tube is removed.

Abstract: A device, or series of devices, for use in stabilizing two or more vertebrae of the spine—specifically, a wire rope which is used with pedicle screws as a dynamic spinal stabilization system, thereby allowing limited motion of the vertebrae. The system may also allow load transfer to an intervertebral bone graft or bone graft substitute.

Abstract: An intervertebral disc prosthesis for placement between a first vertebra and a second vertebra adjacent to the first vertebra. In one embodiment, the intervertebral disc prosthesis includes a resilient member, a first support member and a second support member. The first support member and the second support member are housed into the resilient member that is arranged, in use, to be secured to the first vertebra and the second vertebra, respectively. The intervertebral disc prosthesis can generate a coupled motion in more than one possible direction responsive to a possible movement of at least one of the first vertebra and the second vertebra, among the resilient member, the first support member and the second support member.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for fastening a percutaneous medical device to bone is presented, comprising an anchor which comprises an outer threaded segment and an inner cavity comprising an inner threaded segment.

Abstract: A design for a self-expanding intervertebral device is described for use in spinal stabilization. The device is designed to be collapsed into a smaller form for ease of implantation and then re-expand to a larger, final size in order to first distract and then maintain this distraction rigidly once implanted. In all forms of the device, the key design element comprises angled or rounded internal structural members to allow ease of initial deformation. Other key features include no mechanically moving parts, implant is a single piece device, and the device contains a cavity for placement of suitable additional material to augment structural strength or promote bone fusion. The device design is applicable to devices designed for placement between adjacent vertebral endplates or longer (taller) constructs spanning non-adjacent endplates.