Abstract: A tactical vest worn communication control hub has cables extending to transceivers, a headset, and PTT switches. The cables are operationally interconnected within the hub by a circuit board to enable the switches to control operation of the transceivers to receive and transmit and to convey audio signals to and from the headset. The hub is configured to be removably attached to the rear of the vest.

Abstract: A mechanism for fixing a spinal support to vertebrae includes a support member and a pedicle screw component. The support member comprises an elongated end comprising a longitudinal axis. A hook connects to the elongated end and receives the vertebrae. The hook is angled in three different planes with respect to the longitudinal axis. A connector section connects the elongated end to the hook and is angled with respect to the elongated end and comprises a thickness less than a thickness of the elongated end. The pedicle screw component comprises a fixation component anchored in the vertebrae. The fixation component comprises a socket; a screw head comprising a bulbous end that fits into the socket; and a channel that receives the elongated end. A pin causes outward expansion of the bulbous end; and a blocking mechanism is attached to the screw head and adjacent to the elongated end.

Abstract: A mechanism for fixing a spinal support to vertebrae includes a support member and a pedicle screw component. The support member comprises an elongated end comprising a longitudinal axis. A hook connects to the elongated end and receives the vertebrae. The hook is angled in three different planes with respect to the longitudinal axis. A connector section connects the elongated end to the hook and is angled with respect to the elongated end and comprises a thickness less than a thickness of the elongated end. The pedicle screw component comprises a fixation component anchored in the vertebrae. The fixation component comprises a socket; a screw head comprising a bulbous end that fits into the socket; and a channel that receives the elongated end. A pin causes outward expansion of the bulbous end; and a blocking mechanism is attached to the screw head and adjacent to the elongated end.

Abstract: Spinal implants have cooperating suture anchors. The devices include: (a) a spinal implant; and (b) at least one suture anchor comprising a threaded bone anchor holding at least one suture extending outwardly therefrom. In position, the at least one suture extends outward from the threaded bone anchor and attaches to the spinal implant while the threaded anchor is anchored in a vertebral body.

Abstract: Spinal disc and other implants include at least one flexible keel that extends substantially outwardly, typically upwardly or downwardly, beyond the primary body of the implant. Methods of fabricating elastomeric implants using a mold are also described.