Abstract: Devices and methods for replacing one or more spinous processes of a patient include a replacement body with a lamina portion positionable anteriorly toward the spinal canal along with a spinous process portion extending posteriorly from the lamina portion to replace a removed spinous process. Connecting elements extend from opposite sides of the body for connection to the vertebral body with anchors.

Abstract: Devices and methods for spinal stabilization include first and second anchors engageable to respective ones of first and second vertebrae and a connector assembly engageable with the anchors to provide a desired stabilization effect. The connector assembly includes a pair of bumper assemblies extending between the bone anchors and a connecting element extending through the bumper assemblies and connecting the first and second bone anchors to one another.

Abstract: Devices and methods for providing in vivo performance measurements of an orthopedic implant involve an orthopedic implant having at least two radiopaque markers associated with a movable portion of the implant. The markers are positioned at known locations and in a first known and predetermined relationship to each other. The markers provide visible references upon application of a medical imaging technique to show the relative position of the markers according to a second, changed relationship to each other after implantation of the orthopedic implant. At least one measurement of performance of the implant can be determined from the first and second relationships of the markers.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing the spine, according to which a first dampening member is compressed in response to compressive loads on the spine, and a second dampening member is compressed in response to tensile loads on the spine.

Abstract: A vertebral stabilizing device for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae includes a jacket formed of a biocompatible material and configured for implantation between the vertebrae. The jacket may be configured to encompass a hardenable material. A reaction activator may be encompassed by the jacket.

Abstract: A device and method for determining the appropriate length of rod to be placed between a first bone anchor assembly and a second bone anchor assembly in a spinal stabilization system is disclosed.

Abstract: An inter-transverse process spacer device for placement between two adjacent transverse processes, includes a spacer member with deformable first and second ends and may include a connector. The inter-transverse process spacer device may also include a flexible, fillable container for containing an injectable material that is compressible following implantation. The container is impermeable to the material it will be filled with. A structural mesh, for example, made of PET fabric and interwoven shape-memory alloy wire, provides structure for and containment of the container, as well as shape control of the inter-transverse process spacer device. The material can be injected into the container through a conduit. The inter-transverse process spacer device is sized and configured to allow for placement between adjacent transverse processes to produce a lateral force for correcting a spinal deformity. A method for correcting a spinal deformity using the inter-transverse process spacer device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A prosthetic assembly and method of implanting same, according to which a least one cross-bar is secured to the spinal column. A spacer engages the spinous process of a vertebra of the spinal column. The cross-bar is connected to the spacer via an adapter.

Abstract: An intercostal spacer device for placement between two adjacent ribs, includes a spacer member and at least one pair of arms that extend from a first end of the spacer member and at least one pair of arms that extend from a second end of the spacer member. The intercostal spacer device may also include a flexible, fillable container for containing an injectable material that is compressible following implantation. The container is impermeable to the material it will be filled with. A structural mesh, for example, made of PET fabric and interwoven shape-memory alloy wire, provides structure for and containment of the container, as well as shape control of the intercostal spacer device. The material can be injected into the container through a conduit. The intercostal spacer device is sized and configured to allow for placement into the intercostal space to produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity.

Abstract: The present application is directed to methods and devices that provide for asymmetrical movement of vertebral members. In one embodiment, first and second anchors connect the rod to the vertebral members. The rod may be fixedly connected to the first anchor, and movably connected to the second anchor. A limiting device may be positioned on one or both sides of the second anchor. The limiting device or devices control an extent of movement between the rod and the second anchor during vertebral motion. In one embodiment, the device controls an amount of flexion and extension of the vertebral members.

Abstract: A kit includes a mesh material adapted to engage a zygapophysial joint, and includes an indicator associating the kit with treatment of the zygapophysial joint.

Abstract: A surgical procedure and apparatus according to which force is applied to a member to compress the member, and the member is retained in its compressed state while it is inserted between two anatomical structures. The member is then allowed to move from its compressed state towards its original state and into engagement with the structures.

Abstract: An interspinous spacer for placement between adjacent spinous processes includes a flexible, fillable container (e.g., a bag or balloon) for containing a material that is compressible during end use, for example, silicone after curing. The container is impermeable to the material it will be filled with. A structural mesh, for example, made of PET fabric and interwoven shape-memory alloy wire, provides structure for and containment of the container, as well as shape control. The material can be injected into the container through an optional conduit, for example, a one-way valve.

Abstract: An interspinous spacer for placement between adjacent spinous processes includes a flexible, fillable container (e.g., a bag or balloon) for containing a material that is compressible during end use, for example, silicone after curing. The container is impermeable to the material it will be filled with. A fabric mesh, for example, made of PET fabric, provides structure for and containment of the container. The material can be injected into the container through an optional conduit, for example, a one-way valve.

Abstract: A spinal implant, implant control device and method of treating a spine are provided. An exemplary spinal implant can include an adjustable component and a connector in communication with the adjustable component, wherein the connector is configured for transcutaneous delivery of an agent to the adjustable component in a manner that affects a condition of the adjustable component.

Abstract: A surgical procedure according to which a member containing a material is inserted between two anatomical structures; and the member is caused to change state and expand into engagement with at least one of the structures.

Abstract: A golf putter head having a toe and heel and a ball striking face comprising a metallic core generally in the shape of the head but contained within the head, the core having toe and heel portions; weight structure located within the core proximate the toe and heel portions; and a relatively thin, non-metallic shell molded about the core and the weight structure.