Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for implanting an orthopedic device between skeletal segments, such as vertebrae, using limited surgical dissection. The implanted devices are used to adjust and maintain the spatial relationships of adjacent bones. The implanted device can be, for example, an artificial disc, a fusion cage or any other appropriate device for implantation between skeletal segments.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bone fusion cage that contains bone graft and is implanted between bones in a skeletal system. The cage bears structural loads that are transmitted through the bones of the skeletal system and at least partially shields the contained bone graft from the structural loads. The cage is configured to provide a secondary load to the bone graft independent of the structural load to promote fusion of the bone graft to adjacent bones.

Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-axial occipito-cervical connection system that enables an occipital rod to be coupled to a cervical rod in a manner that permits multi-axial, relative movement between the two rods about a predetermined location, such as the heads of the rods. The system includes a locking mechanism that can be actuated to lock the relative positions of the rods. The rods can provide an interconnection between one or more attachments on the skull (such as an occipital attachment) and one or more attachments to the spine (such as spine screws).

Abstract: Disclosed is a modular bone distraction screw and a plate-based bone fixation device. While they may be used in any skeletal region, these devices are well adapted for use in the spine. A plate has adjustable length and can accommodate bone settling. The method of use for each device is described and illustrated herein.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing an electronic commerce environment for leveraging orders from a plurality of customers. Specifically, the apparatus and method is designed to provide an electronic commerce environment for aggregating orders from a plurality of customers, where the savings associated with the winning bid for such large aggregate order are, in turn, awarded to the customers in accordance with the size of their respective orders.