Abstract: A spinal column retainer including a rod for positioning along a spinal column, a fastener having a first portion for screwing into a portion of the spinal column and a second portion for receiving a nut, a retainer block including a passage for receiving the rod, a threaded passage for receiving a set screw, and a transverse passage, and an angular member extending between the retainer block and the fastener. The angular member has an inner end portion captured within the retainer block, an outer end portion secured to the fastener, and a connecting portion between the end portions which forms an angular bend to offset the outer end portion from an axis of the inner end portion. The set screw forces the rod against the angular member which is forced against the retainer block, preventing movement of the components relative to one another.

Abstract: An apparatus for retaining vertebrae in a desired spatial relationship. The apparatus includes a fastener which cooperates with a connector assembly, a longitudinal member which is positionable along the spinal column at a location offset from the fastener, and a connector assembly which connects the fastener with the longitudinal member. The connector assembly includes a transverse member, a retainer block, and a set screw. The transverse member and retainer block have mating teeth. When the desired spatial relationship is achieved, the set screw is tightened thereby engaging the teeth and providing for a rigid locked assembly.

Abstract: A surgical speed wrench useful in installing spinal implant devices is provided with a thin profile and means for holding a part to be installed with a threaded fastener. The thin profile is achieved by a socket formed directly in a torque transmitting gear. The threaded fastener head is received directly in the socket and no other tool or adapter is required which would increase the profile. The holding means includes two extending arms terminating in spherical members which biasly engage a bore in the part to be installed. With the part thus held, the threaded fastener is received in the wrench socket and may be started and driven without the surgeon using his or her fingers or other instruments.

Abstract: A reduction frame according to the present invention is secured to shaft handles extending from the pedicle screws of a Vermont Spinal Fixator type implant. Shaft clamps secure two T-handles of the reduction frame to the shaft handles. A lower-rod assembly joins the two opposite T-frames by means of lower-rod clamps. The shaft clamps are provided with four degrees of freedom. The joint between the lower-rod assembly and T-handle is provided with five degrees of freedom. The lower-rod assembly and the T-handle are provided with power screw threads to allow for precise translational control. The shaft clamps and lower-rod clamps are provided with taper fit joints to allow for infinite rotational adjustment and fixture. An upper-rod assembly is also provided on the T-handles to produce rotation of the T-handles by providing means for changing the distance between the upper ends of the T-handles.

Abstract: A device for spinal fixation comprises first and second pedicle screw members, a stabilizing member, and an articulating clamp which has securing means for releasably attaching the screw members to the stabilizing member. The device includes locking means such as a clamp bolt to lock the screw members to the articulating clamp.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cervico-thoracic orthosis and method for preventing relative motion between the cervical spine and thorax of a patient. The device bears on only certain specific local areas or sites on the surface of the thorax which are part of the thorax itself and which move only minimally relative to it. The device derives no substantial support from any site on the body which is highly movable relative to the thorax. A halo ring for engaging the skull is rigidly supported by the device.