Abstract: A system and method for securing an implantable medical device to an anatomical feature, such as bony structures and/or soft tissues near the spine. The system includes a tissue fixation device and a tissue fixation device delivery tool. The tissue fixation device includes at least one bone or tissue anchor and a connecting element coupled thereto. The tissue fixation device optionally includes a flexible anchoring strap for engaging the implantable medical device. The bone or tissue anchor are configured to be deployed into the anatomical feature, and the connecting element is tightened to secure the implantable medical device to the anatomical feature.

Abstract: A system and method for securing an implantable medical device to an anatomical feature, such as bony structures and/or soft tissues near the spine. The system includes a tissue fixation device and a tissue fixation device delivery tool. The tissue fixation device includes at least one bone or tissue anchor and a connecting element coupled thereto. The tissue fixation device optionally includes a flexible anchoring strap for engaging the implantable medical device. The bone or tissue anchor are configured to be deployed into the anatomical feature, and the connecting element is tightened to secure the implantable medical device to the anatomical feature.

Abstract: The present invention provides various interspinous vertebral implants and methods for using the same for dynamic stabilization of a spine. The interspinous vertebral implants of the present invention comprise a resiliently compressible body that is adapted for position between adjacent superior and inferior spinous processes, and an anchoring member that is affixed to the superior and the inferior spinous processes posterior to the resiliently compressible body. The anchoring member provides a compressive force while the resiliently compressible body provides a distraction. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the combination of the distraction and compressive forces created by interspinous vertebral implants of the present invention result in a rotational moment, which alleviates compression on the intervertebral disk.

Abstract: An interspinous vertebral implant comprises a resiliently compressible body that is adapted for position between adjacent superior and inferior spinous processes, and an anchoring member that is affixed to the superior and the inferior spinous processes posterior to the resiliently compressible body. The anchoring member provides a compressive force while the resiliently compressible body provides a distraction. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the combination of the distraction and compressive forces created by this type of interspinous vertebral implant results in a rotational moment, which alleviates compression on the intervertebral disk.

Abstract: Spinal stabilization systems and the assembly, interconnection, and use of such systems are described which provide stabilization of vertebrae in the spine. Devices and methods of the invention may be used to attach a bone engaging element such as a fastener to a spinal stabilization element such as a rod or a cord by bonding with a bonding material. A spinal stabilization system of the invention may include a fastener with a connector portion, a spinal stabilization element, and a body. The body encloses a portion of the fastener and a spinal stabilization element to create a cavity. A bonding material may be applied to the cavity to bond a portion of the fastener with a portion of the spinal stabilization element. The system may also include cap to close the cavity.

Abstract: An implant for use with the opposing facets of two adjacent vertebrae includes a facet bearing body having a cavity for receiving a filler material, and at least one fixation wing for securing the facet bearing body to at least one of the two vertebrae, wherein the facet bearing body is positionable between the opposing facets and the at least one fixation wing is fixable to at least one of the two vertebrae. The filler material may be an in situ curable polymer such as bone cement, a polyurethane or an elastomer. To stabilize the adjacent vertebrae, the facet bearing body is inserted between the opposing facets of the adjacent vertebrae. The at least one fixation wing is fixed to at least one of the two adjacent vertebrae. The filler material is injected into the cavity and allowed to harden.

Abstract: The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility attributable to a specified configuration for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a body having a lengthwise axis, an outer surface, and opposing first and second ends with an intermediate portion extending therebetween. The outer surface has one or more grooves providing the flexible member with a variable flexibility. The one or more grooves may be situated generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the body and extending around less than the outer surface of the body, and/or situated generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the body and extending around the outer surface of the body substantially directly in-between the ends.