Abstract: A device for holding a surgical tool comprising a base extending along a longitudinal axis between a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is configured for engagement with a body of a patient to stabilize the device. A retaining portion is disposed at a fixed angle relative to the longitudinal axis and includes an inner surface defining a passageway configured to receive the surgical tool and hold the surgical tool at the fixed angle. A locking element is configured to apply a clamping force to the retaining element such that translation of the surgical tool is prevented in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A bone fastener system including a bone fastener having cavities for receiving locking screws traverse to a longitudinal axis. The bone fastener includes a proximal end connected to a head, a distal end and an elongated shank defining a longitudinal axis. The elongated shank has an inner surface defining an inner cavity extending from the proximal end to the distal end along the longitudinal axis. The inner cavity is configured to receive a guide wire. The system includes a first locking screw and the bone fastener further comprises a second cavity defined by an inner surface disposed at an angle transverse to the longitudinal axis configured to receive a first locking screw.

Abstract: A minimally invasive surgical system can include a cannula having a side port and an open distal end, and an expandable bone tamp. The bone tamp includes an elongate shaft coupled to an expandable element. The elongate shaft has a length adapted to align the expandable element with the side port or extend the expandable element completely beyond the distal opening of the cannula. In this manner, the cannula and bone tamp enable either directional (i.e., through the side port) or non-directional (i.e., completely outside the cannula) bone tamping.

Abstract: A minimally invasive surgical system can include a cannula having a side port and an open distal end, and an expandable bone tamp. The bone tamp includes an elongate shaft coupled to an expandable element. The elongate shaft has a length adapted to align the expandable element with the side port or extend the expandable element completely beyond the distal opening of the cannula. In this manner, the cannula and bone tamp enable either directional (i.e., through the side port) or non-directional (i.e., completely outside the cannula) bone tamping.

Abstract: Methods of fusing a facet joint that include inserting a cannula with a first end of the cannula at the facet joint and a second end positioned away from the facet joint. One or more tools may be inserted through the cannula to contact against and treat one or both vertebral members to enlarge the facet joint. An osteogenic material is then inserted into the enlarged facet joint to facilitate fusion of the first and second vertebral members.