Abstract: An artificial spinal disk comprises a central capsule that is configured to slide laterally within the disk space with one or more of flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the spine so as to shift an instantaneous center of rotation of the artificial disk. In one embodiment, the invention comprises an artificial spinal disk comprising a first plate having an inwardly directed surface, a second plate having an inwardly directed surface facing generally toward the inwardly directed surface of the first plate, and a central capsule with outwardly directed opposed faces that slidably mate with the inwardly directed surfaces of the first and second plates.

Abstract: A bone fixation apparatus adapted for use in spinal stabilization. The apparatus includes a threaded bone screw having a spherical head that is received in a receiver cup. The receiver cup also includes a slot or groove through which a support rod passes. A saddle is positioned in the receiver cup below the support rod and above the head of the threaded bone screw. Alignment flanges are positioned partially around an opening on the receiver cup opposite the bone screw. A cap having internal grooves corresponding to the alignment flanges mates with the receiver cup. The cap may be positioned onto the receiver cup in a first orientation and secured to the receiver cup by rotating approximately one quarter turn. A compression member is screwed into internal threads on an opening of the cup to provide pressure on the support rod, thereby fixing the rod to the receiver cup.

Abstract: A spinal fixation apparatus is configured with a pair of endpieces and an intermediate compressible portion. The compressible portion may comprise a pair of mating sliders comprising toothed arms attached to the endpieces. A gear engages the toothed arms. When the gear is rotated, the sliders bring the endpieces together, compressing the apparatus.

Abstract: A bone fixation apparatus adapted for use in spinal stabilization. The apparatus includes a threaded bone screw having a spherical head that is received in a receiver cup. The receiver cup also includes a slot or groove through which a support rod passes. A saddle is positioned in the receiver cup below the support rod and above the head of the threaded bone screw. Alignment flanges are positioned partially around an opening on the receiver cup opposite the bone screw. A cap having internal grooves corresponding to the alignment flanges mates with the receiver cup. The cap may be positioned onto the receiver cup in a first orientation and secured to the receiver cup by rotating approximately one quarter turn. A compression member is screwed into internal threads on an opening of the cup to provide pressure on the support rod, thereby fixing the rod to the receiver cup.

Abstract: A spinal fixation apparatus is configured with a pair of endpieces and an intermediate compressible portion. The compressible portion may comprise a pair of mating sliders comprising toothed arms attached to the endpieces. A gear engages the toothed arms. When the gear is rotated, the sliders bring the endpieces together, compressing the apparatus.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a spinal orthosis includes a shoulder unit comprising a left shoulder portion and a right shoulder portion, a retracting device, a first connector connected to the left shoulder portion at a first end of the first connector and connected to the retracting device at a second end of the first connector, a second connector connected to the right shoulder portion at a first end of the second connector and connected to the retracting device at a second end of the second connector, and a lumbosacral belt attached to the retracting device, the lumbosacral belt being able to be secured to a body.

Abstract: A method of treating a spinal disk according to the present invention can include inserting an alloplastic bulking agent into the spinal disk to treat the defect. The alloplastic bulking agent has a plurality of microparticles. The bulking agent results in at least one of sealing the defect, increasing a pressure of the disk, increasing a height of the disk, improving stability of the disk and improving structural integrity of the disk.

Abstract: A method of treating a ligament or tendon according to the present invention can include inserting a tissue-generating implant into the ligament or tendon to thereby treat the defect. The tissue-generating implant has a plurality of microparticles. The microparticles subsequently form a biological scaffold which operates at least as partial connective tissue in the ligament or tendon giving structural support during regrowth.

Abstract: A shield is configured for implantation over an anterior portion of a spinal column is provided. The shield comprises a sheet of material having first and second adjacent portions, wherein the first portion defines a first shield width, and wherein the second portion defines a second shield width that is wider than the first shield width. Furthermore, a method of protecting a surgical site on an anterior portion of a spine comprises placing a shield over a spinal surgical site on an anterior spinal location between at least one spinal disk space and adjacent blood vessels.

Abstract: An artificial spinal disk comprises a central capsule that is configured to slide laterally within the disk space with one or more of flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the spine so as to shift an instantaneous center of rotation of the artificial disk. In one embodiment, the invention comprises an artificial spinal disk comprising a first plate having an inwardly directed surface, a second plate having an inwardly directed surface facing generally toward the inwardly directed surface of the first plate, and a central capsule with outwardly directed opposed faces that slidably mate with the inwardly directed surfaces of the first and second plates.

Abstract: Spinal implants with extending spikes include spikes with laterally extending projections that may form barbs. Several different spike driver mechanisms are also provided. In one embodiment, sliding wedge spike drivers are used. In another embodiment, threaded rotating spike drivers are used. Gear driven spikes may also be provided in some embodiments. Worm gear trains and rack and pinion gear trains may be used to extend the spikes.

Abstract: Minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques include expanding an incision with an expanding cannula, inserting a retractor for retracting a nerve root, and inserting a thermal probe for repairing the annulus. A light absorbing dye may be applied to the annulus for localized heating.

Abstract: A biocompatible protection device and method of utilizing the device in conjunction with bone morphogenic protein is disclosed to inhibit the postoperative formation bone outside of an intended location. The device comprises a seal contoured to a posterior lateral vertebral cavity to inhibit migration of the bone morphogenic protein from the cavity.

Abstract: A spinal fixation apparatus is configured with a pair of endpieces and an intermediate compressible portion. The compressible portion may comprise a pair of mating sliders comprising toothed arms attached to the endpieces. A gear engages the toothed arms. When the gear is rotated, the sliders bring the endpieces together, compressing the apparatus.

Abstract: A fetal communication device includes a wireless microphone for transmitting audio signals to be communicated to the baby. The communication device includes a rigid housing adapted for a comfortable fit to the mothers abdomen. The communication device also includes a timer and sound level monitor to help prevent undesired volume levels and durations of stimulation.

Abstract: A bone fixation apparatus adapted for use in spinal stabilization. The apparatus includes a threaded bone screw having a spherical head that is received in a receiver cup. The receiver cup also includes a slot or groove through which a support rod passes. A saddle is positioned in the receiver cup below the support rod and above the head of the threaded bone screw. Alignment flanges are positioned partially around an opening on the receiver cup opposite the bone screw. A cap having internal grooves corresponding to the alignment flanges mates with the receiver cup. The cap may be positioned onto the receiver cup in a first orientation and secured to the receiver cup by rotating approximately one quarter turn. A compression member is screwed into internal threads on an opening of the cup to provide pressure on the support rod, thereby fixing the rod to the receiver cup.

Abstract: Minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques include expanding an incision with an expanding cannula, inserting a retractor for retracting a nerve root, and inserting a thermal probe for repairing the annulus. A light absorbing dye may be applied to the annulus for localized heating.

Abstract: A spinal protection device is provided which minimizes the formation of post-operative adhesions. The protection device may comprise a fenestrated shield, and may be positioned such that contact between the shield and the spinal dura is substantially avoided.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for selectively applying electrical energy to a fissure or tear location within an invertebral disc. The present invention applies high frequency (RF) electrical energy to one or more active electrodes in the presence of electrically conductive fluid to heat and seal a fissure on an annulus fibrosus. In one aspect of the invention, a method is provided for treating the fissure by applying sufficient electrical energy to the disc tissue to seal the fissure. In one embodiment, the RF energy is directed through the conductive fluid to heat the tissue immediately surrounding the fissure. The RF energy is sufficient to vaporize at least a portion of the fluid in contact with the active electrode. In another embodiment, the electrical current is directed through the tissue to directly heat the annulus tissue. This causes the annulus tissue to contract and seal the fissure. In a specific configuration, a sealant is added to the fissure to enhance the seal.

Abstract: A spinal protection device is provided which minimizes the formation of post-operative adhesions. The protection device may comprise a fenestrated shield, and may be positioned such that contact between the shield and the spinal dura is substantially avoided.