Abstract: A diagnostic system is provided that occupies a small area, provides sensing and transmitting of various diagnostic indicia, and with the aid of a healthcare professional, diagnoses and responds to such measurements. In the context of the spine, the diagnostic system comprises a spinal implant situated between two adjacent vertebrae, an antenna for sending and/or receiving signals to and/or from a remote location, a sensor for measuring at least one diagnostic condition, an activating element that has the ability to affect the at least one diagnostic condition, a power source to provide power to the diagnostic system, and a network that electrically connects the antenna, sensor, activating element and battery source.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing assessment of a tensioned state of a flexible implant are provided. The implant includes at least one marker having a first configuration when the implant is relaxed or not tensioned in a desired manner and a second configuration when the implant is tensioned as desired.

Abstract: A bone screw and method of inserting a bone screw into a bone is disclosed. In one example, the bone screw includes a tip segment for creating a starter hole in the bone. A pilot segment is located proximally of the tip segment for creating a pilot hole in the bone after creation of the starter hole. The starter hole and pilot hole are created by a longitudinal pushing force exerted on the bone screw by the surgeon. A threaded segment is located proximally of the pilot segment for fixedly securing the bone screw in the bone by the use of a rotational force exerted on the bone screw by the surgeon. A head is located proximally of the threaded segment for allowing the bone screw to affix an implant or other soft tissue to the bone. In one embodiment the implant is a plate.

Abstract: A spinal implant including an interbody device and an anchor device. The interbody device is sized and shaped to be positioned within an intervertebral disc space between adjacent upper and lower vertebrae. The anchor device is at least partially formed of a resorbable material and is coupled to the interbody device and anchored to the upper and lower vertebrae. The anchor device is configured to temporarily secure the interbody device to the upper and lower vertebrae for a period of time sufficient to facilitate bone growth onto and/or through the interbody device and is thereafter resorbed into the body.

Abstract: Embodiments of an adjustable rasping tool for use in orthopedic medical procedures are disclosed. In certain embodiments, a body having two arms extending from a base and a tip portion on each arm is provided, with a shaft between the arms connected to a handle that is rotatably coupled to the base of the body. The shaft has an extended distal portion that contacts the tip portions of the arms. As the shaft is moved proximally (e.g. by rotating the handle in a given direction), the extended distal portion moves with respect to the tip portions and forces them apart. Methods for using embodiments of the disclosed structure are also described.