Abstract: A device (10) for distracting and supporting two substantially opposing tissue surfaces in a patient's body, to be introduced within the tissue surfaces in a minimally invasive procedure. The device comprises: a wrapping element (12); and an expandable structure (24) insertable between the two substantially opposing support surfaces of the wrapping element, adapted to be expanded between the two substantially opposing surfaces to a predetermined dimension.

Abstract: Device and method are disclosed of a plate for use in conjunction with at least another one of a plurality of other plates in a modular reconstructing and supporting assembly for reconstructing and supporting a diseased or fractured bone or within a space previously occupied by a diseased intervertebral disc of a patient. The plate is sized small enough to be suitable for separate insertion into the bone or the space, preferably through a canule, and arrangement with the other plates adjacently one on top of the other to construct scaffolding, so as to provide a supporting prosthesis. In another preferred embodiment the plate has at least two substantially opposite aspects with interlocking features designed to facilitate interlocking of adjacent plates so as to prevent or restrain their sliding off each other.

Abstract: device and method are disclosed of a plate for use in conjunction with at least another one of a plurality of other plates in a modular reconstructing and supporting assembly for reconstructing and supporting a diseased or fractured bone or within a space previously occupied by a diseased intervertebral disc of a patient. The plate is sized small enough to be suitable for separate insertion into the bone or the space, preferably through a canule, and arrangement with the other plates adjacently one on top of the other to construct scaffolding, so as to provide a supporting prosthesis.