Abstract: A system and method for correcting the optical response of an OCT system is presented. The system and method characterize the optical response of the OCT system to determine an optical loss of the OCT system as a function of wavelength. The optical loss corresponds to a reduction in the magnitude of electromagnetic radiation leaving an interferometer of the OCT system compared to the electromagnetic radiation entering the interferometer. The optical loss of the OCT system may be determined by generating output signals using the OCT system when the system does not contain a sample or contains an electromagnetic radiation absorbing material. A controller may control the source to pre-emphasize the electromagnetic radiation to correct for the optical response of the OCT system.

Abstract: An orthopedic fixation device and method for correction and fixation of the vertebrae to facilitate an anatomically correct fusion is provided. The orthopedic fixation device includes an elongated plate including at least one fastener opening, at least two cup shaped washers mounted to the plate, and an anchor mounted to each washer, wherein each cup shaped washer slides on a track that extends along each fastener opening and wherein each cup shaped washer includes a top flange that is captured within the track that allows it to slide.

Abstract: Bone hooks for use in a spinal fixation system are provided. A device of the invention includes a head portion that can engage a spinal rod of a spinal fixation system, and a hook portion that can be positioned on and/or around a portion of a vertebra. In one embodiment of the invention, the hook portion is adjustably movable with respect to the body portion. In another embodiment, the hook portion includes an auxiliary bone engaging element that can contact a vertebra positioned with a bone receiving region of the hook portion. The auxiliary bone engaging element according to the present invention is particularly useful for maintaining the desired position of the device both during and after the implantation of a spinal fixation system.

Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods for conducting surgical procedures in a minimally invasive manner. The invention includes a guide frame for the insertion of surgical instruments with a high degree of accuracy. For example, a guide needle may be inserted into the pedicle of the spine of a patient wherein the angle in a plane transverse to the spine and in a parasagittal plane may be accurately selected. The present invention also includes apparatuses and methods for accessing screws and anchors already implanted into the spine in a minimally invasive manner. Once the screws or anchors are accessed, the apparatus and method may be used to implant various therapeutic devices, including wires, cords, etc., between the screws and anchors.

Abstract: An orthopedic fixation device and method for correction and fixation of the vertebrae to facilitate an anatomically correct fusion is provided. The orthopedic fixation device includes an elongated plate including at least one fastener opening, at least two cup shaped washers mounted to the plate, and an anchor mounted to each washer, wherein each cup shaped washer slides on a track that extends along each fastener opening and wherein each cup shaped washer includes a top flange that is captured within the track that allows it to slide.

Abstract: An orthopedic fixation device and method for correction and fixation of the vertebrae to facilitate an anatomically correct fusion is provided. The orthopedic fixation device includes an elongated plate including at least one fastener opening, at least two cup shaped washers mounted to the plate, and an anchor mounted to each washer, wherein each cup shaped washer slides on a track that extends along each fastener opening and wherein each cup shaped washer includes a top flange that is captured within the track that allows it to slide.

Abstract: An orthopedic fixation device and method for correction and fixation of the vertebrae to facilitate an anatomically correct fusion is provided. The orthopedic fixation device includes an elongated plate including at least one fastener opening, at least two cup shaped washers mounted to the plate, and an anchor mounted to each washer, wherein each cup shaped washer slides on a track that extends along each fastener opening and wherein each cup shaped washer includes a top flange that is captured within the track that allows it to slide.

Abstract: Multifunction surgical devices and methods that can be used for implanting a spinal fixation system. Surgical devices of the invention can be used for positioning a bone engaging element with respect to a component of a spinal fixation system and for attaching the bone engaging element to the component of the spinal fixation system. Generally, surgical devices of the invention include a translating member and an attachment device. The translating member can be attached to a bone engaging element implanted in a vertebra, such as a pedicle screw or hook or the like. The translating member can be driven with a driving device to translate the bone engaging element with respect to a component of a spinal fixation system such as a connector or the like. The bone engaging element can be translated to an attachment position with respect to the connector or other component. An attachment device can then be used to attach the bone engaging element to the connector with a fastener such as a nut or the like.

Abstract: Bone fixation systems for stabilizing bones such as vertebral bodies are disclosed. The fixation systems include fixation connectors that preferably are equipped with bone anchors (e.g., screws, hooks, pins or like structures) for securing the fixation connectors to bones desired to be stabilized. The fixation systems also include linking elements (e.g., rods, plates or other members) for linking the fixation connectors together to form a stabilizing construct capable of maintaining a desired spacial relationship between bones desired to be stabilized.

Abstract: An orthopedic fixation device for securing a rod to a bone is provided. The fixation device includes a receiver with two legs, a pocket defined between the legs, an anchor including a head, and a seat structure that mounts within the receiver. The seat structure includes a top seat for receiving the rod and a bottom seat for receiving the head of the anchor. The top seat includes two legs defining a pocket and first and second raised ridges that are spaced apart from one another. The legs each define a recessed portion extending between the two raised ridges.

Abstract: Temporary spinal fixation apparatuses and methods are disclosed for temporarily fixing the relative position of spinal implant assemblies until a permanent fixation position is determined. The disclosed apparatuses and methods enhance the ease of placement of spinal implant assemblies and facilitates the accuracy of positioning of the spinal vertebrae. The invention can reduce the number of steps needed to perform spinal surgery and can decrease the likelihood of post-operative complications.