Abstract: An implantable device comprises at least one component composed of a bioabsorbable metal. The component has desirable structural/mechanical properties upon implant, and then begins to degrade at a time after implant, and is absorbed partially or completely over time.

Abstract: Four versions of clamps originally slidable along two generally parallel spinal rods are swivel connected to three versions of transverse connectors located between the rods. Set screws lock the transverse connectors to the clamps. Two of the clamp versions use interfitting rotational index locking detents at the swivel connections to fix the final orientation of the transverse connector relative to the spinal rods. The other two clamp versions use locking tapers to lock the rotational index positions at the swivel connections to fix the final orientation of the transverse connector relative to the spinal rods. One clamp version uses a separate set screw to fix the clamp on the spinal rod. One transverse connector has an open clamping head for installation directly onto the spinal rod without sliding it onto the rod from one end or the other.

Abstract: Spinal implants with features for anchorage in or onto bone or to connectors, have a body with an upwardly opening channel receiving a spinal rod therein. The channel has sidewalls with a curved slot in each of the sidewalls. A cap is mounted on the implant body and has a central portion received in the channel and has tongues at each side of the central portion, the tongues being received in the curved slots in the sidewalls. A set screw threaded into the cap engages the spinal rod and clamps the rod between the body and the set screw and fixes the cap to the body. The curved slots enable installation of the cap in minimal space measured lengthwise of the rod. Each implant body has an integral bone screw, or bone hook, or lateral connector rod or parallel spinal rod receiving body thereon.

Abstract: An orthopedic implant retrieval kit which, when assembled, provides a shipping and handling container for explanted orthopedic devices which will protect individuals handling the container from the material in the container, and which will meet the appropriate regulations for shipping of potentially biohazardous material. The kit includes at least three plastic bags, at least two containers, a box, at least one foam insert, instructions and labels. The method involves assembling the kit components into a container for shipment.