Abstract: An implantable sensor assembly for use during spinal fusion. The implantable sensor assembly can include a component of an implantable prosthesis and an implantable cartridge associated with the component. The implantable cartridge can include at least one sensor capable of detecting one or more kinematic measurements associated with a patient and generating sensor data, and an antenna in electrical communication with at least one sensor, wherein the antenna transmits sensor data to a receiver at a remote location.

Abstract: A locking assembly is formed of a first article (40), a second article (44), and a locking fastener (46) positioned between the two articles and made of a shape memory alloy material. The locking fastener (46) is dimensioned to have a first shape below the transformation temperature wherein the first article (40) and the second article (44) are not locked together, and a second shape above the transformation temperature wherein the first article (40) and the second article (44) are locked together by the locking fastener (46). In one form, the first article (40) has a cylindrical bore (42) therein, the second article (44) is a cylinder that fits within the bore (42), and the locking fastener (46) is a helical coil or an annular ring having a radial slot therethrough, placed between the cylinder and the wall of the bore.