Abstract: The distal end of a flexible tip epidural catheter is stiffened by the insertion of a stress oriented plastic tubular section into the end of the interior of the catheter removed from a terminal flexible tip and then expanded into contact with the wall of the interior of the catheter interior to stiffen a section approximately the length of an epidural needle in which it is to be used.

Abstract: The present invention features new methods, apparatuses and devices for fixing adjacent bone segments, segments of a bony structure and adjacent vertebrate of a spine. The methods, apparatuses and devices utilize a new apparatus for forming a channel in a surface of the bone or bony structure segments or adjacent vertebra or a channel submerged within the bone or bony structure segments or adjacent vertebra. In more particular embodiments such apparatuses and methods including forming an arcuate channel and which channel can receive therein a curved rod or implant member, which also preferably is arcuate, and avoids the associated problems with prior cage or straight rod and screw systems. Also featured are systems, apparatuses and methods for repairing, replacing or augmenting the nucleus and/or annulus of a disc.