Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling motion and physiologic load sharing across a functional spinal unit defined by a pair of adjacent vertebrae and an intervertebral disc therebetween are provided. The systems may comprise a first component for repairing or replacing a disc nucleus, without substantially disrupting the annulus. A second component may be provided for attachment to the adjacent vertebrae, the second component being configured to control movement of the vertebrae relative to one another. The first and second components may be configured to cooperate simultaneously to control motion and collectively distribute physiologic load sharing across the functional spinal unit.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling motion and physiologic load sharing across a functional spinal unit defined by a pair of adjacent vertebrae and an intervertebral disc therebetween are provided. The systems may comprise a first component for repairing or replacing a disc nucleus, without substantially disrupting the annulus. A second component may be provided for attachment to the adjacent vertebrae, the second component being configured to control movement of the vertebrae relative to one another. The first and second components may be configured to cooperate simultaneously to control motion and collectively distribute physiologic load sharing across the functional spinal unit.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling motion and physiologic load sharing across a functional spinal unit defined by a pair of adjacent vertebrae and an intervertebral disc therebetween are provided. The systems may comprise a first component for repairing or replacing a disc nucleus, without substantially disrupting the annulus. A second component may be provided for attachment to the adjacent vertebrae, the second component being configured to control movement of the vertebrae relative to one another. The first and second components may be configured to cooperate simultaneously to control motion and collectively distribute physiologic load sharing across the functional spinal unit.

Abstract: A sizing instrument for measuring a bodily joint bounded by top and bottom surfaces, such as a disc space bounded by a top vertebra and a bottom vertebra, including a jaw assembly, a handle assembly, and an indicator portion. The jaw assembly includes an upper contact pad and a lower contact pad. The upper pad is adapted to substantially rigidly engage the top surface, and the lower pad is adapted to substantially rigidly engage the bottom surface. The handle assembly is linked to the jaw assembly and is adapted to vary a distance between the upper contact pad and the lower contact pad. In turn, the indicator portion is adapted to communicate the distance between the upper contact pad and the lower contact pad.

Abstract: An implant for spinal fusion that includes a top surface and a bottom surface opposing the top surface. An anterior surface extends from the top surface to the bottom surface and a posterior surface extends from the top surface to the bottom surface. The implant includes a first end, a second end, and a means for promoting spinal fusion. The implant may further include one or more of a cavity and a trough wherein bone growth material may be backed before or after the implant is inserted into the spine.

Abstract: The disclosure provides implants, instruments and methods for bone fusion procedures. In some embodiments, the implants are particularly advantageous for use between opposing vertebral bodies to facilitate stabilization or arthrodesis of an intervertebral joint. The implants include, at least, a support component that provides structural support during fusion. In a typical embodiment, the implants also include a growth component. A growth component provides an environment conducive to new bone growth between the bones being fused. Several unique configurations to enhance fusion, instruments for insertion and methods for insertion are also disclosed.