Abstract: A device and method of correcting a spinal defect in a patient employs the use of shape memory material in a spinal correction device. The shape memory material may be transitioned between a flexible martensitic state to allow shaping of the spinal correction device and a rigid austenitic state to apply corrective forces to the spine. The shape memory material may be transitioned to the flexible martensitic by applying a coolant, such as cold gas, directly or indirectly to the shape memory material to transfer heat away from the material. The cooling device and method may allow for in-vivo shaping of the spinal correction device while inserted in the body and attached to bone anchors by cooling the spinal correction device after insertion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device (10) suitable for insertion between vertebral portions and having a first, collapsed, position and a second, extended, position, wherein the device comprises upper and lower supports (18, 20) and side supports (22, 24) pivotally connected thereto and in which one of said side supports includes a reaction surface (34) against which, in operation, an actuation member (36) acts so as to cause opening of said device. The device may be used as an implant or prosthesis or as a tool for compacting diseased bone material. The medical methods of using the device are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical device for positioning bone elements, in particular vertebrae, relative to each other, comprising at least one assembly built up of two or more anchoring elements, which can each be implanted in a bone element with a first end thereof, as well as an elongated connecting element, which can be connected to the other ends of the anchoring elements projecting from the bone element in question. The object of the invention is to provide an improved medical device as referred to in the introduction, placement of which requires a simpler procedure and thus less drastic surgery, which is less burdening for the patient, therefore.