Abstract: A surgical joint includes a first clamping member comprising a first clamping surface for engaging a first surgical rod and an attachment end. A second clamping member is mounted with respect to the first clamping member wherein the second clamping member comprises a second clamping surface for engaging a second surgical rod. A shaft is disposed through and positioned within the attachment end of the first clamping member and wherein the shaft is in communication with the second clamping member. A force providing mechanism is disposed between the first and second clamping members and disposed about the shaft wherein when the force providing mechanism and the shaft are movable with respect to each other and place the first and second clamping members in either a non-clamping position or a clamping position.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use in a surgical site includes a first surface that is positionable within or near the surgical site and has an anti-bacterial coating disposed on the surface. The anti-microbial coating includes anti-microbial particles disposed in a polymer matrix wherein the anti-microbial particles are in sufficient concentration and are positioned to provide an anti-microbial effect at the surgical site. Bacterial growth is also inhibited on the coated surface of the instrument.

Abstract: A method of performing knee-joint surgery includes positioning the tibia and the femur such that the knee-joint is disposed in a bent position. An incision is made to expose the knee-joint. A retractor support is mounted to a surgical table. The skin and flesh layers proximate the knee-joint are retracted utilizing a retractor that is attached to the retractor support which is mounted to a surgical table.