Abstract: An implant composed substantially of cortical bone is provided for use in cervical Smith-Robinson vertebral fusion procedures. The implant is derived from allograft or autograft cortical bone sources, is machined to form a symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped (e.g. a substantially “D”-shaped) implant having a canal running therethrough according to methods of this invention, and inserted into the space between adjacent cervical vertebrae to provide support and induce fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. Osteogenic, osteoinductive or osteoconductive materials may be packed into the canal of the implant to expedite vertebral fusion and to allow autologous bony ingrowth.

Abstract: An implant composed substantially of cortical bone is provided for use in cervical Smith-Robinson vertebral fusion procedures. The implant is derived from allograft or autograft cortical bone sources, is machined to form a symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped (e.g. a substantially “D”-shaped) implant having a canal running therethrough according to methods of this invention, and inserted into the space between adjacent cervical vertebrae to provide support and induce fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. Osteogenic, osteoinductive or osteoconductive materials may be packed into the canal of the implant to expedite vertebral fusion and to allow autologous bony ingrowth.

Abstract: An impression tool may be useful for patterning or creating an impression on the surface of an object. The impression tool may be comprised of a convex first end portion and second end portion affixed to a body. The ergonomics of the first end portion may facilitate easier handling of the tool by fitting snugly into the palm of the hand, as opposed to a flat surface. The convex second end portion may provide ease of use by allowing the tool to be rolled or rocked over a surface.

Abstract: An implant composed substantially of cortical bone is provided for use in cervical Smith-Robinson vertebral fusion procedures. The implant is derived from allograft or autograft cortical bone sources, is machined to form a symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped (e.g. a substantially “D”-shaped) implant having a canal running therethrough according to methods of this invention, and inserted into the space between adjacent cervical vertebrae to provide support and induce fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. Osteogenic, osteoinductive or osteoconductive materials may be packed into the canal of the implant to expedite vertebral fusion and to allow autologous bony ingrowth.

Abstract: An implant composed substantially of cortical bone is provided for use in cervical Smith-Robinson vertebral fusion procedures. The implant is derived from allograft or autograft cortical bone sources, is machined to form a symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped (e.g. a substantially “D”-shaped) implant having a canal running therethrough according to methods of this invention, and inserted into the space between adjacent cervical vertebrae to provide support and induce fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. Osteogenic, osteoinductive or osteoconductive materials may be packed into the canal of the implant to expedite vertebral fusion and to allow autologous bony ingrowth.

Abstract: An implant composed substantially of cortical bone is provided for use in cervical Smith-Robinson vertebral fusion procedures. The implant is derived from allograft or autograft cortical bone sources, is machined to form a symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped (e.g. a substantially “D”-shaped) implant having a canal running therethrough according to methods of this invention, and inserted into the space between adjacent cervical vertebrae to provide support and induce fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. Osteogenic, osteoinductive or osteoconductive materials may be packed into the canal of the implant to expedite vertebral fusion and to allow autologous bony ingrowth.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and implants for enhancing or restoring the mechanical function of collagenous tissue. Specifically exemplified is the replacement or repair of endogenous nucleus pulposus with allogenic, xenogenic, or both nucleus pulposus that has been augmented with growth factors and glycosaminoglycans, via injection into a weakened intervertebral disc. Also disclosed is an implant to restore mechanical function to a damaged vertebral column. Additionally, methods and products for augmenting the extracellular matrix and cell content of a damaged nucleus pulposus through infusion of selected stem cells and other restorative materials are disclosed. The methods and products disclosed may be adapted for use in repair of all soft or hard tissue found in association with articulating joints.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for restoring normal mechanical properties to collagenous tissue damaged as a result of the natural aging process in mammals. Accordingly, compositions are disclosed which comprises one or more thiazolium based agents capable of inhibiting and reversing non-enzymatic cross-linking of collagenous proteins, combined with one or more viscosupplement agents useful in replenishing structural and support material of a tissue or joint, which have been destroyed or damaged over time. The method comprises contacting the target tissue or joint capsule with the composition. Administration of the disclosed compounds can stop the progression of, or completely cure degenerative joint diseases.

Abstract: An implant composed substantially of cortical bone is provided for use in cervical Smith-Robinson vertebral fusion procedures. The implant is derived from allograft or autograft cortical bone sources, is machined to form a symmetrically or asymmetrically shaped (e.g. a substantially “D”-shaped) implant having a canal running therethrough according to methods of this invention, and inserted into the space between adjacent cervical vertebrae to provide support and induce fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. Osteogenic, osteoinductive or osteoconductive materials may be packed into the canal of the implant to expedite vertebral fusion and to allow autologous bony ingrowth.

Abstract: A process of applying thermal energy using a controlled regimen is described to reduce the size of biological xenograft and allograft heart and vascular tissue, particularly heart valves, which are used for implants by applying a controlled regimen of thermal energy, and the related implant products, apparatuses and systems. In a particular embodiment, a xenograft or allograft heart valve experiences size reduction and fits the size requirements of a recipient into whom the heart valve is being implanted.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are novel non-migration tissue capsules and methods of using the same. The capsules are non-allergenic and biocompatible and can be implanted into a patient in need thereof to correct any number of defects and abnormalites whether congenital or brought about by aging, surgery, and injury. Preferably, medically useful substances can be disposed on or within the subject tissue capsules whereby the medically useful substances are protected and retained at the site of need by the capsule.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are novel configurations of tissue designed for simple implementation and use in various medical applications. Specifically exemplified herein are sections of tissue shaped and provided in tape form or patch form, and kits and methods implementing the same. Alternatively, there is disclosed sections of tissue having osteogenic properties and especially adapted for use in the repair of bone defects, diseases or injuries.

Abstract: This invention provides a novel unitary bone implant having at least one rigid, mineralized bone segment, which may be machined to include threads, grooves, a driver head, perforations, a recess or a symmetric or asymmetric shape, and a flexible, demineralized segment, which may also be machined to any desired shape prior to demineralization, or after demineralization. The implant of this invention has wide orthopedic applicability, including but not limited to repair or replacement of ligaments, tendons and joints and for inducing vertebral fusions and fractured bone repair. In a particular embodiment of this invention, selective uptake of biologically active or inactive materials into the segmentally demineralized portion of the implant is disclosed.