Abstract: The present invention provides various methods and devices for mating spinal fixation elements, such as fixation rods, to various spinal anchoring devices, such as plates, hooks, bolts, wires, and screws. In an exemplary embodiment, an implantable spinal connector is provided having a clamp member with top and bottom portions that are connected to one another at a terminal end thereof, and that are adapted to seat a spinal fixation element there between. The top and bottom portions are preferably movable between an open position in which the top and bottom portions are spaced a distance apart from one another, and a closed position in which the portions are adapted to engage a spinal fixation element positioned there between. The connector can also include a bore extending through the top and bottom portions for receiving a locking mechanism that is effective to lock the top and bottom portions in the closed position to retain a spinal fixation element there between.

Abstract: An instrument for applying fasteners such as bioabsorbable skull rivets, having a piston coaxially received within a housing. The piston has a tip at its distal end and the housing has a distal end sized to receive the tip and also to receive a portion of on of the fasteners. A slit in the housing allows it to flex and accommodate the fastener.

Abstract: A self-centering bone drill comprises a drill bit having a proximal end and a distal end, a cutting surface at the distal end, and a first radially extending flange. A tubular housing coaxially receives the drill bit and a spring is coaxially received within the housing, and coaxially receives the drill bit. The spring is compressed between the first radially extending flange and an interior abutment surface on the housing distal of the first radially extending flange to urge the housing distally along the drill bit. A chamfered surface on a distal end of the housing engages a chamfered surface on a work piece to center the drill bit.

Abstract: A self-centering bone drill comprises a drill bit having a proximal end and a distal end, a cutting surface at the distal end, and a first radially extending flange. A tubular housing coaxially receives the drill bit and a spring is coaxially received within the housing, and coaxially receives the drill bit. The spring is compressed between the first radially extending flange and an interior abutment surface on the housing distal of the first radially extending flange to urge the housing distally along the drill bit. A chamfered surface on a distal end of the housing engages a chamfered surface on a work piece to center the drill bit.

Abstract: An instrument for applying fasteners such a bioabsorbable skull rivets, having a piston coaxially received within a housing. The piston has a tip at its distal end and the housing has a distal end sized to receive the tip and also to receive a portion of on of the fasteners. A slit in the housing allows it to flex and accommodate the fastener.