Abstract: An orthopedic device is adapted to fixate the spinous processes of vertebral bones. The device includes at least one bone engagement member. When implanted, a bone engagement member is located on each side of a spinous process and adapted to forcibly abut the side of each spinous process.

Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.

Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.

Abstract: A spinal implant helps stabilize vertebrae for fusion. The implant is particularly adapted for percutaneous implantation, but may also be used with other access techniques. The implant includes first and second plates that extend through a slot in a frame. When installed, the frame extends laterally through the interspinous space, and the plates extend superiorly-inferiorly along respective lateral sides of the spinous processes. The plates are moved toward one another and relative to the slot to clamp the implant to the spinous processes. The slot may be variably sized along its length, and the plates may move into differently sized portions of the slot during the clamping process.

Abstract: A method of securing a portion of a spine is disclosed that includes preparing a first tunnel through a first spinous process and a second tunnel through a second spinous process of a spine, affixing one pair of complementary plates to each tunnel on each side of the spinous process, and affixing a rod into troughs in plates on one side of the spinous process.

Abstract: A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.

Abstract: A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlling flexion in a spinal segment of a patient include performing a spinal fusion procedure on a pair of adjacent vertebrae in the spinal segment and implanting a constraint device into the patient. Adjusting length or tension in the constraint device allows the constraint device to provide a force a force resistant to flexion of the spinal segment undergoing fusion. The constraint device also modulates loads borne by the spinal segment undergoing fusion or tissue adjacent thereto.

Abstract: A system for restricting flexion of a spinal segment in a patient comprises a constraint device having a tether structure and a compliance member coupled with the tether structure. The tether structure is adapted to be coupled with a superior spinous process and a sacrum. The system also includes an anchor member that is anchored to the sacrum. The anchor member has an attachment feature that is adapted to couple with the constraint device.

Abstract: Spinal implants include an elongated body portion dimensioned and configured for percutaneous introduction into a target interspinous process space, at which interspinous distraction and/or spinal fusion are desired. The body portion can include a threaded outer surface, or alternatively a smooth surface. The body portion can include one or more interior cavities, and can include deployable engagement members adapted and configured to move in tandem between a stowed position retracted within the interior cavity of the body portion and a deployed position extended from the interior cavity of the body for engaging adjacent spinous processes. An internal drive assembly for selectively moving the engagement members from the stowed position to the deployed position can be provided, as can a elements for locking the engagement members in a deployed position.

Abstract: Interspinous process implants are disclosed. Also disclosed are systems and kits including such implants, methods of inserting such implants, and methods of alleviating pain or discomfort associated with the spinal column.

Abstract: Orthopedic implant and methods of implantation for fixing adjacent bones. In one embodiment, the implant includes a locking mechanism that is adapted to be advanced by a locking instrument, wherein advancement of the locking mechanism in a first direction produces rotation of a first rigid abutment surface of the implant from a first orientation to a second orientation, and continued advancement of the locking mechanism produces advancement of the first rigid abutment surface towards a second rigid abutment surface of the implant. The continued advancement may also place a compressive load onto the implant sufficient to immobilize the implant relative to a first bony surface and a second bony surface.

Abstract: A conical interspinous apparatus includes a distractor comprising an insertion portion and a central engagement groove, the insertion portion having a conical shape which tapers to a tip and is adapted to enable passage of the distractor between two spinous processes of vertebrae, and the central engagement groove is adapted to secure the distractor between the two spinous processes such that the two spinous processes rest in the central engagement groove. The conical interspinous apparatus includes a stabilizer which is adapted to be deployed from within the distractor to secure the two spinous processes within the central engagement groove and an insertion driver detachably coupled to a rear portion of the distractor. A guide wire, having a pointed tip, aids in the insertion of the distractor between the two spinous processes and is configured to guide the insertion of the distractor.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system may include a pair of structural members coupled to at least a portion of a human vertebra with connectors. Connectors may couple structural members to spinous processes. Some embodiments of a spinal stabilization system may include fasteners that couple structural members to vertebrae. In some embodiments, a spinal stabilization system, provides three points of fixation for a single vertebral level. A fastener may fixate a facet joint between adjacent vertebrae and couple a stabilization structural member to a vertebra. Connectors may couple the structural members to the spinous processes of the vertebrae. Use of a spinal stabilization system may improve the stability of a weakened or damaged portion of a spine. When used in conjunction with an implant or other device, the spinal stabilization system may immobilize vertebrae and allow for fusion of the implant or other device with vertebrae.

Abstract: Spinous process implants and methods relate to a spinal implant with two plates that are connected together by a post. The implant is configured for each plate to be positioned on outer lateral sides of spinous processes with the post extending through the interspinous space. The second of the two plates includes a bore that receives the post, and that plate is movable along the length of the post, and selectively lockable in position. A guide is removably attached to the distal end of the post and acts to guide the placement of the second plate during assembly, particularly assembly in situ during surgery. The guide is advantageously flexible, or at least more flexible than the post, so that the guide may be routed conveniently during surgery. The guide is removable from the distal end of the post after assembly, prior to closing the surgical site.

Abstract: Devices and methods for spinous process implants with two plates that are connected together by a post, with each plate configured to be positioned on outer lateral sides of spinous processes with the post extending through the interspinous space. The second of the two plates includes a bore that receives the post, and that plate is movable along the length of the post to accommodate different anatomies, and selectively lockable in position. The post includes external gear teeth. A tool with a drive gear is used to releasably gearingly engage the gear teeth of the post and drive the second plate toward the first plate. When the plates are in their desired locations, the second plate is locked in position and the surgical tool may be removed.

Abstract: A spinous process device has a first plate and a second plate that are connected by an arm. The first and second plates have contact surfaces that face each other, so a spinous process can be clamped between the contact surfaces. The second plate is adjustable, so the angle and distance of the second plate relative to the first plate can be varied and set as desired.

Abstract: A spinal implant with two plates that are connected together by a post, with the plates configured to be positioned on outer lateral sides of spinous processes with the post extending through the interspinous space. The second of the two plates includes a bore that receives the post, and that plate is movable along the length of the post, and selectively lockable in position. A gear nut is threadable on a distal section of the post and includes external gear teeth that are used to drive the gear nut so as to move the second plate toward the first plate. When the plates are in their desired locations, the second plate is locked in position. The gear nut may or may not then be removed. The use of the gear nut facilitates one or more of assembly, insertion, and affixation of the spinal implant. Related methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides spinous process implants and associated methods. In one aspect of the invention, the implant includes at least one extension with a first part and a second part where at least one arm is coupled to each of the first part and the second part. The first part and the second part are movable from a compact to a distracted state. In another aspect, the present invention provides a second extension that is slidingly coupled to the first and second arms. The second extension further comprises a third part and a fourth part that move with the first and second part.

Abstract: A system for gripping spinous processes, includes a first plate (1) and a second plate (20), which are installed face to face, and a shaft (3), which is installed approximately perpendicularly with respect to the two plates and passes at least partially through one of them, the plates including an inner face and an outer face, a surface of the inner face of the plates is provided with raised roughening features (6), the first plate is movable relative to the second plate, the first plate is fixed in translation with respect to the shaft, and the shaft and the second plate form a non-return pawl mechanism including a series of notches that cooperate with the non-return pawl mechanism such that the movement of the plates toward each other is irreversible without external aid, whereby spinous processes can be effectively gripped between the two plates.

Abstract: A spinal implant system for restricting flexion of a spine includes an elongate band proportioned to engage at least two spinous processes. During use, the band is positioned engaging the spinous processes at a spinal segment of interest, where it restricts flexion at the segment. The length and tension of the band may be adjustable following to implantation using percutaneous or transcutaneous means.

Abstract: Described herein are methods, devices and systems for performing an interspinous fusion, in particular for performing an interspinous fusion unilaterally. In general an interspinous fusion system may include a first fixation plate configured to couple to a first lateral side of a spinous process, a rod extending from the first fixation plate at a joint such that the rod is pivotable with respect to the first fixation plate, and a second fixation plate configured to couple to a second lateral side of a spinous process opposite from the first fixation plate.

Abstract: A device useful for spinous process decompression includes a pair of prongs which can be moved apart from each other by rotation of a gear which mates with a threaded rod.

Abstract: An implantable spacer for placement between adjacent spinous processes in a spinal motion segment is provided. The spacer includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and passageway. A first arm and a second arm are connected to the body. Each arm has a pair of extensions and a saddle defining a U-shaped configuration for seating a spinous process therein. Each arm has a proximal earning surface and is capable of rotation with respect to the body. An actuator assembly is disposed inside the passageway and connected to the body. When advanced, a threaded shaft of the actuator assembly contacts the earning surfaces of arms to rotate them from an undeployed configuration to a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the distracted adjacent spinous processes are seated in the U-shaped portion of the arms.

Abstract: A spinal implant that includes plates and at least one connector for attachment to spinous processes. The plates may be sized to extend along opposing lateral sides of spinous processes. Connectors may be attached to the plates and extend across the spinous processes. Each of the connectors may be sized and shaped to extend over and across a spinous process and connect the opposing plates together. The connectors may be constructed from a shape-memory material to facilitate attachment with the plates and attachment of the assembly to the spinous processes.

Abstract: An implant system for imparting vibratory massage to tissue of a patient from within the body of the patient is disclosed. The system comprises an implant device configured to produce and communicate a vibration to body tissue located adjacent to the implant device. The device may include a case forming at least a portion of an exterior of the device, and a vibration generator configured to vibrate the portion of the exterior. The device may include a power supply to supply power to the vibration generator and a switch to selectively permit power from the power supply to be supplied to the vibration generator. The device may include a power receiver to receive electrical energy from a location external to the body of the patient and a signal receiver to receive signals from a location external to the body of the patient when the receiver is located in the body of the patient.

Abstract: An interspinous spacer having a memory metal extension.

Abstract: Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a first wing, a spacer extending from the first wing, and a distraction guide. The distraction guide is arranged in a first configuration to pierce and/or distract tissue associated with adjacent spinous processes extending from vertebrae of a targeted motion segment. The implant can be positioned between the adjacent spinous processes and once positioned, the implant can be arranged in a second configuration. When arranged in a second configuration, the distraction guide can act as a second wing. The first wing and the second wing can limit or block movement of the implant along a longitudinal axis of the implant.

Abstract: An orthopedic device includes a first patient-specific element having a first patient-specific surface preoperatively configured to mate and conform to a first anatomic portion of a specific patient based on medical scans of the patient. The orthopedic device includes a second patient-specific element having a second patient-specific surface preoperatively configured to mate and conform to a second anatomic portion of a specific patient based on medical scans of the patient. An arcuate bridge couples the first and second patient-specific portions. The arcuate bridge is configured to provide clearance the patient's anatomy between the first and second anatomic portions.

Abstract: Multiple implants and methods for the minimally invasive treatment of spinal stenosis are disclosed. A spinal implant device includes a spacer region and an attachment region. The spacer region is adapted to be positioned between first and second spinous processes of first and second vertebral bodies to limit movement of the first spinous process and the second spinous process toward one another. The attachment region attaches to the first spinous process via a fastener that extends substantially along a long axis of the spinous process.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implant that can be located between adjacent spinous processes of two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column in order to separate adjacent vertebrae from each other, where the implant displays four projections and can be located in a stabilizing position in which two projections can be located on opposite sides of the vertebral column and where, on each side, one of the two projections can be located along the vertebral column, laterally to an upper and a lower vertebra.

Abstract: Provided herein are systems, devices and methods for the correction of spinal deformities with the use one or more implantable rods configured to apply a corrective force to the spine. Methods of minimally invasive implantation of a corrective system are provided, such as where the corrective system is attached only to the spinous process of one or more vertebral bodies. Various corrective systems as well as components thereof are also provided.

Abstract: An implantable spinous process fixation device includes a first plate component having an elongated plate and front and back cross plates extending at right angle to the front and back of the elongated plate, respectively, a top pivoting plate and a bottom pivoting plate. The top and bottom pivoting plates are configured to pivot around an axis perpendicular to the front and back cross plates and the elongate plate has an inner surface facing an inner surface of the top pivoting plate and an inner surface of the bottom pivoting plate.

Abstract: A spinal implant that includes plates and at least one connector for attachment to spinous processes. The plates may be sized to extend along opposing lateral sides of spinous processes. Connectors may be attached to the plates and extend across the spinous processes. Each of the connectors may be sized and shaped to extend over and across a spinous process and connect the opposing plates together. The connectors may be constructed from a shape-memory material to facilitate attachment with the plates and attachment of the assembly to the spinous processes.

Abstract: Segmental spinous process implant systems and methods of use are provided for coupling to one or more spinal processes of a cervical, thoracic, and/or lumbar spine. Embodiments of the segmental spinous process implant system include a support member coupled to one or more offset connector. The support member extends adjacent to vertebrae of a cervical, thoracic, and/or lumbar spine. The offset connector extends from the support member between adjacent spinous processes of the spine and supports a pair of spinous process connectors that secure the implant to a spinous process of a vertebra of the spine.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and kits incorporate a fusion member for vertebral processes. The fusion member may be unitary or modular. The fusion member comprises extensions configured to be crimped to vertebral processes. The extensions may comprise tabs configured to be deformed to further penetrate the vertebral processes. The tabs may also lock together modular components of the fusion member. The fusion member may comprise fasteners extending between the extensions. The fusion member may comprise a cage with a movable cover or a graft retention feature.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space.

Abstract: A spinal implant for insertion into an intervertebral disc space for intervertebral stabilization, the implant comprising a radiolucent polymer substrate coupled to a radiopaque and osseoconductive bone securing component which provides the implant with secure fixation between adjacent vertebrae. The implant's radiolucent, radiopaque and osseointegrative properties facilitate radiographic assessment of fusion across the disc space, assessment of osseointegration between vertebral endplates and osseointegration of the spinal implant to adjacent vertebral end plates. The implant comprises an implant substrate and a securing component coupled to the implant substrate. The implant preferably comprises a radiolucent polyetheretherketone (PEEK) substrate coupled to a radiopaque Titanium (Ti) or a titanium (Ti) alloy securing component, whereby the securing component is adjacent to the vertebral endplates when the implant is inserted in the disc space.

Abstract: An interspinous process brace is disclosed and can include a superior component and an inferior component. The superior component can include a superior spinous process bracket that can engage a superior spinous process. The inferior component can include an inferior spinous process bracket that can engage an inferior spinous process. Further, the interspinous process brace can be moved between a bent configuration and a straight configuration. In the bent configuration, an overall height of the interspinous process brace can be minimized to facilitate installation between the superior spinous process and the inferior spinous process.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device includes a pair of substantially s-shaped plates, each plate having an outer surface and a bone contact surface and at least one aperture therethrough. A bolt joins the plates at a desired orientation, through the aperture. The bolt includes a head with a rounded or beveled base for facilitating fixation of the plates with a spinous processes while the plates are tilted or rotated with respect to one another and the spinal column.

Abstract: Assemblies of one or more implant structures make possible the achievement of diverse interventions involving the fusion and/or stabilization of lumbar and sacral vertebra in a non-invasive manner, with minimal incision, and without the necessitating the removing the intervertebral disc. The representative lumbar spine interventions, which can be performed on adults or children, include, but are not limited to, lumbar interbody fusion; translaminar lumbar fusion; lumbar facet fusion; trans-iliac lumbar fusion; and the stabilization of a spondylolisthesis.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space.

Abstract: The invention concerns a distance-keeping inter-process implant with a body ending in its posterior part with two opposite-situated resistance protrusions. In the anterior part of the body there are situated at least two wings, at least one of which is a mobile wing connected with the body by an articulated joint. Each wing is provided with at least one guide of the tensioning band. The articulated joint between the mobile wing and the body is formed by the mutually collaborating shaped surface of the. wing (and the shaped surface of the body and is usefully secured by the pin that constitutes the axis of rotation of the mobile wing. In an alternative version of the implementation of the implant, the mobile wing connected with the body is provided with at least one arm situated with respect to the wing at the angle ? amounting to from 30° to 150°.

Abstract: Disclosed is an implant for treating lumbar spinal canal stenosis, comprising a spacer that is proved with an elongate interior space into which an insert part can be inserted. A first retaining element is fixed in the spacer in the inserted state. Said first retaining part can be folded apart by inserting the insert part while a second rear retaining element that is molded onto the insert part simultaneously comes to rest on the vertebral processes, thus making it possible to insert the implant unilaterally while reducing the risk of having to undergo possible postoperative interventions.

Abstract: Multiple, small, staple-like supports are inserted through a small tube into the disc space then rotated into position on the edge of the vertebral bodies. The tooth-like geometry of the proximal and distal faces of these staples mates with the outer edge of the vertebral body, extending past the front of the endplate anteriorly. The staples have teeth that dig into the endplate on the inside of the rim as well.

Abstract: A system for restricting spinal flexion includes superior and inferior tether structures joined by a pair of compliance members. Compliance members comprise tension members which apply a relatively low elastic tension on the tether structures. By placing the tether structures on or over adjacent spinous processes, flexion of a spinal segment can be controlled in order to reduce pain.

Abstract: A spinal implant includes a first arm comprising a first upper portion and a first lower portion extending from a first middle portion, the first upper portion, first lower portion, and first middle portion defining a first inward facing surface; a projection extending from the first middle portion; a second arm comprising a second upper portion and a second lower portion extending from a second middle portion, the second middle portion defining a bore configured to receive the projection to enable adjustment of the second arm relative to the first arm, the second upper portion, the second lower portion, and the second middle portion defining a second inward facing surface; a plurality of first spikes extending in a generally perpendicular fashion from the first and second inward facing surfaces; and at least one second spike extending in a non-perpendicular fashion from the first and second inward facing surfaces.

Abstract: A constraining apparatus includes a constraining structure that captures a first and a second anatomical structure. A motion limiting member coupled with the constraining structure is adapted to provide a force resistant to relative movement of the first anatomical structure away from the second anatomical structure. A regulating member is detachably coupled with the motion limiting member or the constraining structure and is adapted to change the resistant force provided by the motion limiting member when the regulating member is in direct engagement with the motion limiting member or constraining structure.

Abstract: A spinal implant device immobilizes an attached vertebrae through a minimally invasive surgical approach while providing a compartment within the implant for the placement of bone graft or bone graft substitute. The bone graft material fuses the spinous processes and/or lamina portion of bone of the vertebral bone to which the device is attached.

Abstract: The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of spinal stenosis. An implant for insertion between adjacent spinous processes is provided. The implant can include a body having a first end, a second end and defining a bore. The implant can include a first cap coupled to the first end of the body, a second cap coupled to the second end of the body, with each of the caps defining a space. The implant can include a connector coupled to the first cap and the second cap through the bore. The implant can include at least one deployable member coupled to the first end of the body and the first cap. The at least one deployable member can be retained within the first space in a first position, and can extend from the first space in a second position.