Abstract: A modular implant for stabilizing the relative motion of spinal vertebrae comprises at least two pairs of plates which connect to two adjacent spinous processes, a spacer configured to be positioned between the spinous processes, and a fastener which pivotably connects to the plates and the spacer. The spacer is interchangeable and may comprise a variety of materials, each providing a different level of elasticity to the spinous processes. Relative motion between vertebrae can also be controlled by varying the surface configuration of the plates and by varying threading of the fastener. Several implants may be linked to provide stabilization across multiple vertebral levels, and the relative motion provided at each vertebral level may differ. A method for revising the implant is provided which comprises accessing the implant and replacing the spacer.

Abstract: An adjustable interspinous process brace is disclosed and can include a superior component. The superior component can include a superior spinous process bracket that can engage a superior spinous process. Further, the adjustable interspinous process brace can include an inferior component. The inferior component can include an inferior spinous process bracket that can engage an inferior spinous process. Further, the inferior component can be movably engaged with the superior component from a retracted position to an extended position. In the extended position, a distance between the superior spinous process bracket and the inferior spinous process bracket can be increased.

Abstract: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains between the adjacent spinous processes.

Abstract: According to another exemplary embodiment, a pivotable interbody implant system includes an implant including a body defining an inner cavity and a plurality of teeth formed on one end of the implant, and an insertion instrument associated with the implant, wherein the insertion instrument includes a retractable latching mechanism and an internal gear configured to pivotably mate with said teeth formed on said implant.

Abstract: The invention concerns an assembly (1) comprising an interspinous wedge (5) configured to be inserted between the spinous processes (9) of two vertebrae (2) to be treated, whereof at least one zone designed to be placed between the spinous processes of the vertebrae is made of an elastically deformable material. The assembly (1) further comprises: two compressive lateral elements (6), designed to be placed on either side of the wedge (5) in the longitudinal direction, said compressive lateral elements (6) being deformable between releasing positions, wherein they are relatively spaced apart from the wedge (5) in the transverse direction, and compressive positions, wherein they are relatively close to the wedge (5) in the transverse direction; and two lateral transmission elements (7), placed between the compressive lateral elements (6) and the wedge (5), configured to press against the wedge (5) in the transverse direction thereof, at the interspinous zone (10) of the wedge (5).

Abstract: An intercostal spacer device for placement between two adjacent ribs, includes a spacer member and at least two pair of arms that extend from a first end of the spacer member and at least one pair of arms that extend from a second end of the spacer member. The intercostal spacer device is sized and configured to allow for placement into the intercostal space to produce a force for correcting a spinal deformity.

Abstract: Medical devices for the treatment of spinal conditions are described herein. The medical device includes a main body portion and a mounting portion that is adapted to be fixed with respect to the sacral ala and the main body portion is adapted to support an implant such as an interspinous process spacer. This arrangement maintains distraction between the adjacent spinous processes of the L5 vertebra and the S1 vertebra when the spine moves to extension.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating spinal disorders and associated discomfort therefrom. In one embodiment, an interspinous implant device is configured for distracting an adjacent pair of spinous processes while permitting relative flexion, lateral bending and side rotation motions between the vertebrae joined to the adjacent pair of spinous processes.

Abstract: An implant assembly for stabilizing a spinal motion segment includes a spacer member positionable between adjacent spinous processes and upper and lower engaging members extending from the spacer member. The upper and lower engaging members engage at least one lamina to resist flexion of the spinal motion segment.

Abstract: A method includes moving a spinal implant such that a central portion of the spinal implant is disposed between adjacent spinous processes, radially extending a proximal portion of the spinal implant on a first side of the adjacent spinous processes such that movement of the proximal portion between the adjacent spinous processes is inhibited, and radially extending a distal portion of the spinal implant on a second side of the adjacent spinous processes opposite the first side such that movement of the distal portion between the adjacent spinous processes is inhibited.

Abstract: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains between the adjacent spinous processes.

Abstract: A method of implanting a spinal prosthesis comprises inserting a first member between superior and inferior spinous processes associated with respective superior and inferior vertebrae. The superior and inferior vertebrae are separated by an intermediate vertebra. The method further includes inserting a second member through a channel in the first member. After the second member is inserted, the method requires removing the second member from the channel and inserting a third member through the channel. The third member has a different stiffness than the second member. Finally, the method requires anchoring the third member to the intermediate vertebra, while the third member is inserted through the channel. The third member is anchored at first and second locations disposed on respective first and second lateral sides of the intermediate vertebra.

Abstract: A pre-assembled orthopaedic implant adapted for improved gas sterilization. The implant includes a first component adapted for assembly with a second component such that a mating surface of the first component is in close proximity with a mating surface of the second component. At least one gas conduit associated with the mating surface of the first component facilitates a sterilizing gas to penetrate into and dissipate from the interface defined by the mating surfaces.

Abstract: An interspinous spacer having a pair of hooks that, upon lateral insertion between opposed spinous process, bear upon the opposed spinous processes.

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: According to certain embodiments, disclosed is a vertebral interspinous implant including first and second supports (2,3) defining in their center part respective fixation bodies (7,8) to accept spinal processes of two respective vertebrae, these fixation bodies being located in a same sagittal plane, first and second elastically compressible bodies (4) being set between the first and second supports (2,3) and on each side of the said sagittal plane (P), first and second rigid guides (10) around which are arranged, respectively, the first and second elastically compressible bodies (4), each of these guides (10) optionally being connected at one of its extremities to the supports (2,3) and including at, at least, one of its extremities an abutment (13) adapted to cooperate with an abutment (14) of the corresponding support (3) in order to limit the separation of the supports (2,3) in the direction of the spine.

Abstract: A spinal implant is configured to be received between bony spinal protrusions of adjacent vertebrae particularly, but not necessarily, in the lumbar region of the spine and hold them apart. The spinal implant may be used interlaminar, interbody or interbony protrusion. The present bony spinal protrusion spacer is not fixed to any bony structures of the vertebrae and, as such, use of the present bony spinal protrusion spacer does not result in fusion. It may therefore be removed if necessary. Attachment structures formed as part of the bony spinal protrusion spacer receive and engage portions of adjacent bony protrusions. The attachment structures provide one or more ridges, bumps, protrusions, projections, lips, flanges, overhangs, overhangs that are threadably engaged, extensions and/or the like that form one or more pockets or cavities into which portions of adjacent bony spinal protrusions are separately lodged and held.

Abstract: Various embodiments described herein provide devices and associated methods for treating spinal disease by implanting one or more interspinous process spacing devices. In one embodiment, an interspinous process spacing device includes a first attachment side and a second attachment side, whereby each attachment side includes one or more slots formed in the outer surface and oriented proximate one end for receiving fasteners extending inwardly from a second interspinous process spacing device. The device further includes a spacer tray positioned between the first attachment side and the second attachment side, the spacer tray extending from the first attachment side and slideably insertable through a tray slot formed in the second attachment side, wherein the spacer tray is adapted to retain adjacent spinous processes in a spaced apart orientation.

Abstract: An expandable intervertebral implant comprises a caudal fixator including a caudal fixator body and a socket extending longitudinally upward from the caudal fixator body, a cranial fixator including a cranial fixator body and a core extending longitudinally downward from the cranial fixator body, and a circlip configured to fix the longitudinal position of the caudal fixator relative to the cranial fixator. The core can include outwardly-extending cranial ratchet ridges and can be configured to fit into the socket. The circlip can include inwardly-extending circlip ratchet ridges and can be configured to fit inside the socket. The implant can be configured to be installed into an intervertebral space between vertebrae of the spinal motion segment by attaching the implant to laminae of the vertebrae. The implant can be configured to be expanded after installation into the spinal motion segment, such that the implant extends between spinous processes of the vertebrae.

Abstract: An expandable interspinous process spacer is disclosed that includes at least two chambers, one disposed within the other. Each of the at least two chambers can receive an injectable biocompatible material, which advantageously may have different material properties such as hardness. Further, the expandable interspinous process spacer can be changed from a deflated configuration to an inflated configuration. In the inflated configuration, the expandable interspinous process spacer can engage and support a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process.

Abstract: A method includes positioning a medical device within a body between adjacent spinous processes, moving the medical device from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration within the body using an actuator removably coupled to the medical device, and removing the actuator from the body while the medical device remains between the adjacent spinous processes.

Abstract: A device intended for the treatment of spinal stenosis. This device is an inter-spinous spacer that is introduced through a single posterior incision. It uses a single piece insertion technique with a unilateral approach. The surgeon does not need to access the opposite side of the spinous process. It allows the user infinite adjustability in distraction height with a single locking mechanism.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a support between spinous processes and method for fixing the same when a surgery on a backbone is unavoidable due to spinal stenosis or other lumbar lesions, wherein the support 100 between spinous processes of the present invention is comprised of a main body 110 made of a butterfly-shaped support part 111 with rings at both sides thereof and receiving parts 112 formed between the both wings; two rings 120 formed at one side of the main body 110; and two straps 130 whose one ends are attached to the other side of the main body 110 and the other ends are attached to two half-moon-shaped needles 140.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an elongate member having a portion configured to be deformed from a first configuration to a second configuration. In one variation, the apparatus includes an outer body, defining an interior region, and an inner body. A portion of the outer body is configured to be disposed between adjacent spinous processes. The inner body is disposed within the interior region of the outer body. A distal end portion of the inner body is coupled to a distal end portion of the outer body. A proximal end portion of the inner body configured to removably receive a tool to move the outer body between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration.

Abstract: A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the spinous processes distracted and the hook members about the spinous processes, the hook members can be rigidly secured to a hub in order to rigidly affix the spinous processes about the spacer. The rigidity between the spinous processes assures that the vertebral bodies will be held rigidly in place in order to promote bone growth and fusion. Further additional freedom of movement between the spacer and hub is accomplished with the spacer being pivotably mounted relative to the hub. The hooks have a tissue distracting lead-in guide for allowing the hooks to be easily urged between spinous processes.

Abstract: An interspinous process spacer for implantation in an interspinous space between a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process includes a balloon-like body, a first deployable protrusion and a second deployable protrusion. The body has a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. The spacer is arrangeable in an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration. The first deployable protrusion is mounted proximate the proximal end and the second deployable protrusion is mounted proximate the distal end. The first and second deployable protrusions are oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis in the unexpanded configuration and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the expanded configuration.

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.

Abstract: An intervertebral device intended to be placed between two spinous processes (SP1, SP2) of two vertebrae. The device comprises a spacer (10) with grooves (14A, 14B) for receiving the spinous processes (SP1, SP2), and one or more elongated members (30A, 30B) for retaining the spinous processes (SP1, SP2) in the grooves (14A, 14B). The spacer (10) is provided with first and second openings (20A, 20B; 22A, 22B). The device (1) further comprises a fixing pin (40A, 40B) which is moveable between unlocked and locked positions and which goes through the second opening (22A, 22B) and protrudes into the first opening (20A, 20B) in the locked position. The proximal portion (32A, 32B) of the elongated member (30A, 30B) interacts with the fixing pin (40A, 40B) so as to impede relative translation movement between the proximal portion (32A, 32B) and the spacer (10), in a first direction (D1A, D1B), when the fixing pin (40A, 40B) is in the locked position.

Abstract: An implantable interlaminar-interspinous stabilization system is provided. The system may comprise a U-shaped implantable device having an inferior section, a superior section, a midsection extending therebetween, and pair of lateral walls for engaging a spinous process of a vertebra, each of the lateral walls including an aperture with a countersink for receiving a bone fastener. The system may also include a bone fastener comprising a threaded bolt and a threaded nut for securing the implantable device to the spinous processes. Insertion tools may be provided for aligning the threaded bolt and nut through the apertures of the implantable device.

Abstract: An interspinous process distraction device includes a male distraction element and a female distraction element, which both have a clamping portion for fixedly pushing and rejecting the interspinous processes and also respectively have a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion connected at the other end of the clamping portion. Here, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are paired for blocking with each other so as to form the interspinous process distraction device capable of having an opposite rotation. Besides, through clamping two interspinous processes which stress the nerve by the male distraction element and the female distraction element and rotating them to oppositely rotate, the two interspinous processes can therefore be moved to be in alignment as the normal condition.

Abstract: Spinal implants and methods for the placement thereof are disclosed herein. In one variation, the implant includes a support member, a proximal retention member, and a distal retention member. The support member is configured to be disposed between adjacent spinous processes. The proximal retention member has a first configuration in which the proximal retention member is substantially disposed within a proximal portion of the support member, and a second configuration in which a portion of the proximal retention member is disposed outside of the support member. The distal retention member has a first configuration in which the distal retention member is substantially disposed within a distal portion of the support member, and a second configuration in which a portion of the distal retention member is disposed outside of the support member.

Abstract: A posterior stabilization device is provided for controlling movement between adjacent vertebrae. In one exemplary embodiment, the stabilization device can include one or more joints that rely on rotational or sliding movement to allow flexion of adjacent vertebrae, and that control extension, lateral bending, axial rotation, and anterior-posterior shear, preferably by providing one or more flexible connectors and/or a flexible central spacer for connecting to the adjacent superior and inferior vertebrae.

Abstract: A method for implanting an interspinous process spacer includes deforming a spacer from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration. The spacer has a first pair of resiliently deformable arms extending from a central section of the spacer and when the spacer is deformed into the collapsed configuration, the first pair of arms moves toward each other. When in the collapsed configuration, the spacer is advanced into a guide tube such that the first pair of arms is constrained only by the guide tube. The guide tube is positioned proximate a pair of adjacent spinous processes and then the spacer is removed from the guide tube so that the first pair of arms resiliently move away from each other and are disposed on a common lateral side of the spinous processes.

Abstract: A bone fusion device can include elongated interlockable segments, each having an engaging surface interlockable with the engaging surface of another segment. The segments can be inserted in between bones one at a time. A device can include an outer expandable component having outer expandable members insertable to a location between bones in an unexpanded configuration and an inner expander including surface engaging portions interlockable with inner surface engaging portions in the outer expandable members. A device can include the inner expander having an outwardly flared proximal portion that can interlock with the proximal end of the outer expandable members. A device can include a locking bridge expandable with an expandable body, such as an inflatable balloon, and movable to a locked expanded configuration. A bone fusion system, a bone fusion device kit, and/or a method for fusing bone can include such a bone fusion device.

Abstract: An interspinous process spacer for implantation in an interspinous space between a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process includes a balloon-like body, a first deployable protrusion and a second deployable protrusion. The body has a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. The spacer is arrangeable in an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration. The first deployable protrusion is mounted proximate the proximal end and the second deployable protrusion is mounted proximate the distal end. The first and second deployable protrusions are oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis in the unexpanded configuration and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in the expanded configuration.

Abstract: Medical devices for the treatment of spinal conditions are described herein. The medical device includes a pair of superior plates with spikes adapted to be embedded in a superior spinous process and a pair of inferior plates with spikes adapted to be embedded in an adjacent inferior spinous process. The superior plates and inferior plates are connected to each other in such a way as to allow relative motion therebetween. A spacer may be disposed between the adjacent spinous processes.

Abstract: The present invention provides spinous process implant and associated methods. In one aspect of the invention the implant limits the maximum spacing between the spinous processes. In another aspect of the invention, a spacer has at least one transverse opening to facilitate tissue in-growth. In another aspect of the invention, an implant includes a spacer and separate extensions engageable with the spacer. The spacer is provided in a variety of lengths and superior to inferior surface spacings. In another aspect of the invention, an implant includes a spacer and a cerclage element offset from the midline of the spacer in use so that the spacer defines a fulcrum and the cerclage element is operative to impart a moment to the vertebrae about the spacer. In another aspect of the invention, instrumentation for inserting the implant is provided. In other aspects of the invention, methods for treating spine disease are provided.

Abstract: An allograft interspinous spacer for implantation into an interspinous space located between spinous process of adjacent vertebrae. The spacer preferably includes a body, a core and a plurality of deployable retainers. The body may be operatively associated with the plurality of deployable retainers. In use, after the body has been inserted into the interspinous space, the plurality of retainers is deployed so that they prevent migration of the spacer. The core is preferably sized and configured to be inserted and/or moved into operatively engagement with the body to deploy the plurality of retainers.

Abstract: An interspinous spacer assembly (100) for insertion and/or implantation between spinous processes of adjacent superior and inferior vertebrae includes an interspinous spacer member (110) sized and configured for insertion into the interspinous space located between adjacent spinous processes and an engagement mechanism (105) for operatively coupling the spacer member to the adjacent spinous processes and for preventing migration of the assembly once implanted. The interspinous spacer assembly is adjustable to conform to the individual anatomy of a patient's spine.

Abstract: An embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention can include an implant having a spacer with a thickness and a wing, wherein a first configuration of the wing has a first height substantially similar to the thickness and wherein the wing is adapted to be selectably arranged in a second configuration such that the wing has a second height greater than the first height. A periphery of the implant has a shape generally conformal with a shape of an inner surface of a cannula and a cross-sectional diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the cannula. The cannula is inserted such that a proximal end of the cannula is arranged between the adjacent spinous processes. The implant is then urged into position between the adjacent spinous processes by way of the cannula, and subsequently arranged in a second configuration to fix the implant in position.

Abstract: A spinal implant include a top, wherein at least a portion of the top is configured to contact a first vertebra, a bottom, wherein at least a portion of the bottom is configured to contact a second vertebra, a side having a releasable attachment to receive an insertion device and a cam surface to engage a cam on the insertion device.

Abstract: A laterally insertable spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy and other spinal ailments by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. The implant provides a deployable second arm that converts between a first position for insertion and a second position for retention of the implant between adjacent spinous processes.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for stabilizing the posterior elements of the spine, and more preferably methods and devices are provided for sharing the load with the intervertebral disc, the facet joints, the ligaments, and the muscles of the spinal column. In certain exemplary embodiments, methods and devices are provided for substantially controlling or providing resistance to movement, e.g., flexion, extension, lateral bending, and/or axial rotation, of the adjacent vertebrae.

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: An embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention can include an implant having a spacer with a thickness and a wing, wherein a first configuration of the wing has a first height substantially similar to the thickness and wherein the wing is adapted to be selectably arranged in a second configuration such that the wing has a second height greater than the first height. A periphery of the implant has a shape generally conformal with a shape of an inner surface of a cannula and a cross-sectional diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the cannula. The cannula is inserted such that a proximal end of the cannula is arranged between the adjacent spinous processes. The implant is then urged into position between the adjacent spinous processes by way of the cannula, and subsequently arranged in a second configuration to fix the implant in position.

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 medical apparatus for alleviating the symptoms associated with spinal stenosis have a body including first and second supports disposed along the length of the body. The first support is configured to accommodate at least a portion of a vertebral component of a first vertebra disposed above or below a second vertebra. The second support is configured to accommodate at least a portion of a vertebral component of the second vertebra. The distance between the supports is sufficient to increase the space between the first vertebra and the second vertebra. Methods for using the apparatus include implanting the apparatus into a subject.

Abstract: Medical devices for the treatment of spinal conditions are described herein. The medical device of this invention includes a spacer that is disposed between adjacent spinous processes and has a proximal retention member and a distal retention member, which may be rotated with respect to the proximal retention member between an initial implantation configuration and a final locked configuration.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to spine surgery and, in particular, to methods and apparatus for treating spinal stenosis with a spinous process spacer and an overlay designed to extend between the superior and inferior spinous processes in order to restore the integrity and functional benefits of the supraspinous ligament.

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 distraction guide 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.