Abstract: A device for connection to a component used in association with spinal instrumentation, including a connector body, at least one clamp element, and at least one fixation element. The connector body defines a receptacle extending therethrough and opening onto an outer surface thereof. The connector body also defines a passage in transverse communication with the receptacle. The clamp element includes at least two arm portions defining a space therebetween having an open end. The clamp element is positioned within the passage in the connector body with the space between the arm portions generally aligned with the receptacle and with the component received through the open end and retained within the space. The fixation element interacts with the clamp element to displace the clamp element relative to the connector body to position at least a portion of the component within the receptacle.

Abstract: A subcutaneously assembled in place orthopedic construct is provided, such as for fixation of the spine. The construct includes a first bar and a second bar for attachment to the spine. A crossbar connects the first and second bar, to provide additional structural support. Each of the first bar, the second bar, and the crossbar may be inserted in a minimally invasive procedure, and constructed in place to form the orthopedic device. Each of the first bar, second bar, and crossbar may comprise an inflatable container, adapted for inflation with a hardenable media and cured in place. Methods and delivery structures are also disclosed.

Abstract: There is provided a posterior lumbar joint prosthesis which includes prosthetic elements reproducing the movements of the joint facets and vertebral anchors which adapt to the variations in the anatomy of vertebra. In use, the prosthesis has lower and upper connectors on each side of the lumbar vertebra. The lower connectors are coupled with, and pivotably mounted onto, respective lower pedicular screws, and a member defining a member axis links lower and upper connectors on each side of the lumbar vertebra. Upon lateral flexion of one of the upper and lower vertebrae relative to the other, each lower connector is capable of multiaxis pivotable movement relative to the respective lower pedicular screws such that each member is capable to pivot with respect to (i) the axis of the lower screw, (ii) a first axis intersecting the lower screw and the lower connector, and/or (iii) an axis intersecting the above first axis and the lower screw, while the member can also move along the member axis.

Abstract: A rod connector for connecting, to each other, opposed ends of a plurality of rods held by a rod holding tool which is fixed to a vertebra, wherein a cylindrically formed connector body is previously curved or bent according to a curve of the vertebral column constructed by the vertebra, both ends of the connector body are provided with a rod insertion hole, rod insertion openings into which the rods are inserted are formed in both end surfaces of the connector body, and the connector body includes screw holes through which fixing screws are threadedly inserted for fixing the rods inserted into the rod insertion hole.

Abstract: A spinal implant system is provided for correcting spinal abnormalities. The system involves connectors configured to fit over spinal implant rods, a transverse rod, and a locking member for fixing each connector to the spinal implant rod and transverse rod. The connector is configured such that when the locking member is in a first position, the transverse rod is temporarily fixed to the connector, and when the locking member is in a second position, both the transverse rod and spinal implant rod are fixed to the connector.

Abstract: The invention generally concerns a spine stabilization system having one or more flexible elements having an opening or slit. The flexible element may be integrally formed in a rod having ends capable of receiving fasteners. The flexible element may limit rotation, flexion-extension, or lateral bending of the spine. The slit or opening may form helical pattern on the rod, and more than one slit or opening may be provided. The flexible element may be conformable to the natural spinal movement.

Abstract: A spine reconstruction rod extender may be used to extend an existing spine reconstruction rod without skipping a pedicle screw in the new construct, exposing the entire old construct, or adding a significant amount of size to the junction between the old and new construct. The resulting extended rod is a strong, durable inline spine reconstruction rod extender.

Abstract: A spinal cross connector is configured for connection between spinal rods and provides allowance or space for spinal extensor muscles once the spinal process has been removed. The cross connector has curved first and second connection members that are adjustable in length and rotation relative to one another. A first clamping member is provided on the first connection member and defines first and second arcuate jaws that are adapted to clamp onto a first spinal rod. A second clamping member is provided on the second connection member and defines first and second arcuate jaws that are adapted to clamp onto a second spinal rod. Both the first and second clamping members are rotatable and thus provide the rotational adjustment. The cross-connector also provides easy in situ sizing and adjustability.

Abstract: A transverse connector system for coupling elongate elements to each other in a spinal fixation system. An upper arm member and a lower arm member are connected by a washer and locking bolt to form a transverse plate. The distal ends of the upper arm member and the lower arm member each include a swivel rod connector and may be attached to a locking rod connector using a locking bolt to secure an elongate fixation element therein. The upper arm member and lower arm member are laterally adjustable and pivotably adjustable with respect to one another due to the washer and slot connection, and thus accommodate divergences and convergences in the attached rods.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vertebral fixing system adapted to be mounted on a vertebra of the spine to connect it to a rod. Said fixing system comprises: a connecting part adapted to face the rib and/or said transverse process and to be connected to said rod; an elongate flexible ligature adapted to connect together said connecting part and at least one rib and/or one transverse process; and adjustable locking means fastened to said connecting part and adapted to fix simultaneously in position said connecting part relative to said rod and at least one portion of said ligature relative to said connecting part, so as to prevent relative displacement of said rod and said vertebra in opposite directions.

Abstract: A vertebral body distance retainer comprises a retainer member including engaging portions to be engaged with a pair of rods provided on a plurality of adjacent vertebral bodies and abutting portions capable of freely abutting on spinous processes of the adjacent vertebral bodies, and fixing screws which fix the rods being engaged with the engaging portions. The vertebral body distance retainer is disposed between the spinous processes each existing on the adjacent vertebral bodies, so that the distance between the spinous processes can be retained constant.

Abstract: A system for manipulating a portion of the skeletal system in the body of a mammal includes an implant having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion configured for coupling to a first location of the skeletal system and the second portion configured for coupling to a second location of the skeletal system. The system includes an adjustment device configured to change at least one of the distance or force between the first location and the second location, the adjustment device having a magnetic element configured for rotation about an axis of rotation, the magnetic element being operatively coupled to a drive element configured to alter at least one of the distance or the force between the first location and the second location. The system also includes an external adjustment device configured to magnetically couple to the adjustment device from a location external to the mammal.

Abstract: Spinal stabilization systems are disclosed having spanning portions extending between and securable to pedicle screw assemblies, the spanning portions have stiffness characteristics that may be variable or selectively adjustable, and/or have non-linear behavior with respect to force versus distortion. Additionally, the systems may utilize a plurality of spanning portions in which two or more of the spanning portions have different stiffness characteristics.

Abstract: A transverse spinal linking device links at least one spinal osteosynthesis bar to a transverse bar. The device may include a first part that has a vertical axis and a first jaw, a second part that has a second jaw, and a clamping resource. The first part may include a sliding surface, which may be inclined in relation to the vertical axis, and which may mate with at least one sliding surface of the second part. The sliding surfaces may be configured so that the descent of the second part results in an approach of the jaws, with the clamping action of the clamping resource causing the fixing and/or the locking of the device on the osteosynthesis bar and the fixing and/or the locking of the transverse bar.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system includes a stabilization member with opposite end portions lying along a longitudinal axis and an adjustment mechanism between the end portions that allows the end portions to be moved toward and away from one another along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A spinal rod connector is disclosed that allows end-to-end connection of at least two spinal rods. The connector may allow for angular adjustment in the construct which is associated with the patient's anatomy. Percutaneous length adjustment of the spinal rods may be available with visual assessment of the length of the rods via viewing windows on the connector. A locking mechanism may be used to fix a determined angle of the connector dependent upon the anatomy of the patient. The angle may be adjusted if necessary during a subsequent procedure.

Abstract: An implantable device includes a spacing member and an elongate member. The elongate member includes a body portion having a first end coupled to the spacing member and a second end having a retention member. In a system for maintaining disc space between adjacent vertebrae, the implantable device is used in conjunction with a spine fixation member. The spine fixation member includes bone anchors and a spinal rod for releasably securing the retention member of the elongate member thereto in order to prevent expulsion of the spacing member from the disc space. Methods of using the system include unilaterally and bilaterally replacing diseased or damaged intervertebral discs from a posterior or transformational approach.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device is provided. The spinal fixation device includes first and second fixation members. Each of the fixation members include an anchor portion configured for rigid fixation to a vertebral body, an endplate member configured to engage a surface of a vertebral body, and a connecting portion connecting the anchor portion and the endplate member.

Abstract: A spinal fixation system including a selectively applied bone growth promoting agent is disclosed. The types of spinal fixation systems which may include a selectively applied bone growth promoting agent include systems comprised of rods, plates, screws, and hooks as well as other types of prostheses.

Abstract: Methods for delivering a spinal fixation element to a surgical site are provided herein. More specifically, the method includes delivering a plurality of percutaneous access devices to a corresponding number of spinal locations, inserting a spinal fixation element through tissue, and manipulating the element through opposed sidewall openings formed in each access device. In an exemplary embodiment, the method can be optimized for position of large-scale fixation elements (e.g., greater than about 95 mm in length). In addition, a manipulation instrument configured to position such spinal fixation elements is also provided herein.

Abstract: A transverse connector may be attached to rods of an orthopedic stabilization system by cam locks. Rotation of a cam system may extend a rod engager into a rod opening. The rod engager may be a portion of the cam system. The extension of the rod engager into the rod opening may push a rod against a body of the transverse connector to form a frictional engagement between the transverse connector, the rod, and the rod engager. The cam system allows the formation of an un-threaded, unitary transverse connector that has a low profile. The transverse connector may be easily and securely attached to a rod.

Abstract: Superior and/or inferior facets of one or more facet joints may be replaced by superior and/or inferior facet joint prostheses. In one embodiment, a kit of superior or inferior prostheses is provided, in which the prostheses have at least two dimensions that vary among members of the kit independently of each other. Each prosthesis may have a bone engaging surface having a surface that is polyaxially rotatable against a corresponding resection of a vertebra. Each prosthesis may also have an articulating surface shaped such that, after attachment to the spine, the replaced or partially replaced facet joints provide a larger medial-lateral range of motion when the spine is flexed than when the spine is extended. Crosslinks may be used to connect left and right prosthesis together in such a manner that they are stabilized in a position in which they are seated directly against the vertebra.

Abstract: A surgical implant assembly and a method for securing a fixation rod, where the assembly is capable of being secured to a bone structure are disclosed. The assembly includes at least two rigid structures configured to be secured to the bone structure. The structures include a distal portion for receiving a portion of the fixation rod therebetween, a tab positioned at a distal point of the distal portion, a screw compression nut and a distal expansion member coupled to the screw compression nut that are driven down the rigid structures, and a rod compression nut and a proximal expansion member coupled to the rod compression nut that engage the rigid structures so that the fixation rod is disposed between the combination the screw compression nut and the distal expansion member and the combination of the rod compression nut and the proximal expansion member.

Abstract: A Linking Transconnector is disclosed for coupling a first longitudinal spinal rod to a second longitudinal spinal rod. The Linking Transconnector generally includes a pair of hook engaging members for engaging the longitudinal spinal rods, a lateral rod for spanning a distance between the hook engaging members, and a locking element which interconnects the hook engaging members with the lateral rod. The locking element being configured to allow for multiple degrees of adjustment to permit the Linking Transconnector to accommodate for varying spinal rod alignments. The locking element also permits the location of the lateral rod to be fixed relative to the hook engaging members once the desired position of the lateral rod with respect to the longitudinal spinal rods has been achieved. The locking element may also be able to fix the position of the lateral rod with respect to the hook engaging members by a force applied to the locking element.

Abstract: Facet joint replacement implants may be designed for use on multiple adjacent vertebral levels. Each superior implant may have a substantially semispherical concave surface, and each inferior implant may have a cooperating semispherical convex surface that is deformable to enable it to be pressed into the superior implant concave surface to fix the relative orientations of the superior and inferior implants. Thus, the inferior implant may be attached to the same pedicle as the superior implant, but may also be oriented independently of the superior implant and then fixed in position. Similar mounting structures may be used to attach one or more fusion implants to a level adjacent to that of a facet joint replacement implant.

Abstract: Superior and/or inferior facets of one or more facet joints may be replaced by superior and/or inferior facet joint prostheses. In one embodiment, a kit of superior or inferior prostheses is provided, in which the prostheses have at least two dimensions that vary among members of the kit independently of each other. Each prosthesis may have a bone engaging surface having a surface that is polyaxially rotatable against a corresponding resection of a vertebra. Each prosthesis may also have an articulating surface shaped such that, after attachment to the spine, the replaced or partially replaced facet joints provide a larger medial-lateral range of motion when the spine is flexed than when the spine is extended. Crosslinks may be used to connect left and right prosthesis together in such a manner that they are stabilized in a position in which they are seated directly against the vertebra.

Abstract: A system for correcting a spinal deformity includes an implant fixed to one side of a vertebra and a rod extending along an axis of the spine on a second side of the vertebra. An adjustment member, which may include a reel, is coupled to the rod. A force directing member, such as a cable, extends between the rod and the adjustment member. The force directing member is retractable toward and extendible from the adjustment member. A method of correcting spinal deformity includes providing an implant, a rod, an adjustment member coupled to the rod, and a force directing member extending between the rod and the adjustment member. The adjustment member can be retractable toward and extendible from the adjustment member.

Abstract: Pedicle screws are secured in two columns, one along each side of the spine. Cross support rods have ends connected to pedicle screw heads. A longitudinally extending rod is supported on the cross supports and recessed in the cavity created by removal of portions of spinous processes, providing a reduced profile of the installed construct. Several types of cross supports are shown such as: arms from the screws inward to rings or yokes connecting the longitudinal rod; cross rods with ends connected to the screws and having centrally-located yokes for the longitudinal rod; cross rods with articulating longitudinal rod portions fixed or swiveled to them. These cross rods may have end portions angled posterior toward anterior to accommodate lateral positioned pedicle screws, but shorter cross rods without angled end portions enable medialized pedicle screw orientation.

Abstract: The disclosure relates generally to embodiments of systems and methods of spinal stabilization. Embodiments include methods that use a dilator to displace tissue proximate to a sleeve. An embodiment of a surgical system can comprise a dilator that may define a working channel from a first opening to a second opening. The dilator can be positioned to displace tissue proximate to the sleeve. The dilator may be shaped to allow a first end of an elongated member to enter the working channel through the first opening and exit the dilator through the second opening to be percutaneously moved to another assembly.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide a device and system for dynamic spinal stabilization. A collar has an opening for connection to a bone fastener implanted in bony tissue and a slot for receiving a portion of an elongated member. When the elongated member is seated in the slot and a closure member is securely connected to the collar, the collar is capable of selected rotation about the bone fastener to provide dampened motion of the stabilization system.

Abstract: A polyaxial screw device and system for spinal fixation and dynamic stabilization. Embodiments of the present disclosure may utilize hinged connections, cam-style mechanisms, and planar connectors to enable surgeons to attach to an implanted bone fastener or connect to an elongated member from a lateral approach for improved accessibility, with a low-profile configuration for improved patient comfort. Embodiments may be implantable using MIS procedures and techniques.

Abstract: A system for replacing at least a portion of a natural facet joint includes a fixation member implantable in a vertebra, an inferior facet articular surface and an inferior strut which may be formed separately from the inferior articular surface. The inferior strut has a first end securable to the fixation member and a second end which may comprise a sphere with a hemispherical surface. An attachment mechanism may include a capture feature shaped to receive the second end of the inferior strut, and the mechanism may provide an adjustable configuration, allowing polyaxial adjustment between the inferior articular surface and the second end. A locking member may be actuated to exert force on the second end to provide a locked configuration. The system may further include a superior facet joint implant with a superior articular surface shaped to articulate with the inferior articular surface.

Abstract: Multi-level spinal stabilization devices, systems and methods are provided that include at least one multi-level connector, one elongated member with an enlarged head, at least one pedicle screw, and at least one mechanism that supports three degrees of rotational freedom relative to both the elongated member and the pedicle screw each. The mechanism may include universal joint mechanisms or ball and socket mechanisms. In the case of the ball and socket mechanisms, the enlarged head of the elongated member cooperates with a first socket member of the multi-level connector to define a dynamic junction that allows the socket member to move relative to the enlarged head of the elongated member while remaining engaged therewith.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system.

Abstract: Provided is a novel low profile transverse connector system having a first and second spinal rod connection member disposed at opposing ends of an elongated cross connection device, each connection member having a distal end configured to be capable of connecting to a spinal rod and a proximal end having a multidirectional articulation joint at which a centrally disposed cross connecting assembly is provided to attach the first and second connection members to each other, the first and second spinal rod connection members each defining two opposing compression slots that serve to facilitate a secure connection to spinal rods and to the cross connecting assembly by the tightening of only one locking screw. Also provided is a method of stabilizing vertebrae using the disclosed system.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: An intervertebral stabilization system for at least three vertebrae comprising pedicle screws attachable to the vertebrae; at least one rod for the connection of at least two pedicle screws to form a rigid stiffening system; and at least one band which is capable of being pre-stressed in tension and which is surrounded in the implanted state of the stabilization system by at least one compressible pressure member arranged between two adjacent pedicle screws for the connection of the pedicle screws to form an elastic support system, wherein a common pedicle screw is associated both with the stiffening system and with the support system and the band is can be connected or is connected to the rod by means of a band attachment.

Abstract: Posterior spinal stabilization devices and methods include first and second elongate elements engageable along the spinal column and a spinous process replacement body positionable between the elongate elements. Connection mechanisms are provided to adjustably connect the spinous process replacement device to the elongate elements so that the spinous process replacement device can be moved to the desired location between the connecting elements and secured in the desired location.

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: Apparatus for connecting and stabilizing adjacent vertebral segments, comprising a flexible composite connecting rod extending between the segments, and connection devices for connecting the rod to the vertebral segments. The rod comprises a rod member formed of a flexible plastic material having a predetermined compression strength, and a high tensile strength, low stretch, flexible reinforcing element extending longitudinally through the entire length of the rod member. The reinforcing element may be in the form of a single cord, rope, braid or monofilament, a plurality of substantially parallel cords, ropes, braids or monofilaments, or a tubular cord, rope, braid or woven or wire mesh strain relief device extending through the rod member in slidable relation or bonded thereto.