Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for connecting spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, implanted in a patient's spinal column. In particular, various spinal cross connectors are provided for connecting to one or more spinal fixation elements implanted in a patient's spine. The cross connectors can have a variety of configurations, including a fixed or adjustable length, as well as various features that allow certain portions of the cross connectors to be angularly oriented.

Abstract: A transconnector for joining adjacent longitudinal spinal rods. The transconnector preferably includes a bridge member and a pair of bone fixation coupling elements, the bridge member is preferably sized and configured to span a distance between the pair of bone fixation coupling elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the bridge member and sized and configured to receive one of the bone fixation elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the body portion of the bone fixation element. The bone fixation coupling elements may include a locking cap having a first set of threads for threadably engaging the bone fixation element.

Abstract: Correction of a scoliotic curve in a spine comprises the steps of implanting an expanding rod isolated completely under the skin and attached to selected portions of the scoliotic curve of the spine at opposing ends of the rod; and producing a controlled force by means of expansion of the rod over at an extended time period under external control until a desire spinal curve is obtained. An incremental force is generated to stretch the scoliotic curve of the spine between the selected portions where attachment of the rod is defined. The controlled force is provided steadily for at least one month or alternatively 1-3 months. Multiple rods may be employed each associated with a different scoliotic curve of the spine or a different portion of the scoliotic curve.

Abstract: A clamp for attaching a cross connecting device to a spinal fixation system comprising an outer body and an inner body. The outer body defines an internally threaded bore and an outer body cavity, and the inner body defines an inner body cavity. The inner body is at least partially disposed within the outer body. A pin is provided for connecting the inner and outer bodies to each other, while allowing for a limited amount of movement therebetween. A set screw suitable for being driven into the internally threaded bore is provided for securing the inner body to the spinal fixation system.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a transconnector for joining adjacent longitudinal spinal rods. The transconnector preferably includes a bridge member and a pair of bone fixation coupling elements, the bridge member is preferably sized and configured to span a distance between the pair of bone fixation coupling elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the bridge member and sized and configured to receive one of the bone fixation elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the body portion of the bone fixation element. The bone fixation coupling elements may include a locking cap having a first set of threads for threadably engaging the bone fixation element.

Abstract: An osteosynthetic clamp is provided for use in attaching a bone anchor to a support rod. The clamp comprises a carrier with a first portion adapted for connection to the anchor and with a second portion for connection to the rod. A clamping hook defines a bight in which the rod can be located and a head that passes through an aperture defined by the second portion of the carrier. The head of the hook passes through a collar, which is attached to the second portion of the carrier by engaging, complementarily shaped parts. These parts are defined respectively by the second portion of the carrier and by the collar and together form a joint permitting sliding translational movement of the collar relative to the carrier. A fastener can be secured to the head of the clamping hook and tightened in order to clamp the rod within the bight.

Abstract: A transconnector for use in interconnecting a pair of longitudinal spinal rods in a spinal fixation procedure. The transconnector includes a bridge member and first and second spinal rod engaging members. The bridge member may include first and second members, wherein the first and second members are moveably associated with one another so that the distance between the first and second spinal rod engaging members can be adjusted. The first and second spinal rod engaging members include a rod receiving channel for receiving one of the spinal rods therein. The spinal rod engaging members may be articulating in, for example, the yaw and roll positions or non articulating with respect to the bridge members. The spinal rod engaging members preferably include a spring, for example, a spring washer, to provide an opposing force so that the spinal rod engaging members can provisionally snap onto the spinal rods.

Abstract: A spine fixation system (10; 210; 310) comprises a first rod (16; 216) that connects a first vertebra (V2) to a second vertebra (V) but not to a third vertebra (V4), and a second rod (14; 214) that connects the second vertebra (V3) to the third vertebra (V4) but not to the first vertebra. The spine fixation system is configured such that first vertebra (V2), but not the third vertebra (V4), is allowed to move relative to the second (V3) vertebra after the spine fixation system has been completely implanted.

Abstract: A spinal cross connector head assembly and a cross connector assembly utilizing the spinal cross connector head assembly are configured for fixation to an existing spinal rod bone screw head. The spinal cross connector head assembly has one or more components which incorporate one or more breakaway portions that aid in the installation of the cross connector head assembly onto a polyaxial spinal rod bone screw assembly. The spinal cross connector assembly includes first and second spinal cross connector head assemblies each of which is configured for fixation to existing, adjacent spinal rod screw heads and connection with a cross connector rod.

Abstract: A spinal cross-connector is configured for adjustable connection between spinal fixation devices such as spinal fixation rods and allows for adjustment in length or distance between adjacent spinal rod clamping members and provides independent rotational adjustment of the two spinal rod clamping members for individual and independent attachment thereof to adjacent spinal rods of a spinal rod assembly. The cross-connector has first and second connection members that are adjustable in length and rotation relative to one another. A first spinal rod clamping member is provided on an end of the first connection member and defines first and second arced jaws that are adapted to clamp onto a first spinal rod. A second spinal rod clamping member is provided on an end of the second connection member and defines first and second arced jaws that are adapted to clamp onto a second spinal rod.

Abstract: An exemplary system for correcting a spinal deformity includes a plurality of transverse rods, a longitudinal rod, and at least one node. The plurality of transverse rods each includes a first end for coupling with an extension member of a spinal fixation system and a second end. The longitudinal rod extends transverse to the transverse rods. The at least one node receives the second ends of first and second transverse rods and the longitudinal rod within a receiving portion and an adjustment member selectively secures the second ends.

Abstract: A pair of clamps are attached to a damaged bone one each side of a fracture site during a surgical reduction, one clamp on each side of the fracture site, after which the two clamps are slidably engaged to a single pivotal alignment bar, with the clamps then being adjusted to properly align the bone for a surgical attachment using a bone plate which is secured between the respective bone and each respective clamp, holding the bone in place with the bone in proper alignment for the attachment of screws through the plate into the bone, stabilizing the fracture site during the plate attachment procedure.

Abstract: Transconnector devices and methods of use are provided. A transconnector device has the capability of connecting to elongate spinal fixation elements having various cross-sectional dimensions. The transconnector device is adjustable in three degrees of freedom and is curved to ensure that it maintains a minimum distance posterior of the dura when it is fixed to elongate spinal fixation elements.

Abstract: A transconnector for use in interconnecting a pair of longitudinal spinal rods in a spinal fixation procedure. The transconnector includes a bridge member and first and second spinal rod engaging members. The bridge member may include first and second members, wherein the first and second members are moveably associated with one another so that the distance between the first and second spinal rod engaging members can be adjusted. The first and second spinal rod engaging members include a rod receiving channel for receiving one of the spinal rods therein. The spinal rod engaging members may be articulating in, for example, the yaw and roll positions or non-articulating with respect to the bridge members. The spinal rod engaging members preferably include a spring, for example, a spring washer, to provide an opposing force so that the spinal rod engaging members can provisionally snap onto the spinal rods.

Abstract: An assembly including a connector element including a receptacle from which extends a neck, a lug element sized to fit in the receptacle of the connector element, ears pivotally connected to the lug element, and a mechanical fastener that fastens the connector element together with the lug element, thereby causing the ears to pivot and grip a connector rod placed between the ears.

Abstract: A lateral fixation assembly engages vertebrae in a spinal column. The lateral fixation assembly includes a housing having a first rod and a second rod supported thereon. The first rod is adapted to be secured to a first vertebra in the spinal column and is fixed in position relative to the housing. The second rod is adapted to be secured to a second vertebra in the spinal column and is movable relative to the housing. Respective pluralities of such first and second rods may be provided. Staples having varying thicknesses may be provided to facilitate the installation of the lateral fixation assembly on the vertebrae in the spinal column. A temporary blocking device can be used to prevent relative movement of the movable rod during the installation of the lateral fixation assembly.

Abstract: A polyaxial transverse connector for stabilizing a portion of the spine. Connector bodies are coupled to rods attached to either side of the spine. Heads of transverse members are positioned in the connector bodies such that they exhibit polyaxial motion. The transverse members may have curves or offsets to accommodate other components or patient anatomy. A connector connects the transverse members and male threaded inserts are advanced into the connector bodies to inhibit motion of the polyaxial transverse connector.

Abstract: The present invention may provide various improvements over conventional cross connectors. For example, the present invention may provide various types of Real-X cross connectors, which may have an arch shape X-bridge that curves above the spinal bone segments of the patient. As such, the Real-X cross connectors may be more adaptive to the patient's spinal provide and provide better protect for the patient's the spinal bone segments. Moreover, the Real-X cross connectors may incorporate a complementary pivot joint configuration for smoothening the stress distribution and reducing the stress concentration around the center of the arch shape X-bridge. Advantageously, the complementary pivot joint configuration may enhance the rigidity and stability of the Real-X cross connectors.

Abstract: A reinforcing implant for the lamina of a vertebra includes a transverse support, one anchoring device for the right-hand side and one anchoring device for the left-hand side of the lamina of the vertebra. An expansion element with a guide device and cheek elements is provided, the cheek elements being mounted to be longitudinally movable along the guide device. Bearing surfaces for the lamina are formed on outer faces of the cheek elements directed away from each other, and a return stop for the cheek elements is provided. At least one of the cheek elements is provided with an aligning device for modifying the orientation of its bearing surface relative to the guide device. In this way, a secure anchoring of the reinforcing implant on the resected surfaces produced during a laminectomy can be achieved, with precise adaptation of the reinforcing implant to the actual anatomical conditions following the laminectomy.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a transverse connector having first and second spinal rod connecting members disposed on opposing ends of a cross member. Each spinal rod connecting member is configured to connect to a spinal rod. The first and second spinal rod connecting members are configured for multidirectional articulation relative to the cross member.

Abstract: Systems and methods for vertebral stabilization are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes a bone anchor with a threaded portion positioned opposite a post portion. A connector is provided including a pair of oppositely positioned branches defining a receptacle structured to receive the post portion. The receptacle is positionable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the connector is positionable along and about the post portion in the open configuration. The system also includes an elongate support member defining a passage structured to receive and engage a portion of the connector. As the connector is received in the passage, the branches of the connector move toward one another and force the receptacle toward the closed configuration wherein the connector is fixed relative to the post portion. Other systems, apparatuses and methods for vertebral stabilization are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a spinal transconnector device for coupling longitudinal spinal rods on either side of the mid-sagittal plane. The device includes two interconnected rod engagement elements, a first rod engagement elements having a vaulted surface adapted to secure to a first longitudinal spinal rod via an interference fit comprising compression of the first longitudinal spinal rod against the generally vaulted surface; and an interference pin that advances into a bore of the first rod engagement element forming an interference fit between the interference pin and the rod engagement element. The interference fit can be associated with elastic deformation of the first rod engagement element occurring as a consequence of the interference pin being advanced through the bore in the engagement element and contacting a surface of the first longitudinal spinal rod.

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 prosthetic spinous process cross-link implant for the replacement of a posterior vertebral element. The implant includes a cross link body member with a pair of adjustable link arms connected to the cross link body to size the implant to specific anatomical configurations. The implant includes a rod clamp that is spring loaded to a forward position such that capturing a spinal rod on to the adjustable link arms to achieve a snap on effect thereby increasing the ease of installation. A plurality of spinous process cross-link implants can be assembled as a kit wherein the set includes a group of spinous process type yokes and bridge type yokes each group including both fixed and variable sized implants.

Abstract: This invention relates to interconnection assemblies for use with spinal fixation systems to treat spinal defects. The interconnection assemblies can include various spinal rod connecting members and interconnecting elements to secure the spinal rod connecting members to each other in variable orientations and lengths. The interconnection assemblies can be adjusted to minimize interference with the spinal column, bony processes, and associated neural, muscular, and ligament components of the spine all the while exhibiting a low profile. The interconnecting elements and related components can be provided as a completely assembled unit that does not inadvertently become disassembled prior to or during implantation.

Abstract: An assembly for post-operatively treating an abnormal curvature of vertebrae of a spinal column. The assembly includes an elongate member extending in a generally vertical direction along a posterior side of the spinal column and a transverse member fastened to a vertebra of the spinal column with a plurality of fasteners and extending in a generally horizontal direction. The transverse member has a threaded region. The assembly further includes a coupler coupling the elongate member to the transverse member. The coupler includes a rotating member threadedly engaged with the threaded region of the transverse member. Rotation of the rotating member provides lateral movement of the transverse member relative to the elongate member, thereby moving the vertebra in a horizontal direction and applying a corrective force to the vertebra.

Abstract: An artificial ligament assembly for spinal stabilization includes an outer hollow elastic longitudinal member, a rigid inner member, a bone anchor mechanism, a bone anchor, and a buffered space. The artificial ligament assembly further includes a clamp that controls a torsional motion of the outer hollow elastic longitudinal member with respect to the bone anchor mechanism. The outer hollow elastic longitudinal member is at least as long as the inner rigid member. The rigid inner member is configured in a substantially same shape as the outer hollow elastic longitudinal member. The bone anchor mechanism is coupled to the outer hollow elastic longitudinal member. The bone anchor connector may further include an insert end. The bone anchor is coupled to the bone anchor mechanism. The buffered space allows any of a compression and an extension of the bone anchor mechanism inside the outer hollow elastic longitudinal member.

Abstract: An adjustable cervical link system that includes a plurality of cervical links for adjustable fixation to articles of a patient's cervical spine, and a connecting assembly having a generally rectangular loop shape defining a substantially open interior therebetween. Each cervical link has a plurality of circular holes each arranged to receive a screw thereby securing the cervical link to the respective article of a patient's cervical spine at a bottom portion of the cervical link. Each cervical link has a plurality of recessed portion along a top portion of the cervical link. Each recessed portion has a generally U-shaped cross-section formed by a bottom portion and a pair of spaced apart side walls. The connecting assembly is arranged to be placed in and frictionally engage the U-shaped cross-section of the recessed portions.

Abstract: A spine implant, in particular a stabilization or distraction device, is provided with an adjustable length. The implant has first and second portions for coupling to a first bony portion of a first vertebra and a second bony portion of a second vertebra, respectively, where the second bony portion is located at an oblique angle to the first bony portion. The spinal implant permits movement between the first bony portion and the second bony portion and is adjustable to change an amount of said movement between said first bony portion and said second bony portion after the implant is implanted.

Abstract: There is disclosed an interspinous attachment system for providing support between adjacent spinal levels. In an embodiment, an interspinous attachment system provides support between adjacent spinal levels and includes a crosslink, a first crosslink connector and a second crosslink connector each selectively attachable to spinal fixation rods, and an interspinous attachment device having a crosslink attachment portion and a spinous process attachment portion. In another embodiment, there is provided a method of attaching a crosslink to a pair of spinal fixation rods. The method includes tightening a set screw in a housing of each of the crosslink connectors to engage a crosslink, rotate the crosslink connectors with the set screw tightening, and engage the rods with the cross link through the rotation, wherein the tightening the set screw fixedly connects the ends of the crosslink and the rods together.

Abstract: An anchor for attaching an elongate member to bone. The anchor includes a longitudinal shaft having a tip at one end adapted to enter bone. A thread extends along the shaft for advancing the shaft into the bone and holding the shaft in place in the bone. A head is mounted on the shaft at a position spaced from the tip. The anchor also includes connector mounts spaced along the head. Each mount is adapted to connect the elongate member to the head.

Abstract: A self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatus is disclosed which includes at least first and second sliding boxes. A first screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body is disposed within the first sliding box, and a second screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body disposed within the second sliding box. An adjuster adjusts the height of the sliding boxes. The screw members are screwed into vertebral bodies in order to fuse the vertebral bodies together. A plurality of the self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatuses may be attached together and/or integrated via a plate or cage. Also disclosed is a cervical facet staple that includes a curved staple base and at least two prongs attached to the bottom surface of the curved staple base.

Abstract: A cross connector apparatus for retaining a pair of spinal rods in spaced relation, including: a middle portion having a first end, a second end, and an extendable member which is able to extend beyond the second end a specified amount; a first side portion positioned adjacent to the first end of the middle portion, wherein the first side portion is rotatably coupled to the middle portion in at least a first plane; and, a second side portion positioned adjacent to the second end of the middle portion, wherein the second side portion is rotatably coupled to the extendable member in at least a second plane. The first and second side portions each further include a mechanism for both retaining the respective side portion in a desired position with respect to the middle portion and retaining a spinal rod member to the respective side portion.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal implant (10) is provided for use in connecting elongate members (12) as well as vertebral spacers such as corpectomy devices, intervertebral fusion devices, and other prostheses. The implant (10) may have fittings (80) on either end comprising fixed (100) or articulating (200) jaws, endplates, or other engagement structures. The implant (10) comprises a housing (40) with an internal rotor (60); an extending shaft (20); and a locking collar (70). The extending shaft (20) has an external helical groove (23) that meshes with an internal helical groove (63) on rotor (20). Length adjustment occurs by transforming axial movement of the extending shaft (20) into a rotary movement of the rotor (60) via helical engagement. The locking collar (70) comprises protrusion (73) engaging grooves (63) of rotor (60), thus providing a simple, positive locking mechanism without requiring the surgeon to apply excessive force to lock the length.

Abstract: A spinal fixation system connector for maintaining a predetermined positions of a spinal linkage members fastened to vertebrae of a patient. The connector includes a body having first and second openings extending along first and second axes, respectively. The connector includes a first fastener for fastening the first member in the first opening and a second fastener for fastening the second member in the second opening. Prior to the first fastener fastening the first spinal linkage member in the first opening and the second fastener fastening the second spinal linkage member in the second opening, the body is manipulatable to adjust an angle between the first axis and the second axis. When the first fastener fastens the first member in the first opening and the second fastener fastens the second member in the second opening, the angle between the first axis and the second axis is fixed.

Abstract: Spine stabilization systems and integrated rods are disclosed. One spine stabilization system disclosed has at least four bone anchors and a stabilization member attached to the bone anchors. The stabilization member has first and second elongate portions interconnected by a connector portion. The first and second elongate members extend longitudinally and generally parallel to a central longitudinal axis and connector portion extends transverse to the central longitudinal axis from a first lateral end to a second lateral end. The connector portion is integrally connected to the first and second elongate portions such that there is no relative movement between the lateral ends and the respective elongate portion to which each end is attached.

Abstract: A sternal closure device for securing and retaining longitudinally divided halves of a sternum, the device having two sets of anterior and posterior longitudinally extended brace members with brace joining mechanisms extending through the sternal halves to join the anterior brace members to the posterior brace members, such that the sternal halves are compressed between the anterior and posterior brace members, and transverse bridging members that laterally connect the two sets of brace members, with securing mechanisms to retain the two sets of brace members in a contracted configuration with the sternal halves in abutting relation.

Abstract: A medical device and methods of use thereof are provided for supporting a structure (e.g., bone). A screw assembly is provided that is comprised of a base, one or more arms, and an interconnection means for coupling the base to the one or more arms. The interconnection means allows the arm to be positionable in a first position that is parallel to a long axis of the base and positionable in a second position that is perpendicular to the long axis of the base. The base is configured for attachment to a structure and the one or more arms configured for attachment to one or more support structures. A support structure is provided that includes an aperture having locking means, which can be configured as an open-ended saddle for attachment to a medical device (e.g., a screw assembly) after installation in a patient.

Abstract: A connector device for a spinal stabilization apparatus comprises a first elongated member having first and second ends, and is adapted to engage a first spinal stabilizer rod proximal to the first end of the elongated member and is further adapted to engage a spinal cross connector rod proximal to a second end of the first elongated member. The first end of the first elongated member comprises a hook shape and a ferrule and may engage the first spinal stabilizer rod within about 20 degrees of perpendicular to the spinal stabilizer rod in any direction. The ferrule is adapted to be seated within the hook shape and is further adapted to engage the first spinal stabilizer rod. A second elongated member substantially similar to the first may additionally be used in a spinal stabilization apparatus. The connector device may be used in a method of treating a patient.

Abstract: A transconnector for use in interconnecting a pair of longitudinal spinal rods in a spinal fixation procedure. The transconnector includes a bridge member and first and second spinal rod engaging members. The bridge member may include first and second members, wherein the first and second members are moveably associated with one another so that the distance between the first and second spinal rod engaging members can be adjusted. The first and second spinal rod engaging members include a rod receiving channel for receiving one of the spinal rods therein. The spinal rod engaging members may be articulating in, for example, the yaw and roll positions or non articulating with respect to the bridge members. The spinal rod engaging members preferably include a spring, for example, a spring washer, to provide an opposing force so that the spinal rod engaging members can provisionally snap onto the spinal rods.

Abstract: A transverse connector system for interconnecting two spinal rods includes a connector arranged to span the distance between the rods with a rod receiving recess and a pin receiving bore on each end. A one-piece pin member such as a set screw is disposed within each bore with an enlarged head protruding from the bottom of the connector so that when the set screw is retracted into the bore the head engages a side of the respective rod to clamp the rod within the recess. The connector may comprise two elongated members with a recess and pin receiving bore at one end of each member, a middle coupler which allows three degrees of freedom between the members to accommodate any anticipated spatial orientation between the members and a set screw for securing the other ends of the members together.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous vertebral stabilization system. A first anchor is positionable within a body of a patient through a first percutaneous opening and a second anchor is positionable within a body of a patient through a second percutaneous opening. A stabilization member is positionable within the body of a patient through the first percutaneous opening to engage and connect the first and second anchors.

Abstract: A method for providing vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening that restores the loss of disc height and provides disc regeneration. In one non-limiting embodiment, the method includes inserting pedicle screws into the vertebral bodies of adjacent vertebra and positioning a spring in compression between and in contact with the pedicle screws so that the spring bias forces the pedicle screws apart to provide a distractive force that increases the height of the disc space and promotes the disc regeneration.

Abstract: A crosslink member for securing spinal rods is disclosed having connector ends that include a brace and a locking member, each having an arcuate face resting on and securing a spinal rod. The locking member is secured by a cam member that rotates relative to the locking member and that cams against the connector to displace the cam member. The crosslink includes a male connector with a cylindrical cross rod received by a cavity in a female connector. The cross rod is secured by a pivotable clamp device in the female connector, and the cross rod connector and female connector may pivot, rotate, and telescope relative to each other. To reduce size without sacrificing pivot sweep, the cross rod has beveled edges, and the cavity of the female connector has windows to provide pivot clearance.

Abstract: Devices and methods for supporting adjacent spinous processes include opposing plates movable toward one another along a cross post to contact opposite sides of each of the spinous processes, and a spacer member about the cross post contacting the adjacent surfaces of the spinous processes to resist movement of the spinous processes toward one another under spinal extension motion.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a pair of bone attachment devices and a crosslink device for a spinal fixation system or other implant arrangement. The bone attachment devices include a head with socket to receive a spinal rod or other elongate element and the crosslink device includes a pair of bridging members each having an end section for connecting with the bone attachment devices. An interconnection device situated between the bridging members receives the bridging members and allows translational and rotational freedom therebetween while being operable to secure the bridging members in position relative to one another. A pair of engaging members are structured to engage the head of the respective bone attachment device and bear against the respective adjacent end of crosslink device to lock the crosslink and the bone attachment device in a rigid construct are also included.

Abstract: Devices and methods for anchoring one or more elongate connecting members along the spinal column include a transverse linking member positionable through a spinous process in a generally orthogonal orientation to the sagittal plane. At least one coupling assembly is engageable about an end of the linking member extending from the spinous process. The elongate connecting member is engaged to the coupling assembly in a transverse orientation to the transverse linking member.

Abstract: A vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening device that restores the loss of disc height as a result of disc degeneration and other factors. The vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening device includes pedicle screws having heads with cup-shaped cavities. The pedicle screws are threaded into the vertebral bodies of adjacent vertebrae through the pedicles so that open parts of the heads of the pedicle screws face each other. A spring is inserted into the cup-shaped cavities in compression so that the spring bias forces the pedicle screws apart, thus increasing the height of the disc space.

Abstract: Derotation instrument assemblies and systems are provided to facilitate positioning one or more vertebrae of a spinal column into a desired alignment. The instrument assemblies and systems include implant holders engageable to respective implants engaged to vertebrae of the spinal column, transverse bridges to connect implant holders associated with a particular vertebra, and inter-level linking assemblies to connect instrument assemblies associated with different vertebrae. Derotation handles can be provided on the implant holders to facilitate application of the alignment forces, while the assemblies distribute the corrective forces to the connected implants and vertebrae.

Abstract: An implantable article for use with an anchor and a non-metal rod assembly includes a ring having a body including an outer surface, an inner surface defining an aperture extending through the body configured to engage a non-metal rod. The ring body further includes protrusions extending from the inner surface into the aperture, wherein the protrusions are spaced apart from each other axially and circumferentially along the inner surface.