Abstract: A system and method for the stabilization of the human spine using rods or plates having variable shapes and mechanical properties over their length. The rods or plates may be made up of various segments, each having different properties such as different flexibilities.

Abstract: A bone anchor comprising a self-centering ball-joint suitable for use in a spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The bone anchor has a deflectable ball-rod partially received in a socket of a housing formed in the head of the bone anchor. A centering rod received partially in the ball-rod and partially within the housing operates to align the ball-rod with the longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. Deflection of the ball-rod bends the centering rod which in turn applies a restoring force upon the ball-rod.

Abstract: A stabilization device includes a first bone anchoring element, a second bone anchoring element, and a rod-shaped element for connecting the first and the second bone anchoring elements. The rod-shaped element includes a curved section, that undergoes an elastic deformation under the action of a force acting on the rod-shaped element via an anchoring element. The rod-shaped element and the anchoring elements are arranged so that deformation occurs when a force acts in a main direction of motion of bone parts or vertebra relative to each other, whereas a deformation is suppressed when a force acts in a direction that is essentially perpendicular to the main direction of motion.

Abstract: A soft dynamic stabilization assembly includes a core, typically in the form of a tensioned cord, at least one pair of bone anchors, a spacer surrounding the core located between the bone anchors, typically, at least one elastic bumper and at least one fixing or blocking member. The core is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone anchors and cooperating spacer.

Abstract: A flexible connection unit for use in a spinal fixation device, including: a longitudinal member having first end portion, a second end portion and a flexible member interposed between the first end portion and the second end portion, at least one of the first end portion and the second end portion configured to be coupled to a first bone securing member; and a spacer located between the first and second end portions, wherein at least a portion of the flexible member passes through an axial channel of the spacer and wherein the spacer comprises a resilient element configured to be coupled to a second bone securing member.

Abstract: Devices and methods for spinal stabilization include first and second anchor assemblies engageable to respective ones of first and second vertebrae and a connecting element engageable to the first and second anchor assemblies. The connecting element includes opposite first and second end members and a bumper assembly between the end members that flexibly connects the end members so the connecting element can provide dynamic stabilization of the spinal column when engaged to the anchor assemblies.

Abstract: Methods, systems, devices and tools for placing bone stabilization components in a patient are provided. The systems and devices have a reduced number of discrete components that allow placement through small incisions and tubes. More particularly, the present invention is directed to systems and methods of treating the spine, which eliminate pain and enable spinal motion, which effectively mimics that of a normally functioning spine. Methods are also provided for stabilizing the spine and for implanting the subject systems.

Abstract: A longitudinal member for use in spinal or trauma surgery is provided which is sized to span a distance between at least two vertebrae or two bone parts, wherein the longitudinal member is made at least partially of a polymer material, such as an elastomer, which is extruded. The polymer chains of the longitudinal member are substantially aligned in the longitudinal direction of the member. The longitudinal member is included in a dynamic stabilization device having at least two bone anchoring elements and such a longitudinal member connecting the bone anchoring elements.

Abstract: An orthopedic device is described for stabilizing the spinal column between first and second vertebral bodies. The device has first and second screws adapted for fixation to the first and second vertebral bodies, respectively. The device further includes an elongated ligament with a first end connected to the first screw and the second end operatively connected with the second screw. The ligament is made preferably of a nickel titanium alloy selected to have ductile inelastic properties at body temperature and is capable of plastic deformation to allow relative constrained motion between the vertebral bodies. The preferred nickel titanium has a martensite/austenite transition temperature above body temperature. In a preferred embodiment, the second pedicle screw includes a bearing for receiving the ligament in a slidably engageable relationship. The device further includes optional first and second dampening members surrounding the ligament for restraining the spinal column during flexion and extension.

Abstract: A stabilizer device (1) for the spinal column, comprising first engagement means (4) and second engagement means (5), which are adapted to be connected to each other by a rod-like element (8), the first and second engagement means (4, 5) being adapted to be fitted on first and second pedicle screws (2, 3), which are adapted to be in turn inserted in two adjacent vertebrae, the first and second engagement means (4, 5) being fixable on the pedicle screws (2, 3); the first and second engagement means (4, 5) accommodate bearing means (20), which are adapted to rotate within the first and second engagement means (4, 5) and to be fitted on the pedicle screws (2, 3), in order to allow the fitting of the first and second engagement means (4, 5) on the pedicle screws (2, 3).

Abstract: Methods for providing a flexible spinal stabilization system operative to prevent lateral bending, extension, and rotation across two or more adjacent vertebrae are described. Broadly, the invention utilizes a pair of connectors on each vertebrae, and flexible elongated elements, such as sutures or cables, in an axial and crisscrossed pattern to provide an arrangement that resists extension, lateral bending, and torsional/rotational motion. In some embodiments, the flexible stabilization system includes a pair of locking anchors and a pair of hook-like anchors. The locking anchors are pre-threaded with a suture in a loose looped configuration before insertion into the vertebra. Once the locking anchors have been inserted, the suture loops can be looped over hook-like anchors inserted into an adjacent vertebrae to join the vertebrae and apply tension across the disc space. In some embodiments, the hook-like anchors can have multiple hooks for use in joining multiple vertebral levels.

Abstract: A bone fusion device, system, kit, and/or method can include an elongated structure including at least two anchor portions and at least one deformable segment connected on each end to one of the at least two anchor portions. Each deformable segment can include a plurality of spaced apart deformable members deformable from an unexpanded configuration to an expanded configuration. The bone fusion device may be implanted between two bone structures in the unexpanded configuration utilizing a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The deformable members can be compressed along a longitudinal axis of the device to deform the deformable members to the expanded configuration into contact with the two bone structures. A bone growth promoting material can be placed in the anchor portion lumen and in the interior of each deformable segment to promote bone in-growth between the bone structures.

Abstract: A spinal rod includes a core component and a tube. The core component has a diameter and an axial length. The tube has a diameter equal to or less than the diameter of the core component. A vibrational energy is applied between the core and the tube such that the core is received within the tube and the tube is advanced along the axial length of the tube. The spinal rod composite then has facial conformance forces maintaining the tube position along the axial length of the core.

Abstract: The connecting element (1) has the shape of a rod with longitudinal axis (2), a rear end (6), and a front end (7), and serves to span a number of bone anchoring elements (12) implanted in the bone. The connecting element (1) comprises at least one longitudinal slot (5). This provides it with a greater elasticity during implantation so that it can be reversibly deformed. The connecting element can then be stiffened once it has been fixed in the bone anchoring elements (e.g. pedicle screws).

Abstract: A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate core and an outer sleeve. The core may be substantially cylindrical, of one-piece construction, and includes end portions for attachment to the bone anchors. A portion of the core extending between the bone anchors has at least one slit. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The sleeve surrounds the core and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors.

Abstract: A modular anchoring device including a threaded shank for anchoring within a vertebra, an intermediate element and a head portion configured to receive and secure a rigid or non-rigid stabilization rod. The threaded shank, the intermediate element and the head portion of the anchoring device are cannulated to permit percutaneous implantation of the device. The intermediate portion is designed to be removable from the threaded shank portion subsequent to implantation of the anchoring device to enable substitution of another intermediate element having different dynamic characteristics.

Abstract: A spinal construct for implantation in a patient to provide stabilization to spinal structure with improved load sharing includes a flexible spinal rod having a first end and a second end, the spinal rod being configured to provide stabilization to spinal structure. It also includes a first bone fastener configured to securely attach to the flexible spinal rod and a second bone fastener configured to securely attach to the flexible spinal rod. The second bone fastener is a dynamic fastener arranged to provide motion in one direction more than another direction. The flexible spinal rod and the second bone fastener are oriented to cooperate in a manner that achieves load sharing by dynamically flexing under applied loads in a manner that distributes stresses and strains between the flexible spinal rod and the second bone fastener.

Abstract: A transition connector of a vertebral stabilization system for connecting a rigid rod and a flexible member to provide regions of rigid support and regions of dynamic support along a region of the spinal column is disclosed. A rigid rod may form one portion of the transition connector and a tubular member configured to receive a flexible member may form another portion of the transition connector. The tubular member may be configured to be secured to an end portion of the flexible member.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treating spinal deformities are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a low-profile spinal anchoring device is provided for receiving a spinal fixation element, such as a tether, therethrough. The device generally includes a staple body that is adapted to seat a spinal fixation element, a fastening element for fixing the staple body to bone, and a locking assembly for coupling a spinal fixation element to the staple body. In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a washer that is adapted to couple to the staple body such that the spinal fixation is disposed therebetween, and a locking nut that is adapted to engage the staple body to mate the washer to the staple body.

Abstract: A vertebral rod includes a first elongated section, a second elongated section and an intermediate section disposed between the first section and the second section. The intermediate section has an inner surface and opposing end portions that define an open portion. A removable element extends from one of the first, second or intermediate sections and is disposable adjacent the opposing end portions. The element is configured to prevent engagement of the opposing end portions. A resistance member is configured for disposal with the intermediate section and engaging at least a portion of the inner surface. A method of manufacture is also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to a method and system for dynamic spinal fixation for the correction of spinal deformities, and more specifically pertains to a method and system permitting a correction of spinal deformity without rigid fixation of the vertebral bodies. The embodiments are useful in correcting spinal deformities, including all types of scoliosis or other misalignments affecting the vertebral column. The positioning of devices and elements permits a gradual correction of a three dimensional spinal deformity through operative intervention and/or the natural growth of the vertebrae and spinal column.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system generally comprises first and second anchor members configured to be secured to first and second vertebrae within a patient's body, a flexible element secured to the first anchor member, and a rigid element secured to the second anchor member. An end portion of the rigid element is coupled to an end portion of the flexible so that the system is able to provide both rigid and dynamic stabilization. The coupling is maintained even if the flexible element relaxes after a period of time within the patient's body.

Abstract: A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly having the following features: a pair of elongate bone anchor engagement segments, a floating inner core disposed in apertures of both anchor segments, at least one compression spacer surrounding the core and located between the anchor segments and in some embodiments an over-mold surrounding the compression spacer and at least a portion of one of the anchor segments. The implant may further include a tubed sleeve surrounding the core and located between the anchor segments.

Abstract: An apparatus for treatment of a body having a skeletal curvature comprising: a rod capable of being attached to at least two vertebrae of the spine; which rod, under fluid pressure moves from a first position to an extended position, which extended position straightens the two vertebrae; and a hydraulic mechanism, in fluid communication with the rod, which moves the rod from the first position to the extended position, wherein the rod and hydraulic mechanism are capable of being inserted within the body having a skeletal curvature.

Abstract: A versatile dynamic spinal rod and bone anchor assembly for use in a dynamic stabilization system to support the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Alternative embodiments can be used for spine fusion. The dynamic bone anchor provides load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic bone anchor includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. The dynamic rod connects different levels of the construct in a multilevel construct. The dynamic rod is connected to the dynamic bone anchor by a joint which permits relative movement of the deflectable post and rod reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

Abstract: A flexible connection unit for use in a spinal fixation device that includes: a longitudinal member having first and second ends and a flexible member interposed between the first and second ends, at least one of the first end and second end configured to be engaged by a first bone securing member; and at least one spacer located between the first and second ends, the spacer comprising a resilient element and a ring element encircling at least a portion of the resilient element, wherein the ring element is configured to be engaged by a second bone securing member.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system generally comprises first and second anchor members configured to be secured to first and second vertebrae within a patient's body, a flexible element secured to the first anchor member, and a rigid element secured to the second anchor member. An end portion of the rigid element is coupled to an end portion of the flexible so that the system is able to provide both rigid and dynamic stabilization. The coupling is maintained even if the flexible element relaxes after a period of time within the patient's body.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes a deflection rod system implant. The system is 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 a deflection rod system implant. The system is 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 a deflection rod system implant. The system is modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A spinal osteosynthesis system comprising at least one flexible rod mounted to slide freely and guided in pivoting in a member (12) for connection to means for fastening on a vertebra, such as a pedicular screw (10) for example. The invention makes it possible to strengthen and stabilize the column while preserving its mobility and without preventing growth in a child.

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: A bone anchor comprising a self-centering ball-joint suitable for use in a spine stabilization prosthesis which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The bone anchor has a deflectable ball-rod partially received in a socket of a housing formed in the head of the bone anchor. A centering rod received partially in the ball-rod and partially within the housing operates to align the ball-rod with the longitudinal axis of the bone anchor. Deflection of the ball-rod bends the centering rod which in turn applies a restoring force upon the ball-rod.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a spinal stabilization system has a first and a second vertebral anchor each adapted to be coupled to one of a first and a second vertebrae. The system also includes a flexible connecting element coupled to each of the first and second vertebral anchors and extending between the vertebral anchors. The connecting element has a central member and a brace positioned about the central member and the central member is stiffer than the brace to provide the needed combination of support and stiffness to the construct while offering flexibility. These and other various embodiments of this invention offer an improvement over known systems by providing stabilization of the vertebral column while allowing for flexibility and axial dampening.

Abstract: A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer.

Abstract: A dynamic spinal stabilization component suitable for use in stabilizing of the spine. The component is selectably attachable to a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connectable by a joint to bone anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant member. The force/deflection properties of the deflectable post may be adapted to the functional requirements and anatomy of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component, when secured to a bone anchor, provide load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy.

Abstract: A flexible connection unit for use in a spinal fixation device, including: a first end portion and a second end portion, at least one of the first end and second end configured to be engagable by a section of a first bone securing member; a flexible member located between the first and second ends, the flexible member permitting motion of the first end relative to the second end; and a transition area located between the first end and the flexible member, the transition area tapering in diameter from a first section of the transition area proximate to the first end toward a second section of the transition area proximate to the flexible member.

Abstract: A pedicle screw for intervertebral support elements consists of a shaft and a head comprising at least two parts. The head is formed as a securing means for at least one support element. Each support element consists of a piece of a cable-like band and a cylindrical support body with an axial lumen containing the band. The band is securable outside end surfaces of the support body in the head. The head is formed with a contact surface via which a pressure stress can be exerted on the support body in the band direction, and indeed using the band and in cooperation with a further pedicle screw. A part of the head which is firmly connected to the shaft at the one end of the latter, contains a base groove which is oriented transversely to the shaft and into which the part of the band to be secured or a connecting piece which contains the band can be introduced during the securing of the support element by means of a translatory movement in the direction of the shaft and fixed there.

Abstract: Elongated connecting elements include bodies having composite cross-sections defined by a center core that is surrounded by an outer portion. The center core includes a first material and the outer portion includes a second material that is distinct from the first material. In one particular form, a connecting element includes a maximum dimension across an outer cross-sectional shape of the outer portion that is less than a minimum dimension across an oblong or round outer cross-sectional shape of a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) connecting element, and the connecting element exhibits mechanical properties that are at least equivalent to the mechanical properties of the polyetheretherketone (PEEK) connecting element. In another form, the center core has a non-circular cross-sectional shape and the first material is defined by a reinforcing material randomly dispersed throughout a polymer, and the outer portion includes a circular, outer cross-sectional shape.

Abstract: A dynamic bone stabilization system is provided. The system may be placed through small incisions and tubes. The system provides systems and methods of treating the spine, which eliminate pain and enable spinal motion, which effectively mimics that of a normally functioning spine. Methods are also provided for stabilizing the spine and for implanting the subject systems.

Abstract: Provided is a dual action surgical instrument for use in orthopedic surgical procedures that is capable of reducing a rod into position in a rod receiving notch in the head of a bone screw with a first action and subsequently locking the rod into the receiving notch by a second action of the same instrument. A method of using the device is also provided.

Abstract: A device for dynamic stabilization of bones or bone fragments comprising at least one anchor member for attachment to vertebrae having an opening configured to receive a longitudinal member; and the longitudinal member being viscoelastically deformable and having a predetermined bending resilience.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a spinal stabilization apparatus includes a vertebral anchor having a head portion and a bone attachment portion. An elongate, flexible guide is removably coupled to the head portion of the vertebral anchor and has a channel extending longitudinally thereof and communicating with a slot in the head portion of the anchor. An elongate cord may be received within the channel to facilitate inserting and securing a spacer between pairs of anchors installed into adjacent vertebrae of a person's spine.

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

Abstract: A vertebral rod includes a first elongated section including a first material having a first modulus of elasticity and a second elongated section including a second material having a second modulus of elasticity. A first intermediate section is disposed between the first section and the second section, and includes a third material having a third modulus of elasticity. The intermediate section has an arcuate inner surface that defines a cavity and an open end. The first modulus and the second modulus are each greater than the third modulus such that the first and second sections provide a reinforced configuration of the vertebral rod and the intermediate section has a relatively flexible configuration.

Abstract: A vertebral fixation system including an elongate rod and a vertebral anchor for securement to a vertebra. The vertebral anchor includes a head portion for receiving a portion of the rod. The elongate rod may be formed of a material having a modulus of elasticity less than or equal to 110 GPa and an ultimate strength greater than 1 GPa. The elongate rod may have a structural bending stiffness in the range of about 500,000 N-mm2 to about 2,000,000 N-mm2 or about 1,250,000 N-mm2. In some instances, the elongate rod may be formed of a beta titanium alloy such as high strength Ti-15Mo-5Zr. In some instances the elongate rod has a diameter in the range of about 3.25 millimeters to about 4.5 millimeters. Various elongate rods including regions for receiving a flexible member along an exterior surface of the elongate rods are also provided.

Abstract: A stabilization device for bones or vertebrae comprises a substantially cylindrical elastic element. The elastic element has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. An elastic section extends between the first end and the second end. The elastic section includes at least first and second helical coils. The first and second helical coils are arranged coaxially so that the first helical coil extends at least in a portion between the second helical coil. The elastic element may form, for example, a portion of a rod, bone anchoring element, or plate.

Abstract: An intervertebral support device may include upper and lower vertebral mounting fixtures to be respectively connected to an upper and a lower vertebra in a patient's spine. The device may further include a bias member for urging the upper and lower vertebral mounting fixtures together, and a bias adjuster connected to the bias member maintained in tension for adjusting the tension thereof. The bias adjuster advantageously allows a spinal surgeon installing the intervertebral support device to adjust the tension of the bias member during installation, as well as to re-adjust the tension post-operatively during follow-up visits to modify a patient's intervertebral mobility as needed.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae in a patient's spinal column. In one exemplary embodiment, a spinal stabilization device is provided having a first cross-connector that is adapted to mate to opposed lateral sides of a first vertebra, a second cross-connector that is adapted to mate to opposed lateral sides of a second vertebra, and a flexible member that is coupled to the first and second cross-connectors and that is adapted to allow movement between first and second adjacent vertebrae coupled to the first and second cross-connectors.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for spinal stabilization with flexible elements and other elements engaged to the vertebrae. Also provided are instruments and methods for insertion of the flexible stabilization elements and other elements and for reduction of displacement between adjacent vertebrae in a minimally invasive surgical approach.