Abstract: A dynamic stabilization system includes a stabilization element, such as a spinal rod, a plurality of bone anchors, such as bone bolts, and a like plurality of connectors for connecting the bolts to the spinal rod. At least some of the connectors include a flexible element between the bone anchor and the rod and an adjustment element for adjusting the flexibility of the flexible element, to thereby adjust the dynamic flexibility between the rod and the bone anchor. In one embodiment, the flexible element is a flexible bearing element of a rod end bearing.

Abstract: A pedicle screw with a closure device including a seat element and a closure cap for quick closure of the seat element of the pedicle screw. An elastic rod element inserted therein in the seat recess, which element serves to stabilize a vertebral column, is held in a form-locking way. The closure cap of the closure device has the function of a cross-brace, and can transfer the forces absorbed by it from the rod element to the pedicle screw. Disposed on the closure cap with a holding recess are engagement elements which, during insertion of the closure cap, automatically lock in place in a stable position in the seat element provided with a U-shaped seat recess. The seat recess and the holding recess preferably have a ridged or grooved structure corresponding to the rod element used.

Abstract: The present application discloses methods for treating a spinal deformity. In one embodiment, an elongated member is attached to vertebral members with fasteners. A separate fastener may attach the elongated member to each of the vertebral members. The elongated member may apply a force to limit growth on one side of the vertebral members, such as a convex side of a scoliotic spine. Each fastener may be constructed to limit a direction of growth of the vertebral member thereby applying a specific, corrective force to the vertebral member. The fasteners may allow relative motion between adjacent vertebral members without losing the attachment between the vertebral members and the fasteners. The net result may be controlled modulation of growth to reduce and/or eliminate the spinal deformity through redirection of growth potential.

Abstract: A rod, such as that used for spinal stabilization, made of both metal material and elastomeric material. The rod may have a metal infrastructure, which may be non-cylindrical, to provide a desired stiffness for bending in at least one direction and may also have metal exterior surfaces for engaging metal components of spinal fixation locking mechanisms. In addition, the elastomeric material may only partially circumferentially encapsulate the metal material so that the metal material forms part of the surface of the rod.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for mobile spinal fixation rod systems. A central housing may be formed in part from the enlarged end of a connection rod and may house a flexible insert in a cavity thereof. The enlarged head of a flexion rod may be disposed in the flexible insert and retained in the cavity by a coupler completing the central housing. A rod system of the present invention is capable of deflection, distraction and compression to preserve motion while providing fixation to the attached vertebrae.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a curved facet joint fixation assembly and an associated implantation tool and method. The curved facet joint fixation assembly includes an elongated curved shaft adapted to conform to various spinal morphologies. The implantation tool includes a bone fastening device with an angled lower end portion and a removable drive for cutting a hole and for driving the curved facet joint fixation assembly through the hole.

Abstract: A flexible rod for fixing vertebrae is connected to a vertebral fixing device in order to maintain a damaged or deformed vertebra in an original stable state and impart flexibility. The flexible rod comprises a plurality of support bars, each of which has an insertion recess that has internal threads on an open side thereof; a plurality of rings, which is disposed between the support bars and has internal threads; a spring, which has a spiral structure so as to be able to be coupled into the support bars in engagement with the threads of the support bars; and an elastic bar, which is inserted into the support bars through the center of the spring.

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 spinal pedicle rod comprising an internally reinforced polymeric core that is at least partially encased within at least one polymeric coating.A dynamic stabilization device for bones in which flexible rods are combined with a pair of dynamic anchoring devices comprising i) a shank for anchoring into a bone or a vertebra, ii) a head connected to the shank, iii) a receiving part for the head and iv) a mobile element acting on the head.

Abstract: A rod assembly for spinal stabilization is provided comprising a flexible tubular element having a first end section and a second end section, an adapter connected to the second end section, the adapter having an engagement structure for connection to other rod portions or other rod assemblies of a spinal stabilization device, wherein at least a portion of the adapter extends into or onto the second end section, a longitudinal core extending through the tubular element, the core having a first end extending through at least a portion of the first end section and a second end extending into the portion of the adapter and being freely movable therein.

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: The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a first material having a first portion including a first material having a first elasticity and a second portion including a second material having a second elasticity greater than the first to provide the flexible member with a variable flexibility.

Abstract: The present invention relates to flexible members for stabilizing a spinal column and methods for making the flexible members. In one embodiment, a flexible member comprises an inner elastomeric member and an outer fabric layer situated securely around the inner elastomeric member. The inner elastomeric member has a first elasticity to provide the flexible member with a desired flexibility. In another embodiment, the flexible member includes an outer covering that defines an outer elastomeric member. The outer elastomeric member may be situated securely around the outer fabric layer with the inner elastomeric member, the outer fabric layer, and the outer elastomeric member having the common lengthwise axis and defining the body including the opposing first and second ends. The outer elastomeric member may have a second elasticity that is less than the first elasticity.

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 assembly for dynamic stabilization of the spine includes a rod having a first end having a first diameter and a second end having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. A hollow housing forms a passage that receives the second end of the rod. An elastic member connects the first end of the rod with the housing. The assembly includes or is operable with a first pedicle screw and a second pedicle screw, each pedicle screw having a rod receiving slot. The first end of the rod is supported in the rod receiving slot of the first pedicle screw, and the housing is supported in the rod receiving slot of the second pedicle screw.

Abstract: The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility attributable to a specified configuration for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a body having a lengthwise axis, an outer surface, and opposing first and second ends with an intermediate portion extending therebetween. The outer surface has one or more grooves providing the flexible member with a variable flexibility. The one or more grooves may be situated generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the body and extending around less than the outer surface of the body, and/or situated generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the body and extending around the outer surface of the body substantially directly in-between the ends.

Abstract: A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connector having a solid core with an elastic over-molded portion. The over-molded portion may be firmly adhered or clamped to at least a portion of the solid core. Alternatively, the over-molded portion may completely envelope the solid core and in some embodiments slide on the core. At least one bone anchor includes at least one insert for gripping the over-molded portion without crushing such portion into fixed relation with the core.

Abstract: The present invention relates to spinal support devices and, more specifically, to a flexible member having variable flexibility for use with a dynamic stabilization system or implant to provide dynamic stability to a person's spine. The flexible member generally includes a first material having a first portion including a first material having a first elasticity and a second portion including a second material having a second elasticity greater than the first to provide the flexible member with a variable flexibility.

Abstract: The present application is directed to devices and methods for correcting a spinal deformity. The devices may include a member attached to one or more vertebral members of a deformed spine. The member may be constructed of a flexible material with elastic properties. The member is attached to the vertebral members in a stressed orientation. Due to the elastic properties of the material, the member exerts a corrective force on the vertebral members. In some embodiments, multiple members are attached to the vertebral members to apply the corrective force.

Abstract: A spinal rod/rod system for spinal stabilization is controllably bendable or flexible along its longitudinal axis to achieve a particular radius of curvature, flex, arch or angle of the spinal rod and preserve the achieved angle through a locking mechanism. The spinal rod is controllably bendable through application of a controlled axial force. Such controllable curvature allows for limited movement of the vertebrae connected by the present resilient spinal rod system. The present spinal rod is defined by a multi-component system which includes an inner spring rod and an outer rod tube. An angulation ring is threadedly attached to an end of the spring rod and provides controlled adjustment of the angle or curvature of the spinal rod through axial compression of the spring rod relative to the outer tube. Locking prevents the increase and/or decrease of angulation of the spinal 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: 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 rod, clamp and spinal fixation technique and method involving monoaxial or polyaxial screws for fusion in the cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral spine. The rod and clamp may be coupled to be pulled through the head of a fixation screw.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for fixing tissue.

Abstract: A system for flexibly stabilizing a vertebral motion segment by connecting a first vertebra and a second vertebra is disclosed. The system includes an elongate connection element with end portions interconnected by a flexible coupling member. The system includes first and second attachment portions for connecting the connection element to the vertebrae. A first resilient member is positioned between the first end portion and the first attachment portion, and a second resilient member is positioned between the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. The system is designed such that the second resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions move towards each other, and the first resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions extend away from each other.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide a new and improved dynamic stabilization rod for spinal implants and methods of making the same The dynamic stabilization rod has a hollow cylindrical body and an opening extending spirally around a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body. The cylindrical body, including the opening, may be filled and/or coated in whole or in part with polycarbonate urethane to prevent over extension and reduce wear. The opening may be machined or otherwise cut to a shape corresponding to a dog bone or puzzle. Portion(s) of the cylindrical body can be left rigid and uncut for integration with other spinal device(s) to facilitate fusion or segmental stability of the spine.

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 pedicle screw and rod system that has particular application for spinal fusion surgery. The system includes pedicle screws having ball-shaped heads that are threaded through pedicles of adjacent vertebra into the vertebral body. The system also includes two cannulated posts having a head portion with a planar portion and an opening for accepting the head of the pedicle screw in a secure and multi-axial engagement. The system further includes a tube portion that is coupled to the head portion and extends above the patient's skin. The system also includes a lordotic slotted rod that is slid down the tube portions to be positioned on top of the head portions of the posts so that the planar portions are locked within the slot. Bolts are then slid down the tube portions and are threaded to a threaded portion on the planar portion.

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.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating a damaged intervertebral disc to reduce or eliminate associated back pain. Dynamic bias devices and reinforcement devices are disclosed, which may be used individually or in combination, to eliminate nerve impingement associated with the damaged disc, and/or to reinforce the damaged disc, while permitting relative movement of the vertebrae adjacent the damaged disc.

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 spinal stabilization system includes at least two anchors having a bone attachment portion and a head portion and a flexible assembly coupled to the anchors. The flexible assembly includes a flexible cord, at least two connectors slidably mounted to the flexible cord, and at least one spacer slidably mounted to the cord between adjacent connectors. Each connector couples with a head portion of an anchor. The flexible assembly may be assembled and appropriately adjusted outside the body prior to it being coupled to the anchors. In addition, the connectors may include angled outer surfaces that provide enhanced engagement with the ends of the spacer. A method of stabilizing the spine includes securing anchors to the spine, assembling a flexible assembly outside the body, and coupling the flexible assembly to the anchors. The method may further include providing connectors with angled surfaces to provide enhanced engagement with the spacer.

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: Insertion of a spinal stabilization element into a patient generally includes positioning a cord within a sheath and inserting the sheath and cord through the patient's body along a path generally toward an anchor member. An advancement member may be mounted on the leading end of the cord to further facilitate this insertion. The sheath is then retracted to expose a first portion of the cord within the patient's body, and the first portion of the cord is moved into a desired position relative to the anchor member. After advancing a spacer over the sheath and cord, the sheath is retracted to expose a second portion of the cord. The second portion of the cord is then moved into a desired position relative to another anchor member such that the spacer is positioned between the two anchor members.

Abstract: The pedicle screw (1) for intervertebral support elements (3) consists of a shaft (10) and a head (2) comprising at least two parts (20, 22). The head is formed as a securing means for at least one support element (3). Each support element consists of a piece of a cable-like band (31) and a cylindrical support body (30) with an axial lumen (31? containing the band. The band is securable outside end surfaces (32) of the support body in the head. The head is formed with a contact surface (23) 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.

Abstract: A stabilization device for stabilizing bones of a vertebra includes a first rod, a second rod, a rod connector connecting the first rod and the second rod, the rod connector comprising a receiving portion for receiving the first rod and a fixation element for fixing the first rod in the receiving portion, wherein in the receiving portion a rod contacting surface is provided and wherein the contour of this rod contacting surface has deviations from the contour of the surface of the first rod. The rod connector allows to connect a flexible rod, for example made of an elastomer material, with a rigid rod, made for example of a metal.

Abstract: The equipment (1) includes: bone anchor elements (2) that will be anchored in a first of the two treated vertebrae (100), and two rigid walls (3) that can be connected to the bone anchor elements (2), that will be arranged on each side of the spinous process (101) of the second treated vertebra (100) with no connection to it and sized to extend over at least the height of the spinous process (101), these walls (3) thus being capable of limiting pivot movements of this second vertebra (100) about an axis approximately perpendicular to the intervertebral disk.

Abstract: A system for treating spinal deformities. A plurality of retaining clamps are fixed to a plurality of vertebrae and at least one elastic or super elastic rod is caused to pass through openings in the plurality of retaining clamps, the at least one elastic or super elastic rod being slidable within each of the plurality of retaining clamps along the axis of the spine to enable the spine to retain full flexion and extension in both its coronal and saggital planes.

Abstract: An implantable apparatus for use in the correction of skeletal deformities comprising a rod, a pair of spaced apart attachment members, each of the attachment members being attachable to a bone. At least one of the attachment member mounts a rod receiving member, the rod being slidable along a predetermined path with respect to the rod receiving member.

Abstract: A dynamic spinal stabilization assembly includes a rod having a plurality of slidable collars thereon. The rod is mounted to at least one of the relevant bone anchoring element(s) via the collars. The collars are spaced from one another such that the bone anchoring element engages at least two collars. The collars may be arranged on the rod so that adjacent collars are longitudinally spaced from one another by a distance not more than one-half the length of the rod-receiving channel in the relevant bone anchoring element. There may be elastic elements slidably disposed on the rod between adjacent collars.

Abstract: An orthosis for correcting spinal deformities by urging spinal vertebrae toward a vertical axis. The orthosis includes a series of retaining clamps fixed onto the spinous process of said vertebrae, each of said retaining clamps having guides for retaining at least one elastic rod.

Abstract: A fixation or implant system (10) is provided for supporting a spinal column (12) and includes a pair of dynamic spinal rods (14, 16) that are fixed on laterally opposite sides of the spine (12). The rods (14,16) are configured to allow an initial range of spinal motion and to resist spinal motion beyond the initial range.

Abstract: A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having at least one transition portion and cooperating outer sleeve, both the transition portion and sleeve being disposed between the two bone anchors. In a first embodiment, the transition portion includes a rigid length or rod having apertures therein for tying or otherwise attaching the rigid length to a second rigid length or to a flexible cord. Slender ties or cords extend through a plurality of apertures in the rigid lengths or are threaded, tied or plaited to the larger flexible cord or cable. In a second embodiment, a transition portion includes slender ties of a cord that are imbedded in a molded plastic of a more rigid member. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The sleeve surrounds the transition portion and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing the spine, according to which a first dampening member is compressed in response to compressive loads on the spine, and a second dampening member is compressed in response to tensile loads on the spine.