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: Spine stabilization devices, systems and methods are provided in which a single resilient member or spring is disposed on an elongate element that spans two attachment members attached to different spinal vertebrae. The elongate element passes through at least one of the two attachment members, permitting relative motion therebetween, and terminates in a stop or abutment. A second resilient member is disposed on the elongate element on an opposite side of the sliding attachment member, e.g., in an overhanging orientation. The two resilient members are capable of applying mutually opposing urging forces, and a compressive preload can be applied to one or both of the resilient members.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide a rod and a corresponding rod inserter. The rod has an elongated body with a removable end configured for an insertion tool engagement. The removable end of the rod has a part that can be securely attached to a rod holder of a rod inserter ex situ prior to minimally invasive rod insertion. A breakable portion is located between the part and the elongated body. The part can be broken off from the rod in situ to release the rod inserter. The broken off part of the rod is removed with the rod inserter and separated from the rod inserter ex situ.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing an adjustable length surgical implant is provided, wherein the surgical implant is readily adjustable by a surgeon using a surgical tool sized for use with the surgical implant. Adjustment of the surgical implant further requires a small incision through the skin prior to the adjustment of the length of the implant, such that the potential for infection is greatly reduces and the associated trauma of surgery is lessened for the patient.

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: A vertebral rod assembly with first and second members that may rotate about a first axis. Each of the first and second members includes a base and a vertebral support rod extending from the base. An extension extends from the base on the first member into an opening formed in the base of the second member. A ring is sized to extend around the extension. A fastener engages with the ring to lock the first and second members, and to prevent relative rotation between the first member and second member.

Abstract: Spinal rods are provided that transition from one diameter to another without an extended transition region to which coupling devices may not be attached, allowing coupling devices for mounting the spinal rod to the spine to be secured almost anywhere along the rod's length without having a weakened transition point.

Abstract: The present application is directed to vertebral rods and methods of use. In one embodiment, the rod includes upper and lower sections that are separated by an intermediate section. The intermediate section may include one or more members, and may have a variety of configurations. An elastic member may be positioned within the intermediate section. The intermediate section and the elastic member may provide for variable resistance during movement of the upper and lower sections. In one embodiment, the resistance increases the further away the upper and lower sections move from a first orientation.

Abstract: Spinal support members having varying stiffnesses are disclosed. In one embodiment, an elongated spinal prosthetic includes a pair of curved elongated portions. The portions are formed of materials having different stiffness characteristics such that the stiffness of the prosthetic varies along its length. In another embodiment, an elongated spinal implant includes a pair of threadedly engaged elongated sections. The first section is formed of a first material having a first rigidity. The second section has an inner portion formed of the first material and an outer portion formed of a second material. The second material is less rigid than the first material. In another embodiment, a modular spinal rod is provided. The modular spinal rod includes a pair of connectable rod portions with different stiffness characteristics. In yet another embodiment, a kit for a modular spinal rod includes a plurality of connectable modular rod portions having different stiffness characteristics.

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: Disclosed are devices and methods for the re-construction of the vertebral lamina after partial or complete laminectomy. Pursuant to an exemplary method, a first bone fastener is anchored to a vertebral bone. A second bone fastener is anchored to the same vertebral bone, wherein the first and second fasteners are located on opposite sides of the vertebral midline. A connector member is used to inter-connect the two bone fasteners and produce a prosthetic lamina. Multiple embodiments of the lamina prosthesis are illustrated. These devices reconstruct the spinal canal, mark the position of the nerves at re-operation and provide a stable platform for the placement of additional spinal stabilization implants.

Abstract: Systems and methods for multi-level, multi-functional stabilization of a spinal column segment are provided. The systems include one or more constructs having a motion preserving portion that permits motion of at least a portion of a vertebral level and a motion preventing portion that substantially prevents motion of at least a portion of a second, adjacent vertebral level.

Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for a facet replacement device. In one embodiment of the invention, a facet replacement device is provided and includes an elongate member matable to a first vertebra and a housing. The housing can have a connector formed thereon and matable to an adjacent second vertebra and an inner lumen formed therein. The housing can also include a deformable member disposed within the inner lumen and having an opening formed therein for slidably receiving at least a portion of the elongate member such that the elongate member can be angularly oriented relative to a longitudinal axis of the lumen.

Abstract: A spinal rod having first and second end members. The end members may be flexible or rigid. An expandable intermediate section is positioned between the first and second end members. The intermediate section may be axially expandable upon the introduction of a substance into a port that may be located in either of the first and second end members or the intermediate section. The intermediate section may be expandable between a first size, where the first and second end members are spaced a first distance apart, and a second enlarged size, where the first and second end members are spaced a second greater distance apart.

Abstract: The present application is directed to vertebral rods and methods of use. In one embodiment, the rod includes upper and lower sections that are separated by an intermediate section. The intermediate section may include one or more members, and may have a variety of configurations. An elastic member may be positioned within the intermediate section. The intermediate section and the elastic member may provide for variable resistance during movement of the upper and lower sections. In one embodiment, the resistance increases the further away the upper and lower sections move from a first orientation. In one embodiment, the extent of movement of the upper and lower sections is limited.

Abstract: A multi-level spine stabilization system comprises a plurality of securing members configured for attachment to a plurality of vertebrae. A plurality of adjustable rods segments extend between the plurality of securing members. The adjustable rod comprises a first rod segment that engages a second rod segment in an adjustable relationship. The length of the rod may be adjusted by moving the first rod segment relative to the second rod segment. For example, the first rod segment may be in a slideable relationship with the second rod segment such that sliding the first rod segment relative to the second rod segment results in a change in the length of the rod. In one embodiment, portions of both the first rod segment and the second rod segment are positioned within and secured to the securing member. Advantageously, the multi-level spine stabilization system described herein may be used to center dynamic portions of the rod between securing members.

Abstract: An apparatus is operable to correct spinal deformities caused by scoliosis and the like. The apparatus may be used in a minimally invasive fashion and through the posterior side of the patient. A combination of internal screws and rods, as well as external pins, rods, and correction mechanisms, are used to obtain facet unlocking and translational correction of the affected vertebrae. The internal rods are inserted percutaneously and are secured to the affected vertebrae to maintain the deformity correction. External components are then removed, and the small incisions are sutured.

Abstract: A dynamic spine plate is formed with only a single row of bone screw bores that extend along a generally superior/inferior axis of the spine plate, providing a single-sided dynamic spine plate. The single-sided dynamic spine plate is formed from a plurality of spine plate components that are coupled dynamically to one another. This provides a modular, single-sided dynamic spine plate. The spine plate components are coupled dynamically to one another via socket and projection interfaces, the socket and projections interfaces incorporating resilient coupling and retention structures that allow limited movement of the spine plate components relative to one another. This provides for dynamic extension of the spine plate components relative to one another. The resilient coupling structure connects the spine plate components, providing a self-biased, snap fit coupling of spine plate components.

Abstract: A stabilization system for a human spine is provided comprising at least one dynamic interbody device and at least two dynamic posterior stabilization systems. The dynamic posterior stabilization system may be coupled on contralateral sides of vertebrae. In some embodiments, a bridge may couple a dynamic interbody device to a dynamic posterior stabilization system.

Abstract: A multi-articular intramedullary fracture fixation device having a adjustable modulus of rigidity. The implant apparatus includes modular tensioning elements that can be disposed in a ball-and-socket linear array along a length of connecting wire within a medullary canal. The connecting wire includes a threaded end and a stop member at the opposite end, and when a lock nut is threadably disposed on the threaded end and tightened, at least two of the tensioning elements in the array may be swiveled relative to one another and arranged to introduce curvature as desired along the length of the array. Tightening the lock nut is also employed to adjust the modulus of rigidity to be retained during healing.

Abstract: A spinal rod having first and second end members. The end members may be flexible or rigid. An expandable intermediate section is positioned between the first and second end members. The intermediate section may be axially expandable upon the introduction of a substance into a port that may be located in either of the first and second end members or the intermediate section. The intermediate section may be expandable between a first size, where the first and second end members are spaced a first distance apart, and a second enlarged size, where the first and second end members are spaced a second greater distance apart.

Abstract: A device for correction of a spinal deformity. In one embodiment, the device includes a cable having a first end portion, and an opposite, second end portion attachable to a vertebra, and means for adjusting the tension of the cable so as to impose a corrective displacement on the vertebra.

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 stabilization system for implantation in a patient includes: at least first and second bone anchors, each bone anchor including a shaft extending in a respective bone insertion direction for connection to a respective bone of a patient, and a fastening member; and an elongate member comprising a first end portion, a first transverse portion extending transversely from the first end portion, a second end portion, a second transverse portion extending transversely from the second end portion, and a connecting portion extending in a longitudinal direction between the first and second transverse portions.

Abstract: Extra-discal intervertebral stabilization assembly for arthrodesis, comprising at least two vertebral screws that can engage in two different vertebrae, and a connecting member that is able to connect these two screws, one of each screw or connecting member having a rod (1018), while the other of each screw or connecting member is provided with at least one eyelet (1005) whose walls have a suitable shape, these walls defining an orifice (1004), and the rod or each rod being able to engage in the orifice or each orifice with the possibility of clearance in at least one direction of the plane of this orifice.

Abstract: A spinal rod includes an elongated tubular member that is inflatable from a first insertion profile to a second enlarged profile. An expandable tubular reinforcement sleeve is concentrically positioned adjacent to the balloon. The balloon may be bonded to the sleeve. The spinal rod may also have longitudinal reinforcement members. A joining member may join two or more of the longitudinal reinforcing members at a discrete point along each. The spinal rod may further include end portions on either side of an inflatable portion.

Abstract: A dynamic spine stabilization device is provided that includes at least one force imparting member, e.g., a spring. The force imparting member is adapted to deliver a force of between about 150 lb/inch and 450 lbs/inch, and restrict the relative travel distance between said first and second pedicles to a distance of between about 1.5 mm and 5 mm. The spinal stabilization devices also have a minimal impact on the location of the center of rotation for the spinal segment being treated. By providing resistance in the noted range and restricting the travel distance to the noted range, it has been found that the stabilization device provides a desired level of stabilization, as reflected by range of motion values that closely approximate pre-injury range of motion levels.

Abstract: A weld cap is configured and dimensioned to interact with a resilient element, e.g., a spring, and a structural member, e.g., an end cap, so as to securely position the spring relative to the end cap. The weld cap functions to distance the welding process and associated welding energy from the spring, thereby avoiding and/or minimizing any potentially undesirable annealing effect associated with securing/welding the spring relative to the end cap. A first weld cap interacts with the spring at a first end region thereof, and a second weld cap interacts with the spring at a second end region thereof, thereby effectively securing the spring with respect to opposed end caps at either end of an elongated spinal stabilization device. Alignment grooves or channels may be provided for orienting or aligning the spring with respect to the end caps and weld caps.

Abstract: An elongated implant device for stabilizing the spinal column includes a rod-shaped member having a first end and a second end, the rod-shaped member defining a longitudinal axis of the implant device, a sleeve which is slidably arranged on the rod-shaped member, the sleeve having a free end and a coupled end, the coupled end being connected with an axial dampening element, and the axial dampening element, which is connected between the sleeve and the second end of the rod-shaped member to damp a movement of the sleeve along the longitudinal axis. The first end of the rod-shaped member may be configured to be connected to a first bone anchor and the sleeve may be configured to be connected to a second bone anchor.

Abstract: A spinal rod includes an elongated tubular member that is inflatable from a first insertion profile to a second enlarged profile. An expandable tubular reinforcement sleeve is concentrically positioned adjacent to the balloon. The balloon may be bonded to the sleeve. The spinal rod may also have longitudinal reinforcement members. A joining member may join two or more of the longitudinal reinforcing members at a discrete point along each. The spinal rod may further include end portions on either side of an inflatable portion.

Abstract: A low-profile surgical rod implant device is provided that allows the length of a rod spanning two bone screws to be adjusted at the time of implantation. In a separate aspect of the invention, the rod implant device can be secured by tightening and securing an end of the rod implant device at one of the bone screws. Embodiments are provided for use with polyaxial pedicle screws and substantially straight shank pedicle screws in spinal applications. In a separate aspect of the invention, a bone screw connector having an interference type fit is also provided. A method for implanting the device is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting member for maintaining the spacing between at least two anchor members screwed into vertebrae. It comprises two rigid rod-forming parts (12, 14) made of a first material and each having a fixing, first portion (16, 18) adapted to be fixed into an anchor member and a fastening, second portion (20, 22), said rods (12, 14) being aligned with each other and said fastening portions (20, 22) facing each other, and a connecting body (24) made of a second material which is more elastically deformable than said first material and which interconnects said rigid parts (12, 14) by means of the facing fastening portions (20, 22) so that said connecting body (24) is able to deform elastically, whereby the vertebrae, which are held spaced from each other, are movable relative to each other.

Abstract: A damping element for the dynamic stabilization of two bones, particularly of two adjacent bodies of the vertebra, includes a flexible spring element having a hollow space. The hollow space is open on a first end and closed on a second end by a wall extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the damping element. A clamping sleeve is inserted at least partially into the hollow space. The sleeve has a front end directed towards the wall of the flexible spring element. The distance between the front end and the wall affects the damping characteristics of the damping element. A coaxial connecting element is attached to each end of the flexible spring element. Each connecting element is configured to be connected within an osteosynthetic stabilizing device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a reforming device. A reforming device according to the present invention includes a main body that is locked to bones of a human body and of which a length is extensible depending on growth of the human body; an external controller that transmits a wireless control signal for a length of the main body to be extended inside of the human body; and an internal controller that is mounted inside of the human body and extends the length of the main body depending on the wireless control signal.

Abstract: A vertebral rod assembly comprises first and second members that may rotate about a first axis. Each of the first and second members includes a base and a vertebral support rod extending from the base. An extension extends from the base on the first member into an opening formed in the base of the second section. A fastener extends through the base of the second member to lock the first and second members, and to prevent the rotation of the first member and second member.

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