Abstract: A modular spinal fixation screw capable of rapid linear engagement of a bone screw and a rod member. The fixation screw is coupled to a connector formed from a clamp and a collet. The collet incorporates the use of a T-shaped living hinge which facilitates both attachment of the connector to a bone screw and lessens the resistance of the collet for locking to the bone screw and rod member. The collet further includes scallops that facilitates the insertion of the spherical end of the bone screw into the collet. The clamp can be moved from a first unlocked position used for installation to a locked position securing the rod member to a pedicle bone. The clamp compresses the collet which holds the hold rod member to the bone screws in a pre-selected position by linear movement of the clamp.

Abstract: Disclosed are fixation devices for repairing spondylolysis. The fixation device can include a first anchor, a second anchor, and a bridge that couples the first and second anchors together. In use, the first anchor can be implanted on one side of a pars fracture, the second anchor can be implanted on the other side of the pars fracture, and the bridge can span across the pars fracture. In some embodiments, the fixation device can be compressible to promote healing of the fracture.

Abstract: A spinal cross-connector for connection between adjacent first and second rods and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a coupling member including a bar extends from a body portion opposite to and in longitudinal axial alignment with a c-shaped arm. A second coupling member which includes a rack extends from a body portion opposite to and in longitudinal axial alignment with a another c-shaped arm. The rack is superposed in a selectively adjustable overlapping mechanical engagement with the bearing surface. Each c-shaped arm includes an arcuate extension extending substantially parallel to the bar to define a gripping pocket. A set screw includes a conical profile that extends substantially perpendicular to the arcuate extension. The advance of the set screw is operable to urge the rod into pressing contact with the gripping pocket to secure the rod therein.

Abstract: A spinous laminar clamp system is disclosed herein. The preferred embodiments are either a three or a four-point fixation system at a particular vertebral level. For example, a two-point adjustable fixation below a vertebrae and a single-point non-adjustable point above the vertebrae exemplifies the three-point fixation. Multiple level and further stabilizing is provided by fixation to subjacent vertebrae above and/or below with a connecting rod providing unitization between levels. Specific designs are applicable to the cervical spine; however, fixation at all levels and regions of the human spine are contemplated.

Abstract: Device for fixing a bony structure to a support member, the device comprising a first connecting member which comprises: a main body provided with a first passage configured for receiving the support member, and with a first opening configured for passing a flexible member therethrough; and a rod fixed to and/or monobloc with the main body and protruding therefrom. The device further comprises a first flexible member passing through the first opening of the main body and extending beyond the main body for attachment to the bony structure.

Abstract: Thoracic/lumbar and cervical spinous process staples which staple/fuse adjacent spinous processes are disclosed. Thoracic/lumbar transverse process staples which staple/fuse adjacent transverse processes are also disclosed. Each embodiment has upper and lower claws connected by a ratchet spring mechanism, along with a multiplicity of bone fastener prongs attached to the upper and lower claws. Two sets of prongs on each staple claw are spaced by a distance approximately equal to the distance separating adjacent spinous or transverse processes so as to facilitate stapling/fusion of two adjacent processes. Also disclosed are staple prongs with multiple perforations which enable incorporation of bone fusion material thereby facilitating stapling/fusion of spinal elements.

Abstract: A system for interfacing a first spinal support rod to a second spinal support rod may optionally comprise a rod interface device configured to receive a portion of the first rod and grip a portion of the second rod to secure the second rod to the first rod. The system may optionally comprise a screw interface device configured to receive a portion of the first rod and configured to mount on a head portion of a pedicle screw.

Abstract: A transverse fixation device is disclosed. The device includes one or more connecting bodies disposed substantially between two elongate rods. Each connecting body includes a receptacle that is capable of engaging with the two elongate rods. A c-ring comprising an outer surface having a spherical curvature is also included. A third rod may be inserted into the c-ring. A clamp included in the connecting bodies may then be disposed about the c-ring and third rod to allow the connecting bodies to slidingly engage with the third rod.

Abstract: An adjustable rod for spinal corrective surgery is provided that includes a first elongate member and a second elongate member, each having rod portions couplable to one or more bone connecting elements and expansion portions slidably moveable with respect to one another. A plurality of holes in each expansion portion are alignable with one another to choose the length of the adjustable rod and a locking element is inserted through a pair of aligned holes to couple the first and second elongate members and secure or fix the length of the expandable rod.

Abstract: A device for fixing a bony structure to a support member. The device includes a main body with first and second members, the second member being movable in rotation with respect to the first member, around a first axis. A flexible member passes between the members and forms a loop around a bony structure. A clamping mechanism moves the first and second members into a clamping position. A support member and the flexible member are secured between the members in the clamping position. The first axis is movable in translation along a first direction and the second member is movable in translation along the first direction. The clamping mechanism cooperates with the first and second members to move the second member in translation in the first direction.

Abstract: In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a rod extension for extending a fusion construct is provided. The rod extension allows a surgeon to connect a stabilization rod implant to at least a portion of a patient's spine, and also to connect the stabilization rod implant to an existing implant that has been previously installed in the patient. The existing fusion implant typically includes at least one existing pedicle screw, at least one existing rod, and at least one existing connector interconnecting the existing pedicle screw to the existing rod. The extension implant comprises a rod, an offset beam connected to the rod, and a clamp interconnected to the offset beam, wherein the clamp can be secured to the existing rod, thereby extending the fusion construct. A method of use is also provided.

Abstract: In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a rod extension for extending a fusion construct is provided. The rod extension allows a surgeon to connect a stabilization rod implant to at least a portion of a patient's spine, and also to connect the stabilization rod implant to an existing implant that has been previously installed in the patient. The existing fusion implant typically includes at least one existing pedicle screw, at least one existing rod, and at least one existing connector interconnecting the existing pedicle screw to the existing rod. The extension implant comprises a rod, an offset beam connected to the rod, and a clamp interconnected to the offset beam, wherein the clamp can be secured to the existing rod, thereby extending the fusion construct. A method of use is also provided.

Abstract: Example embodiments relate generally to an apparatus operable to couple a pair of implantation rods that are surgically implanted adjacent to a plurality of vertebrae. Each implantation rod is secured by at least one fastener element having a head. The apparatus comprises at least one main assembly, said main assembly operable to move relative to a head of one of the fastener elements when not in a locked position. The apparatus also comprises a center link extending in an axial direction, said center link operable to move relative to the main assembly when not in a locked position. The main assembly is operable to receive the center link and a head of one of the fastener elements and secure the center link and the head relative to the main assembly when in a locked position.

Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises an assembly for performing a gradual lateral spinal alignment of a spine. The assembly includes a toggle bolt that includes a shaft and a toggle wing, a rigid stabilizing rod with an orifice, a cable attached to the toggle bolt and a tube enclosing the cable and extending out of the patient's back. The toggle bolt extends through the stabilizing rod and is positioned against the misaligned spine. The toggle bolt is placed in a bore through the body of a vertebra and deployed. The attached cable is pulled using the stabilizing rod as a brace to pull the spine into alignment. The device allows the spine to be gradually placed into alignment helping to avoid trauma on the spine and surrounding tissue.

Abstract: A bone fixing system useful for holding bone in position, and a method for installing the same are disclosed. The ends of a conformable ligature are passed around bones, bone grafts, tendons, plates, rods, fasteners, or other anatomical or implanted structures, and the like to form a loop extending from a first portion of the blocking body. The ends of the conformable ligature are passed through the blocking body and extend out a second portion of the body. The ends may be attached to a tensioning tool and a selected tension may be applied. A closure member may engage an engagement portion of the blocking body to create a friction force to hold the conformable ligature in place without significant movement relative to the blocking body.

Abstract: A clamping device for an external fixation system includes a first clamp having an opening for receiving an external fixation element, the first clamp having an axle seat. A first base component includes a concave first surface and a second surface facing away from the first surface. The concave first surface is in selective engagement with the clamp. A swivel element comprises an axle component and a post component. The axle component is disposed on the axle seat of the first clamp. The post component extends from the axle component and has a length sized to extend from the axle component through a second external fixation clamp. The post component is arranged to swivel relative to the axle seat. Methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: One exemplary device includes a main body including a shaft having a longitudinal axis; a first clamping mechanism having first and second jaws configured to clamp a spinous process of a first vertebra, and a second clamping mechanism having third and fourth jaws configured to clamp a spinous process of a second vertebra. The first, second, third and fourth jaws extend transversely from the shaft and at least two of two of the jaws are releasably mounted to the shaft and are mountable to and removable from the shaft by relative movement between the respective jaw and the shaft in a direction normal to a longitudinal axis of the shaft.

Abstract: An anchoring device for attaching an upper vertebra adjacent to a lower vertebra comprises a clamp having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, adapted to be positioned around upper and lower lateral masses of the adjacent vertebrae, and a fastener which in an installed position engages opposite ends of the clamp and which engages adjacent vertebrae thereby attaching the adjacent vertebrae together.

Abstract: A spinal correction system includes at least one longitudinal element extending between a first portion and a second portion. At least one fixation element includes a first end and a second end that is configured for penetrating tissue. A coupling member is configured for disposal about the at least one longitudinal element. The coupling member includes a first part and a second part being movable relative to the first part between a first orientation and a second orientation such that an inner surface of the parts are fixed with the at least one longitudinal element. The parts include an outer surface such that in the second orientation, the coupling member is configured for a snap fit engagement with the at least one fixation element such that the parts are fixed with the first end. Methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for the stabilization and fixation of the lumbar spine. The system can include a plurality of pedicle screws, a support rod, a plurality of rod clamps, and a plurality of coupling members. In one aspect, each coupling member can be configured to engage a proximal portion of a pedicle screw and can have a socket portion that is configured to receive a socket engaging portion of the rod clamp, such that the coupling member and the pedicle screw can be pivoted three-dimensionally relative to the rod clamp and the support rod.

Abstract: A transverse fixation device is disclosed. The device includes one or more connecting bodies disposed substantially between two elongate rods. Each connecting body includes a receptacle that is capable of engaging with the two elongate rods. A c-ring comprising an outer surface having a spherical curvature is also included. A third rod may be inserted into the c-ring. A clamp included in the connecting bodies may then be disposed about the c-ring and third rod to allow the connecting bodies to slidingly engage with the third rod.

Abstract: A device for fixing a bony structure to a support member. The device includes a main body with first and second members, the second member being movable in rotation with respect to the first member, around a first axis. A flexible member passes between the members and forms a loop around a bony structure. A clamping mechanism moves the first and second members into a clamping position. A support member and the flexible member are secured between the members in the clamping position. The first axis is movable in translation along a first direction and the second member is movable in translation along the first direction. The clamping mechanism cooperates with the first and second members to move the second member in translation in the first direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for stabilizing the spine, comprising a bone screw (1) having a screw shaft (2) and having a first threaded portion (5) for insertion into the bone, comprising a rod (3) and a connector (4) that may be fixed to the bone screw (1) for the releasable connection of the rod (3) to the bone screw (1). The connector (3) comprises a connector body (9) having a throughgoing hole (10) and a rod seat (11) that is open on one side, into which the rod (3) may be snap fitted.

Abstract: An orthopedic device is adapted to fixate the spinous processes of vertebral bones. The device includes at least one bone engagement member. When implanted, a bone engagement member is located on each side of a spinous process and adapted to forcibly abut the side of each spinous process.

Abstract: A bone anchor including a first fastening system for fastening a support member to the anchor, and a second fastening system for fastening the anchor to a bone. The second fastening system includes first and second clamping jaws defining between them a slot for receiving a bony part of the bone. The second jaw is movable relative to the first jaw so as to clamp the bony part between the first and second jaws. A locking mechanism is provided for maintaining the second jaw in a fixed clamping position with respect to the first jaw.

Abstract: Cephalad and caudal vertebral facet joint prostheses and methods of use are provided. The cephalad prostheses are adapted and configured to be attached to a lamina portion of a vertebra without blocking a pedicle portion of the cephalad vertebra. In some embodiments, the prosthesis is attached with a non-invasive support member, such as a clamp. In other embodiments, a translaminar screw may be used for additional fixation.

Abstract: A number of spinal stabilization devices are disclosed for aligning and fixing vertebrae during surgery, e.g. to facilitate accurate placement of pedicle screws. One stabilization device includes a pair of spiked rails biased to clamp shut and thereby passively engage a number of vertebrae. Another stabilization device includes a tie-rod that connects two or more fiducial markers, each of which is connected to a vertebra, to stabilize the vertebrae including and between each vertebra to which the markers are attached.

Abstract: A bone holding device comprising: at least one conformable elongated member (7) having a first portion (7a), a second portion (7b) and an intermediate portion (7c) therebetween; a rod (5) with at least one transverse passage (8) which opens into at least one of two opposite side faces of the rod, said passage (8) being delimited by inner surfaces (9) of the rod, and at least one compression member (14), the compression member and said inner surfaces (9) both defining clamping surfaces (14a, 9a) and cooperating so that the first and second portions (7a, 7b) of the elongated member (7) can be inserted and clamped between said clamping surfaces (14a, 9a). A method using such a device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a device and method for securing linear elements relative to one another. In some embodiments, medical implant linear elements are secured in a connector by forcing one or both of the linear elements against at least another member such as a tapered member or wedge. The secured linear elements may include rods, posts, screws, hooks, bars, bolts, or other members.

Abstract: Vertebral osteosynthesis equipment includes bony anchoring members, such as pedicular screws or hooks, at least one of which includes a proximal threaded stud for receiving a nut and a base portion for anchoring to a vertebra; linking rods, intended to be connected to these anchoring members and attached to the vertebrae by these anchoring members, parts for connecting these linking rods to the anchoring members, and extension pieces for engaging on the proximal stud(s) of the anchoring member(s) for running down connecting parts on this or these proximal stud(s) until they rest on the proximal zone(s) of the base portion(s) of the anchoring members. The proximal stud of at least one anchoring member and the extension piece intended to be used with this anchoring member include positioning elements for positioning the extension piece on the free end of the proximal stud, concentrically thereto.

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

Abstract: A spine immobilization system is provided wherein the system includes a plurality of vertebra clamps structured and operable to be clamped to one of a plurality of target vertebrae, a pair of retaining rails disposable along the length of the target vertebrae between the clamps and each of the target vertebrae, and a pair of clamp interlocking rods structured and operable to interlock the clamps together once each clamp is clamped to the respective one of the target vertebra such that the target vertebrae are securely held together to provide a cumulative, unified vertebral body, whereby the target vertebrae can only move simultaneously together as a single cumulative, unified structure.

Abstract: An implantable fixation assembly (30) for removably securing a (medical) device in a human body is disclosed. The assembly includes: an anchor portion (1) securable to bone; a pair of spaced apart legs (15), at least one leg (15) being resiliently flexible, the ends (15a) of the legs (15) attached to the anchor portion (1); a clamp portion (2) attached towards or at the ends (15a) of the legs (15); a screw and nut combination having an axis of rotation longitudinal to the legs, the combination operably engaging at least one of the legs (15) so as to pull them together or push them apart thereby actuating the clamp portion (2) to secure the device, wherein the actuating is reversible for selectively gripping and releasing the device.

Abstract: A spinal implant provides support for desired parts of the spine. The implant can provide support in fusion situations. The spinal implant includes a pair of longitudinal rods and a transverse rod. A pair of variable cross-link devices couple the transverse rod, respectively, to the first and second longitudinal rods. Each variable cross-link device includes a body, having a curved member, a plug, and a rod engaging member. Fastening the plug into the body of the respective variable cross-link device causes application of force that couples the plug and the rod engaging member to the respective longitudinal rod. Fastening the plug also causes application of force that couples the rod engaging member to the transverse rod. Furthermore, fastening the plug causes application of force that couples the respective longitudinal rod to couple to the variable cross-link device. The surgical procedure may use minimally invasive surgery or non-minimally invasive surgery, as desired.

Abstract: A cross connector that can be used with a spinal implant includes a first rod clamp having a first end and an opposing second end, the first rod clamp having a first clamp arm crossing a second clamp arm so as to form a scissor coupling. The cross connector also includes a second rod clamp and a cross bar assembly extending between the first rod clamp and the second rod clamp.

Abstract: An occipital clamping hook assembly includes a hook for engaging a first side of an occipital bone and a compressor movable relative to the hook for applying a compressive force to the occipital bone from a second side of the occipital bone. The occipital clamping assembly further includes a rod-receiving portion coupled to the hook for coupling a rod to the occipital bone engaged by the hook.

Abstract: A vertebral fixing system comprising a connecting part with two longitudinal elements coupled to each other at a first end and having mutually facing recesses for receiving a rod. A portion of a flexible ligature extends through orifices of the two longitudinal elements to define a loop opposite two free ends of the flexible ligature. The two longitudinal elements are engaged at a second end of the connecting part via a locking means. When the two longitudinal elements of the connecting part are locked at the second end of the connecting part, two strands of the flexible ligature are pinched between the rod and a wall of the mutually facing recesses of the two longitudinal elements of the connecting part, preventing the flexible ligature from moving in translation relative to the connecting part.

Abstract: A connector for a spinal alignment system includes a base, a hook, a guide aperture, and a locking portion. The base includes a channel extending therethrough to receive a fixation rod. The hook extends from the base. The guide aperture is adapted to receive a bone fastener and the locking portion is adapted to engage the bone fastener. The guide aperture extends through one of the base and the hook and the locking portion is located in the other of the base and the hook. The locking portion is coaxial with the guide aperture such that the guide aperture guides a shaft of the bone fastener into alignment with the locking portion when the bone fastener is received by the guide aperture. The bone fastener cooperates with the base and hook to form a tension band construct that resists opposing forces acting on the construct. A rod locking fastener engages the channel and the fixation rod to secure the fixation rod in the channel.

Abstract: A mechanism for fixing a spinal support to vertebrae includes a support member and a pedicle screw component. The support member comprises an elongated end comprising a longitudinal axis. A hook connects to the elongated end and receives the vertebrae. The hook is angled in three different planes with respect to the longitudinal axis. A connector section connects the elongated end to the hook and is angled with respect to the elongated end and comprises a thickness less than a thickness of the elongated end. The pedicle screw component comprises a fixation component anchored in the vertebrae. The fixation component comprises a socket; a screw head comprising a bulbous end that fits into the socket; and a channel that receives the elongated end. A pin causes outward expansion of the bulbous end; and a blocking mechanism is attached to the screw head and adjacent to the elongated end.

Abstract: A transverse fixation device is disclosed. The device includes one or more connecting bodies disposed substantially between two elongate rods. Each connecting body includes a receptacle that is capable of engaging with the two elongate rods. A c-ring comprising an outer surface having a spherical curvature is also included. A third rod may be inserted into the c-ring. A clamp included in the connecting bodies may then be disposed about the c-ring and third rod to allow the connecting bodies to slidingly engage with the third rod.

Abstract: Methods and devices that utilize segmental fixation between several adjacent vertebrae, thus allowing each vertebrae to be adjusted independently, are provided. In general, the device includes a spinal anchoring element that is adapted to seat at least one spinal fixation element, and a closure mechanism that is adapted to mate to the spinal anchoring element to lock the at least one spinal fixation element in a fixed position relative to the spinal anchoring element.

Abstract: An external fixation system for connecting one or more bone segments together to facilitate healing of bone. The system may include one or more rings and/or ring segments. One or more linear distractors and/or angular distractors may connect the rings to each other so as to allow for distraction and/or reduction/compression of a bone. Linear distractors may enable an operator to move the rings towards and away from each other, while angular distractors may enable an operator to angle the rings relative to each other. In an embodiment using angular distractors, one or more angular separation assemblies may be positioned between the rings. These separation assemblies may have joints which may two portions which may be angled relative to each other and connected directly or indirectly to the rings. Various fasteners (e.g., nuts) and/or tightening members may configured for quick movement along and selective tightening to various components.

Abstract: A rod extension for extending a fusion construct allows a surgeon to connect a stabilization rod implant to at least a portion of a patient's spine, and also to connect the stabilization rod implant to an existing implant that has been previously installed in the patient. The existing fusion implant typically includes at least one existing pedicle screw, at least one existing rod, and at least one existing connector interconnecting the existing pedicle screw to the existing rod. The extension implant comprises a rod, an offset beam connected to the rod, and a clamp interconnected to the offset beam, wherein the clamp can be secured to the existing rod, thereby extending the fusion construct.

Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly that includes: at least two rods (10, 20) capable of interacting with at least two different vertebrae; at least two pairs of jaws (50, 60, 70, 80), each pair of jaws being arranged in the vicinity of a corresponding rod; at least two slides (30, 40) each defining a longitudinal axis of said assembly, and at least one jaw from each pair of jaws being capable of sliding along at least two slides along the longitudinal axis thereof; a return means (74, 84) for each pair of jaws in contact with a corresponding vertebral rod, each vertebral rod being capable of moving at least one jaw along the slides towards the return means, and each vertebral rod further being articulated relative to each jaw.

Abstract: A bone fixation element includes a bone fixation member having a base and a pair of arms elastically spreadable for reversibly clipping on a bone or an implant, and a connector assembly configured to be attached to the base so as to rigidly fix the fixation member to a bone fixation rod.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method for the stabilization and fixation of the lumbar spine. Another aspect of the invention includes a system and method for the stabilization and fixation of the lumbar spine in a minimally invasive manner. The system can include a plurality of pedicle screws, a support rod, a plurality of rod clamps, and a plurality of coupling members. In one aspect, each coupling member can be configured to engage a proximal portion of a pedicle screw and can have a socket portion that is configured to receive a socket engaging portion of the rod clamp, such that the coupling member and the pedicle screw can be pivoted three-dimensionally relative to the rod clamp and the support rod.

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: 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: Methods and devices are provided for manipulating a vertebra. In one embodiment, a surgical device can include a frame configured to couple two or more surgical instruments attached to one or more vertebrae. Coupling the two or more surgical instruments together, the frame and/or at least one of the surgical instruments can be manipulated to move at least one of the surgical instruments, thereby effecting movement at least one of the vertebra or vertebrae to which the surgical instruments coupled to the frame are attached. In this way, the surgical device can be used to facilitate rotation of a vertebra relative to another vertebra to correct the angular relationship of the vertebrae.

Abstract: A low profile orthopedic device is used to fix and stabilize bones to correct anomalies in skeletal structure occurring naturally or by trauma. Bone screws are screwed into bones by application of torque. Clamps are movably attached to the screws. Each clamp includes a compression ring. A connecting rod connects several screws through slots in the clamps. The clamps are tightened to hold the rod and the heads in a pre-selected position by linear movement of the compression rings.