Abstract: A screw fixation system serves to facilitate attachment of an orthopedic implant to a fractured bone to facilitate healing thereof. The screw fixation system includes the orthopedic implant, a bone screw, and a screw fixing element. The orthopedic implant includes an opening formed thereby. The screw fixing element has a body including an aperture extending between upper and lower surfaces thereof, and a channel adapted to receive a portion of the orthopedic implant adjacent the opening. When the portion of the orthopedic implant is received in the channel and the bone screw is inserted into the aperture, engagement of at least a portion of threads formed on a head of the bone screw and threads formed in the aperture expands the screw fixing element against the orthopedic implant to fix the bone screw and the orthopedic implant relative to one another.

Abstract: A bone screw for lateral suture stabilization includes a post around which the suture winds. An attachment hole is located in the head of the bone screw above the post for connecting an end of the suture. Various suture configurations can be used around multiple bone screws in the lateral suture stabilization process to control the flexion of the suture upon movement of the joint. The suture is formed from a plurality of high strength high modulus polymeric fibers. The fibers are independent and free from intrinsic inter-fiber shear coupling found in braided or bonded fibers.

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: Equipment includes bony anchoring members one or two linking rods, intended to be connected to the anchoring members, and parts for connecting the linking rod(s) to the anchoring members, at least one anchoring member including a proximal threaded stud and a clamping element for assembling a connecting part thereon, the connecting part including a clamping element for immobilizing the linking rod with respect thereto. The connecting part includes a rounded section for hugging a linking rod and two parallel branches having holes enabling engagement on the proximal threaded stud of the anchoring member; and the clamping elements may be engaged coaxially on the proximal threaded stud of the anchoring member, a first clamping element enabling the assembly of the connecting part on this proximal threaded stud and the second clamping element enabling to clamp both branches of this connecting part.

Abstract: Constitutes a pedicle screw (1), a rosette (3) that fixes the pedicle screw (1) to a tulip (6), a bar that constitutes the link with other devices and a locking cap (9) associated to the closing screw (11) that is threaded on the inside of the tulip (6) and fixes the position of the bar. The locking cap (9) incorporates protuberances (12) that fit on the tulip (6), guiding the set formed by the locking cap (9) and the closing screw (11) during the positioning and threading of the closing screw (11) on the tulip (6) pressing the bar (8) against the rosette (3). The outer face of the tulip (6) and the locking cap (9) present an essentially circular configuration that is interrupted by two opposite-facing flat indentations (13, 14) that contribute to reduce the width of the device in the axial direction of the bar (8).

Abstract: An implantable bone anchor assembly for fixing an elongated member such as a spinal rod may include a bone anchor, a coupling head configured to receive the bone anchor and the elongated member, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may provide compressive force to simultaneously fix the position of the elongated member and lock out polyaxial rotation of the bone anchor relative to the coupling head. The locking mechanism may include an engagement member with an oblique surface configured to slide along an oblique surface of the coupling head into engagement with the elongated member. The bone anchor may comprise a head portion and a threaded portion which may be coupled with the coupling head and joined together during manufacture. The assembly may further include a pin and/or a collar to retain the bone anchor. The bone anchor may be side-loaded into the coupling head.

Abstract: A dynamic bone anchor for anchoring a spine stabilization assembly which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. 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. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a compliant sleeve. The force/deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. When implanted the pivot point for the deflectable post is placed close to the instantaneous center of rotation of the spine. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

Abstract: A screw system includes a screw and a washer assembly captive to the screw. The washer assembly is polyaxially pivotable relative to the screw. The screw may be freely rotated in one direction relative to the washer assembly, but frictionally binds with the washer assembly when rotated in a second direction. Various auxiliary fixation features are disclosed.

Abstract: A bone screw extension assembly for use in placing a connecting rod percutaneously into tissue of a patient comprises a multi-axial bone screw and a screw extension releasably coupled to yoke of the bone screw. The screw extension includes coaxially disposed outer sleeve and inner sleeves that are rotatable relative to each other. A screw engaging member projects radially from the distal end the inner sleeve and is configured to engage an extension coupling surface on the outer sleeve upon relative. A securement member including cooperative surfaces is defined adjacent the distal end of the inner and outer sleeves that is operable upon relative radially secure the sleeves together to thereby maintain the engagement of the screw engaging member and the bone screw.

Abstract: A spinal facet bone screw system provides tactile feedback to the user during installation to aid in determining when one or more components of the spinal facet bone screw system have been installed or implanted. The spinal facet bone screw system has a spinal facet screw and a washer. Tactile installation feedback is provided at an interface between a friction surface of the head of the spinal facet screw and a friction surface of the pocket of the washer to determine when the spinal facet screw has reached its full insertion depth. The bottom or undersurface of the washer that abuts a spinal facet bone or other spinal component during installation may be configured and/or textured to further provide tactile installation feedback as between the washer and the bone or other spinal component.

Abstract: A screwdriver for driving a multi-axial bone screw into a vertebra of the spine in one configuration includes an elongate shaft defining a driving tip at its distal end for engaging the head of the bone screw for joint rotational movement. The screw driver also includes an outer sleeve within which the inner shaft rotates freely. The outer retention sleeve releasably attaches to the yoke of the bone screw. Rotation of the inner shaft enables rotation of the bone screw threaded shank while the outer sleeve and yoke remain fixed. In another configuration, instead of the outer retention sleeve the screwdriver comprises a screw engagement member affixed to the shaft for joint rotational movement therewith, the screw engagement member comprising a stop sized to seat within a slot of the bone screw yoke, the stop being configured to rotate the yoke upon rotation shaft. A releasable retention member is provided on the screw engagement member for releasably attaching the screwdriver to the bone screw.

Abstract: A capless multiaxial screw fixation assembly, including: a screw having a threaded portion and a screw head portion positioned at one end thereof; and, a retainer having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a bore for receiving the screw threaded portion so that the screw head portion is seated therein. At least one of the screw and the retainer is configured such that the retainer is able to pivot about the screw head portion in a non-symmetrical manner.

Abstract: A medical implant device has in one embodiment a receiver member for receiving an elongated member, a crown member, an anchor member and a retaining member. An embodiment of the receiver member has an axial opening, a transverse channel, a chamber including at least one substantially flat wall, and a groove. An embodiment of the crown member has at least one substantially flat side. An embodiment of the anchor member has a head with at least one substantially flat surface that may be parallel to the anchor member's longitudinal axis, and an anchoring portion. An embodiment of the retaining member is a substantially flat clip. The crown member and anchor member are inserted into the chamber, and the retaining member is inserted into the groove beneath them. The anchor member may be pivoted substantially in one plane with respect to the receiver member until locked.

Abstract: A receiver for engaging a bone stabilizing element includes a receiver portion connectable to the stabilizing element, and a base portion connectable to a bone of a patient. The base portion may connect to the bone with a bone screw, for example a polyaxial bone screw, and the receiver portion may connect to the stabilizing element, for example a rod, using a set screw. The receiver portion and the base portion are slideably connected to each other, coupled and constrained in relative movement, by overlapping portions. Axial rotation between the receiver portion and the base portion is enabled by changing the relative dimensions of overlapped portions.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A prosthetic screw system that includes a prosthetic screw for at least partial insertion into a bone and/or cartilage. The prosthetic screw includes a head and a lower portion connected to the head. The prosthetic screw system also includes a set of head-pieces that can be connected to the head of the prosthetic screw. The head-pieces have differing configurations that are designed to be connected to different types of components of a prosthetic system. The universal connection arrangement between the prosthetic screw and the set of head-pieces enables the prosthetic screw to be customized for connection with a variety of components of a prosthetic system. The head-pieces can alternatively or additionally include a mechanical and/or electrical mechanism that provides one or more substances (e.g., medicine and/or other biological agent, etc.) and/or electrostimulation to a surgical site.

Abstract: A bone screw, such as a pedicle screw, comprises en elongate structure having a head, an anchoring portion or tip distal from the head, and an open, helical body extending there-between. In one embodiment, the invention provides a screw having an anchoring portion, which engages bone and which includes a means for engaging a driver or the like whereby the screw is driven into the bone by the anchoring portion. A method of driving a screw is also provided.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a connection assembly that can be used to securely connect a spinal implant to a bone anchor. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a variable angle connection assembly that is able to securely connect the spinal implant to the anchors even when there is a variance in the angle and position of the anchors with respect to the spinal implant. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a connection assembly that will not inadvertently lock the components of the connection assembly preventing the relative movement of the components.

Abstract: A coupling assembly may include an anchor member, a receiver member, and a seat member. The receiver member may have an anchor member end that cooperates with the anchor member and may have an implant receiving aperture for receiving an implant. The seat member may be disposable within the receiver member between the anchor member and the implant receiving aperture. First and second rotation-limiting features may be engageable to limit rotation of the seat member relative to the receiver member.

Abstract: A bone fastener assembly and a method of stabilizing a bone using such an assembly are presented. The bone assembly includes a bone fastener and a connecting member for holding a stabilizing member, such as a rod or plate, wherein the connecting member has a side-opening for accepting the rod therein. Optionally the bone fastener system also permits the bone fastener to pivot relative to a longitudinal axis of the assembly, and is provided with an armature that allows the connecting member to be offset from the longitudinal axis of the bone fastener and for the connecting member to swivel about the longitudinal axis of the assembly. By allowing the rod to be inserted into the connecting member via this side-opening the bone fastener provides a system that is particularly useful for minimally invasive surgeries.

Abstract: A bone anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver member for receiving a spinal fixation element to be coupled to the bone anchor, and a closure mechanism to fix the spinal fixation element with respect to the receiver member. The bone anchor includes a distal shaft having a distal threaded section and a proximal threaded section. The distal threaded section has a first pitch and a first number of thread starts and the proximal threaded section has a second pitch less than the first pitch and a second number of thread starts greater than the first number of thread starts. The distal threaded section and the proximal threaded section have a constant lead.

Abstract: An improved method for attaching soft tissue to bone by passing a suture through an opening in the bone, e.g., a transosseous tunnel, and affixing the soft tissue with the suture. The improvement, for preventing the suture from migrating through the bone at the end of the opening, includes placing a eyelet into an end of the bone opening and passing the suture through the eyelet, as well as through the opening in the bone, in order to affix the soft tissue to the bone with the suture.

Abstract: A resorbable screw fastener and a method of firing with an applicator capable of applying a surgical fastener to tissue in order to form tissue connection to secure objects to tissue, the fastener including a body portion having a helical thread, a head portion disposed at the proximal end of the body portion. The resorbable screw fastener is 100% resorbed in vivo during a period of time ranging from about 14 days to about one year after implantation.

Abstract: A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes, a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A retaining member for capturing the shank in the receiver includes a sloping surface for a frictional, press fit, cammed engagement with the shank. A compression insert having a resilient structure provides non-floppy positioning of the shank with respect to the receiver and also independent locking of the shank with respect to the receiver.

Abstract: A bone screw includes a screw shaft extending longitudinally along a screw axis and a screw head extending from a proximal end of the screw shaft and configured to be releasably coupled to a surgical tool. The bone screw also includes a through hole defining a through hole axis and extending through the screw head, the through hole axis intersecting the screw axis at an acute angle ?, the through hole being adapted to receive therein a second screw and tapering from a first end at a proximal end of the screw head to a second end opening to an outer surface of the screw head.

Abstract: A reverse angled threadform with anti-splay clearance includes inner and outer helical threads, each with respective leading stab flanks and trailing load flanks, the load flanks mutually engaging when an inner member with the inner threads is advanced into an outer member with the outer threads. The inner load flanks form acute angles with a helical axis, while the outer load flanks form obtuse angles with the helical axis. The clearance is formed between the stab flanks of the inner and outer threads. On threadforms with root and crest other than angular peaks, such as cylindrical root and crest surfaces, the anti-splay clearance is also formed between the mutually facing root and crest surfaces of the inner and outer threads. The load flanks may be parallel, outwardly diverging, or outwardly converging.

Abstract: A spanning connector for connecting an offset bone anchor to a previously inserted spinal fixation element and method of use is provided. The spanning connector includes a first connecting mechanism for connecting the spanning connector to the bone anchor, and a second connecting mechanism for connector the spanning connector to the previously inserted spinal fixation element. The spanning connector also includes a connector body for coupling the first connecting mechanism and the second connecting mechanism. Embodiments of a spanning connector may also reduce a separation distance between the bone anchor and the spinal fixation element. Embodiments of a spanning connector are configured, sized and dimensioned for use in a minimally invasive surgical technique, such as a rod-first spinal surgical technique.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A dynamic spinal stabilization bone anchor which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. 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. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a centering spring. The force/deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic bone anchor may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

Abstract: A dynamic spinal stabilization component which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. The component is selectably attachable to a bone anchor for implantation in a bone of the spine. The component and bone anchor provide load sharing while preserving range of motion and reducing stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The dynamic spinal stabilization component includes a deflectable post connected by a ball-joint to a threaded anchor. Deflection of the deflectable post is controlled by a centering spring. The force/deflection properties of the dynamic bone anchor may be adapted to the anatomy and functional requirements of the patient. The dynamic spinal stabilization component may be used as a component of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion.

Abstract: A receiving part for receiving a rod for coupling the rod to a bone anchoring element includes a receiving part body with a first end and a second end; a rod receiving portion with a channel for receiving a rod, and a head receiving portion for accommodating a head of a bone anchoring element, the head receiving portion having an open end at the second end of the receiving part body and being flexible so as to allow introduction and clamping of the head; and a locking ring configured to be positioned around the head receiving portion, wherein the locking ring can assume a first position with respect to the receiving part body in which the locking ring is latched to the receiving part body in a position where the head receiving portion is expandable to facilitate insertion of a head of a bone anchoring element, and wherein the locking ring can assume a second position with respect to the receiving part body in which the locking ring is latched to the receiving part body in a position where the locking ring com

Abstract: Provided is a spinal fixation system including a taper lock screw including an inner housing and an outer housing that are translatable relative to one another to transition the taper lock screw between a locked position and an unlocked position. A locking device releasably connects to and operationally interacts with a flange of the taper lock screw. An unlocking device releasably connects to and operationally interacts with inner housing unlocking tool receptors of the taper lock screw to unlock the taper lock screw.

Abstract: A system and method for anchoring a connector to a bony portion of a spinal column is provided. The connector is engaged to the spinal column with an anchor. The connector receives an elongate connecting element that extends along two or more vertebrae of the spinal column. The connector includes an eyelet portion that houses a retaining member through which the anchor extends. The retaining member allows movement of the connector relative to the anchor prior to engagement of the connecting element to the connector. When the connecting element is engaged to the connector, the connector is fixed relative to the anchor and the retaining member.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a fastener includes a shank defined about a central axis and a head coupled to the shank. The head includes a continuous receptacle circumscribing the central axis. The continuous receptacle includes a radially inner surface that is angled radially inwardly toward the central axis in a head-to-shank direction.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a fastener includes a shank and a head coupled to the shank. The shank is concentrically aligned with a central axis of the fastener. The head extends from a proximal end to a distal end and the shank extends from a proximal end adjacent the distal end of the head to a distal end away from the distal end of the head. The head includes a plurality of receptacles each spaced radially outwardly away from the central axis of the fastener. Each fastener has a radially innermost portion that extends radially inwardly toward the central axis in a direction away from the proximal end of the head.

Abstract: An improved system and method for positioning screws and rods to immobilize bones is provided. Specifically, the system and method is optimal for performing transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and other interbody fusions in the spine. The system involves pedicle screws detachably connected to wires that guide rods down to the screws. The wires are strong, narrow, flexible, adjustable in tension, and easily disconnected from the screws after rod placement via a process such as cutting, radiating, burning, dissolving, etc.. The use of wires to place the rods avoids the conventional bulky tower apparatuses of the prior art while at the same time enhancing the accuracy of placement. One of the preferred methods involves relying upon the natural lordotic curvature of the spine and the narrow diameter of the wires to insert many elements through a single minimally invasive incision.

Abstract: Devices and methods include an anchor assembly engageable to a vertebra and a connecting element positionable through a receiver of the anchor assembly. The assembly includes an engaging member for engaging the connecting element in the receiver. The engaging member includes a base with a cavity that receives a deformed portion the connecting element when the engaging member is securely engaged to the connecting element.

Abstract: An anchor assembly for use in spinal fixation to interconnect a longitudinal spinal rod, which is integrally formed with a body of the anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a collet, a body portion, a rod portion, and a locking cap. The anchor assembly is preferably configured so that in use, the bone anchor may be secured to the patient's vertebra prior to being received within the body portion. The anchor assembly enables a surgeon to implant the bone anchor without the body portion to maximize visibility and access around the anchoring site. Once the bone anchor has been secured to the patient's vertebra, the rod portion may be inserted into the rod-receiving channel of a second bone fixation element having a rod-receiving channel implanted at a second site and the body portion can be snapped-onto the bone anchor.

Abstract: A spine fixation device is provided. The spine fixation device includes a bone screw, a fixation carrier, and a first locking member. The fixation carrier is rotatably coupled to a fixation unit of the bone screw. The first locking member conjugates the fixation carrier and the bone screw together. A screw unit of the bone screw is implanted into a vertebra. As the fixation carrier is rotatably coupled to the bone screw, the bone screw remains fastened to the vertebra while the fixation carrier is rotated. Through rotational adjustment of the fixation carrier, U-shaped openings of the fixation carrier are adjustable in direction. Thus, the disposition angle of a rod disposed in the U-shaped openings is easily adjustable by rotating the fixation carrier. As a result, the rod can fit an angle of the spine while surgical complexity is reduced.

Abstract: A versatile offset connector for connecting components of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Alternative embodiments can be used for spine fusion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The anchor system anchors the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The connection system includes coaxial connectors and offset connectors which adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and anchor system allowing for appropriate, efficient and convenient placement of the anchor system relative to the spine.

Abstract: A bone fixation screw includes a threaded screw shank and a screw head having upper and lower ends. The screw head lower end is secured to a proximal end of said screw shank. The screw head has substantially frustospherical shaped side surfaces and is split into segments at one of the ends. The head is radially expandable at the one end. An expansion screw is centrally received in the screw head. An interface between the expansion screw and the screw head forms a cam mechanism for expanding the screw head upon axial rotation of the expansion screw.

Abstract: A bone anchoring device includes a receiving part for receiving a rod, the receiving part has a first bore coaxial with a longitudinal axis and a second bore, and an anchoring element having a first end for insertion into the bone and a second end positionable within a second bore, the anchoring element being movable relative to the receiving part in limited angular range about the longitudinal axis, the angles lying in a single plane. The bone anchoring device further includes a fixation element cooperating with the receiving part to lock the anchoring element relative to the receiving part. The anchoring element is pivotable relative to the receiving part around one rotational axis transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.

Abstract: A bone screw assembly includes a tulip-shaped seat, a bone fixation device, a ring-shaped washer, a rod and a cap. The tulip-shaped seat comprises a through opening dimensioned to receive the bone fixation device and a horizontal channel dimensioned to receive the rod. The washer is placed into the seat on top of the bone fixation device head and comprises first and second side tabs and a first pair of upward extending projections separated by a first gap and a second pair of upward extending projections separated by a second gap. The side tabs interface with a groove formed in the bottom portion of the seat. The rod is placed within the channel and positioned within a groove formed on the top surface of the washer. The cap includes first and second projections extending downward from its bottom surface and each of the first and second downward projections comprises first and second sidewise extending ridges.

Abstract: A bone fixation device, in particular a pedicle screw, is provided. The device includes an enhanced bone-to-metal interface, while also having electroconductive properties. Also provided are methods of using the bone fixation device and methods of validating proper placement of the device.

Abstract: A cannulated bone screw having a cannula or lumen defined herein is disclosed. The screw may be fully or partially threaded and may have a cancellous thread form. Alternatively, the head of the screw may be generally flat on its undersurface. The screw head may further include an anti-backout feature to ensure good contact with the mating bone surface. The screw may further include an anti-rotation feature on the underside of the screw head. It is further disclosed that insertion and seating of the screw may be accomplished via locking engagement between jaws on the screw driver and a short raised feature on the head of the screw. The screws may be fully or partially threaded. A rescue screw is additionally disclosed.

Abstract: A bone fastener includes a first section configured to support a bone construct. A second section is configured for fixation with bone and defines a longitudinal axis. An intermediate flexible section is disposed between the first section and the second section such that the first section is longitudinally aligned with the second section. The intermediate flexible section includes an inner surface that defines a cavity and an open end.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system including an insert positionable in the channel of the housing of a poly-axial pedicle screw which allows for locking the housing of the poly-axial pedicle screw from pivotal movement through a clamping force generated by rotational engagement of a fastener with the housing while clamping a cord of a support construct in the housing of the poly-axial pedicle screw through direct contact of the fastener against the cord.

Abstract: A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shaft and a head; a receiving part having a top end, a bottom end, a rod recess, a coaxial bore, and a seat; and a pressure element that is movable within the bore. The head is pivotable with respect to the receiving part and can be fixed at an angle by exerting pressure via the pressure element onto the head. The pressure element has an outer wall portion having a recess or a projection. The receiving part has an inner wall portion having a recess or a projection that cooperates with the recess or projection of the pressure element. The pressure element is configured to assume a first position within the receiving part in which the recess and the projection interact to allow the pressure element to exert a preload onto the head and the head is prevented from freely pivoting but is not locked.

Abstract: The invention relates to an anchoring device to be used for stabilizing the spine and the methods pertaining thereto.