Abstract: A distraction device enabling management of the evolving deformation of the trunk of a child during growth. The device is easy to implant on account of its compact shape and includes two rods which can be bent and deformed on the ends thereof and which are mounted on a central adjusting member which is provided with a small hole for engaging a small tool that is designed to adjust the distance separating the elements for attachment to the bone. The inventive device can be locked in a position which is determined by the tightening of two screws which are disposed on the adjusting device.

Abstract: A combination bone fixation/immobilization apparatus is adapted to stabilize a patient's foot and ankle. A foot plate is adapted to have one or more transfixation wires or pins or screws fixed thereto. A substantially rigid leg support assembly is adapted to receive a patient's leg, the leg support comprising a cuff and a strap adapted to secure the cuff around the patient's leg. The leg support is rigidly attached to the foot plate. A patient's foot may thereby be fixed with transfixation wires, or pins or screws and simultaneously immobilized with respect to the ankle and lower leg.

Abstract: A subcutaneously implantable distraction device comprises a first arm, having a first skeletal connector for attachment to a first skeletal component at a first location. A second arm has a second skeletal connector for attachment to a second skeletal component at a second location. The first and second arms are slidably moveable with respect to each other. A fluid actuator is associated with each of the first and second arms to apply a separating force between the arms to slidably move at least one of the arms relative to the other.

Abstract: A transverse connector may be attached to rods of an orthopedic stabilization system. The rods of the stabilization system may be non-parallel and skewed in orientation relative to each other. The transverse connector may include two members that are joined together by a fastener. The transverse connector may be adjustable in three separate ways to allow the transverse connector to attach to the rods. The length of the transverse connector may be adjustable. The rod openings of the transverse connector may be partially rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the transverse connector. Also, a first member may be angled towards a second member so that the transverse connector can be attached to rods that are diverging. The transverse connector may include cam locks that securely attach the transverse connector to the rods. Rotating a cam locks may extend a rod engager into a rod opening. The rod engager may be a portion of the cam lock.

Abstract: A surgical distraction device is provided for applying extending or tensioning force non-invasively to a patient's skeleton or to an implant which comprises anchoring means for attaching first and second components of the device to a bone or to adjoining bones, said components being connected by a linkage of an extendible length, a magnet connected to the linkage via a reduction gearbox and actuating means located externally of the patient for generating a moving or varying electro-magnetic field, thereby causing the magnet to rotate and the linkage to be extended.

Abstract: The surgical instrumentation system is adapted to provide an operative approach to the spinal column and maintain distraction of adjacent vertebrae. The system includes at least one retractor and a pair of opposite distractor mechanisms mounted to a frame. The distractor mechanisms each include an adjustment mechanism permitting the distractor mechanism to be pivoted relative to the vertebra and secured to the frame after being repositioned.

Abstract: A pedicle augmenter is provided for reconstruction of a vertebra subject to loss of bone mass or fracture, and is to be planted into the vertebra from a pedicle of the vertebra for helping maintain or restore normal position and size of the vertebra. Through the vertebral pedicle, a device, fit the pedicle anatomy, was created to reconstruct the fractured or collapsed vertebral body. The device is a rectangular solid with smooth edge and the first-end was with ellipsoid shape. The device has porous surface. The internal screw file for the instrument connection was createdfrom a second-end towars to a first-end. The fractured body was reduced and maintained by such device until the bone growth and fracture union.

Abstract: An external fixator for fixating fractures provides an elongated support rod that includes proximal and distal rod sections. Fixation pins are provided for engaging the patient's bone tissue on opposite sides of a fracture. Clamps are rotatably supported upon the proximal rod section and distal rod section, each of the clamps being movable in rotational fashion both with respect to the rod and with respect to the pins. At least one of the clamps has articulating portions that rotate and angulate relative to one another so that total adjustment is provided between the rod and the pins. The articulating portion can be rigidified using one set fitting or set screw.

Abstract: A portal for use in a spinal implantation procedure is disclosed herein. The portal includes base and first and second paddles pivotally coupled to the base. The paddles can be pivoted between a distraction orientation and an insertion orientation. In the insertion orientation, the paddles are adapted for insertion between vertebrae that are in need of distraction. In the distraction orientation, the paddles are adapted to hold the vertebrae spaced apart at a distracted spacing. In the distraction orientation, the portal defines a portal window for accessing the disc space between the two distracted vertebrae.

Abstract: A tissue anchoring system includes a tissue anchor affixed to an end of a cable and supported for insertion on a delivery device, the manipulation of which permits placement of the anchor on a far side of the tissue. A tensioning, crimping and cutting tool designed for use along the cable's longitudinal axis, thus reducing the number of incisions required. A suture anchoring system is also described for introducing a loop of suture into a surgical site and anchoring it, for instance, across a tear in soft tissue.

Abstract: The invention relates to medicine, in particular to spinal surgery and is used for curing spinal diseases and injuries in specialized departments of vertebrology and neurosurgery. The inventive device includes not more than nine fixing units. Each unit bears two fixing elements fastened to it which are embodied in the form of a threaded stem, the working ends of which are implanted in roots of vertebra arches angularly at 35-45° to the sagittal plane of the vertebra. The fixing units are connected to each other in groups of three with the aid of threaded ties, thereby forming support units. Two of the units are side units and one is intermediate unit. The intermediate unit is connected to the side support units so that it can move with the aid of the connecting hinge junctions. Dosed displacement is performed by moving distraction nuts.

Abstract: The invention concerns a distraction and/or contraction device for backbone surgery comprising connectors designed to be fixed to respective vertebral anchoring members, linkup means between said connectors and means for adjusting the distance between said connectors including a pinion assembly and an endless screw.

Abstract: A flexible tool for handling small objects, as well as a method for handling small objects using the flexible tool. The flexible tool comprises one or more mini robots, such as a free arm robot and one or more hexapod(s) working in an internal workspace when performing operations on small objects. Furthermore, an external space can be used for storing the objects during non-operation. The hexapods are to engage with a small object and to move a small object between the internal workspace and the external space, and the free arm robot is to move one or more hexapod(s). Fast measurements of robot positions are included, the measurements being feed back to a computer system controlling the mini robots. The computer system further comprises vision and motion planning.

Abstract: A clamping device, preferably for use on a retractor support, has an upper clamp and a lower clamp. The clamps include a movable jaw and a fixed jaw pivotal between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration which both locks the clamps in a shut configuration and fixes the angular position of the clamps relative to one another. A drawbar and cam act together to compress the upper and lower clamps into a clamping or locking position.

Abstract: A distraction device for moving apart a bone, present in one or more parts and possibly separated, so as to extend or bridge a bone fissure, comprising an intramedullary nail which can possibly be introduced into a medullary space of a bone and has at least two elements which can be axially displaced in relation to each other. To effect said displacement at least one working device is joined to the element and a movable retaining element which is supported on the element.

Abstract: Methods and instrumentation for spinal interbody fusion are disclosed. The instruments and methods are particularly adapted for interbody fusion in an unreamed disc space. One instrument is a distractor assembly including a first distractor and a second distractor configured to be inserted in side-by-side relation in the disc space. Fusion cages adapted for insertion into an unreamed disc space are provided to enhance load distribution between adjacent vertebral bodies and lateral stability of the spinal column. The fusion cages may be inserted after distracting the disc space with the distractor assembly. Instruments for preparing the disc space through the inserted fusion cages or for use with the distractor assembly are also provided.

Abstract: An external bridging/non-bridging bone fixation device including at least a first member and a second member. The first member is implanted substantially permanently on an arm bone during an entire healing process. Whereas the second member is adapted to be substantially temporarily implanted and affixed between the first member and a metacarpal of the associated hand. The second member may be a singular rigid piece or may be formed of several modular pieces affixed together. In particular, the second member may be hinged to allow for an offset or angled implantation. Also, the second member may include a plurality of pieces that are rigidly held together after implantation to allow for high selectivity by a physician. The bridging/non-bridging bone fixation device allows for a bridging adaptation during an initial portion of healing and a non-bridging adaptation during the extended healing process to reduce the possibility of stiffness and plaques due to prolonged periods of immobility.

Abstract: A mechanism for powering an auto-extensible tissue distractor, e.g. a bone fixator, is described in which a movable device is caused to move in small incremental steps of a few &mgr;m each along an elongate member towards its distal end under the influence of one or more piezoelectric actuators.

Abstract: A clamp assembly for an external fixation system includes a first clamp member for engaging a first elongated member. The first clamp member includes a first jaw portion and a second jaw portion. The first and second jaw portions at least partially defining a laterally extending channel for receiving the first elongated member. The first and second jaw portions or members are connected by a hinge portion. The first jaw member includes a free end normally spaced apart from a free end of the second jaw a distance less than a diameter of the first elongated member. The first clamp member is elastically deformable to receive the first elongated member between the free ends of the first and second jaw members and into the laterally extending channel.

Abstract: The invention involves an osteogenic mandibular distraction device. The device is particularly suited for bucchal installation. The device comprises a thoracic member having a fore end and an aft end; a tail member slidably engaged to the thoracic member at the aft end thereof, thereby defining a longitudinal axis between the thoracic member and the tail member, and having a tail member fastening feature for attachment with respect to a first boney structure; an axial extender rotatably attached with respect to the thoracic member, extending therefrom in an aft direction, and engaged with respect to the tail member, whereby a distance between the thoracic member and the tail member may be variably established; a head member; and a rotator attached with respect to the fore end of the thoracic member allowing specific and fixable rotational positioning transverse to the longitudinal axis of the head member with respect to the thoracic member.

Abstract: An anchor connected with a suture is moved through a passage between opposite sides of a bone. The anchor is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second anchor is connected with the suture. While tension is maintained in the suture, the suture is secured against movement relative to the anchors. This may be done by tying the suture or by using a suture retainer to hold the suture. A suture retainer may be used in place of the second anchor. The passage may extend across a fracture in the bone. The passage may have either a nonlinear or linear configuration. A tubular member may be positioned in the passage with the tubular member extending into portions of the passage on opposite sides of the fracture. Opposite end portions of the tubular member may be disposed in a compact outer layer of the bone. If desired, a member other than a suture may be used as a force transmitting member between the two anchors. The tubular member may be formed of bone.

Abstract: The inventive apparatus for transosseous osteosynthesis comprises a detachable repositioning mechanism for axial compression and distraction of bone fragments, the mechanism having a thrust element with two guiding bars. A mobile traverse is mounted on the guiding bars. A lead screw which interacts with a screw orifice of the mobile traverse is fixed in the thrust element. Two side bars for movement of bracing frames, one end of each of the side bars being fixed to the mobile traverse, the other end being fixed to a holder with the aid of a screw clamp. The apparatus has at least two holders, each comprising a hollow body with an inner cylindrical surface, the axis of the body coincides with the axis of a corresponding tightening bolt, and also has a stem on the side surface of the body with an opening, which stem has a threaded portion. A latch is disposed in the holder body and is intended for fixing the holder in the direction of axial movement along the tightening bolt.

Abstract: A clamp assembly for an external fixation system includes a first clamp member receiving a first elongated and a second clamp member receiving a second elongated member. The first clamp member includes a first fastener rotatably in a first direction to lock the first elongated member relative to the first clamp member. A second fastener connects the first and second clamp members. The second fastener is rotatable in the first direction to independently lock the second elongated member relative to the second clamp member. The first fastener is hollow and the second fastener passes through the first fastener.

Abstract: A pair of bone clamps used for open reduction and internal fixation of a fractured bone or osteotomy is interconnected by a lockable, articulating connection apparatus. Each bone clamp includes a primary clamping means for manipulating a bone fragment back into a proper position. Additionally, each bone clamp includes a secondary bone clamping means that provides adequate clamping force for maintaining the reduction so that the primary clamping means can be released. The secondary bone clamping means provides clearance for the positioning and application of a fracture fixation prosthesis to stabilize the reduction during healing. The bone clamps and lockable, articulating connection apparatus together comprise a bone setting apparatus that provides for unconstrained manual reduction and alignment of the bone fracture, locking of the reduction in a fixed position and orientation, and application of a fracture fixation prosthesis, thereby securing the reduction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a novel disposable axial external fixation device for reducing bone fractures, of the type comprising an extendible rod-like middle body (2) and oppositely located bone screw clamps (5, 6) which are articulated to the respective ends (3, 4) of the rod like middle body (2) by means of ball joints. Advantageously, a ball-and-socket joint (16) is mounted to each clamp (5, 6), within a main body (20) with which means (25, 26, 21, 22, 23) for clamping bone screws clamping is associated or co-operates. It is also provided an ancillary member (30) adapted for releasable association with one end of each clamp (5, 6) to better adapt each clamp for use in different conditions of installation of the fixation device.

Abstract: A finger suffering from contracture of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is treated by application of a device that includes two pivotally joined sections, one of which is securable to the middle phalanx of the finger and the other to another portion of the patient's finger, hand or wrist, with an element that applies torque to the sections. The pivot axis of the two sections is dorsal to the finger, and the torque-producing element and the pivot axis define a moment arm whose length varies in inverse relation to the tension applied to the tensioning element. Torque is applied to the PIP joint without a functionally significant torque being applied to the metacarpal phalangeal (MP) joint, and the device requires attachment only to the dorsal aspect of the phalanx that is distal to the joint being treated rather than to both the distal phalanx and the proximal phalanx.

Abstract: A device for maxillary jawbone and dentition expansion and/or retraction is configured for mounting within the mouth and connects the right and left halves of the skull. The maxillary distraction device includes at least two implantable anchors configured to be implanted in the maxillary bones of the skull on opposite sides of a midline of the skull. A facebow having two posterior ends is connectable to the implantable anchors and is configured to extend from the maxillary regions entirely within the mouth across the midline of the skull. The facebow has at least one expandable section for bone lengthening. The facebow is connected to the anchors and is lengthen periodically to lengthen the maxillary bones. The facebow may provide horizontal, vertical, and transverse distraction.

Abstract: A fixture is configured to provide external fixation of a fractured distal radius by including a first number of holes for pins extending downward from the fixture into one or more bone fragments and a second number of holes for pins extending downward from the fixture into the shank of the radius. The fixture also includes a sliding block through which rods extend to hold pins directed laterally into the fragment(s). A sliding plate including a number of holes aligned with the first number of holes is moved by a pair of setscrews to clamp the pins extending through the first number of holes. The second number of holes includes a hole within a sliding structure allowing a single pin to be moved with a fixture to provide extension between the fragments and the shank of the radius.

Abstract: A distractor frame is disclosed the frame, comprising an upper pin, a lower pin positioned substantially parallel to the upper pin, a pair of adjustment mechanisms, wherein each adjustment mechanism couples to the upper pin and the lower pin such that each adjustment mechanism is positioned generally perpendicular to upper and lower pins, wherein each adjustment mechanism comprises a shaft, a first means coupling the shaft for coupling the upper pin to the shaft, a threaded rod coupled to an end of the shaft, a cylindrical sleeve adapted for threadedly engaging the threaded rod, such that a portion of the shaft and a portion of the threaded rod may be positioned within the cylindrical sleeve, and a second means coupled to the cylindrical sleeve for coupling the lower pin.

Abstract: Methods and instrumentation for spinal interbody fusion are disclosed. The instruments and methods are particularly adapted for interbody fusion in an unreamed disc space. One instrument is a distractor assembly including a first distractor and a second distractor configured to be inserted in side-by-side relation in the disc space. Fusion cages adapted for insertion into an unreamed disc space are provided to enhance load distribution between adjacent vertebral bodies and lateral stability of the spinal column. The fusion cages may be inserted after distracting the disc space with the distractor assembly. Instruments for preparing the disc space through the inserted fusion cages or for use with the distractor assembly are also provided.

Abstract: An external fixator for fixating fractures provides an elongated support rod that includes proximal and distal rod sections. Fixation pins are provided for engaging the patient's bone tissue on opposite sides of a fracture. Clamps are rotatably supported upon the proximal rod section and distal rod section, each of the clamps being movable in rotational fashion both with respect to the rod and with respect to the pins. At least one of the clamps has articulating portions that rotate and angulate relative to one another so that total adjustment is provided between the rod and the pins. The articulating portion can be rigidified using one set fitting or set screw.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for treating bone fractures by the application of intermittent pneumatic compression. The period of compression is sufficient to induce venous stasis at the fracture site. The period of recovery can be about half the period of compression. The applied pressure can be 50% or less of the baseline pressure.

Abstract: A selective compression and distraction instrument useful in manipulating bone, such as a person's spine during surgery. There are two handle sections and one jaw section. One handle section produces a compression action and the other produces a distraction action. The user determines which action to apply, and then selects the appropriate handle section which is releasably attached to the one jaw section. The jaw section is arranged to have two tips, and the jaw section moves the tips in a parallel relationship toward and away relative to each other. The tips are releasably and interchangeably attachable to the jaw section, and they provide selective spacing of tip blades from each other.

Abstract: A fixture is configured to provide external fixation of a fractured distal radius by including a first number of holes for pins extending downward from the fixture into one or more bone fragments and a second number of holes for pins extending downward from the fixture into the shank of the radius. The fixture also includes a sliding block through which rods extend to hold pins directed laterally into the fragmentl(s). A sliding plate including a number of holes aligned with the first number of holes is moved by a pair of setscrews to clamp the pins extending through the first number of holes. The second number of holes includes a hole within a sliding structure allowing a single pin to be moved with a fixture to provide extension between the fragments and the shank of the radius.

Abstract: The technique of surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion comprises force application indirectly to the jaw by means of an expansion device fixed to the teeth by means of acrylic pads, or orthodontic bands on the premolar or molar teeth. The problems, being movements of teeth and relapse at the bone level during and after the expansion, necessitating over-expansion; the low level of force application leading to tipping of the teeth and the jaw-segments; and the postponement of further orthodontic treatment till after removal of the expansion device; and the limited expandability of the device, necessitating the fabrication of a new device in case of very narrow jaws, have been solved with the invention. The forces apply via metal bone-plates (1,2) directly at a higher level. Interchangeable modules (composition of 3, 4, 5) of different sizes allow to continue expansion once one module has reached the limit of its expansion.

Abstract: An apparatus for stretching the skin between the fingers of a syndactyly includes first and second upper members, and first and second lower members. Means are provided for adjustably spreading the first and second upper members relative to each other and for adjustably spreading the first and second lower members relative to each other. A first plurality of wires, configured to pierce the skin of the syndactyly and to translate force to bones of the first finger, are connected to the first upper member and to the first lower member. Likewise a similar second plurality of wires are connected to the second upper member and to the second lower member. A method for stretching the skin of the syndactyly includes inserting the first plurality of wires through the skin of the syndactyly between the first and second fingers adjacent the bones of the first finger. The second plurality of wires are inserted similarly adjacent the bones of the second finger.

Abstract: A telescopic body for an external bone fixation device includes a central core body and cylindrical outer parts having a bore extending therethrough, all disposed about a center axis. The outer surface of the core body is in the form of a keyed shaft, and the bore in the outer parts has keyways that mate with the shaft, thereby permitting the outer parts to be telescoped in a rotationally fixed, torsion-resistant fashion. Threaded drive spindles housed in the outer parts can be screwed into and out of the core body at either end, permitting the overall length of the telescopic body to be changed. Terminal elements are provided in the ends of the outer parts to limit travel of the drive spindles. At least one of the terminal elements may be a dynamic progression cap which, when progressively unscrewed, allows the axial clamping tension of the threaded spindle to be released in millimeter increments to permit relaxation of the axial clamping of the spindle.

Abstract: An external fixator for fixating fractures provides an elongated support rod that includes proximal and distal rod sections. Fixation pins are provided for engaging the patient's bone tissue on opposite sides of a fracture. Clamps are rotatably supported upon the proximal rod section and distal rod section, each of the pins being movable in rotational fashion both with respect to the rod and with respect to the pins. At least one of the clamps has articulating portions that rotate and angulate relative to one another so that total adjustment is provided between the rod and the pins. The articulating portion can be rigidified using one set fitting or set screw.

Abstract: A clamp assembly for an external fixation system includes a first clamp member for engaging a first elongated member. The first clamp member includes a first jaw portion and a second jaw portion. The first and second jaw portions at least partially defining a laterally extending channel for receiving the first elongated member. The first and second jaw portions or members are connected by a hinge portion. The first jaw member includes a free end normally spaced apart from a free end of the second jaw a distance less than a diameter of the first elongated member. The first clamp member is elastically deformable to receive the first elongated member between the free ends of the first and second jaw members and into the laterally extending channel.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved device for external fixation of bone fractures, specifically for ankle fractures, of the type adapted for mounting to a unilateral external fixator and comprising an extendible central body and opposed articulated portions which are connected to the respective ends of the central body by ball joints. The device is an ankle clamp having a stem, preferably made of a transparent material to X-radiation, with a bifurcated end formed with a pair of prongs having a first jaw portion of a tilting clamp journalled on a pivot provided between the prongs and comprises a second jaw portion coupled to the first jaw portion and fastened thereto by a pair of screws.

Abstract: A tip for a medical device that distracts two opposing vertebral bodies. The tip has a hub, a boss, and a first longitudinal fin. The boss is attached the hub and has a body, a tapered portion, and a vertex. The first fin is attached to the boss, and projects from at least a portion of the boss's external surface. The first fin then extends over at least a portion of the length of the body and substantially extends over the length of the tapered portion.

Abstract: External fixation apparatus and method are disclosed for use in osteotomy and other medical procedures. The apparatus includes a stabilizing portion adapted to be externally coupled to an anterior portion of a tibial bone. The apparatus also includes a angulation portion adapted to be externally coupled to another anterior portion of the tibial bone and coupled to the stabilizing portion. The angulation portion may be selectively adjustable to angulate a portion of the tibial bone about an axis of rotation offset from a longitudinal axis of the tibial bone following an osteotomical procedure on the tibial bone.

Abstract: Methods and instrumentation particularly adapted for disc space preparation for insertion of implants from an anterior approach to the spine are provided. The instruments include a guide sleeve defining a channel having overlapping cylindrical working channel portions and lateral non-distracting extensions extending from reduced thickness wall portions. The guide sleeve has an overall reduced width configuration. A pair of distractors are provided. A first distractor includes a shaft and distal tip, and the second distractor includes a shaft and distal tip. The first and second distractors can be used with the guide sleeve. Methods using the disclosed instruments are also provided.

Abstract: An external skeletal fixation apparatus provides support about a joint such as the knee. The apparatus includes a first external support section with one or more rings rigidly supporting a first skeletal element (e.g., the femur) on one side of the joint and a second external support section, with two or more rings, rigidly supporting a second skeletal element (e.g., the tibia) on an opposite side of the joint. The apparatus further includes a hinged support section interconnecting the first and second external support sections in the vicinity of the joint such that the hinged support section pivots the joint about a generally lateral axis when the skeletal elements move through angular flexion or extension. The second external support section includes at least a first support ring element and a second support ring element rotatably coupled with the first support ring element.

Abstract: A bone adjuster 20 has a first lift plate 22 to be fastened to one of two opposed bone fragments to be adjusted, a second lift plate 24 to be fastened to the other bone fragment and an adjusting shaft 26 which is extended between both the lift plates 22 and 24 to adjust a space between the fragments. The first lift plate 22 comprises a mounting plate 28 and a screw-in connecting portion 34 which is connected with the mounting plate 28 via a hinge 36 and in which the adjusting shaft 26 is screwed to be supported. The second lift plate 24 also comprises a mounting plate 42 and a catching portion 48 which is rotatably fixed to the mounting plate 42 via a hinge 46 to catch the leading end of the adjusting shaft 26.

Abstract: This invention comprises an apparatus and a method of spreading an intervertebral space to help guide tools that will prepare the vertebrae for accepting an implant. The spreader is a thin blade with cam surfaces forming a paddle on the proximal end, which spreads the vertebra when rotated 90 degrees about its axis. A stem between the paddle and a handle is notched to clear the vertebral protrusions so the vertebra will be distracted on the vertebral end plates. Since the spreader is in the center of the end plates, the centerline of the spreader shaft will coincide with the vertebral end plate centerline. The surgeon can monitor the spreading, stop and remove the spreader to make adjustments or to change the size of spreader as required at the time of the surgery. Once the vertebrae are distracted a tube may be placed over the handle and aligned with the vertebral end plates.

Abstract: A clamp assembly for an external fixation system includes a first clamp member receiving a first elongated and a second clamp member receiving a second elongated member. The first clamp member includes a first fastener rotatably in a first direction to lock the first elongated member relative to the first clamp member. A second fastener connects the first and second clamp members. The second fastener is rotatable in the first direction to independently lock the second elongated member relative to the second clamp member. The first fastener is hollow and the second fastener passes through the first fastener.

Abstract: An anchor connected with a suture is moved through a passage between opposite sides of a bone. The anchor is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second anchor is connected with the suture. While tension is maintained in the suture, the suture is secured against movement relative to the anchors. This may be done by tying the suture or by using a suture retainer to hold the suture. A suture retainer may be used in place of the second anchor. The passage may extend across a fracture in the bone. The passage may have either a nonlinear or linear configuration. A tubular member may be positioned in the passage with the tubular member extending into portions of the passage on opposite sides of the fracture. Opposite end portions of the tubular member may be disposed in a compact outer layer of the bone. If desired, a member other than a suture may be used as a force transmitting member between the two anchors. The tubular member may be formed of bone.

Abstract: A frame fixator and operation system thereof, the fixator comprising an upper end ring and a lower end ring, and a plurality of length adjustment means coupled at both ends thereof to the upper end ring and the lower end ring, wherein the length adjustment means include an actuator, a moving member movable by the actuator and a digital indicator for indicating a length of the length adjustment means changeable to the movement of the moving member, the fixator and peration system for enabling to automatically adjust a distraction rate and distraction frequency of fracture during bone deformity correction and lengthening and to easily adjust the length by digitally indicating changed value of length according to manual or automatic manipulation.

Abstract: An anterior cervical compression plate has a pair of slidable inserts, one situated in a recess at either end of the plate. The inserts, and the sides of the recesses, having meshing raked teeth which permit the inserts to move only toward one another. The inserts have openings which are placed over the heads of screws installed in the vertebrae, and maintain compression of bone grafts between the vertebrae. A special tool is also provided to aid the surgeon in installing in the vertebrae central screws which are engaged by the inserts.