Abstract: A bone fixation device comprises a beam including plurality of stacked flexible members. At least one locking member is provided in engagement with the plurality of stacked flexible members. The at least one locking member is configured to retain the plurality of stacked flexible members together in either a locked relationship or an unlocked relationship. In the locked relationship, the at least one locking member compress the plurality of stacked flexible members together. The plurality of stacked flexible members are configured to bend when a threshold force is applied to the beam, provided the plurality of stacked flexible members are in an unlocked relationship. When the plurality of stacked flexible members are in an unlocked relationship, the threshold force is insufficient to bend the plurality of stacked flexible members.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) comprising an assembling piece (3) provided with a hole (4), and a fixing element (5) having a shank (6) as well as head (7). The device (1) has a locking screw (8a) of the head (7), characterized in that the hole (4) is shaped for producing a stop (9) for the head and for enabling the head (7), when it rests against the stop (9), to be displaced inside the hole (4) in the plane of the cross-section of the hole (4), the hole (4) having an inside thread in which the locking screw (8A) is to be screwed so that the locking screw (8A) rests against the head (7) and thus presses the latter against the stop (9). The invention also relates to fixing devices, in particular, surgical implants.

Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides an orthopedic plate blocking assembly that can be used for the fixation or fastening of an orthopedic plate to bone tissue. In particular, the present invention, in one embodiment, provides an orthopedic plate having a plurality of cavities where each cavity is configured and dimensioned to receive a bone anchoring member. The orthopedic plate further provides a blocking mechanism having a plurality of blocking members that block the bone anchoring members to prevent the bone anchoring members from “backing out” of cavities once the bone anchoring members are finally seated in the cavities.

Abstract: An implantable plate for providing support to a bone of a subject when affixed thereto includes a polymeric body of a biocompatible polymer having a desired amount of polymer molecule orientation in a first direction so that the plate can be bent to conform with a contour of the bone of the subject. The polymeric body includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and at least one fastener portion. The fastener portion includes a recess and a fastener hold that is configured for receiving a fastener when affixed to the bone of the subject. A method of manufacturing the implantable plate includes: (1) injection molding a biocompatible polymeric composition into a polymeric body within an injection mold; (2) removing the polymeric body from the injection mold; and (3) forming at least one fastener hole within polymeric body.

Abstract: Described herein are polymeric compositions that comprise at least one polymer residue and at least one crosslinking moiety, wherein the polymer residue is crosslinked by the crosslinking moiety and wherein the crosslinking moiety is formed from a reaction between a boronic acid moiety and a hydroxamic acid moiety. Also, described are methods of making and using such polymeric compositions.

Abstract: A bone plate has an upper surface, a lower surface, and at least one first hole extending through the upper and lower surfaces. The first hole has two or three vertically separate regions, each region communicating with or abutting the adjacent region. The first hole has a first upper region, which is unthreaded and which, from the plate's upper surface to the plate's lower surface, has a curved inward taper. The first hole has a second middle region, which is threaded and which, from the plate's upper surface to the plate's lower surface, has a conical inward taper. The first hole has a third lower region, which is unthreaded and which, from the plate's upper surface to the plate's lower surface, has a conical outward taper. The bone plate is straight, curved, or both straight and curved. The bone plate may have at least one second hole, different from the first hole.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatuses, and systems for fixing dens fractures. The mode of failure for screw fixation of C2 dens fractures is often via cut-out at the anterior body. In an embodiment, securing a plate, such as a locking plate, to the anterior surface of the vertebra attached directly to an interfragmentary screw may reduce potential for anterior screw cut-out and improve construct strength. Plate supplementation of anterior screw fixation of Type II dens fractures thus improves construct strength and changes the failure mechanism from anterior screw cut-out to posterior displacement of the screw, thus improving clinical outcomes for these fractures.

Abstract: A dynamic cervical plate has a ratchet and pawl mechanism that allows the cervical plate to post operatively shorten the length of the plate and maintain compression between adjacent vertebrae. The plate has an elongated shaft with teeth on one surface and a groove along each longitudinal edge. A lateral plate is attached on one end of the shaft. The plate has screw holes for connecting with the head of a spinal screw. Another lateral plate is slidably engaged in the longitudinal grooves along the shaft and has a spring clip acting as a pawl with the teeth on the shaft. The lateral sliding plate has screw holes on each side of the shaft. The clip is configured to span the screw holes to automatically engage and prevent screws from backing out of the holes.

Abstract: A bone plate assembly includes a plate, at least one bushing, and at least one bone screw. The bushing is positioned within a through hole of the plate. The bushing and screw are configured to engage each other to inhibit the screw from backing out. The screw includes a visual indicator surface that is visible to the operator during insertion of the screw through the bushing and plate. The bushing is configured to cover at least a portion of the visual indicator surface to show when the bushing and screw are properly engaged to inhibit backout of the screw.

Abstract: Bone plates and methods of using the bone plates for adjoining bone fragments are disclosed herein. A device for adjoining at least two bone fragments includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of at least one filling material and an inner lumen for passage of a light source; a conformable bone plate releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the conformable bone plate has a first surface, a second surface, a proximal end, and a distal end and at least one aperture extending from the first surface to the second surface for receiving a fastener; and an adapter releasably engaging the proximal end of the delivery catheter for receiving the light source and a delivery system housing the at least one filling material.

Abstract: A spinous process clamp employs a pair of elongate plates that are positioned on either side of the spinous processes of vertebrae that are to be fused. The plates are joined by fasteners, preferably bolts and nuts. The plates include a recess on the bone facing side of the plate for retaining a bone growth promoting substance. When the bolts and nuts are tightened, the spinous processes are clamped between the plates, thereby pressing the bone growth promoting substance against the bone and encouraging bone growth across the vertebrae fixed by the plates.

Abstract: A bone plate and plating system are for use of the same are disclosed. The bone plate includes a body having a span sufficient to overlap a portion of a bone. A screw hole extends through the body in order to receive a bone screw to attach for engaging the plate to the bone. The screw hole includes a counterbore having a beveled surface that intersects at a pinch point a bore having a conical surface of revolution that transitions into the bone engaging surface of the body. The beveled surface includes a variable geometry defining interleaved and rotationally-spaced contact and non-contact bone screw regions.

Abstract: Expandable support devices for tissue repair are disclosed. The devices can be used to repair hard or soft tissue, such as bone or vertebral discs. A method of repairing tissue is also disclosed. Surgical devices and methods for adjusting (e.g., removing, repositioning, resizing) deployed orthopedic expandable support devices are also disclosed. The expandable support devices can be engaged and surgically implanted by an engagement device and affixed to bone to provide stability and support for the devices. The expandable support devices are attachable to spinal fixation devices such as screws or plates, and may be used to support such devices when placed in weakened or damaged areas of bone.

Abstract: Among other things, there is disclosed an orthopedic plate system for use in supporting or stabilizing long bones in pediatric patients. The plate includes a substantially planar portion for placement along a diaphysis of a long bone and a portion curved out of the plane of the planar portion for placement along at least part of a metaphysis of the long bone. Holes through the plate are provided for screws in both the curved and planar portions, which hold the plate to the long bone. The holes are substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the plane of the planar portion. Screws through the holes and into the bone are substantially parallel to an epiphyseal plate of the long bone, so that attachment of the plate to the bone does not adversely affect growth of the long bone.

Abstract: Assemblies for securing a fractured or weakened bone within a subject's body are provided. The assembly includes a frame having an adjustable flexible member construct thereon. The adjustable flexible member construct is disposed in the frame such that the adjustable flexible member and the frame encircle the fractured or weakened bone.

Abstract: A cervical compression plate assembly having screw receiving elements at opposite ends that are configured for engaging bone fixation screws extending from respective vertebral elements. The assembly permits the distance between the screw receiving elements at opposite ends to be shortened but prevents the distance from increasing. A spring mechanism is housed within the plate assembly and is configured for continuously urging the screw receiving elements at opposite ends together for thereby providing continuous compressive loading on bone graft material disposed between the vertebral elements.

Abstract: A fracture fixation system is provided for a fracture of a head portion of a long bone which has subchondral bone defining a convex articular surface, and particularly the proximal humerus. The system includes a plate element positionable on the long bone substantially opposite the head portion of the long bone and on a first side of the fracture, and a post element extending from the plate and into the head portion and across the fracture.

Abstract: A universal surgical plate comprises a symmetrical design which enables it to be used for both right and left sided TPLO procedures as well as other orthopedic procedures on other bilaterally symmetric bones. The plate provides a 30 degree angle compression force with respect to the longitudinal axis of the plate in order to ensure maximum compression across an osteotomy or fracture. The plate is affixed across the osteotomy or fracture with orthopedic screws disposed through a plurality of elongated and circular drive apertures. The drive apertures are defined within the plate at sufficient distances to preserve the integrity of the underlying bone. The body of the plate also comprises a plurality of notches for improving periosteal circulation. The head of the plate includes a pair of recessed corners so that the plate may be implanted close to an assisting jig pin on smaller breeds of canines.

Abstract: A bone plate for fixation of proximal humerus fractures comprises an elongated shaft portion having a first width and a head portion connected to the shaft portion having a second width greater than the first width. The head portion and the shaft portion define a common longitudinal axis. At least one first screw hole may be located in the head portion, and at least one second screw hole may be located in the shaft portion. At least one of the first and second holes is configured to engage a head of a bone screw to form an angularly stable connection with the bone screw.

Abstract: An improved means for fixation of a fractured coronoid process of the proximal ulna. A substantially rigid plate is secured to the anterior aspect of the proximal ulna relative to a fracture of the coronoid process of the ulna. The plate contains a hook feature at the proximal aspect and is positioned so that it extends over the proximal/anterior aspect of the coronoid process relative to the fracture. The plate has surfaces that define a plurality of openings through which suture and/or screws can pass. The openings may contain a recess at a side of the plate opposite the ulna. At least one hole is formed in the ulna. At least one anchor may be secured to a flexible device, positioned at a side of the plate opposite the ulna, secured to another anchor on the posterior aspect of the ulna and the flexible device tensioned. At least one screw may be inserted through the plate and into the coronoid process or a bone fragment securing it to the plate.

Abstract: A sliding bone support plate assembly comprises at least first and second plates which slide with respect to each other, varying the length of the plate assembly by plate-on-plate sliding after bone screws mount the plate assembly to vertebrae in a recipient. The plates comprise cooperating sliding structures which cooperate with each other to interconnect the plates to each other and to facilitate sliding movement of the plates with respect to each other. Such sliding accommodates varying the length of the plate assembly, and relieving stress which would otherwise be imposed on the plate assembly by post-procedural settling of respective vertebrae to which the plates are mounted without requiring any movement of a plate with respect to a bone to which that plate is mounted. The plate assembly is fabricated using bio-compatible, bio-stable materials which are safe for extended use in a living human, and which are not generally assimilated.

Abstract: A bone plate(s) of complex form is provided, particularly suited to tibial plateau-leveling osteotomy and a distal femoral osteotomy. The bone plate has a main longitudinal axis, a bone-contacting bottom side (not shown) and a top side with at least three sets of overlapping holes which communicate through the plate from the top to the bottom side. The sets of overlapping holes define threaded apertures having multifaceted surfaces. When applied to a bone, two sets of such overlapping holes are located so as to lie on opposite sides of an osteotomy site and on the tibial plate; a third is aligned at approximately 60 degrees with the longitudinal axis. The configuration of this complex bone plate vary, depending on the physiology of the patient. An object of the invention is to provide an orthopedic surgeon greater flexibility of choice in that a threaded peg providing secure fixing can be positioned at any interval along the bone plate, including at its extreme ends or on its elbow.

Abstract: Embodiments of bony region stabilization are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: A spinal plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface adapted to contact bone. A plurality of holes extend from the upper surface to the lower surface through the plate which is configured and adapted to receive bone fasteners for fixing the spinal plate to bone. At least one set screw receiving hole adjacent from each one of the plurality of holes, the set screw receiving hole configured to adapt with a set screw. The lower surface of the spinal plate comprises a ridge that protrudes from the underside of the plate and encloses the plurality of holes spaced inward from the perimeter of the spinal plate.

Abstract: A bone plate with a longitudinal axis has a bone-contacting bottom side and a top side. Sets of overlapping holes communicate through the plate from the top to the bottom side. The overlapping holes have multifaceted surfaces such as a threaded surface or a coaxial series of annular grooves. The sets of overlapping holes are a adapted to receive a bone screw with a head and a bone-engaging thread.

Abstract: A polyaxial occipital plate assembly and method comprises a longitudinal member; a polyaxial connector head; a socket portion adapted to retain the connector head; a flexible clip operatively connected to the socket portion and adapted to receive the longitudinal member; an occipital plate comprising clips operatively connected to the connector head; and a locking mechanism operatively connected to the connector head and the clips, wherein engagement of the locking mechanism to the connector head causes the clips to lock into the connector head and outwardly expand the connector head thereby causing the flexible clip to squeeze against the longitudinal member. The plate comprises a pair of opposed legs comprising the clips attached to ends of the legs; a body portion operatively connected to the pair of opposed legs, wherein the body portion is positioned at any of an obtuse and an acute angle relative to the pair of opposed legs.

Abstract: A vertebral plate assembly is configured to be attached to an existing plate assembly for fixation of at least a first vertebrate to a second vertebrate in a spinal column. The existing plate assembly fixates the second vertebrate to one or more other vertebrae in the spinal column. The vertebral plate assembly includes a vertebral plate having a length along a central axis extending between a first end and a second end. The second end is sized to sit on at least a portion of one end of the existing plate assembly.

Abstract: An anterior cervical plate is adapted to engage at least two vertebrae along the anterior cervical spine. The plate comprises at least one cross connector member connecting two substantially parallel support bars. The anterior surface of the cross connector member is recessed for providing room for the esophagus. The posterior surface of the cross connector member extends slightly into the center of an intervertebral disc space for securing implanted bone graft material, and of course any other suitable intervertebral implant spacer. The preferred configuration of the cross connector member provides torsional resistance for the bone plate. At least two openings are formed in the plate for receiving a fastener therein for fixing the plate to the anterior cervical spine.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis plate includes at least two drilled holes arranged adjacent to one another. A notch is arranged on the convex side of the osteosynthesis plate, between the at least two drilled holes arranged adjacent to one another.

Abstract: A bone plate system for the internal fixation of metacarpal and phalanx fractures of the hand is provided. The plates are structured to permit independent reconfiguration of holes of the plates relative to a longitudinal axis and are configured to orient fasteners to interdigitate with holes displaced along the longitudinal axis. The plates are very thin, and a locking screw with a low profile head design is provided for use therewith.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical implant for bone surgery, and more specifically to a vertebral fixation system with an expandable configuration. Such implants are particularly useful for securing and expanding transected spinal vertebrae following laminoplasty procedures.

Abstract: An orthopedic assembly including a plate and a locking screw that interlocks with the plate to secure the plate to a bone while the bone heals. To minimize galling or cold welding within an engagement region of the orthopedic assembly, an anodized coating, such as a Type II anodized coating, may be applied to both engaging surfaces of the engagement region. To avoid having to mask portions of the plate and the locking screw outside of the engagement region during the coating process, the anodized coating may be applied to the entire plate and the entire locking screw.

Abstract: The implant according to the invention is intended to be used as a replacement for an orbita bottom and optionally also for the medial orbita wall. The implant comprises the form of a single-piece preformed plate or grid which comprises a first segment, a second segment and a third segment. The first segment is designed in accordance with the form of the orbita bottom and the second segment is designed according to the form of the medial side-wall. The first and second segments adjoin each other along a first preset breaking line. The third segment adjoins the first segment and is arranged for fixing the implant to the lateral orbita edge.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for spinal fusion and particularly, anterior cervical plating systems with a toggle pivotally mounted to a bone plate with at least two degrees of freedom of movement. In a particular embodiment, each toggle plate is slidably attached and pivotally mounted to the bone plate by a locking screw having an axis such that in at least one slidable position each toggle plate can pivot relative to the axis of the locking screw in the bone plate.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to (1) a plating system having multiple and single locking mechanisms for general skeletal use other than in the anterior cervical spine; (2) an orthopedic plating system that permits a pair of bone screws to be inserted into a bone in a crossed over orientation and locked to the plate; (3) a segmentable plating system which can be made to a selected length by the surgeon; and (4) a combination screw-lock-plating system for allowing and/or causing intersegmental compression of bone portions.

Abstract: A system for fracture reduction includes a reduction plate for reducing a fracture between a first bone segment and a second bone segment. The reduction plate includes, on a first side of the reduction plate, a travel slot and a screw hole. The travel slot is configured to slidably engage a first positioning element that extends into the first bone segment through the travel slot and the first screw hole is configured to affix the first side of the reduction plate to the first bone segment. The reduction plate includes, on a second side of the reduction plate, an adjustment hole and a second screw hole. The adjustment hole is configured to engage a second positioning element that extends into the second bone segment through the adjustment hole and the second screw hole is configured to affix the second side of the reduction plate to the second bone segment.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for tissue fixation using a bone plate configured to accommodate fixation devices (such as screws, for example) inserted at various angles. The bone plate is formed of a material softer than the material of the fixation devices, and is provided with fixation holes with rounded, curved interior walls (i.e., non-threaded holes) that allow the fixation devices to be inserted at various angles. The fixation holes have a diameter smaller than that of the fixation devices. As a result of the difference between the materials of the plate and of fixation devices, and of the difference between the diameters of the fixation holes and of the fixation devices, the fixation devices deform the interior walls of the fixation holes, therefore self-threading the holes at an advantageous angle.

Abstract: A spinal fixation plate that is adapted to be implanted in a variety of positions in the occiput is provided. In general, the plate has a substantially planar configuration and it includes a mid-line or central portion having several thru-bores formed therein, and first and second opposed branch portions that extend from the central portion and that also include at least one thru-bore formed therein. The configuration of the branch portions relative to the central portion, as well as the position of the mid-line thru-bores formed in the central portion in relation to the thru-bore(s) formed in each branch portion, allow the spinal fixation plate to be implanted in a variety of positions in the occiput, thus allowing the optimal implant site to be selected.

Abstract: An orthopedic device and method for correcting angular deformation of a bone structure having a growth plate. The device includes first and second hinge members connected together at a hinge joint. The device is adapted for mounting the orthopedic device to the bone structure with the pivot joint positioned over the growth plate. Alignment of the pivot joint with the growth plate promotes asymmetric growth of the growth plate to thereby correct the angular deformation.

Abstract: A growth control device includes a bone plate having a stepped profile defined by a first level, a second level and an intermediate ramp connecting the first and second levels. The first level includes a first threaded hole for receiving a first bone fastener and the second level includes a second threaded hole for receiving a second bone fastener. The bone plate includes a proximal pair of side female notches, a distal pair of side female notches, a proximal guide hole and a distal guide hole.

Abstract: A bendable bone plate (10) is disclosed which is adapted for use in situ as a conformable bone splint to fix the spatial relationship of at least two bone parts (80). The bone plate (10) has an elongated plate (11) made of a bendable material. A plurality of screw apertures (24) extending through the top (14) and bottom (16) surfaces are disposed along the length (L) of the plate. Bone screws (28) are inserted through the apertures into the underlying bone parts (80) to anchor the elongated plate (11) to the bone parts (80). At least two of the screw apertures (24) are disposed as a closely spaced pair (40) of screw apertures (24) with a “bend relief zone” (60) disposed between the closely spaced apart screw apertures (24).

Abstract: An osteosynthesis plate is described, which is suitable for treating jaw fractures. The osteosynthesis plate has a plane of the plate as well as two plate sections 12, 14 with associated longitudinal axes 16, 18 extending substantially within the plane of the plate and inclined or staggered with respect to one another. Through openings 20, 22 inclined to the plane of the plate are formed in each of the two plate sections 12, 14. The angular alignments of the through openings 20, 22 within the plane of the plate differ with respect to a longitudinal axis 16 serving as reference line from one another by less than approximately 60°. In applications in the jaw region this slight deviation of the angular alignments permits an intraoral securement of the osteosynthesis plate. A transbuccal access through the cheek can thus be dispensed with.

Abstract: A fixation assembly is described comprising at least two plates, one of which may be a contoured plate and one of which may be a securing plate. The contoured plate may have a plurality of teeth, and the securing plate may have a resilient securing element. The teeth may be arranged so that the resilient securing element encounters progressive resistance as the plates are compressed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an orthopedic plate for use in repair of a fibula. The plate has a Y-shaped profile which has the contour of a spoon where the bowl includes a terminal pair of arms that form differing angles and lengths relative to the trunk portion of the plate. The arms include locking screw holes where the screws converge toward each other, but do not impinge so as to provide-multiplanar fixation.

Abstract: A method and system is provided for repairing bone fractures at locations where high levels of stability are required. The system employs two plates to buttress a fracture from both the dorsal and volar sides. The plates are affixed to one another using screws that are installed from a volar plate, through the bone and into a dorsal plate. The method provides for use of a directional guide that allows the precise placement of Kirschner wires for temporary fixation of the fracture, installation of a first bone fixation plate using the installed K-wires for alignment, installation of a second bone plate adjacent the bone to be repaired and opposite the first bone plate, and installation of cannulated fasteners between the two opposing bone plates such that the fasteners rigidly engage both of the bone plates.

Abstract: A cervical spinal fixation system that offers a strong and stable construct for maximum fusion augmentation and yet is versatile enough for any patient and is easy to use. A method of implanting a fusion plate is disclosed where the plate includes at least two primary fastener openings. In one embodiment the method includes the step of the throat of the patient being opened which provides access to the spinal column of the patient. The fusion plate can be inserted into the throat opening, and the fusion plate is then positioned on the spinal column.

Abstract: A hybrid orthopedic implant is provided. The implant includes a hybrid plate including a metal skeleton engaged with a plastic covering. Holes passing through the hybrid plate receive screws therethrough, to secure the hybrid plate to bone.

Abstract: A locking fracture plate may become a dynamic locking plate with the removal of a single set screw. The set screw removal may be done at the time of the initial implantation of the fracture plate, or several weeks later after the fracture has been allowed to consolidate. The device of the present invention may allow for the set screw to be removed percutaneously under x-ray control. The dynamized plate may allow for fracture compression but not for fracture displacement (loss or reduction) by rotation or sheer. The dynamized plate, with the set screw removed, may still protect the fracture from rotation and sheer. While conventional fracture plates may rigidly hold the bones in place, thereby potentially slowing bone fusion, or, in extreme cases, resulting in nonunion of the fracture, the fracture plate of the present invention may allow for fracture compression and, therefore, permit bone healing, growth and repair.

Abstract: A longitudinally curved adjustable bone plate comprising a first plate having an end defined by at least two spaced prongs, and an end having means to fasten the plate to a body structure, e.g., the bone; and a second plate having an end defined by at least two straight bores for receiving the prongs, and an end having means to fasten the plate to a body structure, e.g., a bone; and a locking assembly for locking the prongs in the bores and fixing the overall length of the plate.

Abstract: A plate for contacting at least two cervical vertebrae of a spine, including a first portion configured to contact the first cervical vertebra of the spine, the first portion including a hole arranged on a longitudinal axis of the plate and configured to receive a screw adapted to be screwed into the anterior tubercle of the first cervical vertebra. The plate also includes a second portion configured to contact at least one of the second and third cervical vertebrae of the spine, the second portion including a pair of holes arranged on an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the plate, each of the holes in the pair of holes being configured to receive a screw adapted to be screwed into the body of one of the second and third cervical vertebrae.