Abstract: A fracture fixation plate system for use on a long bone having a metaphysis and a diaphysis, includes at least one end plate having a head portion for the metaphysis, and at least one diaphyseal plate having a first end and a second end with a plurality of screw holes therebetween. The end plate includes mating structure adapted to mate with and securely couple to at least one end of the at least one diaphyseal plate. The system preferably includes several end plates and diaphyseal plates to accommodate anatomy of various sizes. A method for coupling the plates to the bone is also provided.

Abstract: Apparatuses for distal fibula replacement and related methods are described herein. The apparatus generally includes an implantable stem component including a proximal portion that is contoured to have an anterior overlap with a portion of a fibula bone of a patient, and a distal portion that defines a first channel configured to receive a peronaeus brevis tendon and a further defines second channel configured to receive a peronaeus longus tendon. Related methods include placing such an apparatus on the portion of the fibula bone of the patient.

Abstract: A method for reinforcing a sternum after a sternotomy or a sternal fracture. The method includes i) applying a plurality of elongated members along at least one longitudinal lateral edge of the sternum, wherein the elongated members are each provided with a first connection part and a second connection part; ii) slidably joining a first connection part of a first elongated member with a second connection part of an adjacent preceding elongated member along the longitudinal lateral edge of the sternum; iii) slidably joining a second connection part of the first elongated member with a first connection part of an adjacent following elongated member along the same longitudinal lateral edge of the sternum; iv) fitting a projecting portion of one or more of said elongated members in an intercostal space adjacent to the longitudinal lateral edge of the sternum; and v) fixing the elongated members to the sternum.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for fixating soft tissue to bone. In one embodiment, a repair device system for fixating soft tissue to bone includes a carrier member, multiple anchors, and a bone anchor. The carrier member includes multiple pad portions and a bone coupling portion. Each of the pad portions are aligned with an adjacent pad portion. The pad portions are configured to be positioned over a side of the soft tissue and the bone coupling portion is coupled to the multiple pad portions. Each anchor is sized and configured to extend through the at least one opening defined in one of the multiple pad portions and through the soft tissue. The bone anchor is configured to be coupled to the bone coupling portion and configured to be secured to the bone.

Abstract: An improved anterior cervical plating system and methods of cervical fusion using such a system are provided. The cervical plating system includes an interlocking mechanism that integrated into each of the plates such that any two plates may cooperatively engage through the interlocking mechanism such that a new cervical plate can be interconnected with a pre-existing plate during revision surgery without removal of the pre-existing plate.

Abstract: A facet joint replacement system includes an inferior implant with an inferior articular surface, a superior implant with a superior articular surface, and an optional crossbar. The inferior implant and the superior implant are each polyaxially adjustably connected to fixation elements which anchor the implants to adjacent vertebrae. The optional crossbar may be polyaxially adjustably connected to bilateral implants. The system components may be provided in kits which provide components of various sizes and shapes. A set of surgical instruments may facilitate implantation of the facet joint replacement system by providing tools for bone preparation, trialing, implant insertion, implant alignment, and lock-out of modular interconnections.

Abstract: An insert for receipt within a plate aperture having an inner wall along the plate aperture includes a body and collar. The body has inner and outer surfaces. The inner surface defines an insert aperture having a longitudinal axis. The collar extends from the outer surface in a first radial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extends along only a portion of the outer surface in a second radial direction transverse to the first radial direction and the longitudinal axis. The collar defines a first radial distance from the longitudinal axis at a first position of the collar and a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis at a second position of the collar that differs from the first radial distance. A fixation system includes the plate and insert which is receivable within the plate aperture such that the collar contacts and is slideable along the inner wall.

Abstract: A medical tool system for providing a trapezoidal recess in a joint surface of a bone, including a milling tool rotatable about a tool axis and having milling edges active on the circumferential side and milling edges that are active at an axial end with respect to the tool axis, and a template part fixable to the joint surface for guiding the milling too. A stop limits a penetration depth of the milling tool. The template part has a base element with a slide guide and a slide which can be moved in the slide guide between two end stops along a guide path lying on a guide plane. A guide channel which runs diagonally to the guide plane and leads to a milling tool receiving area directed transversely to the tool axis is formed in the slide such that the milling tool can rotate freely about the tool axis.

Abstract: A bone stabilizing plate includes two plate portions, each affixable to bones of a patient, the plate portions telescoping together with mating rails and grooves. A limiter associated with one of the plate portions sliding engages one a catch associated with the other of the plate portions, when the plate portions are telescoped together, and resists stops telescoping when the plate portions are telescoped a predetermined distance apart. Once the limiter and catch are engaged, the plate portions enable imposition of a minimum compressive force between bones connected to the plates. The limiter is resiliently positioned to deflect into a relief formed in its respective plate portion. A groove positioned proximate the catch enables free telescoping motion limited by the engagement of the catch and limiter, whereby the minimum compressive force between bones is maintained, and Wolfe's Law may apply.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis system includes a bone plate and a segment. The bone plate includes a plurality of passages for bone screws and at least one web. The segment includes at least one passage for a screw. The segment has a clip-like configuration and can be snapped onto the web of the bone plate. The segment also has an upper half and a lower half and is fastened on the web of the bone plate with a force-locked connection by moving the upper and lower halves toward each other. The upper and the lower halves are moved towards each other by introducing a screw into the at least one passage of the segment.

Abstract: Osteosynthesis systems useful in the fusion of cervical vertebrae are described. An osteosynthesis system includes a plate, a set of anchors, a set of locking members, and a set of pins. The plate defines anchor passageways that receive the anchors, locking member passageways that receive the locking member passageways; and pin passageways that receive the pins. Each of the locking member passageways partially intersects one of the anchor passageways and each of the pin passageways provides a passageway extending from a side of the plate to one of the locking member passageways. Each of the locking members is rotatable within the respective one of the locking member passageways and is adapted to engage an adjacent anchor from the side.

Abstract: A modular bone fixation linkage includes a plurality of interconnected links that can angulate with respect to an adjacent one of the links about at least one axis, such as three axes. The links can further include fixation holes that are configured to receive bone anchors that secure the links to an underlying anatomical structure.

Abstract: A bone fixation device includes an elongated bone fixation plate and a rotational member that are secured to an oblique fractured bone. The fixation plate can be secured to the bone across the fracture. The rotation member can include two tabs that extend around opposite sides of the bone. The bone segments can be aligned and secured to the fixation plate. The rotation member can then be rotated so that the tabs physically contact and prevent movement of the bone segments.

Abstract: A uterine fibroid tissue removal device includes an inner tube disposed within an outer tube and configured to be translated and rotated relative to the outer tube, and a separately formed unitary distal tip member attached to a distal end of the inner tube, such that the distal tip member translates and rotates relative to the outer tube along with the inner tube, wherein a distal facing open cutting end of the distal tip member in fluid communication with an axial lumen of the distal tip member translates across a tissue resection window in a sidewall of the outer tube so as to sever tissue extending therethrough, the distal tip member axial lumen being in fluid communication with an axial lumen of the inner tube, wherein an outer diameter of the distal tip member is greater than an outer diameter of the inner tube.

Abstract: A cervical plate and one or more locking assemblies that help prevent screw backout without impinging on therapeutically valuable settling of the screws. In some cases, the locking assembly is configured to be permanently attached to the plate, to be securely but efficiently locked, to be readily unlocked for revision surgery, and/or to reduce the possibility of operator error in installation by providing simplified visible and tactile indicia of the locked and unlocked positions.

Abstract: A circumferential vertebral column fixation systems includes an elongated engagement bar including at least two spaced apart fastener holes configured to be positioned within a vertebral body or other spinal bony segment such that fasteners inserted into the vertebral body or spinal bony segment are provided with an anchor point to help prevent fastener pull out. The engagement bar can further include a locking bar disposed within the engagement bar which can lock the fasteners to the engagement bar. Methods of using the circumferential vertebral column fixation system are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices, implants, systems, techniques and methods for addressing certain conditions of the spine, including devices, implants, systems and methods for performing spinal laminoplasty or other expansion of the spinal canal. The devices of the invention are expandable in situ, providing greater versatility for surgeons performing various procedures where expansion of the spinal canal is desired.

Abstract: Embodiments of present invention include modular bone plate systems and various methods of bone fixation using the same. The system makes available to the practitioner an array of plates, screws and pins with different sizes, curves, and functions to overcome complication of the procedure with minimal rework and soft/hard tissue intervention, treat osteoporotic bones and articular fracture to name a few.

Abstract: System, including methods and devices, for fixing bone. The system may include a bone plate having two or more plate members connected to one another with one or more movable joints. Each joint may permit the orientation of the plate members to be adjusted relative to one another in a single plane or two or more nonparallel planes. The joint may have a movable configuration and a fixed configuration. Methods of creating the bone plate are also provided.

Abstract: A pectus excavatum correction apparatus includes two pectus bars each made of a stick plate. Each bracket of the apparatus has a plate shape with a length-direction bent part. The first side of the bent part is hooked onto an upper or lower part of a rib and a second side of the bent part faces an outer surface of the pectus bar. Each of a first and second bridge has through-holes provided in two length-direction ends of the bridge. Each coupling unit includes a supporting part provided between the rib and the pectus bar, a slide protruding from an outer surface of the supporting part, and a second coupling part coupled to the first coupling part to press and fix the pectus bar, the bracket, and the bridge. The second distance is greater or less than the first distance within a preset range.

Abstract: Transport distraction apparatus for performing transport distraction osteogenesis is provided which includes a track capable of being formed into a curvilinear shape with a carriage movable longitudinally along the track. The carriage has a fixation plate secured or securable to it and at least one gear for moving the carriage along the track in order to adjust its position relative to the length of the track. The track has a series of formations extending along one edge of the track and engaged by the gear which is at least partially accommodated within a space between a plane including the front face of the track and a plane including the rear face of the track. Preferably, the apparatus creates a gap between a central region of the track and a patient's bone in use. A fixation plate is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are improved surgical techniques for repairing bone defects in a sternum during a sternotomy procedure and implants adapted for such techniques. In an exemplary embodiment, provided is a fusion strip made of an osteoconductive material and of a dimension that is especially adapted for improved repair of sternal bone defects.

Abstract: A bone plate that is configured to operatively attach to bone includes a first segment, a second segment, and a locking mechanism. The first segment includes a compression notch. The first and second segments are positioned along a longitudinal axis and are movable relative to one another. The locking mechanism inhibits relative axial movement of the first and second segments along the longitudinal axis away from one another. The locking mechanism includes first and second grooves disposed on the second segment. The first and second grooves and the compression slot are configured to receive an instrument to move the first segment towards the second segment along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An implant, such as a cranial implant, for attachment to a defect in a bone structure having an edge is described. The implant comprises a direction of extension and a rim extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of extension of the implant. The rim is configured to be attached to the edge of the bone structure and comprises at least one mounting portion (6) configured to accommodate a fastener such that at least a portion of the fastener is extendible in a direction extending away from the rim at an angle which is at most acute with respect to the direction of extension of the implant. The implant is configured such that upon placing the implant in the defect, the fastener is extendible into the edge of the bone defect in a controllable manner.

Abstract: Tissue repair suture plates and methods of use are provided which can, in general, allow soft tissue to be secured to bone. In one embodiment, a tissue repair suture plate can include a plurality of openings formed therethrough that can each be configured to have one or more sutures passed therethrough. Each of the sutures can be configured to be coupled to a soft tissue to be positioned against bone for healing thereagainst such that the soft tissue can have multiple sutures coupled thereto at different areas thereof. One or more bone fixation elements can be coupled to the plate and can be configured to attach the plate to the bone. The plate can be configured to move between a first configuration in which the plate has a first maximum length and a second configuration in which the plate has a second, greater maximum length.

Abstract: A method and device for attaching a bone plate to a bone includes the steps of placing a first surface of a wire insertion device against the bone, inserting a reference wire through an opening of the wire insertion device extending therethrough from the first surface of the wire insertion device to a second surface of the wire insertion device, removing the wire insertion device from the reference wire and positioning a bone plate on the bone by moving the bone plate in a transverse direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the reference wire so that the reference wire is received within a slot of the bone plate, the bone plate including a first surface facing toward the bone and a second surface opposing the first surface, the slot open to a lateral side surface connecting edges of the first and second surfaces.

Abstract: Bone plate systems and methods for implanting. A bone plate system includes a bone plate having a first surface, a second, bone contacting surface opposed to the first surface, and at least one aperture extending through the first and second surfaces. The system includes a bone screw having a threaded shank along a distal end portion thereof, the threaded shank configured to pass through the aperture. A dynamic member is configured to fit between portions of the screw and the bone plate and allow movement of the dynamic member and the screw relative to the bone plate in a first direction, while preventing movement of the dynamic member relative to the bone plate in a direction opposite to the first direction.

Abstract: An improved anterior cervical plating system and methods of cervical fusion using such a system are provided. The cervical plating system includes an interlocking mechanism that integrated into each of the plates such that any two plates may cooperatively engage through the interlocking mechanism such that a new cervical plate can be interconnected with a pre-existing plate during revision surgery without removal of the pre-existing plate.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a bone fixation system includes a plate having a first opening a beam configured to traverse through the first opening and reside proximate to a subchondral fragment of bone in an installed position. The beam may be operable to rotate about an axis of rotation proximate to the first opening and reposition the subchondral fragment of bone.

Abstract: A system, devices and methods are provided for facilitating stabilization of periarticular fractures. The system includes a compression plate and one or more of a cerclage cable for encircling the bone and securing the compression plate to the bone, a crimp lug for securing the cable in tension relative to the bone and/or a plate, and a supplemental plate coupled to the compression plate and adapted to receive bicortical or unicortical bone screws to further secure the compression plate relative to the bone. In addition, the system includes a cable tensioner for temporarily retaining the cable in tension and then applying a tension to the cable until a desired compression is effected between a plate and bone and while a cable retaining structure is secured to the cable to retain the applied tension on the cable. Also provided is a jig for use with plates for minimally invasive fracture stabilization.

Abstract: A bone plate that is configured to operatively attach to bone includes a first segment, a second segment, and a locking mechanism. The first segment includes a compression notch. The first and second segments are positioned along a longitudinal axis and are movable relative to one another. The locking mechanism inhibits relative axial movement of the first and second segments along the longitudinal axis away from one another. The locking mechanism includes first and second grooves disposed on the second segment. The first and second grooves and the compression slot are configured to receive an instrument to move the first segment towards the second segment along the longitudinal axis.

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 spinal implant includes a body, plate, and bone screws. The body includes a first wall having second and third walls joined thereto to define legs. In an embodiment, the body and plate are of unitary construction. In alternative embodiments, the body is formed from a first material and is configured for positioning between vertebral bodies. In other embodiments, the body is separate from the plate. The plate has a main portion and a flange. The main portion has a first screw hole oriented towards the first vertebral body at an oblique angle relative to the horizontal axis of the body. The flange has a second screw hole oriented towards the second vertebral body and substantially parallel to the horizontal axis. The flange is coupled to the main portion and extends past the main portion. Each bone screw is insertable through a screw hole of the plate for attachment to bone. A kit including a body, bone screws, and a plurality of different plates is also provided.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system having a pedicle screw which includes (i) a shaft with external threads and a head segment on one end of the shaft; (ii) a first drive socket positioned in the head segment; (iii) a second drive socket on a shaft end opposite the first drive socket; and (iv) wherein the shaft end opposite the first drive socket has a lesser diameter than the shaft end at the head segment. The system further includes an intervertebral stabilization structure having an elongated body with rotating ring segments attached to each end of the elongated body.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for preparing a disc space and inserting an intervertebral disc implant therein are disclosed. Among the various instruments disclosed are a midline marker, a reference pin drill and insertion guide, a pin drill guide, a chisel guide, a sizer, a serrated broach, an implant dispenser, and an implant insertion tool. Methods of utilizing these tools are also disclosed.

Abstract: Described herein are guiding instruments for use in surgical procedures involving the positioning of a bone plate. Furthermore methods for the manufacture of such instruments and methods for positioning a bone plate are also provided.

Abstract: Plate devices are provided for mounting to bone and receiving one or more spinal rods. The devices may include coupling members or rod receiving members coupled to the plate member and configured to have multiple degrees of adjustability in order to accommodate elongate connecting members of various orientations. The plate devices may also include quick locking features or locking devices that secure multiple points of articulation simultaneously.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention include a cranial fixation device for fixing a bone flap to the skull following a craniotomy. The device may accommodate variations in intracranial pressure without allowing the bone flap to move inward beyond the skull surface. Other embodiments include a method for cranial fixation. The method may include joining the bone flap to one portion of the fixation device and joining the skull to another portion of the fixation device. The method may also include responding to changes in intracranial pressure. The method may also include upward and downward movement of the fixation device and constraining the movement of the bone flap.

Abstract: Bones fracture in any number of various ways and, in order to properly reduce a fracture, it may be necessary to place compression screws in any number of combinations along a bone plate to bring the various bone fragments together. A bone plate is provided with an optimal number and combination of threaded holes and non-threaded holes. In embodiments, the bone plate comprises one or more “hole pairs” in which a non-threaded hole and a threaded hole are placed adjacent to one another. The use of hole pairs enables a surgeon to place a compression screw and a locking screw in close proximity, facilitating both bone reduction and bone plate stabilization in a proximate location on the bone plate. In embodiments, the bone plate has an optimal thickness that promotes structural integrity while maximizing the number and combination of holes and reducing the profile of seated screws.

Abstract: A bone fixation assembly to promote healing of a bone fracture comprises a first bone engagement member and a second bone engagement member. The first bone engagement member comprises an elongated body with proximal and distal end portions, a projection, and an inner surface defining an opening. The second bone engagement member comprises a main body, first and second outer surfaces, an inner surface defining an aperture, and an inner surface defining an opening spaced from the aperture. One of the end portions of first bone engagement member is dimensioned to extend through the aperture of the second bone engagement member. The opening of the first bone engagement member and the opening of the second bone engagement member are aligned to receive a fastener when the elongated body extends through the aperture and contacts an outer surface of the second bone engagement member.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices, implants, systems, techniques and methods for addressing certain conditions of the spine, including devices, implants, systems and methods for performing spinal laminoplasty or other expansion of the spinal canal. The devices of the invention are expandable in situ, providing greater versatility for surgeons performing various procedures where expansion of the spinal canal is desired.

Abstract: The invention relates to an osteosynthesis implant (1) for adapting the shape and the working volume of a ribcage with a view to the implantation of an artificial heart in said ribcage, characterized in that it comprises the following elements: —a main part (10) which has a shape and dimensions that can be adapted to the shape and the dimensions of the rib cage, —attaching elements (20) for attaching the main part to the ribcage, wherein said attaching elements (20) are rigidly attached to the main part (10), and—a protection (30) for the artificial heart, attached to the main part (10).

Abstract: A system for compressing a fracture can include a first bone plate having a first proximal end and a first distal end, and a second bone plate having a second proximal end and a second distal end. The second bone plate can be spaced apart from the first bone plate. The system can include an expansion member coupled to the second proximal end of the second bone plate. The movement of the expansion member relative to the second bone plate can cause the first distal end of the first bone plate and the second distal end of the second bone plate to move toward each other to compress the fracture.

Abstract: A bone plate and method for use thereof affords use of at least two surgical approaches to attach the bone plate to a fractured bone to facilitate reduction and repair thereof. The bone plate includes two domains extending in different directions from a transition zone. The directions in which each of the two domains extend are generally opposite, and the transition zone is configured to afford portions of the two domains to be substantially disposed in planes that are transverse to one another.

Abstract: A secondary cover plate that contacts a stand-alone fusion cage without rigidly connecting to the cage, and instead only docks against the cage (or passes through a fixation cage) and is secured into the adjacent bone. The secondary cover plate is the last item that would be added to the fixation cage construct and would at least partially cover the head of one or more angled screws. The secondary cover plate could slidably engage the fixation cage without permanently snapping into any features of the cage itself. The secondary cover plate would then be final positioned by advancing into one or more adjacent vertebral bodies. The secondary cover plate advancing step could be achieved by tapping it into place (into bone) or rotating it into place (into bone) so that it is finally secured into the bone.

Abstract: An intramedullary rod for use in a mammalian body comprising an elongate nail having a stem and a head and a threaded element carried by the head and accessible at the proximal end for rotation relative to the head. A locking mechanism coupled to the threaded element and configured to preclude rotation of the threaded element relative to the head when the locking mechanism is in a first position and permit rotation of the threaded element relative to the head when the locking mechanism is in a second position.

Abstract: An implantable device may include a barrel, the barrel having an upper portion and a lower portion. The implantable device may further include an actuator assembly disposed in the barrel, the actuator assembly comprising a front ramped actuator in engagement with the barrel, a rear ramped actuator in engagement with the barrel, and a central screw that extends from the rear ramped actuator through the front ramped actuator. The implantable device may further include a first plate having multiple projections extending from one side of the first plate, the first plate comprising a first portion that extends from the upper portion and a second portion that extends form the lower portion. The implantable device may further include a second plate having multiple projections extending from one side of the second plate, the second plate configured to be received on the central screw.

Abstract: Provided are methods and systems for fabricating multimaterial bodies in a layer-wise fashion, which bodies may be used bone-stabilizing implants. The multimaterial bodies include rigid and flexible portions that are integrally formed with one another. The multimaterial bodies may be softened or stiffened in specific areas to match the biological or anatomical features of a bone.

Abstract: A polyaxial fastener is secured within an implant with a retaining ring. The ring is assembled onto a circumferential groove formed in the fastener head. The groove and ring are positionable, when the fastener is installed into an implant, at a wide portion of the mating polyaxial aperture in the implant. The ring is compressible into the groove to form a narrowed diameter, which is passable into a narrow diameter of the aperture, near an entrance to the aperture. The ring is released to expand and increase an overall diameter of the head and ring assembly, thereby rending the assembly too wide to pass by the narrow entrance to the aperture, thereby securing the assembly within the implant.

Abstract: Various components of an electronic device housing and methods for their assembly are disclosed. The housing can be formed by assembling and connecting two or more different sections together. The sections of the housing may be coupled together using one or more coupling members. The coupling members may be formed using a two-shot molding process in which the first shot forms a structural portion of the coupling members, and the second shot forms cosmetic portions of the coupling members.