Abstract: The present disclosure includes a method for reducing a bone fracture and an apparatus such as a cable button for use with a bone plate, the cable button including cable button threads, a plurality of cable button apertures, a hex socket, and a hex opening. The present disclosure also includes a method for reducing a bone fracture and an apparatus such as a cable button for use with a bone plate, the cable button including a plurality of legs, where a leg includes a protrusion, where the protrusion engages the bone plate, and the cable button defines at least one cable button aperture.

Abstract: The system and method for intramedullary plate fixation of the preferred embodiments include a first intramedullary plate of a first geometry with a plurality of bores, a second intramedullary plate of a second geometry with a plurality of bores, a plurality of fasteners that fasten the first and second intramedullary plates to bone, and an alignment fixture held outside of the body that indicate the location of the bores of the first and second intramedullary plates and through which the fasteners are aligned with the bores of the first and second intramedullary plates, allowing the surgeon to make incisions in the patients body in known locations of the bores, and thus allowing for a minimally invasive intramedullary plate installation and fixation procedure.

Abstract: A spinal fixation assembly has a bone screw with head having a continuously curved spherical outer surface. The curved surface nests in a split annular bushing having a plurality of segments curving around the screw head. The bushing has an outward extending flange that fits into a recess in a socket in a fixation plate. The plate has at least three legs which extend from ends of a cross-member to form one of an H shaped, X shaped or A shaped configuration. Each socket is curved to rotatably receive rotation of the bushing. The socket recess is larger than the bushing flange to allow the bushing to tilt a predetermined amount depending on a thickness of the outward extending flange.

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 universal jig is compatible with bone plates of varying size, in which different plate sizes having different hole configurations. For example, a longer bone plate may have a first hole pattern along a given length thereof, while various shorter bone plates may have differing hole patterns along respective corresponding lengths. The universal jig includes a combination of hole groupings to provide a jig hole for each hole in the differing hole patterns of the longer and shorter plates, so that the universal jig is useable with a variety of bone plates having disparate hole patterns. For any given bone plate length and hole configuration, a masking cover may provided to attach to the jig. The masking cover masks off unused jig holes, so that only those jig holes intended for use with a particular bone plate are left exposed.

Abstract: An assembly for reducing a fracture between an epiphysis and a diaphysis of a bone has a bone plate having a fan-shaped outer end formed with a plurality of outer holes and a bar-shaped inner end extending along a longitudinal axis from the outer end and formed with a plurality of inner holes. The plate further is formed on the bar-shaped inner end with a longitudinally extending throughgoing guide slot and between the guide slot and the outer holes with an aperture. A slide has a longitudinally extending leg with an inner end formed with a guide formation engaged into and longitudinally slidable along the guide slot and a crosspiece overlying the aperture and engaging the bone plate to both transverse sides of the aperture. The crosspiece is formed with a transversely elongated slide slot, and a slide screw engaged through the slide.

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.

Abstract: System, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for fixing ribs with bone plates.

Abstract: To provide an implant for securing neighboring bone plates, especially neighboring cranial bone plates, wherein the bone plates each have an inner face and an outer face, comprising an inner contact element that is adapted to rest on the inner faces of the neighboring bone plates, an outer contact element that is adapted to rest on the outer faces of the neighboring bone plates, and an in a linear manner flexible tensioning element for connecting the inner contact element and the outer contact element in such a manner that they can no longer be separated from one another, with improved properties, the outer contact element comprises at least one recess for at least partially accommodating a connection region between free strands of the tensioning element or for feeding the connection region through into a separation gap between the neighboring bone plates.

Abstract: A fixation device for the fixation of bone fragments, applicable to the mutual fastening of bone fragments temporarily separated during a surgical operation or as a result of a trauma. The device is also suitable for the fixation of a bone flap in the replacement thereof in a corresponding aperture made in the cranium or cranial bone mass. The device is made of biocompatible material and has a flexible strip and fastening mechanism, the strip having a length allowing the formation of a fastening loop tightly fastening the bone fragments to be joined together. The fastening mechanism is provided with at least one opening provided with an interlocking mechanism allowing the passage of a free end of the strip and preventing its extraction in the direction opposite to the insertion.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for minimally invasive stabilization of anterior pelvic fractures consisting of two rod shaped implants that may be surgically inserted subcutaneously or along the bone surface of each hemipelvis and a means of both linking the individual rods as well as rigidly securing the construct to the pelvis.

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 fragment 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 fragment plate. The system preferably includes several end plates and fragment plates to accommodate anatomy of various sizes.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bone plate for stabilizing a fractured greater tuberosity, wherein the bone plate comprises one or more apertures for fixing the bone plate to bone; one or more hook-arm receivers; one or more attachable hook-arms comprising one or more prongs and a device for attachment to the bone plate. The invention also relates to methods for stabilizing a fractured greater tuberosity using the bone plates of the invention and kits comprising the same.

Abstract: A device for treating a bone includes (a) an elongate body sized and shaped for insertion into a bone and extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the elongate body including a channel extending therethrough and a coating along an outer surface thereof, the coating adapted to absorb a selected frequency of light such that, when the selected frequency of light is applied thereto, portions of the coating melt to form a mass; and (b) a first anchor member slidably mountable over the elongate body and movable therealong from a first position at the proximal end of the elongate body to a second position adjacent a bone into which the elongate body has been inserted to cooperate with the mass to fix the elongate body to the bone.

Abstract: A dynamic subsidence plate is described having a first plate member and a second plate member in sliding engagement that may infinitely subside between a first and second assembled position. The plate includes a lock assembly associated with the first and second plate members. The lock assembly includes a ramp portion, an interference portion, and a bearing member situated between the ramp portion and the interference portion. The lock assembly of the plate is configured to allow movement of the first member with respect to the second member in a first direction in an infinite number of positions between a first assembled position and a second assembled position. Further, the lock assembly alternatively prevents movement of the first member with respect to the second member in an opposite second direction between the first and second assembled positions.

Abstract: A hook plate assembly includes a bone plate extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end and including an upper surface facing away from a bone, a bone contacting surface, a plate hole extending therethrough from the upper surface to the bone contacting surface and a connection section arranged at the second end. The plate hole is sized and shaped to receive a bone fixation element therethrough in combination with a hook including a connecting portion configured to connect the hook to the connection section of the bone plate and a fastening element releasably coupling the hook to the bone plate.

Abstract: A method for repairing a fractured bone includes providing a bone fracture fixation assembly including a plate, an elongated shaft, and a rod. At least a portion of the shaft is threaded, and the shaft has a hole extending therethrough. The hole has an axis transverse to a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The method further includes positioning the plate adjacent the surface of the fractured bone, extending the shaft into the bone, cooperatively engaging the threaded portion of the shaft with a screw receiving aperture of the plate, extending the rod into the bone, and inserting the rod into the hole of the shaft.

Abstract: A surgical plate system for stabilizing vertebrae of a backbone which includes a first surgical plate, which when connected to adjacent vertebrae of a backbone is constructed to allow attachment with an additional plate which is then interconnectable with a first of the adjacent vertebrae and a third adjacent vertebrae. The connection between the adjacent surgical plates is constructed to allow lateral adjustment between the plates prior to the plates being secured with the vertebrae.

Abstract: A dynamic spine plate is formed with only a single row of bone screw bores that extend along a generally superior/inferior axis of the spine plate, providing a single-sided dynamic spine plate. The single-sided dynamic spine plate is formed from a plurality of spine plate components that are coupled dynamically to one another. This provides a modular, single-sided dynamic spine plate. The spine plate components are coupled dynamically to one another via socket and projection interfaces, the socket and projections interfaces incorporating resilient coupling and retention structures that allow limited movement of the spine plate components relative to one another. This provides for dynamic extension of the spine plate components relative to one another. The resilient coupling structure connects the spine plate components, providing a self-biased, snap fit coupling of spine plate components.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device including two plates and a coupling element for coupling the plates in a fixed manner about adjacent spinous processes of the spine. Each plate is preferably equipped with integral spikes on the inwardly facing surfaces for pressing into the spinal processes and thereby augmenting the purchase between the plates and the spinous processes. Each plate contains a central aperture through which the coupling element passes in order to couple the plates together.

Abstract: A modular bone plating system in one embodiment is a bone plate kit including a plurality of bone plates, each of the plurality of bone plates including a male coupling portion, a female coupling portion and a shaft extending between the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion, wherein each of the male coupling portions of each of the plurality of bone plates is configured to couple with each of the female coupling portions of each of the other of the plurality of bone plates.

Abstract: A fixation device for connecting a stabilization device to a bone comprises a first member comprising a first portion for attachment to a bone, and a second member comprising a second portion for attachment to a bone and connected to the first member by a pivotal connection such that the first and second portions are spaced apart by an adjustable distance, at least one of the first and second members further comprising a portion for mounting a connector adapted to secure a stabilization device.

Abstract: The present invention regards a synthesis plate (1), particularly for pelvic osteotomy; the present invention also regards an instrument (101) and a method for the application of the same. According to the invention, said plate (1) is composed of two distinct, separate modular components (3,5) that can be connected and fixed to each other, such that it is possible to adjust the relative angle (CC) between said two components of the modular plate as required, and then fix and integrally join them together in the desired angular position. Advantageously, with the plate (1) according to the invention and the suitable tool (101) for the application thereof, the adjustment and selection of the mutual angular position of said components can be carried out at any time, even during the execution of the osteotomy operation.

Abstract: A universal jig is compatible with bone plates of varying size, in which different plate sizes having different hole configurations. For example, a longer bone plate may have a first hole pattern along a given length thereof, while various shorter bone plates may have differing hole patterns along respective corresponding lengths. The universal jig includes a combination of hole groupings to provide a jig hole for each hole in the differing hole patterns of the longer and shorter plates, so that the universal jig is useable with a variety of bone plates having disparate hole patterns. For any given bone plate length and hole configuration, a masking cover may provided to attach to the jig. The masking cover masks off unused jig holes, so that only those jig holes intended for use with a particular bone plate are left exposed.

Abstract: A Static Compression Device (SC device) for active, measurable compression of a fusion graft by the surgeon at the time of surgery is disclosed. The SC device is attachable to adjacent vertebral bodies or other pieces of bone and has a device that applies compressive force to the adjacent vertebral bodies or pieces of bone to assist fusion according to Wolffs law. The SC device has a locking mechanism that maintains the compression applied at surgery, but prevents further compression (settling) from occurring after surgery. The SC device allows the surgeon the ability to compress a segment, measure the applied compression, and lock the segment in the compressed position. In one embodiment of the invention, the pressure is applied to the SC device through a compression device that applies a desired and measurable amount of force.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a spacer, such as a polymeric spacer, for use with an implant device, e.g., a bone plate, for splinting a fracture of a bone. The spacer includes a body defining a bone healing surface, wherein at least a portion of the bone healing surface has a coating which includes a therapeutic agent, a polymeric carrier, and a buffer medium to stimulate bone growth and/or promote fracture healing. A kit is also disclosed which includes one or more of the spacers, at least one bone plate, and optionally one or more bone screws for securing the bone plate to bone. A method for promoting fracture healing in bone is further disclosed which includes securely situating a coated portion of the spacer adjacent bone.

Abstract: Translational bone fixation assemblies, kits containing such assemblies, and methods of use are described herein. The described assemblies may be used in spinal fusion procedures in which a damaged or diseased disc (or part of a disc) is removed from between a pair of vertebrae and a spinal fusion spacer is placed between the vertebrae. The assemblies may be applied to an anterior portion of the affected vertebrae to span the affected disc space, and may be fixed to the vertebrae using bone screws. The assemblies may function to maintain the vertebrae aligned during the initial period following fixation in which fusion of the spacer to the adjacent vertebrae occurs. The assemblies may also function to share some of the axial spinal load applied to the fusion spacer to prevent extreme subsidence of the spacer into the vertebral body, such as where the patient has poor bone quality.

Abstract: An instrument for insertion and placement of dynamic spinal fixation plates is provided. In general, the instrument is a clip that holds the plate at its maximum extension for implantation.

Abstract: A sternum fixation device for securing parts of a sternum includes first and second removably associated plates. The first plate has an upper surface and a sternum contacting surface, and at least one hole passing through both of these surfaces for receiving a fastener head. The second plate has at least one attachment member for fixation to the sternum. A release member holds the first and second plates together, and is movably associated with at least one of the first and second plates such that it may be moved to allow separation of the two parts of the sternum.

Abstract: To establish the correct volar angle between the proximal radius and a distal fragment of the radius a cortical half pin with a self-threading screw is mounted in a collet. The collet is supported on a pair of members that clamp a volar plate under the collet, the volar plate has a hole in alignment with the half pin that enables the plate to pivot in a plane parallel to the members. The volar plate is tilted to contact the distal fragment and to be joined to the fragment. The half pin is screwed into the proximal radius and the members and collet are removed in order to allow the volar plate to be pressed back against the proximal radius and secured to the radius, thus establishing the correct volar tilt for the distal fragment relative to the proximal position of the radius.

Abstract: The repositioning and fixation system according to the invention comprises at least two bone plates that are designed to be interconnected. Each bone plate is provided with a connector element for connection to another bone plate. The connector element of a first bone plate comprises a plurality of projections. The connector element of a second bone plate comprises an opening. In a first connection state, the projections engage in the opening and produce a hinge-type connection between the first bone plate and the second bone plate. In a second connection state, the projections are tensioned and produce a rigid connection between the first bone plate and the second bone plate. With the repositioning and fixation system according to the invention, bone fragments secured to the bone plates can be repositioned by pivoting of the bone plates. Once the bone fragments have been brought to their final position, the projections can be tensioned in such a way that the bone plates are rigidly interconnected.

Abstract: A cervical plate assembly facilitates the fusion of cervical vertebrae by quickly and easily causing the vertebrae to exert a preloading force against a bone graft interposed therebetween. A cervical plate assembly also facilitates the installation of the cervical plate assembly in an orthopedic surgical procedure by providing both a locking mechanism that positively retains one or more fasteners thereto and a viewing window that results in an unobstructed view of the vertebrae and the bone graft.

Abstract: An implant has a bone plate with a bone contacting surface and an opposite outwardly facing surface. The plate includes a split-ring receiving recess open to the outwardly facing surface located intermediate first and second bone screw receiving openings in the plate. The first and second bone screw receiving openings each having a slot spaced from the outwardly facing surface towards the bone contacting surface. The slot is formed in a wall of the first and second bone screw receiving openings. The slot is open to the split ring receiving recess. A resilient split-ring has a thickness less than a height of the slots in the first and second bone screw openings when measured along the bone screw receiving opening axis.

Abstract: An improved polyaxial mechanism is disclosed. The mechanism preferably works in conjunction with a bone plate and fixation mechanism, such as a screw, rod, or the like. The improved polyaxial mechanism increases the strength of the locking among the locking mechanism, fixation mechanism, and bone plate. In addition, the improved polyaxial mechanism allows for easy locking among the elements, as well as more difficulty in unlocking the elements. A method for utilizing the improved polyaxial mechanism is also disclosed.

Abstract: A drill guide system for a bone plate having holes includes a guide block having at least two drill guide bores alignable with a bone screw receiving hole in a bone plate. A locking element extending through at least one drill guide block bore into the bone plate bone screw receiving hole, the locking element having a partially threaded bore portion and having a bifurcated tip surrounding the threaded bore portion. The bifurcated tip capable of engaging an inwardly extending protrusion formed on an internal wall of a bone screw receiving hole in the bone plate. An axially moveable threaded rod has a head for contacting an outer surface of the guide block and an end portion engaging a portion of the bore in the bifurcated tip of the locking element for separating sections of the bifurcated tip on axial movement of the rod prior to the head contacting the second surface of the drill guide block.

Abstract: Translational bone fixation assemblies, kits containing such assemblies, and methods of use are described herein. The described assemblies may be used in spinal fusion procedures in which a damaged or diseased disc (or part of a disc) is removed from between a pair of vertebrae and a spinal fusion spacer is placed between the vertebrae. The assemblies may be applied to an anterior portion of the affected vertebrae to span the affected disc space, and may be fixed to the vertebrae using bone screws. The assemblies may function to maintain the vertebrae aligned during the initial period following fixation in which fusion of the spacer to the adjacent vertebrae occurs. The assemblies may also function to share some of the axial spinal load applied to the fusion spacer to prevent extreme subsidence of the spacer into the vertebral body, such as where the patient has poor bone quality.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a bone plate system. The bone plate system comprises a base plate having two generally parallel elongated screw slots extending therethrough. Two bone screws are provided that are capable of securing the base plate to a bone by insertion through the screw slots into the bone. Each bone screw has a screw head and a threaded portion extending therefrom. An interference device is attached to the base plate and retains the bone screws while permitting the bone screws to toggle and to controllably slide in the screw slots of the base plate. This design is particularly useful for joining adjacent vertebral bodies, as it permits controlled settling of the vertebral bodies, thereby enhancing the healing process.

Abstract: A system and associated method are provided for mechanically fixating a region of a skull to a portion of a spine. A plate is provided to contact a region of a skull and be secured thereto. A spinal rod is configured to extend from a location adjacent the plate to a location adjacent at least one vertebra. An adjustable housing is provided to secure the rod to the plate, and has a first position wherein the relative position of the rod to the plate can be adjusted and a second position wherein the relative position of the rod to the plate is secured.

Abstract: A device for early stabilizing of distracted tissue that includes a first implant, a second implant, a sliding expansion mechanism and a stabilizer. The first implant is capable of being attached to a first tissue region. The second implant is capable of being attached to a second tissue region. The sliding expansion mechanism engages the first implant and the second implant for distracting the first implant away from the second implant to create a distraction space for formation of the distracted tissue. The stabilizer rigidly fixes the first implant and the second implant after disengagement of the sliding expansion mechanism to rigidly stabilize the distracted tissue. The stabilizer includes in whole or in part a biodegradable, bioerodible or bioresorbable material.

Abstract: Craniotomy closure systems comprising surgical fasteners and a protective covering over the dura are described for use in reattaching a skull flap removed from the skull of a patient during brain surgery. Methods of using the same are also described. Surgical strips optionally used in combination with the craniotomy closure systems are shaped to follow the perimeter contour of the skull flap. The craniotomy closure systems are designed to encourage bone growth and healing of the skull flap and they can be used to deliver medication and bone growth enhancement materials to the surgical site.

Abstract: A bone fixation device may include a primary bone plate. The primary bone plate may include an elongate member having a first fastener-receiving passageway therein to receive a first fastener to anchor the primary bone plate to a long bone of a patient, and an enlarged head member extending from the elongate member and having a secondary bone plate-receiving passageway therein. The bone fixation device may also include a secondary bone plate received in the secondary bone plate-receiving passageway and having a second fastener-receiving passageway therein to receive a second fastener to anchor the secondary bone plate to fractured end portions of the long bone of the patient.

Abstract: A surgical implant device capable of conforming to a variety of surface topographies facilitates the growth and regeneration of site to which the device is applied. The device employs a plurality of elongate members supporting a column of discrete, rotatable elements in contact with each adjacent element. Anchor plates secure the respective ends of the elongate members, such anchor plates attachable to bone. The implant device provides and ordered array of individually rotatable elements to form a surface that permits bodily fluids to pass therethough.

Abstract: A system and a method for bone fixation are provided. A bone plate may be secured to at least one bone. A monolithic region of the bone plate may be bent to a bent configuration. A strut may be connected to the bone plate. In some embodiments, the strut may be connected at spaced positions of the bone plate that opposingly flank the monolithic region, such that the bent configuration is stabilized.

Abstract: Devices and methods for supporting adjacent spinous processes include opposing plates movable toward one another along a cross post to contact opposite sides of each of the spinous processes, and a spacer member about the cross post contacting the adjacent surfaces of the spinous processes to resist movement of the spinous processes toward one another under spinal extension motion.

Abstract: The invention is related to medicine and, in particular, to a class of implants intended for osteosynthesis i.e. in the treatment of essentially all kinds of bone fractures. It is the aim of the present invention to eliminate the above contradiction and to design a bone implant and a spacer thereof that would not cause periosteum necrosis and osteoporosis of the bone and also a method of placing a bone implant of the kind. This aim is achieved by using polytetrafluorethylene, in particular, in the form of a porous surface three-dimensional structure as a spacer for a support surface of a bone implant.

Abstract: A sternum fixation device for securing parts of a sternum includes first and second removably associated plates. The first plate has an upper surface and a sternum-contacting surface, and at least one hole passing through both of these surfaces for receiving a fastener head. The second plate has at least one attachment member for fixation to the sternum. A release member holds the first and second plates together, and is movably associated with at least one of the first and second plates such that it may be moved to allow separation of the two parts of the sternum.

Abstract: A bone plate assembly and method of using the same in a patient is disclosed that includes a ratchet mechanism that allows unidirectional incremental adjustment of the overall length of the bone plate assembly. The bone plate assembly is capable of being created to have various stages. One illustrative bone plate assembly includes an intermediate plate component having a first tongue extending upwardly from a central portion of the intermediate plate component and a second tongue extending downwardly from the central portion of the intermediate plate component. First and second end plate components are included that have first and second tongue grooves that are adapted to slidably engage at least a portion of the first and second tongues. A first and second ratchet mechanism is included that allows the first and second end plate components to be incrementally ratcheted toward the central portion of the intermediate plate component.

Abstract: An occipital plating system includes a fixation assembly with a plate and a coupling member extending from a respective one of opposite lateral portions of the plate. The coupling members include a channel to receive a connecting element extending from the spinal column. The coupling members are rotatable and translatable relative to the plate.

Abstract: A cervical bone plate includes a graft window that allows access to and/or visualization of a bone graft area of the cervical spine after attachment of the present cervical plate to the vertebrae. The window is preferably, but not necessarily, sized for maximum exposure of the graft area and/or the vertebral body without compromising plate strength, particularly with respect to federal standards for such devices. The window is centrally positioned on the plate and is sized to provide alignment of the plate onto the vertebrae at the base of the vertebra fastener or screw holes of the plate. In a dynamic form of this cervical bone plate, the graft window expands and contracts with respective expansion and contraction of the dynamic plate after attachment to the vertebrae (i.e. “dynamizes”). In another form, a three-component dynamic bone plate is configured such that a middle component accepts an identical end component at both ends of the middle component. The end component is a 180° interchangeable part.

Abstract: Custom moldable cushions for covering medical implants fastened to a bone are provided. Such cushions inhibit irritation of the surrounding soft tissue by covering the bone-implant interface and by reducing friction caused by movement of soft tissue adjacent the implant. Such cushions may also be employed to spread and absorb forces reducing patient discomfort and risk of injury and infection associated with such implants.