Abstract: A bone fixation plate for fixation of fractures having a small terminal bone fragment, such as fractures of the distal radius. The plate includes an elongated body, and two hook members extending from a first end of the elongated body. A contoured region is configured to approximate the surface contour of the distal radius proximate the volar rim, the dorsal rim, or the radial arm. Each hook member is configured to provide subchondral support to a distal bone fragment, without causing shortening of the fragment into the metaphyseal bone, and without providing a bending torque directed to the base of the plate. The tooth members of the hook plate are preferably sharpened at their tips and edges to facilitate their impaction. A holder/impactor for gripping the radial hook plate, and for further facilitating impacting of the hook plate without the need to pre-drill pilot holes, is also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming pilot holes in bone and deploying a staple therein for fixing a sheet-like implant to the bone. A pilot hole forming trocar assembly including a trocar and a position retention sleeve can be included. The trocar can be releasably coupled to the position retention sleeve and slide in keyed arrangement within the sleeve when uncoupled. The trocar can include a distal portion having a retractable blade and a pair of pilot hole forming spikes extending distally from the trocar shaft. Once the pilot holes are formed, the position retention sleeve maintains the position relative to the pilot holes while the trocar is removed and a staple delivery device can be inserted in the lumen of the position retention sleeve to deploy a staple in the pilot holes.

Abstract: An inserter for simultaneously creating a bone tunnel and delivering an all-suture anchor. The inserter is capable of inserting into the bone tunnel a soft, non-rigid suture anchor by forming a bone tunnel (to serve as an anchor receiving area) and simultaneously, in one motion, delivering the soft suture anchor to the anchor receiving area. The soft suture anchor is made entirely of non-rigid materials including, but not limited to, filaments of soft, malleable materials such as those commonly used to make sutures. The inserter is able to not only carry or deliver the all-suture anchor into a bony substrate, but is able to do so without having to preform a hole in the bone.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming pilot holes in bone and deploying a staple therein for fixing a sheet-like implant to the bone. A pilot hole forming trocar assembly including a trocar and a position retention sleeve can be included. The trocar can be releasably coupled to the position retention sleeve and slide in keyed arrangement within the sleeve when uncoupled. The trocar can include a distal portion having a retractable blade and a pair of pilot hole forming spikes extending distally from the trocar shaft. Once the pilot holes are formed, the position retention sleeve maintains the position relative to the pilot holes while the trocar is removed and a staple delivery device can be inserted in the lumen of the position retention sleeve to deploy a staple in the pilot holes.

Abstract: A device for attaching a sheet-like implant to a target tissue includes a pilot member and a staple push rod. In some embodiments, the pilot member has a distal end and at least a pair of prongs extending from the distal end. The prongs are configured to form pilot holes when the distal end of the pilot member is pressed against the target tissue. The staple push rod is disposed within at least a portion of the pilot member and slidable relative thereto. The staple push rod includes at least a pair of stakes. Each stake is dimensioned to engage a surface of a staple to apply pushing forces thereto. Each stake is positioned relative to a prong along an inner surface of the pilot member so that the stakes advance into the pilot holes when the stakes are moved in a distal direction.

Abstract: A staple comprising: a bridge configured to be elastically stretchable; a first leg connected to said bridge and configured to be elastically bendable; and a second leg connected to said bridge and configured to be elastically bendable; said first and second legs being connected to said bridge so that they are angled toward one another when they are in an unstrained state; such that when said bridge is elastically strained into an elongated condition, and said first and second legs are elastically strained so that they extend substantially parallel to one another, and said first and second legs are disposed in appropriate holes on opposing sides of a fracture line, and when the strain on said staple is thereafter released, compression will be provided across the fracture line by both said bridge and said first and second legs.

Abstract: A new shape changing staple and instrument for the fixation of structures to include bone tissue and industrial materials. This new staple stores elastic mechanical energy to exert force on fixated structures to enhance their security and in bone affect its healing response. This staple once placed changes shape in response to geometric changes in the materials structure, including healing bone tissue. The staple is advanced over prior staples due to its: 1) method of operation, 2) high strength, 3) method of insertion, 4) compressive force temperature independence, 5) energy storing staple retention and delivery system, 6) compatibility with reusable or single use product configuration, 7) efficient and cost effective manufacturing methods, and 8) reduction in the steps required to place the device. In addition to the staple's industrial application an embodiment for use in the fixation of the musculoskeletal system is shown with staple, cartridge, and extrusion handle.

Abstract: A surgical method is provided, the method including the steps of: providing an artificial or allograft flexible planar structure; providing an implant, the implant including material liquefiable by mechanical oscillation, exposing a surface region of hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material; positioning the implant on an exposed area of the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material; and fastening the implant to the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material by impinging the proximal end of the implant with mechanical oscillation and simultaneously pressing the implant against the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material while the distal end of the implant protrudes into a cavity of the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material and regions of the liquefiable material are in contact with the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material, and thereby liquefying at least a portion of the liquefiable material, and letting the liquefiable material resolidify.

Abstract: A method of performing vertebral facet fusion by lateral approach and related devices. The lateral approach to facet fusion involves identifying the lateral mass and introducing any of the fixation methods known or described herein laterally at one or more facets through the use of a Kirschner wire guide, a cannulated bone drill and cooperatively cannulated staple guide. A surgical bone staple have a perforated bridge is used across the lateral facet joint where fixation is required. Where fusion is desired, a bone screw have lateral perforations of the shank is inserted through the cannulated staple guide and bridge perforation at the joint to promote fusion. A staple cap and graft container for overlay grafting may be utilized for additional fusion. The method involves less surgical time, reduced blood loss and discomfort for the patient as compared to the posterior approach.

Abstract: The fusion device for fusing a synovial joint of a human or animal patient, in particular a human facet joint, finger joint or toe joint, includes two pin-shaped anchorage portions (1) and arranged therebetween a stabilization portion (2). The anchorage portions (1) include a thermoplastic material which is liquefiable by mechanical vibration. The stabilization portion (2) preferably has a surface which is equipped for enhancing osseointegration. The anchorage portions (1) have a greater thickness (T1) and a greater depth (D) than the stabilization portion (2). Then the fusion device is pushed between the articular surfaces and mechanical vibration, in particular ultrasonic vibration, is applied to the proximal face (4) of the fusion device. Thereby the liquefiable material is liquefied where in contact with the bone tissue and penetrates into the bone tissue, where after re-solidification it constitutes a positive fit connection between the fusion device and the bone tissue.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis clip for the cicatrization of bone tissue fragments and an insertion tool for inserting the clip are provided. The clip includes at least two engagement legs extending approximately parallel to one another and including respective distal bridging tips and respective proximal insertion tips to be inserted into the bone tissue fragments; and a connecting bridge coupled to the distal bridging tips of the two engagement legs, the connecting bridge including at least two elongated sections extending along side one another, the elongated sections extending along a non-linear trajectory to form a non-linear deformable region, such as a depression or a dome.

Abstract: FIG. 1 shows an inventive implant 1. It has a central fillet 2 extending along a longitudinal axis L. The fillet 2 has openings 3 which are formed at regular intervals. At the level of the openings 3 and extending at right angles on both sides are clamps 4, which, when the implant is inserted, are brought into mutual engagement with a tubular bone and clamped to it. The fillet 2 is formed so as to be bendable in three-dimensions. It can be bent in two planes relative to the longitudinal axis L of the fillet 2 and torqued about the longitudinal axis L. Thus, a simple implant 1 with an overall regular structure is provided which can be cut with a cutting pliers to a desired length.

Abstract: A method of performing vertebral facet fusion by lateral approach and related devices. The lateral approach to facet fusion involves identifying the lateral mass and then introducing any of the fixation methods known or described herein laterally at one or more facets through the use of a hollow cannula. A surgical bone staple have a perforated bridge is used across the lateral facet joint where fixation is required. Where fusion is desired, a bone screw have lateral perforations of the shank is inserted through the bridge perforation at the joint to promote fusion. The staple and screw may be used in conjunction with one another or individually. The facet joint may be distracted prior to fixation to increase the foraminal space and decompress the neural structures to relieve pain. The method involves less surgical time, reduced blood loss and discomfort for the patient as compared to the posterior approach.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treating spinal deformities are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a low-profile spinal anchoring device is provided for receiving a spinal fixation element, such as a tether, therethrough. The device generally includes a staple body that is adapted to seat a spinal fixation element, a fastening element for fixing the staple body to bone, and a locking assembly for coupling a spinal fixation element to the staple body. In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a washer that is adapted to couple to the staple body such that the spinal fixation is disposed therebetween, and a locking nut that is adapted to engage the staple body to mate the washer to the staple body.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgically implantable device, system, and method of use thereof for the internal compression or distraction of, for example, bone fractures, fusions, and osteotomies. More specifically, the surgical device comprises a bridge with one or more adjustable anti-reversing portions. The adjustable anti-reversing portion(s) may be located in a symmetrical or asymmetrical manner on the bridge between the device's legs. The adjustable anti-reversing portion(s) allow for stronger compression of the bone at a known amount of compression. The adjustable anti-reversing portion(s) can also maintain the device's legs in closer proximity to one another for greater compression or maintain the device's legs apart from one another for distraction. The surgical device can also comprise cannulated or grooved legs. A system and method of use is also described.

Abstract: A staple constructed from shape memory material provides the ability to move from a first shape to any point up to and including a second shape. The staple includes a bridge having a first member and a second member, and allows the second member of the bridge to change elevation with respect to the first member, thereby creating compressive forces, offset forces, or distraction forces. Upon the application of energy, the second member moves upward or downward to deliver forces, dependent upon a desired effect. The staple further includes first and second legs for attaching to first and second bones. The offsetting forces may be utilized to offset the second bone relative to the first bone, or to align offset bones. The bridge may include a transition member or plurality of transition members in communication with the first and second members, whereby the transition member moves about the first member.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis clip for the cicatrization of bone tissue fragments and an insertion tool for inserting the clip are provided. The clip includes at least two engagement legs extending approximately parallel to one another and including respective distal bridging tips and respective proximal insertion tips to be inserted into the bone tissue fragments; and a connecting bridge coupled to the distal bridging tips of the two engagement legs, the connecting bridge including at least two elongated sections extending along side one another, the elongated sections extending along a non-linear trajectory to form a non-linear deformable region, such as a depression or a dome.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis clip having an overall U-shape, comprising two anchor bars and a connecting bar. The connecting bar including a longitudinal opening adapted to assume a closed configuration and an open configuration. The clip comprises a compression piece having a broadly oval-shaped section, housed in the opening. The piece is adapted to be rotated within the opening, thus causing the opening to shift from its closed configuration to at least one the open configuration and vice versa.

Abstract: A staple includes a staple bridge and a plurality of staple legs adjoined to the staple bridge. The staple bridge is a shape memory metal, and includes a bridge-shape movable between a first shape and a second shape with no substantial plastic deformation of the staple bridge. The plurality of staple legs are shape memory metal and movable between a first shape and a second shape. The staple stores mechanical energy when the bridge and the plurality of legs move from their first shape to their second shape. The staple releases the stored mechanical energy without a change in temperature of the staple when the bridge and the plurality of legs moved from their second shape to their first shape.

Abstract: A shape-memory device manufactured from shape memory material includes multiple activation temperatures. The multiple activation temperatures arise from either the heat treatment of the device during manufacturing, or by combining different elements with different activation temperatures. To manufacture a shape-memory device with multiple activation temperatures, it is formed into a first shape. A first portion of the shape-memory device is heated to a first temperature, and a second portion of the shape-memory device is heated to a second temperature. The shape-memory device is then worked into a second shape. Accordingly, the first portion has a first transition temperature, and the second portion has a second transition temperature. In use, the shape-memory device is placed into a desired position. Energy is applied such that the first portion, second portion, or both portions are transformed.

Abstract: An implant for stabilizing two separated bone portions relative to each other an implant includes a peg, a bridge assembly and a securing element. The peg and bridge assembly include at least two peg portions and a bridge portion, wherein the bridge portion is arranged between the peg portions and wherein the peg and bridge portions are rigidly connected. The peg and bridge assembly is positioned relative to the bone portions such that one peg portion extends into the bone tissue of each one of the bone portions and the bridge portion extends across the gap separating the bone portions. The securing element is anchored in the bone tissue of one of the bone portions, its proximal end extending through an opening in an assembly portion extending parallel to a bone surface or across a notch in a proximal edge of an assembly portion.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a two-piece implant. The implant includes a first piece having at least two prongs and a protrusion located between the prongs and a second piece coupled to the first piece, wherein the second piece is configured to rotate relative to the first piece. A method of tissue repair is also disclosed.

Abstract: System, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for bone fixation using a fixation device including a mounting portion and a fastener that attaches to the mounting portion. In some embodiments, the fixation device may include first and second mounting portions configured to be disposed across a bone from each other and secured with a fastener that extends from one of the mounting portions, through the bone, and to the other mounting portion. The system also may include a tool to facilitate installation of the fixation device.

Abstract: According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a biomechanical fastener is provided and includes a backspan defining an upper surface, a lower surface and a pair of side surfaces; at least a pair of legs depending from the backspan; and at least one contact pad extending from the lower surface to the upper surface of the backspan. At least one of the pair of legs contacts at least one of the contact pads upon a formation thereof.

Abstract: A prosthesis delivery and implantation system for tissue repair is disclosed. The implantation system includes provisions for manually applying a prosthesis to a treatment area. This system may be applied to heal any imperfections in various different types of tissue. The system also provides provisions for independently inserting two end portions of the prosthesis into tissue.

Abstract: A staple constructed from shape memory material provides the ability to move from a first shape to any point up to and including a second shape. The staple includes a bridge having a first member and a second member, and allows the second member of the bridge to change elevation with respect to the first member, thereby creating compressive forces, offset forces, or distraction forces. Upon the application of energy, the second member moves upward or downward to deliver forces, dependent upon a desired effect. The staple further includes first and second legs for attaching to first and second bones. The offsetting forces may be utilized to offset the second bone relative to the first bone, or to align offset bones. The bridge may include a transition member or plurality of transition members in communication with the first and second members, whereby the transition member moves about the first member.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgically implantable compression staple, system, and method of use thereof for the internal fixation of bone fractures, fusions, and osteotomies. The staple has a grooved construction along the outside edge of each of its legs and cannulated tabs are aligned above the grooves. The grooves and cannulated tabs of the staple are sized to fit and align with guide wires. Once holes are drilled over the guide wires with a specialized cannulated drill, the appropriately sized staple can be inserted over the guide wires and the guide wires are subsequently removed. The compression feature of the staple is activated and the staple provides stability across the desired fractured site. The system and method allows for easy alignment and precise placement of surgically implantable staples.

Abstract: A full-thickness resection system is disclosed. In an embodiment for the resection system, the system may include a flexible shaft, a flexible guide member disposed within the flexible shaft, a stapling mechanism disposed around the flexible guide member, and a grasper. The stapling mechanism has an elongated portion that is at least partially disposed within the flexible shaft. The stapling mechanism includes a stapling arm and an anvil arm. The stapling arm has a longitudinal axis and includes a stapling head having a longitudinal axis. The anvil includes an anvil head. The stapling arm and anvil arm extend from the elongated portion of the stapling mechanism and are moveable with respect to each other between a tissue receiving position and a stapling position. The grasper extends through the flexible shaft and is adapted to grasp a portion of a tissue that is to be excised from an organ in the patient's body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and techniques for securing bone segments across a fracture site, and more particularly relates to bone staples for achieving compression between segments. A method and apparatus for interosseous bone fixation uses a compression staple, generally U-shaped, having a pair of legs with proximal ends interconnected by a bridge portion that is resilient and bowed, the staple having an initial configuration and capable of a tensioned configuration by spreading apart the legs by a certain amount causing the curvature of the bowed bridge to lessen and the legs to move towards each other with certain compressive spring force.

Abstract: Implantable vertebral staples and tools for use with the same are provided. In general, an exemplary vertebral staple according to the present invention includes a staple body having at least one long spike formed thereon for allowing rotation of the body when the long spike is partially inserted in bone. The staple body can also include one or more short spikes formed thereon and adapted to prevent rotation of the body when the long and short spikes are fully inserted into bone. The present invention also provides an inserter tool that can be used to implant the vertebral staple, and also a drill guide that can be used, preferably in combination with the inserter tool, to drill holes through the bone in alignment with one or more holes formed in the vertebral staple.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of performing a minimally invasive posterior spine fusion. More specifically an apparatus with a handle and a forked head on the distal end of the handle is used to grasp implant material and introduce the material to an implant site. The shaft of the apparatus is shaped so as to allow the affixation of a drill guide and drill while simultaneously holding the implant material in the implant site. After removal of the boring tools and assembly of the fusing element, the apparatus can be selectively removed from the implant site. A method of achieving facet joint fusion with near simultaneous fixation is also disclosed.

Abstract: Various exemplary surgical fasteners are provided, and methods and devices are provided for deploying a surgical fastener. In general, the methods and devices allow a surgical fastener to be deployed to secure tissue to bone. In one embodiment, a surgical fastener can be configured to move between a first linear or compressed configuration, in which the fastener can have a first maximum diameter, and a second bent or expanded configuration, in which the fastener can have a second maximum diameter greater than the first maximum diameter. A delivery device can be configured to advance the fastener through tissue and into bone to attach the tissue to the bone. The delivery device can be configured to maintain the fastener in the compressed configuration such that when the fastener is released from the delivery device, the fastener can be configured to self-expand from the compressed configuration to the expanded configuration.

Abstract: A suture anchor for anchoring a suture to a bone, including a distal end having a bifurcated tip, in which the bifurcated tip defines a suture-engaging slot, a proximal end, a longitudinal axis between the distal end and the proximal end, and two substantially flat surfaces extending between the distal end and the proximal end, in which the two substantially flat surfaces are substantially parallel, in which the two substantially flat surfaces are separated by a thickness of no more than about 0.1 inches, and in which the two substantially flat surfaces extend along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis by a width of no more than about 0.4 inches.

Abstract: An implantable bone support system including a shelf clip supported on a portion of the perimeter of the skull opening. The shelf clip includes upper and lower body portions. The legs of the lower body portion are positioned such that one leg is engaged with the skull perimeter in a direction away from the skull opening. The opposing leg is positioned into the skull opening to form a portion of a shelf for receiving the bone flap or implant. In an adjustable height embodiment, the ratcheting leg of the upper body portion engages a central post, via ratchet teeth on the leg and the central post, and is pressed into engagement to capture the skull between the upper and lower body portions. The removable or locking leg is formed for engagement with the upper body portion of the clip, and engages an external surface of the bone flap or implant to capture the bone flap or implant within the shelf created by the clips within the skull opening.

Abstract: A system for inserting an augmentation pin into an augmentation screw, including a pin-inserter with an axial through-bore and a lateral opening. A pin-magazine with a pin-retainer for an augmentation pin in insertable in the lateral opening. The pin-magazine is placed in the lateral opening of the pin-inserter and an augmentation pin in the pin-retainer is aligned with the axial through-bore. The augmentation pin may be pushed by means of a pusher from the pin-magazine into an augmentation screw, when the augmentation screw is arranged in front of the pin-inserter.

Abstract: Fixation devices for the foot and ankle are based on a design with a central portion between a pair of blade anchors. The central portion may include sharpening, apertures, notches, or protrusions. The fixation devices may engage two or more bone portions.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming pilot holes in bone and deploying a staple therein for fixing a sheet-like implant to the bone. A pilot hole forming trocar assembly including a trocar and a position retention sleeve can be included. The trocar can be releasably coupled to the position retention sleeve and slide in keyed arrangement within the sleeve when uncoupled. The trocar can include a distal portion having a retractable blade and a pair of pilot hole forming spikes extending distally from the trocar shaft. Once the pilot holes are formed, the position retention sleeve maintains the position relative to the pilot holes while the trocar is removed and a staple delivery device can be inserted in the lumen of the position retention sleeve to deploy a staple in the pilot holes.

Abstract: A surgical staple (714) for inserting into one or more bone parts (10, 12) comprises a plate (718), a first screw (748) and a second screw (748). The plate (718) includes a first end (768F), an opposed second end (768S), a first aperture (742) that is positioned near the first end (768F), and a second aperture (742) that is positioned near the second end (768S). Additionally, the plate (718) is curved along a length of the plate (718) from the first end (768F) to the second end (768S). The first screw (748) extends through the first aperture (742). The second screw (748) extends through the second aperture (742). Further, the first screw (748) and the second screw (748) are angled toward one another when the surgical staple (714) is in a relaxed configuration.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can comprise a plurality of magnetic elements configured to articulate an end effector of the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument can comprise at least one electromagnet which can be selectively activated, or polarized, to generate a magnetic field sufficient to motivate a second magnetic element, such as a permanent magnet and/or an iron core, for example, mounted to the end effector. In certain embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can comprise a plurality of magnetic elements configured to open and/or close an end effector of the surgical instrument. In at least one embodiment, a surgical stapling instrument can comprise a plurality of magnetic elements configured to advance and/or retract a firing bar, cutting member, and/or staple sled within the surgical instrument in order to incise and/or staple tissue positioned within an end effector of the surgical instrument.

Abstract: System, including methods, apparatus, and kits, for rib stabilization. The system may comprise a clip member having a bridge region and a pair of leaf portions connected to each other by the bridge region. The clip member may be configured to be placed on a rib bone with the leaf portions disposed on opposite sides of the rib bone. The system also may comprise a securing member, such as a suture, to attach the clip member to the rib bone, with the securing member extending at least twice between the leaf portions.

Abstract: A tissue fixation device includes a tack having at least two flexible arms on a first end of said anchor. A deployment device for deploying a tissue fixation device, wherein the deployment device is a deployment gun.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for immobilizing and/or securing bone portions. Particularly, at least one embodiment involves a compact anti-rotation device that can secure adjacent bones and/or bone portions in a manner that prevents or limits relative rotational movement thereof.

Abstract: The invention relates to a clip-like implant for osteosynthesis of at least two repositioned bone fragments, with at least two retainer web sections and with one connection web section connecting the retainer web sections, wherein the free ends of the at least two retainer web sections can be at least partially fixed in a respective one of the two repositioned bone fragments. Advantageously the clip-like implant has a C-shaped cross section, in which the first and second retainer web sections each enclose with the connection web section an angle (w, w?) between 75° and 90°, and the free ends of the at least two retainer web sections are designed as inwardly directed points.

Abstract: An intramedullar osteosynthetic device includes a body with an elongated shape and a flat cross-section having, in succession, from one of its ends, a first fixation zone cooperating with one of the bone parts to be immobilized, a median zone suitable for withstanding the shear and bending stresses, and a second fixation zone in the other bone part to be immobilized. Each of the fixation zones is made from a material suitable for enabling their deformation by thermal action (tepid memory) or mechanical action (superelasticity), to permit an introduction into the bone parts without pulpar approach, followed by a fixation in the bone parts, while avoiding any rotational movement, withstanding the tensile stresses, and maintaining a compressive force. At least one of the fixation zones has two tabs or fins and which are separable under the effect of the deformation.

Abstract: A fastener for attaching a sheet-like implant to tissue or bone may be provided with a first arm having a proximal portion and a distal portion, a second arm having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and a bridge formed at least in part by the proximal portion of the first arm overlapping the proximal portion of the second arm. Each of the first and second arms can include at least a partial loop member having a lumen therethrough slidably receiving the other arm, each arm further including a tissue retention member on a distal portion having a projection extending therefrom for engagement of bone or tissue when inserted therein. The staple can also include a one-way position retention assembly for allowing distal movement of each at least partial loop member relative to the other arm therethrough to tension the fastener and maintain a desired configuration.

Abstract: A fastener for attaching a sheet-like implant to tissue or bone may be provided with a first arm having a proximal end and a distal end, a second arm having a proximal end and a distal end, and a bridge extending therebetween. Each of the first and second arms include a trunk portion defining at least a portion thereof, the trunk portion having a lateral extent larger than a lateral extent of the bridge or non-trunk portion of the arm adjacent thereto and can be mounted eccentrically to the bridge or non-trunk portion of the arm adjacent thereto such that the staple includes a first change in lateral stiffness disposed proximate the bridge or non-trunk portion of the arm abutment with the trunk. Fastener delivery devices and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A fastener for attaching a sheet-like implant to tissue or bone. The fastener includes a first arm having a proximal end and a distal end, a second arm having a proximal end and a distal end, and a bridge extending therebetween. Each of the first and second arms include a trunk portion defining at least a portion thereof, the trunk portion having a cavity therein and an aperture through a wall thereof. A claw is disposed in the cavity which is moveable from a first delivery position to a second deployed position. A pull member engages each claw to move the claw from the delivery position to the deployed position.

Abstract: A graft fixation device combination. The device is useful for affixing a tissue graft to a bone or other body surface. The combination has a fixation device having two implantation members connected by a connecting member. The implantation members have longitudinal passageways therethrough. The combination also has an insertion member in engagement with the distal end of each implantation member.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate generally to tissue anchors and methods of delivering same to the intervertebral disc or other sites within the body. In some embodiments, the anchors provide pull-out resistance, stability and/or maximize contact with tissue involving a minimum amount of penetration. In some embodiments, delivery methods are minimally invasive and include linear, lateral, and off-angle implantation or driving of anchors along, against or within tissue surfaces.

Abstract: Intramedullary osteosynthesis device is capable of adopting a profiled H-shape in a closed introductory state in order to be easily implantable and an X-shape in an open implanted state for good fixation in the bone.