Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing a plurality of implants including a barrel, a magazine, and a driver. The barrel has a longitudinal passage and a lateral passage intersecting the longitudinal passage adjacent a distal end of the barrel. The magazine has a housing defining a chamber for holding a plurality of implants. The housing is slidably connected to the barrel and movable between a retracted position and an extended position wherein a slot of the housing is aligned with the lateral passage of the barrel. A pusher member connected to the housing is caused to push one of the implants through the slot and the lateral passage and into the longitudinal passage. The driver is disposed in the longitudinal passage to be axially and rotatably movable to apply a rotational force to the implant.

Abstract: A method for fusing a spinal sacroiliac joint and a surgical kit. The kit includes a bone-void filler, stabilization device or implant, a guide pin, a joint locator, a set of dilation tubes, a reamer, a novel directional cannula, a novel tapping cap, a novel drill guide, a drill bit, and a novel implant positioner. The method includes the steps of locating the sacroiliac joint, retracting the soft tissue exposing the graft site, removing any bone obstructions and preparing a relatively smooth graft site horizontal to the immediate sacroiliac joint, creating a cavity in the ilium and sacrum to a predetermined depth that spans the sacroiliac joint, inserting a novel stabilization implant into the cavity, and seating the implant within the cavity at a predetermined depth.

Abstract: A device for repairing a bone fracture that is inserted intrafocally and deployed to properly position the fracture. The device includes an implant inserted intrafocally as a low profile fold and is then deployed to position the fracture.

Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable artificial intervertebral disc joint replacement device for implantation between adjacent vertebral bodies. The device allows selective positioning of a disc implant element and comprises translatable surfaces, a mechanism for translation, a means for bone attachment, and an integrated disc implant. The device can be used in the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical regions of the spine in single or multi-level configurations. When implanted in a patient, the device includes an upper (cranial) component and a lower (caudal) component attached to the vertebral body above and below the replaced intervertebral disc respectively, with the joint implant integrated into the translatable surfaces. Following implantation, precise positioning of the joint implant within the intervertebral space with respect to the spinal axis is then adjusted based upon the particular anatomical and functional needs of the individual patient to satisfy spinal range of motion and stability requirements.

Abstract: A system for implanting an inter-body device between adjacent vertebrae comprises an inter-body device having a plurality of cans secured to a flexible bridge and having a relief portion therebetween. An inserter tube and complementary bullnoses are advantageously secured to the vertebrae by an extension arm for securing the assembly precisely in place. A plurality of articulating trial implants are provided to test fit a disc space for the proper sized inter-body device.

Abstract: A method for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis into a space between two vertebrae involves inserting the prosthesis partway into the space under constraint to prevent endplates of the prosthesis from articulating, releasing the prosthesis from constraint, and inserting the unconstrained prosthesis farther into the space. In some embodiments, the method involves grasping the prosthesis with a grasping device to insert the prosthesis partway under constraint, loosing the grasping device to release the prosthesis from constraint, and pushing the prosthesis farther into the disc space using the grasping device and/or one or more separate pusher devices. A system includes a grasping device, at least one separate pushing device, and optionally a vertebral spreading device and/or a vertebral midline indicator device.

Abstract: A method for performing an open wedge osteotomy includes providing a fixation plate defining a first aperture and a second aperture and creating a first hole and a second hole in a bone. The fixation plate is coupled to the bone by aligning the first aperture of the fixation plate and the first hole of the bone and inserting a fastener through the first aperture and into the first hole. A cut is created through at least a portion of the bone to create a first resected surface and a second resected surface after creating the first hole and the second hole. The method further includes moving the first resected surface and the second resected surface relative to each other until the second aperture of the fixation plate is aligned with the second hole of the bone. The fixation plate is coupled to the bone by inserting a second fastener through the second aperture of the fixation plate and into the second hole of the bone.

Abstract: A distraction system includes a distraction rod having one end configured for affixation to at a first location on patient. The system further includes an adjustable portion configured for placement in the patient at a second location, the adjustable portion comprising a housing containing a magnetic assembly comprising a magnet, the magnetic assembly secured to a threaded element that interfaces with an opposing end of the distraction rod. The system includes a magnetically permeable member in proximity to the magnetic assembly and covering an arc of less that 360° of the adjustable portion.

Abstract: An external distraction apparatus for performing a craniofacial distraction is disclosed. The external distraction apparatus may comprise a stationary member. The stationary member may be configured to be affixed to a head of a patient. The external distraction apparatus may also comprise laterally disposed distractors. The laterally disposed distractors may extend inferiorly from the stationary member and be moveable relative to the stationary member. The external distraction apparatus may comprise a motor and controller. The motor may be powered with the controller to perform a craniofacial distraction in an automated fashion.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for interbody fusion including distracting, in a given direction, and supporting opposing vertebral bodies. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the vertebral bodies to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the vertebral bodies so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.

Abstract: A bone distractor to create separation between bone segments by means of a pair of mounts respectively secured to the bone segments and interconnected by means of a drive spring which is secured to one of the mounts and threadedly interconnected to the other mount such that rotation of the drive spring creates sufficient separation of the bone segments to allow for osteogenesis to occur.

Abstract: Provided are modular implant delivery systems, devices and methods. In some embodiments, spinal implant delivery devices and methods are provided. An exemplary delivery device may include a head supported by a handle. The head may have an opening defining an insertion axis. The handle may have a handle axis that traverses the insertion axis. The head may also be configured to releasably couple one or more blades.

Abstract: A load control device can be attached to bones on either side of an articulated joint in order to control the forces and loads experienced by the joint. The device comprises an apparatus for controlling the load on articular cartilage of a human or animal joint and includes: a first fixation assembly for attachment to a first bone; a second fixation assembly for attachment to a second bone; a link assembly coupled to the first fixation assembly by a first pivot and coupled to the second fixation assembly by a second pivot, the first and second fixation assembly thereby each being angularly displaceable relative to the link assembly. The apparatus enables a clinician to effectively control the environment of cartilage in a joint during a treatment episode.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for providing access to a central compartment of a hip joint. The devices can access the central compartment by distracting all or a portion of the labrum. The labrum can be distracted by advancing a device underneath the bottom edge of the labrum, and using the device to further distract the labrum. Some devices can move underneath the labrum to provide a gap for other devices to access the central compartment.

Abstract: A joint-spacing balloon catheter comprising: a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end; first and second balloons mounted to the distal end of the shaft, the first balloon being disposed distal to, and spaced from, the second balloon, with the portion of the shaft between the first and second balloons being flexible; and a handle attached to the proximal end of the shaft.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a first member defining a longitudinal axis. A second member is disposed with the first member and is axially translatable relative to the first member. A first body is connected to the first member and is translatable along an arcuate path relative to the first member. The first body is connected to a first implant support. A second body is connected to the second member and is translatable along an arcuate path relative to the second member. The second body is connected to a second implant support. Systems and methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to femoral and tibial bases that form structures of an implantable mechanical energy absorbing system. According to one embodiment, the bases include a low-profile body having a elongate and a curved body portion. One end of the base is elevated as compared to another end. An inner surface of the low-profile body has a raised portion extending along the elongate, straight portion of the low-profile body. The bases also include a plurality of openings positioned along the low-profile body for alignment and purposes of affixation to body anatomy.

Abstract: A method for treating a complex fracture with a variable length nail is provided. The nail is configured for at least 5 mm of axial length change in each direction. The method involves making a first hole or incision in the skin of the patient in proximity to a fractured long bone and at least partially clearing a canal through the center of the long bone. The variable length nail is inserted into the canal and securing a distraction shaft and a housing of the nail to separate portions of the fractured long bone. The hole or incision is allowed or caused to close. An external adjustment device comprising at least one rotatable magnet is placed in proximity to the patient's skin. The external adjustment device is operated so that a magnetic field of the at least one rotatable magnet of the external adjustment device causes the rotatable permanent magnet of the variable length nail to rotate, causing either extension or retraction of the distraction shaft relative to the housing.

Abstract: A method for fusing a spinal sacroiliac joint The method includes the steps of locating the sacroiliac joint, retracting the soft tissue to expose the graft site, removing any bone obstructions and preparing a relatively smooth graft site horizontal to the immediate sacroiliac joint, creating a therapeutic cavity by creating a first cavity in the ilium and a second cavity in the sacrum to a predetermined depth that spans the sacroiliac joint, inserting a stabilization implant into the therapeutic cavity, and seating the implant within the therapeutic cavity at a predetermined depth.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system, method, and a surgical kit having a surgical extender apparatus for implanting a surgical screw are disclosed. The extender includes a housing having a distal end and a proximal end, a hollow interior passageway disposed between the distal end and the proximal end, a channel disposed along an exterior surface of the housing at least partially between the distal end and the proximal end and configured to at least partially expose the hollow interior passageway, an interior locking mechanism disposed on an interior surface of the housing and substantially adjacent the proximal end, wherein the interior locking mechanism is configured to allow attachment of at least one surgical tool, and at least one flexible member disposed substantially adjacent the distal end. The housing is configured to accommodate placement of a surgical screw implant. The surgical screw implant is secured to the housing using a mating feature in the surgical screw implant.

Abstract: A growing rod for mounting between attachment mechanisms that are secured to anatomical structures of a patient having scoliosis. The growing rod includes a base rod having an attachment end, an extendable rod that is translatable relative to the base rod along a longitudinal axis and a housing enclosing at least a portion of the extendable rod therein. A magnet is rotatably mounted within the housing and is enclosed by a top magnet cover and a bottom magnet cover. The magnet includes a first pole and a second pole. A gear reduction mechanism is associated with the magnet and the extendable rod. The gear reduction mechanism reduces an output rotation to the extendable rod relative to an input rotation from the magnet.

Abstract: A surgical device is disclosed which may advantageously perform the functions of both a retractor and a distractor. The device has two retractor blades facing each other and held in a common frame, the retractor blades are insertable into a surgical incision in a patient and moveable away from each other along a main axis (x) so as to widen the surgical incision; and a connecting pin attached at a distal end of each retractor blade. Each connecting pin is attachable to a pedicle screw anchored to respective vertebrae of the patient, so that moving away the two retractor blades along the main axis (x) determines a distraction of the vertebrae.

Abstract: An elongate inserter has a distal end releasably connected to an expandable interbody fusion device and a proximal end including a trigger actuator. The interbody fusion device comprises a superior endplate and an inferior endplate that are movable in an expansion direction relative to each other in the intradiscal space. The device includes an elevator captively supported between the inferior endplate and the superior endplate for movement independently toward and away from each of the inferior endplate and the superior endplate. The inserter includes a lifting platform that defines lifting surfaces that upon operation of the trigger actuator cooperatively engage complementary lifting surfaces on the elevator and move the inferior endplate away from the superior endplate. A driver is supported by the inserter for pushing an insert into the expanded device between the superior and inferior endplates.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer or member having an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the expandable member in an expanded configuration has a size, volume and/or shape configured for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae in order to distract the vertebrae relative to each other. The systems include one or more expandable members and a mechanical actuation means for expanding the expandable member or an expansion medium for injection within or for filling the interior of the expandable member via the port. The methods involve the implantation of one or more devices or expandable spacers.

Abstract: An fusion cage having a longitudinal element and two planar bendable expansion arms slideably captured in a track on opposing sides, the expansion arms expandable from a pre-implantation position adjacent to the longitudinal element to a deployed position bounding an area around the longitudinal element in which bone graft material may be packed and retained after implantation into the intervertebral space. The longitudinal element is eliminated in favor of front and back lateral tracks in which the opposing ends of the expansion arms are slideably received so as to allow expansion of the bounded areas in both a lateral and anterior-posterior direction by sliding within the channels. Expansion of the area within the bendable members may be accomplished by rotation of leaves to which the bendable members are rigidly and slideably affixed.

Abstract: A method for creating space in a joint formed at the convergence of two bones, comprising applying force to a body part so as to separate the two bones from one another by a distance which is greater than the distance that they are normally separated from one another when the joint is in a healthy state, whereby to distract the joint and create an intrajoint space; inserting an assembly of three balloons into the intrajoint space while the assembly is in a contracted condition; expanding the assembly of three balloons within the intrajoint space; and reducing the force applied to the body part so that the joint is supported on the assembly of three balloons, with the two bones remaining separated from one another by a distance which is greater than the distance that they are normally separated from one another when the joint is in a healthy state.

Abstract: An apparatus for inserting an implant between vertebrae includes a body having a through bore, a central shaft movable within the through bore, the central shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. The apparatus includes a pair of distractor arms having proximal portions and distal portions, the proximal portions pivotally coupled to the body and distal portions for engagement between the vertebrae. Tracking slots are formed in and extend through surfaces of and along a longitudinal axes of the distractor arms and an attachment tip is operably connected to the central shaft, the attachment tip is configured to grip the implant. The apparatus includes a single guide member projecting outward from the attachment tip and the attachment tip is removably connectable to the central shaft in multiple configurations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a brace installation instrument placement that is mounted to anchors secured in an animal subject. The installation instrument includes anchor extensions coupled to the anchors. The instrument is movable with respect to the anchors to position a brace in a position more proximate the anchors. The brace can be indexed for insertion at a predetermined orientation with respect to the installation instrument. Methods and techniques for using the installation instrument are also provided.

Abstract: An alignment tool (2) for a joint is provided comprising a reference member 4 that defines a reference plane R and a distraction member (6). The distraction member (6) comprises first and second distraction arms (70, 72), each of which is independently moveable with respect to the reference member (4) along a movement axis M. The movement axes M, M of the first and second distraction arms (70, 72) are substantially parallel. A kit of parts is also provided comprising an alignment tool (2), a drill guide (200) and a cutting guide (300).

Abstract: A swellable, resilient interspinous implant is provided that includes a swellable polymeric medium, said polymeric medium being dispersed throughout the implant, the implant being dimensioned and configured to fit between two spinous processes of two adjacent vertebrae and buttress the space between the two adjacent vertebrae. In embodiments, the implant has a first configuration of reduced size such that it can be inserted into the patient in a minimally invasive manner. Once inserted to an application point within the patient, the implant expands in size to dynamically maintain the adjacent spinous processes in beneficial alignment. Also provided is a method of making a swellable, resilient interspinous implant as described herein. Also provided is a method of treating a degenerative condition of a spine which includes creating an incision and inserting, through the incision, between two spinous processes of two adjacent vertebrae, a swellable, resilient interspinous implant as described herein.

Abstract: An elongate inserter has a distal end releasably connected to an expandable interbody fusion device and a proximal end including a trigger actuator. The interbody fusion device comprises a superior endplate and an inferior endplate that are movable in an expansion direction relative to each other in the intradiscal space. The inserter includes a lifting platform comprising ramps surfaces that upon operation of the trigger actuator cooperatively engage complementary surfaces of expansion structure within the device to cause the superior and inferior endplates to move relatively away from each other. A driver is supported by the inserter for pushing an insert between the superior and inferior endplates after expansion of the device.

Abstract: An elongate inserter has a distal end releasably connected to an expandable interbody fusion device and a proximal end including a trigger actuator. The interbody fusion device comprises a superior endplate and an inferior endplate that are movable in an expansion direction relative to each other in the intradiscal space. The device includes an elevator captively supported between the inferior endplate and the superior endplate for movement independently toward and away from each of the inferior endplate and the superior endplate. The inserter includes a lifting platform that defines lifting surfaces that upon operation of the trigger actuator cooperatively engage complementary lifting surfaces on the elevator and move the inferior endplate away from the superior endplate. A driver is supported by the inserter for pushing an insert into the expanded device between the superior and inferior endplates.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices and instruments for implant insertion through a posterior lateral opening to the disc space. The instruments include an implant inserter, and the devices include a spinal fusion implant engageable by the implant inserter. The implant provides bilateral support of the adjacent vertebrae when inserted into the disc space from a postero-lateral approach.

Abstract: An instrument for inserting a spinal implant into an intervertebral space is disclosed. The instrument includes an elongated body having inner and outer shafts configured to longitudinally translate with respect to each other, a holding tip which is configured to articulate with respect to the elongated body in response to the longitudinal translation of the inner and outer shafts, and a driveshaft assembly configured to cooperate with the articulation of the holding tip and secure a spinal implant to the instrument. A spinal implant and a system for inserting a spinal implant into an intervertebral space including an insertion instrument and a spinal implant are also disclosed.

Abstract: A specialized spinous process retractor surgical instrument comprises a pair of opposing proximal handles coupled to a pair of opposing distal jaws through a joint such that when the handles are compressed the jaws spread apart, the handles defining a plane when viewed from the side. The jaws curve downwardly from the plane distally from the joint, then curve back upwardly before terminating in end portions configured for spreading. The instrument defining a centerline when viewed from above, with the jaws distally from the joint diverging outwardly from the centerline, then curving back toward the centerline before terminating in the end portions. The end portions may include opposing, outwardly facing textured or roughened bone-contacting surfaces. The end portions of the jaws when viewed from the sides may define a plane that is substantially parallel to the plane defined by the handles.

Abstract: A device for the detection of slippage of magnetic coupling between an implanted medical device having a magnet and an externally applied magnetic field includes at least one external magnet configured to apply the externally applied magnetic field, an induction coil disposed external to the subject and between the at least one external magnet and the implanted medical device, and a detection circuit operatively coupled to the induction coil and configured to detect slippage between the rotational orientation of the magnet of the implanted device and the externally applied magnetic field based at least in part on the varying frequency components of the voltage waveform across the induction coil.

Abstract: A mandibular distractor can include an elongated main body having a central longitudinal axis extending in the elongate direction between a first end and a spaced apart second end. A first bone mount can be secured to the main body and a second bone mount can be positioned on the main body. A drive mechanism configured to selectively move the second bone mount longitudinally along the main body can also be included. A third bone mount configured to be moved longitudinally along the main body can also be included.

Abstract: A method of treating a patient's joint having opposing joint surfaces includes providing an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end and an expandable member near the distal end. The expandable member is positioned in the joint between the joint surfaces and expanded so as to separate the joint surfaces away from one another into a distracted position. The joint is manipulated while in the distracted position so that the joint is distracted and in flexion. A diagnostic or therapeutic procedure is then performed on the joint while maintaining the joint in the flexed and distracted position.

Abstract: Systems and methods for stabilizing or adjusting the position of at least one spinal motion segment, such as a posterior element distraction system. The system includes an implantable member having at least one of a lateral member and a transverse member. The lateral member may be expandable in at least one dimension, for example, in a direction along the axis of the spine. The expandable member may be an inflatable balloon, expandable scaffolding, strut, or combination thereof and may provide stability and anchoring to the implantable member. The transverse member is configured to engage the spinous process and may extend from the lateral member or may extend between two laterally-opposed members. For example, the transverse members may be configured to engage an outer surface of the spinous process, and as such, act as a saddle or cradle.

Abstract: A laterally deflectable asymmetric implant for implanting into a body may comprise a deflectable piece having distal and proximal ends and assuming a straightened insertion state. The backbone may abut or interconnect with said deflectable piece at the distal end of the deflectable piece. In a fully deflected state the implant may define an asymmetric shape, e.g. a D-shaped loop, defining an at least partially enclosed volume. The deflectable piece may comprise a sequence of segments interconnected at effective hinges. Longitudinal pressure applied to the proximal end of the deflectable piece (or applied to the backbone in an opposite direction) may cause relative longitudinal movement between the backbone and the proximal end of the deflectable piece and may generate outward horizontal movement of the deflectable piece away from the backbone. In one embodiment, the implant is implanted using lateral access into an anterior zone of a vertebra and deployed posteriorly.

Abstract: A bone graft delivery system includes a bone graft injector and an access portal. The access portal may include a handle having a first arm pivotably connected to, and biased away from, a second arm. A ratchet including a pawl may extend from the second arm. A delivery tube may be configured to mate with the first arm and be configured to store a bone graft material therein. A plunger including a shaft and a plunger tip at the distal end thereof may be configured to move through the delivery tube. At least a portion of the shaft may include teeth, the pawl of the ratchet being configured to iteratively contact the teeth. A user may hold the access portal with a first hand and the bone graft injector with a second hand, iteratively squeezing the handle to iteratively eject amounts of bone graft material into a patient.

Abstract: Methods and devices for sculpting bones, particularly in preparation for implanting prosthetic devices to replace articulating bone joint surfaces. Improved bone removal devices including burr mills driven by gears and loop drives are provided. Reciprocating cutters and belt cutters are also provided. Some devices have either integral or removable expandable portions to vary the force and bone resection depth. Devices can have irrigation ports and plenums to remove bone fragments. Some cutters are dual cutters, adapted to remove bone in two or more regions, such as the knee joint, simultaneously.

Abstract: Techniques and systems for distracting a spinal disc space and supporting adjacent vertebrae are provided. Trial instruments are insertable into the disc space to determine a desired disc space height and to select a corresponding implant. Implants can be also be self-distracting and the implant providing the desired disc space height can be implanted in the spinal disc space.

Abstract: A joint balancing insert with sensors and an actuated mechanism is disclosed. The joint balancing insert is used to balance a joint during arthroplasty surgery, as the sensors provide force, position and angular data relating to the movement of the joint, while the actuated mechanism allows for highly accurate and dynamic adjustments of the joint based on the data from the sensors. Various configurations of actuated mechanisms and sensors may be implemented in the insert to provide for manual or real time control of the insert, and customized interfaces are provided for visualized feedback of adjustments. Sensor data may also be collected and compared with expected or preferred data sets to provide adjustment recommendations and achieve better outcomes based on historical data.

Abstract: An instrument assembly for use in knee joint replacement surgery is provided including a base instrument having a tibial plate, a femoral plate, a tibial arm having a plate end and a control end, a femoral arm having a plate end and a control end, wherein the femoral plate is rotatably fastened to the plate end of the femoral arm. The assembly also includes a distractor mechanism configured to act between the tibial arm and the femoral arm at a point between their respective plate ends and control ends by which the distance between the plate ends of the arms can be adjusted and an ancillary instrument mountable on the base instrument and configured such that the position of the ancillary instrument relative to the tibial plate is fixed during subsequent steps in the knee replacement procedure, while the knee joint is distracted as a result of forces applied across the joint between the tibial plate and the femoral plate.

Abstract: A system for assessing an intervertebral disc space comprises an elongated catheter with proximal and distal ends and an expandable body carried at the distal end of the elongated catheter. The expandable body includes a distal cap portion. The system further includes a mandrel extending through the elongated catheter and the expandable body and attached to the distal cap portion. The mandrel is movable within the elongated catheter and the expandable body to reposition the distal cap portion relative to the distal end of the elongated catheter while the expandable body is positioned within the intervertebral disc space.

Abstract: A surgical tool includes a pair of pivotally coupled operating handles and working distal ends connected thereto configured to engage bone fixation elements. A toothed ratchet member is arranged across the handles and includes a first and second tooth rack. The first tooth rack includes a plurality of teeth angled in a first direction and the second tooth rack includes a plurality of teeth angled in a second direction. The ratchet member is rotatable with respect to the handles to selectively present the first or second tooth rack to a pawl disposed on one of the handles. The handles are operable for closing or spreading movement via selective engagement of the pawl with the first or second tooth rack, which correspondingly closes or spreads the working distal ends. A method for operating the tool is also disclosed.

Abstract: An installation tool that is useful for the efficient and effective placement of an article, such as an artificial disc, between adjacent vertebral bodies is provided. The installation tool can be provided as a kit having modular components which allow the surgeon to select from among a variety of components to assemble an installation tool that is optimized for its intended use. The installation tool of the invention generally includes a pair of opposed levers, each of which has a proximal handle portion and a distal portion. A fulcrum is disposed between the two levers to enable proper operation of the tool. The tool further includes a pusher block that is positioned between the two levers and is selectively movable between an initial location distal of the fulcrum and a final location adjacent the distal end of the levers. The pusher block includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a bore extending at least partially therethrough.

Abstract: Support orthopaedic device (1) for a knee joint, comprising a proximal connector (2) and a distal connector (3), articulated among themselves and respectively intended to be associated with a proximal bone (100) and a distal bone (101) of a lower limb connected among themselves by a knee joint. The device comprises a first rod (4a) and a second rod (4b), which are hinged, according to hinging axes normal to a median excursion plane of the orthopaedic device (1), to the proximal connector (2) and to the distal connector (3) so as to form with them an articulated quadrilateral. The articulated quadrilateral is planarly mobile according to a plane parallel to the excursion plane between a configuration corresponding to an extended position of the knee joint and configurations corresponding to bendings of different entity of the knee joint; the relative motion imposed to the proximal and distal connectors (2, 3) by the articulated quadrilateral is consistent with the physiological movement of the knee joint.

Abstract: An installation tool that is useful for the efficient and effective placement of an article, such as an artificial disc, between adjacent vertebral bodies is provided. The installation tool can be provided as a kit having modular components which allow the surgeon to select from among a variety of components to assemble an installation tool that is optimized for its intended use. The installation tool of the invention generally includes a pair of opposed levers, each of which has a proximal handle portion and a distal portion. A fulcrum is disposed between the two levers to enable proper operation of the tool. The tool further includes a pusher block that is positioned between the two levers and is selectively movable between an initial location distal of the fulcrum and a final location adjacent the distal end of the levers. The pusher block includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a bore extending at least partially therethrough.