Abstract: Various features of spinal implants and systems and methods for implanting the same with or between tissue layers in the human body.

Abstract: Systems for distracting a facet joint and positioning a permanent implant in the joint are disclosed. The implants serve to retain a distracted position of the facet joint which is achieved with positioning of the leading end of a distraction tool in the facet joint and then distracting or enlarging the joint a desired amount. The permanent implant could be part of the distraction mechanism which can be separated from the delivery tool once the joint has been distracted or an auxiliary implant may be positioned before the distraction mechanism is removed from the distracted joint. The permanent implants can be solid, mechanical devices that may have fixation means thereon to hold them in place or injected fluids such as hydrogels or fluids confined within balloons.

Abstract: Suprapatellar systems, system components, and methods of operating on a tibial fracture of a patient are disclosed. A method can include making an incision proximal to a patella of a knee joint, forming an operation space, and inserting a portion of a retractor in the operation space to define an entry canal. The retractor can be inserted in a low profile configuration and, once positioned as desired by a surgeon, expanded to a high profile configuration. Expansion of the retractor can expand the operation space in at least one of an anterior-posterior direction or a medial-lateral direction and can increase a diameter of the entry canal. The method can further include inserting a trocar, having at least one guide hole, in the entry canal and guiding a guide pin through the at least one guide hole and into a tibia.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is configured for determining the size and/or height of an intervertebral implant insertable into an intervertebral space between two adjacent vertebral bodies of two human or animal vertebrae. The implant includes a first abutment element for abutment against an articular surface of one of the two adjacent vertebral bodies and a second abutment element supported directly or indirectly on the first abutment element for abutment against an articular surface of the other of the two adjacent vertebral bodies. The instrument includes a holding part defining a longitudinal direction and at least one test implant, which includes a first and a second test-implant abutment element each having at least one abutment surface for abutment against one of the articular surfaces. A distal end of the holding part includes at least one abutment-element holding element for detachable connection to the at least one test implant 149.

Abstract: A device to space vertebral members that may include a deploying device with a first member with an elongated first shaft and a first body at an end of the first shaft, a second member with an elongated second shaft that extends around the first shaft and a second body at an end of the second shaft, and a third member with an elongated third shaft that extends around the second shaft and a third body at an end of the second shaft. The device may include a first plate positioned on a first side of the deploying device, and a second plate positioned on a second side of the deploying device. First, second, and third jointed linkages may be spaced apart along the deploying device and each having a pair of links and each having a first end attached to the first plate, a second end attached to the second plate, and an intermediate joint connecting the pair of links together and being attached to the deploying device.

Abstract: An orthopaedic surgical device comprises a first sensor component and a second sensor component. Each sensor component includes a paddle set to contact a proximal tibia and a distal femur of a patient. The first sensor component and the second sensor component being movable with respect to one another to extend one paddle set beyond the other paddle set, and each paddle set includes cutouts for the clearance of the patellar tendon to avoid the need to evert the patella during use.

Abstract: A device for use as an implant for surgical displacement of vertebrae, and that is comprised of two parts co-working in a sliding way: a sliding part with an internal thread and a carrier part, and also a driving element with an external thread which is located between the parts, is described. The driving element includes a head and the sliding part of the device includes a threaded guideline cooperating with the driving element and a seat of a diameter corresponding with the head's diameter and length greater than the head's length, and the carrier part has a seat of a diameter and length corresponding with the head's diameter and length.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for restoring individual patient joint kinematics using minimally invasive surgical procedures. The instrumentation of the invention sculpts the articular surface of a first bone that normally articulates in a predetermined manner with a second bone. The instrumentation includes a bone sculpting tool and a mount for attaching the tool to the second bone. The implant system is comprised of implants that provide intraoperative surgical options for articular constraint and facilitate proper alignment and orientation of the joint to restore kinematics as defined by the individual patient anatomy.

Abstract: A vertebral distractor-inserter comprising a housing, a pair of opposing arms in mechanical communication with the housing, a driving rod extending through at least a portion of the housing and between the arms, wherein the driving rod comprises an axis and a surface with a plurality of angled ratchet teeth on at least a portion of the surface, and a ratchet drive mechanism in mechanical communication with the driving rod. A vertebral distractor-inserter comprising a pair of opposing arms, a housing in mechanical communication with the arms and rotatable about an axis extending between the arms, and a driving rod extending through at least a portion of the housing and between the arms. A vertebral distractor-inserter adapted for single-handed use. A vertebral distractor-inserter having an implant depth adjustor. Methods for distracting adjacent vertebrae and inserting an implant using the devices described herein.

Abstract: An orthopedic surgical instrument for use in knee surgeries includes an elongated body, a pair of output shafts, and a user control. A first output shaft extends out from a first side of the body along a first output axis substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the elongated body. A second output shaft also extends out from the first side of the elongated body along a second output axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. The user control is coupled to the elongated body near a first end and the first and second output shafts are situated near the second end of the elongated body. Each of the first output shaft and the second output shaft are configured to turn independent of one another in response to operation of the user control. Various joint distractors for use with the orthopedic surgical instrument are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for reducing deformities in the spine includes a first tower assembly and a second tower assembly. The first tower assembly includes a first tower that couples to a first screw in a first vertebral level, a load transfer ring rotatable coupled to the first tower, and a load transfer link rotatably coupled to the load transfer ring. The second tower assembly includes a second tower that couples to a second screw in a second vertebral level, a load applicator secured to the second tower, and a load transfer member rotatably coupled to the second tower and linked to the load transfer link. The load applicator applies force to the load transfer member to position the first tower assembly relative to the second tower assembly.

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: An implantable orthopedic stability device is disclosed. The device can have a contracted and an expanded configuration. A method of using the device between adjacent vertebral body surfaces surfaces for support and/or fixation of either or both of the adjacent vertebrae is also disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical access device including a frame, first and second supports, and first and second retractor blades releasably coupled with the first and second supports, respectively. The frame has first and second arms. The first support is releasably coupled with the first and second arms. The second support is slidably mounted on the first and second arms. The second support is movable between a first position with the retractor blades in close cooperative position and a spaced apart position with respect to the first support. The first and second retractor blades each have a distal end portion configured and adapted to engage a vertebral body. In one method of use, the retractor is inserted through an incision in first orientation with the blades in close approximation and rotated approximately 90°, before spreading the retractor blades to retract tissue.

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: Spinal surgical systems include a compressor mountable to a first vertebra and positionable relative to a fulcrum mountable to a second vertebra. The compressor and fulcrum are manipulated relative to one another to compress the first and second vertebrae. The systems further include a distractor mountable to a first vertebra and positionable relative to a fulcrum mountable to a second vertebra. The distractor and fulcrum are manipulated relative to one another to distract the first and second vertebrae.

Abstract: A method for preoperatively characterizing an individual patient's biomechanic function in preparation of implanting a prosthesis is provided. The method includes subjecting a patient to various activities, recording relative positions of anatomy during said various activities, measuring force environments responsive to said patient's anatomy and affected area during said various activities, characterizing the patient's biomechanic function from said relative positions and corresponding force environments, inputting the measured force environments, relative positions of knee anatomy, and patient's biomechanic function characterization into one or more computer simulation models, inputting a computer model of the prosthesis into said one or more computer simulation models, and manipulating the placement of the prosthesis in the computer simulation using said patient's biomechanic function characterization and said computer model of the prosthesis to approximate a preferred biomechanical fit of the prosthesis.

Abstract: A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site.

Abstract: Systems for distracting a facet joint and positioning a permanent implant in the joint are disclosed. The implants serve to retain a distracted position of the facet joint which is achieved with positioning of the leading end of a distraction tool in the facet joint and then distracting or enlarging the joint a desired amount. The permanent implant could be part of the distraction mechanism which can be separated from the delivery tool once the joint has been distracted or an auxiliary implant may be positioned before the distraction mechanism is removed from the distracted joint. The permanent implants can be solid, mechanical devices that may have fixation means thereon to hold them in place or injected fluids such as hydrogels or fluids confined within balloons.

Abstract: A jig for use in knee surgery has a component shaped to represent the overall profile of a femoral prosthetic component of a specific side and size. Extending from the jig is an anterior reference arm having at least one of a cutting guide located thereon and means for attaching a cutting guide thereto. Also disclosed is a tibial replacement thickness spacer having a set of leaves. A tibial jig for use in knee surgery has a component having a tibial plate and tibial posts extending downwardly from the tibial plate, and an anterior reference arm. The arm has a cutting guide located thereon. Kits comprising these components are also described.

Abstract: A bone prosthesis device is comprised of an upper and lower abutment surfaces and an intervening malleable member. The device is sufficiently small so that implantation into an inter-vertebral disc space can be performed from a substantially posterior approach without significant impingement upon the neural elements.

Abstract: A method for guiding a bone removal device to form an implantation space in the human spine and, if desired, for inserting a spinal implant having at least in part non-arcuate upper and lower portions into the implantation space is disclosed. The method includes the act of positioning a guard into a disc space between adjacent vertebral bodies. The guard has a body and a disc space penetrating extension for insertion at least in part into the disc space and for bearing against the adjacent vertebral bodies. A first portion and a second portion of the guard are rotatable articulatable relative to one another. The method further includes the acts of rotatably articulating the guard to move the body from an open position to a closed position and move the extension from an insertion position to a deployed position. In doing so, the adjacent vertebral bodies are moved apart, and an implantation space is formed through the guard.

Abstract: A dilation introducer for orthopedic surgery is provided for minimally invasive access for insertion of an intervertebral implant. The dilation introducer may be used to provide an access position through Kambin's triangle from a posterolateral approach. A first dilator tube with a first longitudinal axis is provided. A second dilator tube may be introduced over the first, advanced along a second longitudinal axis parallel to but offset from the first. A third dilator tube may be introduced over the second, advanced along a third longitudinal axis parallel to but offset from both the first and the second. An access cannula may be introduced over the third dilator tube. With the first, second, and third dilator tubes removed, surgical instruments may pass through the access cannula to operate on an intervertebral disc and/or insert an intervertebral implant.

Abstract: A method for determining orthopedic alignment is provided. The method includes monitoring a first and second sequence of signals transmitted from the first device to a second device, estimating a location of the first device from sensory measurements of the signals at respective sensors on the second device, calculating a set of phase differences, weighting a difference of an expected location and estimated location of the first device with the set of phase differences to produce a relative displacement, and reporting a position of an orthopedic instrument coupled to the first device based on the relative displacement.

Abstract: Systems of manipulating (e.g., compressing or distracting) a spinal construct are provided herein. In general, the system can include a surgical sleeve extending from a vertebra and a fulcrum movably coupled to some component of the system thereby allowing the fulcrum to be positioned at various location along the length of the sleeve. As indicated, the fulcrum can be movably coupled to virtually any component of the system. For example, the fulcrum can be movably coupled to the surgical sleeve, to a manipulation device sized and configured to receive the surgical sleeve, to a driver configured to apply a manipulation force, etc. Additionally, methods for manipulating a spinal construct are also provided herein.

Abstract: A device useful for spinous process decompression includes a pair of prongs which can be moved apart from each other by rotation of a gear which mates with a threaded rod.

Abstract: An interbody spinal implant including a body having a top surface, a bottom surface, opposing lateral sides, opposing anterior and posterior portions, a substantially hollow center, a single vertical aperture, and a roughened surface topography on at least the top surface. The posterior portion has a generally rounded nose profile, and has a shorter height than the anterior portion such that the spinal implant comprises a lordotic angle for aligning the spine of a patient. The junctions of the top and bottom surfaces and the anterior portion comprise a sharp edge to resist expulsion of the spinal implant upon implantation.

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: Methods and devices for spacing vertebral members using modular intervertebral devices and insertion tools. The devices may include opposing first and second endplates, and an intermediate member configured to fit between and support the endplates. The insertion tool may include an elongated handle and a distracter. A method of inserting the device using the tool may include inserting the endplates positioned on opposing sides of the handle into the intervertebral space and positioning the endplates in the intervertebral space relative to first and second vertebral members. The method may include deploying the distracter and increasing a distance between the endplates. Another step may include inserting the intermediate member into the intervertebral space and between the endplates and supporting the endplates with the intermediate member. The insertion tool may then be removed from the intervertebral space.

Abstract: Improved tools and procedures relate to the immobilization of the sacroiliac joint for the treatment of pain associated with the joint. Kits comprise, for example, a guide element and an immobilization element of a biocompatible material with a size and shape suitable for placement within the sacroiliac joint. Suitable immobilization elements include, for example, pins, nails, screws, darts, wedges, shims and hardening material. A bioactive agent can be delivered into the joint to compliment the immobilization and promote healing. Suitable procedures can be done in a less invasive procedure through a cannula or the like.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: The present embodiments relate to a joint treatment device for improved treatment of a diseased joint. The joint treatment device comprises first and second components, which are coupled to first and second bone portions, respectively, at the joint. The first component and the second component are configured to be coupled together in a first configuration to promote fusion of the joint, and further are configured to be coupled together in a second configuration to promote arthroplasty of the joint. Additionally, a screwdriver is disclosed that may advance the first and second component simultaneously or independently. Further, a joint distraction device is disclosed, which may be used to vary spacing between the first bone portion and the second bone portion at the joint.

Abstract: A method for distracting a pair of adjacent vertebrae and inserting an implant within the intervertebral space between the adjacent vertebrae using a posterior angle is described. The method employs a vertebral distractor-inserter comprising a housing, a pair of opposing arms in mechanical communication with the housing, a driving rod extending through at least a portion of the housing and between the arms, wherein the driving rod comprises an axis and a surface with a plurality of angled ratchet teeth on at least a portion of the surface, and a ratchet drive mechanism in mechanical communication with the driving rod.

Abstract: A surgical distractor comprising a base plate (2), an intermediate stage (6) telescopically coupled to the base plate (2) and a distraction plate (4) telescopically coupled to the intermediate stage (6). The intermediate stage (6) is arranged to rotate relative to at least one of the base plate (2) and the distraction plate (4) to cause telescopic movement between the intermediate plate (6) and at least one of the base plate (2) and the distraction plate (4) such that the distraction plate (4) moves towards or away from the base plate (2). Surgical instrument kits incorporating distractors and drive elements and a method of distracting two bones within a joint are also disclosed.

Abstract: An intervertebral instrument includes a shaft having distal and proximal ends. The proximal end of the shaft includes an attaching feature connected to handle. The shaft defines a pair tracks disposed along a portion of the surface thereof. The distal end includes a pair of wings. Each track guides instruments and implants along the intervertebral instrument. The implants are configured to receive bone graft or bone enhancers. The distal end of the shaft may include a removably attachable tip configured to engage the implants. The implants and the removably attachable tip form an implantable intervertebral disk. An intervertebral instrument and implant kit is also disclosed. A method of inserting intervertebral implants is also disclosed.

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: An adjustable tibial trial insert includes an upper plate having an upper articular surface and a lower plate. A height-adjustment mechanism of the insert is coupled to and positioned generally between the upper plate and the lower plate and is configured to move between a closed position where the upper and lower plates are adjacent each other and an opened position where the upper and lower plates are spaced-apart from each other in order to adjust a height or thickness of the insert.

Abstract: An instrument includes a distraction mechanism having a proximal end and an opposed distal end. The distal end includes opposed first and second end members. A first vertebral endplate spreader includes a proximal spreader section mounted to the first end member of the distraction mechanism. The first spreader also includes a distal spreader section operatively connected to the proximal spreader section for lateral movement relative to the proximal spreader section. A second vertebral endplate spreader is mounted to the second end member of the distraction mechanism. The distraction mechanism is configured and adapted to distract the spreaders apart and to retract the spreaders together along a distraction axis. The distal spreader section of the first spreader is configured to move relative to the second spreader in a lateral direction relative to the distraction axis for correction of vertebral alignment, as in treatment of spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, and the like.

Abstract: ?n apparatus and method for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting two tissue surfaces is provided. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted using a wafer insertion apparatus between the two tissue surfaces to create a column of wafers. A detachable wafer assembly is provided that includes a base wafer initially associated with a track assembly of a wafer insertion apparatus. The base wafer is dislodged from the track assembly so that the base wafer is left within the distraction site as the track assembly is removed. A top cap wafer is provided that is situated at the top of the wafer stack, in which the top cap wafer is larger than the remaining wafers to form a gap surrounding the stack to receive biologic material.

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: A method and device for determining an optimal size of an intervertebral implant to be inserted within an intervertebral space between two vertebrae in a patient, comprising inserting a distractor into the intervertebral space. The vertebral endplate depth is measured by moving a posterior rod on the distractor longitudinally to a position at the posterior margin of the vertebral endplate and moving an anterior rod on the distractor to a position at the anterior margin of the vertebral endplate. The force applied during distraction is measured using at least one transducer mounted on the distractor and the intervertebral space is distracted by rotating the posterior and anterior rods on the distractor until the measured force reaches a predetermined value. The posterior height of the intervertebral space is measured based on the amount that the posterior rod is rotated and the anterior height of the intervertebral space is measured based on the amount that the anterior rod is rotated.

Abstract: A device for determining an optimal size of an intervertebral implant, comprising movable posterior and anterior rods, each rod operatively connected to a pair of posterior and anterior distracting members, respectively. Each pair is movable in opposing radial directions in response to longitudinal rotation of the posterior and anterior rods, and has marks corresponding to the distance the distracting members have moved for the purpose of measuring posterior and anterior disc height. A position indicator allows measurement of longitudinal distance between the longitudinally movable posterior and anterior rods. The device further comprises load sensor plates movable in response to movement of the distracting members, first and second handles pivotally connected to the load sensor plates, a protractor disposed relative to the handles, allowing measurement of an angle between the first and second handles, and a transducer for measuring force applied during distraction.

Abstract: A device to space vertebral members that may include a deploying device with a first member with an elongated first shaft and a first body at an end of the first shaft, a second member with an elongated second shaft that extends around the first shaft and a second body at an end of the second shaft, and a third member with an elongated third shaft that extends around the second shaft and a third body at an end of the second shaft. The device may include a first plate positioned on a first side of the deploying device, and a second plate positioned on a second side of the deploying device. First, second, and third jointed linkages may be spaced apart along the deploying device and each having a pair of links and each having a first end attached to the first plate, a second end attached to the second plate, and an intermediate joint connecting the pair of links together and being attached to the deploying device.

Abstract: A spine alignment system is provided to assess load forces on the vertebra in conjunction with overall spinal alignment. The system includes a spine instrument having an electronic assembly and a sensorized head. The sensorized head can be inserted between vertebra and report vertebral conditions such as force, pressure, orientation and edge loading. A GUI is therewith provided to show where the spine instrument is positioned relative to vertebral bodies as the instrument is placed in the inter-vetebral space. The system can distract vertebrae to a first height and measure the load applied by the spine region. The GUI can indicate that the load is outside a predetermined range. The spine region can be distracted to a second height where the load is measured within the predetermined load range.

Abstract: A combined compressor and distractor tool is provided that includes a mechanism capable of switching the mode of operation of the tool from a compression tool to a distraction tool. The tool includes engagement tips and handles at opposed ends of the tool that are pivotally connected to a central shaft. A saddle is slidably mounted on the shaft between and pivotally connected to the handles. When the saddle is engaged with the shaft in a before center position, squeezing the handles results the movement of the shaft forwardly to operate the engagement tips as a distractor. However, when the saddle is engaged with the shaft in a past, or over center position, squeezing the handles results in the movement of the shaft rearwardly to operate the engagement tips as a compressor.

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: This document discloses, among other things, a long reach, side ejecting fastener placement apparatus suitable for use in nasal septal surgery. A first linear member carries a fastener body and a second linear member delivers a fastener retainer or provides support for placement of the fastener body. In various examples, the fastener includes a single stud rivet or includes a two legged staple. A mechanical linkage coupled to the handle provides a linear force for placement and deployment of a fastener.

Abstract: Devices for implanting a prosthetic device, such as an artificial spinal implant, are provided. The installation tool can include a body, a pair of opposed levers, an optional implant holder disposed between the levers, a drive rod at least partially disposed within the body and able to be coupled to the implant holder and/or implant, and a female threaded member associated with the body and selectively engageable with the drive rod. As the drive rod translates along a longitudinal axis of the installation tool, the implant holder and/or implant separates the levers and distracts adjacent vertebral bodies to position a prosthetic device therebetween. The implant holder and/or implant can be longitudinally advanced in rotation and/or translation modes.

Abstract: A device to space vertebral members that may include a deploying device with a first member with an elongated first shaft and a first body at an end of the first shaft, a second member with an elongated second shaft that extends around the first shaft and a second body at an end of the second shaft, and a third member with an elongated third shaft that extends around the second shaft and a third body at an end of the second shaft. The device may include a first plate positioned on a first side of the deploying device, and a second plate positioned on a second side of the deploying device. First, second, and third jointed linkages may be spaced apart along the deploying device and each having a pair of links and each having a first end attached to the first plate, a second end attached to the second plate, and an intermediate joint connecting the pair of links together and being attached to the deploying device.

Abstract: A combined compressor and distractor tool is provided that includes a mechanism capable of switching the mode of operation of the tool from a compression tool to a distraction tool. The tool includes engagement tips and handles at opposed ends of the tool that are pivotally connected to a central shaft. A saddle is slidably mounted on the shaft between and pivotally connected to the handles. When the saddle is engaged with the shaft in a before center position, squeezing the handles results the movement of the shaft forwardly to operate the engagement tips as a distractor. However, when the saddle is engaged with the shaft in a past, or over center position, squeezing the handles results the movement of the shaft rearwardly to operate the engagement tips as a compressor.