Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing a medical procedure which involves penetrating a bone structure are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for performing a surgical procedure includes introducing an assembly that includes a threaded cannula and a stylet into a bone structure. The threads have a shape that allows the cannula tip to be pushed into the bone body yet prevent the tip from being pulled out of the bone body. In one embodiment, the threads have a buttress shape. The method may also include applying a rotational motion, as for example a torque, to the threaded cannula to adjust the depth of insertion with respect to the implantation site when it is determined that the depth of insertion is to be adjusted.

Abstract: An injector device for percutaneously injecting biomaterial in the form of particles of different sizes or in the form of paste includes a trocar (12) of generally cylindrical shape presenting a open first end with a sharp edge, the wall of the first end presenting at least one orifice (36, 38) for passing the biomaterial, and a second end (42) that is likewise open; a reservoir (14) for receiving the biomaterial, the reservoir including a part (20) of substantially cylindrical shape having two open ends, the cylindrical part being capable of being inserted at least in a portion of the trocar via the second end thereof; removable plugs for closing both ends of the reservoir; and a piston (16) insertable in the cylindrical part when the plugs are removed, the piston being capable of sliding in the cylindrical part and in the first end of the trocar.

Abstract: A cavity creation device is introduced into a cancellous bone volume of a vertebral body through a percutaneous access path. The cavity creating device is manipulated to form a cavity in the cancellous bone volume. A volume of filling material is placed in the cavity by introducing a tube through the percutaneous access path and by conveying the filling material through a side dispensing port of the tube.

Abstract: A percutaneous path is created into a bone having an interior volume occupied, at least in part, by a cancellous bone, e.g., a vertebral body. An expandable structure is introduced into the cancellous bone by deployment of a tool through the percutaneous path into the cancellous bone. The expandable structure is expanded and the tool withdrawn, leaving the expandable structure expanded inside the cancellous bone. Expansion of the expandable structure within cancellous bone can, e.g., compact cancellous bone, and/or create a cavity in cancellous bone, and/or move fractured cortical bone.

Abstract: A method for filling a bone defect in a subject in need thereof is disclosed. The method includes heating a bone cement composition at a first temperature where the bone cement composition is fluidic, and delivering an effective amount of the fluidic bone cement composition at a second temperature to the bone defect thereby filling the bone defect and allowing the fluidic bone cement composition to solidify, the second temperature being sufficiently high for maintaining the bone cement composition fluidic without causing thermal necrosis. Also disclosed are systems for carrying out the method.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treating bones, including, in one or more embodiments, methods and apparatus for treatment of vertebral fractures that include an inflation device for cavity creation and an inflation and containment device for maintaining vertebral height and cement containment. Methods for treating a bone comprising: creating a cavity in the bone; inflating a containment jacket in the cavity; inflating a balloon within the containment jacket so that the balloon occupies a first portion of the containment jacket; introducing a first filler material into a second portion of the containment jacket, wherein the second portion of the containment jacket is not occupied by the balloon; removing the balloon from the containment jacket; and introducing a second filler material into the first portion of the containment jacket.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for the augmentation of a degenerated facet joint. A low modulus filler material is injected into the joint capsule in a minimally invasive way through the lamina and the superior facet articulation surface, while leaving the facet capsule and the inferior facet articulation surface completely intact, to thereby alleviate pressure on the articulating bone surfaces.

Abstract: The embodiments provide provides devices, instruments, and associated methods for treating joint pain. A joint is evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging to detect any defects in the subchondral bone. For example, using T2-weighted MRI images, bone marrow lesions or edemas can be identified, and using T1-weighted MRI images, associated regions of sclerotic bone adjacent to the bone marrow lesion can be identified. The treatment method may involve introducing a bone void filler material at the site to address the bone marrow lesion or edema, and/or drilling and inserting an implant to address the sclerotic bone, bone marrow lesion or edema, and insufficiency or stress fractures. An access path is mapped to a location in the subchondral region where the insufficiency fracture resides. The access path attempts to preserve an articular surface of the joint. A reinforcing member that stabilizes the insufficiency fracture is then implanted via the access path.

Abstract: The embodiments provide devices and methods that both strengthen the bone and stimulate the bone. Bone fractures or non-unions are stabilized, integrated or healed, which results in reduction of a bone defect, such as a bone marrow lesion or edema. In addition, the distribution of forces in a joint are restored or altered to relieve pain. In general, a joint is evaluated by taking an image of the joint and one or more subchondral defects are detected. At least one of the subchondral defects may be diagnosed as the source of pain and an extent of treatment for the subchondral defect is determined. The disclosed devices and techniques are particularly suited for treating chronic defects or injuries, where the patient's natural healing response has not resolved the defect. The present disclosure also provides several exemplary treatment modalities for the different extents of treatment needed.

Abstract: A biologic intramedullary fixation device for treating a bone fracture includes an internal tubular wall formed of a bioabsorbable synthetic material; and an outer wall coupled with and surrounding the internal tubular wall with an annular space therebetween. The outer wall is at least partially fenestrated and is formed of the bioabsorbable synthetic material. A biologically replaceable cement material is injectable into the annular space between the internal tubular wall and the outer wall.

Abstract: A device for forming structurally stable curved structures includes an elongated element (10) with a number of segments (12) interconnected at effective hinges (14) to allow deflection of each segment relative to adjacent segments between a reduced-curvature state and a flexed state. Neighboring segments have interlocking features (16) forming an inter-segment locking configuration such that, when the segments are deflected from the reduced-curvature state to the flexed state, the interlocking features interlock adjacent of the segments so as to retain the segments in the flexed state corresponding to a predefined curved configuration of the elongated element. Additionally, or alternatively, a leading portion (44) and a rear portion (40) of the elongated element have features forming at least part of a loop-lock configuration effective to lock together the leading portion and the rear portion so as to form a closed loop structure.

Abstract: A system for treating a vertebral body comprises a cannula leading into a vertebral body and a cavity creating device. The cavity creating device comprises a shaft having a distal end portion sized to extend through the cannula, an expandable body that undergoes expansion between a collapsed condition and an expanded condition to form a cavity in the vertebral body, and a tubular fluid transport member to convey fluid through the distal region of the expandable body and into the cavity. The system further comprises a device coupled to the shaft to change the expandable body between the collapsed condition to the expanded condition. The system further comprises a source of fluid coupled to the tubular fluid transport member to convey fluid through the distal region of the expandable body and into the cavity. The system further includes a device to convey a filling material into the cavity.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing a medical procedure which involves penetrating a bone structure are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for performing a surgical procedure includes introducing an assembly that includes a threaded cannula and a stylet into a bone structure. The threads have a shape that allows the cannula tip to be pushed into the bone body yet prevent the tip from being pulled out of the bone body. In one embodiment, the threads have a buttress shape. The method may also include applying a rotational motion, as for example a torque, to the threaded cannula to adjust the depth of insertion with respect to the implantation site when it is determined that the depth of insertion is to be adjusted.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for providing spongy bone with bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material, wherein at least one perforating device (4) is provided for making at least one hole (5) in the spongy bone (1) and wherein at least one flushing or rinsing device (6) is provided for flushing or rinsing the hole (5) with a rinsing agent (7). At least one vacuum source (9) is provided for generating a vacuum in the hole (5) in the spongy bone (1) for sucking and/or facilitating insertion or feeding of the bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material (3) into said spongy bone (1). The invention also relates to bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material and methods in connection with the invention.

Abstract: Disclosed are vertebroplasty methods that include cauterizing an inner cavity of a vertebra of a mammal, such as a human, and injecting bone cement into the vertebra. Systems and kits for performing such methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: An elongated shaft is sized and configured to establish an access path to bone having an interior volume occupied, at least in part, by cancellous bone. The elongated shaft includes a generally closed distal end portion and a side opening spaced from the closed distal end. A first tool is sized and configured to be selectively inserted into the shaft and selectively removed from the shaft. The tool includes a region that, when the first tool is inserted into the shaft, is capable of being aligned with and advanced through the side opening to project outside the side opening and contact cancellous bone. A second tool is sized and configured, upon removal of the first tool from the shaft, to introduce into the shaft a bone filling material for discharge through the side opening into the cancellous bone contacted by the first tool.

Abstract: A system for replacing a portion of a shoulder joint can include a tray having an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface can be adapted to engage a humeral stem. A bearing can include an outer bearing surface and an inner articulating surface. The outer bearing surface can be positioned adjacent to the tray. A ring can be selectively disposed between the tray and the bearing. The ring can define an annular body having a slit formed therein. The ring can be movable between a locked position wherein the ring retains the bearing relative to the tray and an unlocked position. A removal tool can define a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end can define a ring engaging surface and a bearing engaging surface. The ring engaging surface can be adapted to engage the ring at the slit such that the ring expands radially from the locked position away from engagement with the bearing to the unlocked position.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for maintaining a proper intervertebral disc height during the replacement or augmentation of the spinal disc. In one embodiment, a cannulated distractor is used to distract the adjacent vertebrae and maintain a proper disc space height. The cannulated distractor is fluidly connected to a source of fluent material for injection into the disc space. The distraction includes a distraction tip resident within the disc space that includes a central lumen and a number of openings communicating with the lumen to dispense the fluent material within the disc space.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of delivering and deploying a stent into a curvilinear cavity within a vertebral body or other bony or body structure. The invention also relates to devices that may be used to perform the steps to deliver and deploy a stent.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting opposed endplates of a vertebral body. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted within the vertebral body between the two endplates to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the endplates so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.

Abstract: Apparatus for delivering a media to an anatomic void within a bone structure and compacting the media within the anatomic void includes a delivery device and a compaction device. The delivery device includes a tubular element, a guidewire, and a removal element. The removal element is capable of forming a void at a target site within the bone structure by cutting and/or deforming target bone tissue. A distal end of the guidewire may be detachable as a safety feature. The compaction device includes an elongate member and a vibration device connected to the proximal end of the elongate member. The vibration device creates vibration at the distal end of the elongate member, so that the media is mixed and/or compacted within the anatomic void.

Abstract: Systems and methods for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. A system for repairing a fractured bone includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of bone cement components and an inner lumen for passage of a mixing element; an internal bone fixation device releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the internal bone fixation device moves from a first compact state to a second expanded state when the bone cement components are delivered to the internal bone fixation device and mixed within the internal bone fixation device; and a spinning mechanism engaged to a rotatable shaft, wherein the spinning mechanism is inserted into the internal bone fixation device.

Abstract: A device is introduced into the vertebral body through a percutaneous access path. The device is manipulated to modify the cancellous bone volume for introduction of bone filling material. Bone filling material is introduced into the cancellous bone volume modified by the device along the percutaneous path. Discharge of the bone filling material is directed into the cancellous bone volume through an opening that is oriented at an angle relative to the axis of the access path.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and a kit for administering bone cement to the interior cavity of a bony member to enhance bone strength, stabilizing an existing fracture thus reducing susceptibility of the bone to further fracture and/or collapse. The method and kit may include additional components, such as, bone growth enhancing agents, radiopaque components or the like.

Abstract: Internal bone fixation devices and methods for using the devices for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a device for repairing a fractured bone that includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, the delivery catheter having an inner void for passing at least one reinforcing material, and an inner lumen for accepting a light pipe, wherein a distal end of the inner lumen terminates in an optical lens; a conformable member releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, the conformable member moving from a deflated state to an inflated state when the at least one reinforcing material is delivered to the conformable member; and an adapter releasably engaging the proximal end of the delivery catheter for receiving the light pipe and the at least one reinforcing material.

Abstract: Systems and method create a cavity in cancellous bone by use of a system or kit that includes a cannula having an axis that establishes a percutaneous path leading into bone and a shaft having a distal end portion carrying an elongated loop structure or bristles capable of extension from the shaft to create a cavity forming structure. The shaft is movable relative to the axis of the cannula to move the cavity forming structure when extended within cancellous bone to form a cavity in the cancellous bone. A tool is sized for passage through the cannula. The tool is capable of dispensing a filling material into the cavity.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for reinforcing weakened or fractured bone are disclosed. An apparatus for delivering a bone reinforcing mixture to a bone includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the tube has at least one inner lumen capable of allowing a bone reinforcing mixture to pass through, and a bone fitting portion having an opening for accepting the tube, an insertion portion for insertion into the bone, and at least one relief valve.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the preparation of mechano-structured nacre by mechanosynthesis of micrometric nacre powder, characterized in that the temperature of the nacre is kept below 40° C. It also relates to the mechano-structured nacre and to uses thereof, in particular on implants and bone substitute pieces on which the mechano-structured nacre is deposited.

Abstract: A system and method for repairing or reinforcing the spinous process. The system and method provide a procedure and surgical tools for injecting a flowable bone repair material into and optionally around the spinous process. The system and method include location of the guide over the spinous process, preparation of the spinous process for injection and injection of a flowable material into the spinous process. The system and method reinforce the spinous process, increasing the strength of the spinous process and enhancing the applicability and outcome of other surgical spinal interventions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for carrying out a percrestale sinus lift, wherein a bore channel is created with the aid of a boring, milling and/or hammering method, the Schneider membrane is lifted from the jaw bone using a flowable medium that is supplied via the opened bore channel, bone replacement material is introduced, a supply line is introduced into the bore channel prior to introducing the flowable liquid and is sealingly fixed in a detachable manner to the bore channel or onto the edge thereof and the flowable medium in introduced through the supply line. The invention also relates to a surgical instrument (1) for introducing a flowable medium for lifting the Schneider membrane from the jaw bone whilst carrying out a percrestale sinus lift.

Abstract: A method is provided for treatment of a condition including at least one weakened vertebra or one compression fracture of a vertebra, wherein in at least one embodiment, the vertebra is injected by vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty with particles, grains or granules or a mixture thereof, or an implant suspension including at least one resorbable fluid vehicle and particles, grains or granules or a mixture thereof, wherein the particles, grains or granules individually have a mean length from one side to the opposite side, through a geometrical centre, of up to 5 mm. Moreover, at least one embodiment of the present invention also provides use of the particular or granular material disclosed above, for the manufacture of a medicament for the vertebroplastic treatment or kyphoplastic treatment of a condition including at least one weakened vertebra or one compression fracture of a vertebra.

Abstract: Bone graft compositions for repairing bone defects, which are characterized by a chemical composition of cementitious, non-cementitious, highly-resorbable and poorly-resorbable particulate substances, and further characterized by a specific particle size distribution that includes two or more different ranges of particle size, are disclosed. Further disclosed are articles of manufacturing and unit dosage forms containing the bone graft compositions, methods of repairing bone defects utilizing the bone graft compositions, and processes of preparing the same. Also provided are applicators for applying flowable mixtures formed by mixing a dry composition and a liquid carrier, which are particularly useful for preparing and applying bone graft compositions, as well as methods of using same.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for providing spongy bone with bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material, wherein at least one perforating device (4) is provided for making at least one hole (5) in the spongy bone (1) and wherein at least one flushing or rinsing device (6) is provided for flushing or rinsing the hole (5) with a rinsing agent (7). At least one vacuum source (9) is provided for generating a vacuum in the hole (5) in the spongy bone (1) for sucking and/or facilitating insertion or feeding of the bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material (3) into said spongy bone (1). The invention also relates to bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material and methods in connection with the invention.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming one or more trans-sacral axial instrumentation/fusion (TASIF) axial bore through vertebral bodies in general alignment with a visualized, anterior or posterior axial instrumentation/fusion line (AAIFL or PAIFL) in a minimally invasive, low trauma, manner and providing a therapy to the spine employing the axial bore. Anterior or posterior starting positions aligned with the AAIFL or PAIFL are accessed through respective anterior and posterior tracts. Curved or relatively straight anterior and curved posterior TASIF axial bores are formed from the anterior and posterior starting positions. The therapies performed through the TASIF axial bores include discoscopy, full and partial discectomy, vertebroplasty, balloon-assisted vertebroplasty, drug delivery, electrical stimulation and various forms of spinal disc cavity augmentation, spinal disc replacement, fusion of spinal motion segments and implantation of radioactive seeds.

Abstract: Systems and methods for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. A system for repairing a fractured bone includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of bone cement components and an inner lumen for passage of a mixing element; an internal bone fixation device releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the internal bone fixation device moves from a first compact state to a second expanded state when the bone cement components are delivered to the internal bone fixation device and mixed within the internal bone fixation device; and a spinning mechanism engaged to a rotatable shaft, wherein the spinning mechanism is inserted into the internal bone fixation device.

Abstract: Intramedullary access or infusion devices that includes a tubular conduit having a distal end and a proximal end with a length sufficient to pass through the cortical region to the cancellous region of a bone; a flange circling the outside of the proximal end of the conduit; and a penetrable diaphragm positioned within the tubular conduit, are described. The devices may be placed in bone and later used, for example, as a site for administering a pharmacologically active agent.

Abstract: An inserter and associated method improve the placement of a fastener into a bone. Although ideally suited to the placement of a pedicle screw into a vertebral body (VB), the apparatus and method are applicable to other bones and fasteners, pins, and the like. The apparatus includes cannulated body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a threaded section therebetween. The proximal end is shaped for rotational tightening by a wrench or other tool, and the distal end including a perforated nozzle so that cement and/or biologics may be injected into the bone through the cannulated body. The proximal end includes a Lur-loc or other appropriate fitting to receive a cement-filled syringe. The device is also preferably disposable using, for example, clear plastic construction. The inserter may further including a member for sealing the nozzle relative to a bone. Such a member may be composed of a silatstic or other compressible material, or may be inflatable.

Abstract: Described are methods for therapeutically treating the spine that involve the implantation of a medical device, such as a fusion cage, disc nucleus implant, or artificial disc, that transmits loads to a volume of bone tissue of the spine, and the reinforcement of that volume of bone tissue to decrease the risk of fracture or other injury resultant of the transmitted loads.

Abstract: A tool for delivering bio-compatible solid, fluid or mixed solid and fluid substances to an operating site within a patient. The tool has a tubular body or barrel with a central longitudinal through hole and a flow control valve for selectively allowing material to flow from a holding chamber within the barrel through an extender tip to a dispensing end of the tool. A plunger having a piston at one end may be inserted through the dispensing end of the barrel and drawn distally to aspirate material into the holding chamber using a syringe attached to the proximal end of the barrel, after which the valve is closed to retain the material in the chamber. The plunger, which fits into the through hole from either end of the barrel, is then removed and re-inserted into the proximal end of the barrel, the barrel valve is opened, and the plunger is pushed to move the material in the holding chamber through the extender tip and out the distal end of the barrel.

Abstract: An apparatus and methods for delivery of reinforcing materials to a weakened or fractured bone is disclosed. An apparatus for delivering a reinforcing mixture to a bone including a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the tube has at least one inner lumen capable of allowing a bone reinforcing mixture to pass therethrough; a balloon engaging the tube wherein the balloon expands from a substantially deflated state to a substantially inflated state upon the bone reinforcing mixture entering the balloon; and at least one light guide extending through the tube into the balloon to guide a light into the balloon.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treating vertebral compression fractures are provided. A kit can include at least one body containing a bone cement precursor to be mixed with at least one other bone cement precursor to form a bone cement. The body or a package containing the body can include at least one sensor. In some embodiments the sensor can be a temperature sensor. In some methods, data from the sensor can be used to determine certain parameters related to a treatment interval involving the bone cement.

Abstract: A percutaneous surgical device and method for creating a cavity within tissue during a minimally invasive procedure. A cavitation device includes a shaft interconnected to a flexible cutting element. A flexible cutting element has a first shape suitable for minimally invasive passage into tissue. The flexible cutting element has a means to move toward a second shape suitable for forming a cavity in tissue. When used in bone, the resulting cavity is usually filled with bone cement or suitable bone replacement material that is injectable and hardens in situ. The disclosed cavitation device and methods can be used for the following applications: (1) treatment or prevention of bone fracture, (2) joint fusion, (3) implant fixation, (4) tissue harvesting (especially bone), (5) removal of diseased tissue (hard or soft tissue), and (6) general tissue removal (hard or soft tissue).

Abstract: A curable material delivery cannula device is disclosed. The device includes a cannula and a hub. The cannula includes an open proximal end, a deflectable segment forming a pre-set curve, a lumen, and side orifice(s) adjacent, and proximally spaced from, the distal end and fluidly connected to the lumen. When inserted within a guide cannula, the deflectable segment straightens. When distally extended from the guide cannula, the deflectable segment reverts to the curved shape. The distal end has a blunt tip for non-traumatic interface with bodily material. During use, curable material, such as bone cement, is delivered from the side orifice(s) in a radial direction relative to the lumen.

Abstract: A method for attaching soft tissue to bone. The method includes forming a bore in a bone, placing the soft tissue adjacent to the bone and above the bore, at least partially inserting a fixation device into the bore, and delivering biologic material through the soft tissue at an interface area between the soft tissue and the bone.

Abstract: Erosion of elements of the ossicular chain in the middle ear, resulting in hearing loss, is corrected by creating a bridge between the eroded elements, employing a bone cement formed as a paste of a self-hardening material, which is molded into an elongated bridge, secured at its two ends to the elements to be bridged, and supported in its desired position until the material hardens to fuse the two elements, at which time the support may be removed. The material is preferably hydroxyapatite cement, bone source, or similar material, such as ionomeric bone cement. These materials strongly bond to the contacting bone and may stimulate bone in-growth, resulting in osseointegration. The apparatus for forming the bridge consists of a reservoir of the bridge material in liquid or paste form connected to a bridge supporting tube. The tube is preferably placed in contact with the two elements to be bridged and the bone source material is injected into the tube using a manually actuated plunger until the tube is full.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for distracting opposite surfaces from the interior of a bone, such as a vertebral body. A working channel cannula provides a working channel through which an inserter and an injection cannula can simultaneously pass. The inserter transports a plurality of wafers into the interior of the bone to form a load-bearing stack bearing against the opposite surfaces. The injection cannula is used to inject a fluent material into and/or around the stack. In certain embodiments, the fluent material is a load-bearing or hardenable material, such as bone cement. In other embodiments, the fluent material can be a BMP, HAP, or other osteo-inductive, osteo-conductive, or pharmaceutical compositions. A syringe containing the fluent material is engaged to the injection cannula and is operable to inject the fluent material into the vertebral body under controlled pressure.

Abstract: An instrument for controlling the distribution of bone cement on the surface of the head of a bone to prepare the bone to receive a re-surfacing prosthesis comprises a hollow shell which can be fitted on to the head of the bone to define a space around the head. The shell is rotationally symmetrical and has a spike like projection extending axially from the internal surface of the shell. At least one rib is located on the internal surface of the shell, extending from the spike like projection or from close to it, towards the open face of the shell, which contacts cement on the head of the bone in a sweeping action when the shell is rotated around its axis on the head of the bone.

Abstract: Bone substitute materials have been developed that become flowable upon heating. In order to use these new materials in the special environment of an operating room, methods and devices have been developed to conveniently and sterilely heat samples of the material as the material is being implanted into a patient. Inventive heating devices include cannulas with a heated tip and devices similar to a hot melt glue gun. Therefore, the material is heated for only a short time preventing the degradation of biological components of the material.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for delivering biologic material to a bone hole includes a delivery structure defining a proximal end and a distal end. The delivery structure includes a first longitudinal member defining a first cavity and extending between the distal and proximal end. A second longitudinal member is disposed around the first longitudinal member and extends between the distal and proximal end. The first and second longitudinal members define a second cavity therebetween. The first cavity is adapted to receive a flexible member therethrough. The second cavity is adapted to receive the biologic material and deliver the biologic material out of the distal end into the bone hole. The first longitudinal member precludes the biologic material from contacting the flexible member while the biologic material is delivered to the bone hole.

Abstract: A covering for delivering a substance or material to a surgical site is provided. The covering, with substance provided therein, may be referred to as a delivery system. Generally, the covering may be a single or multi-compartment structure capable of at least partially retaining a substance provided therein until the covering is placed at a surgical site. In some embodiments, the covering may be configured and sized for receipt by an implant device. Upon placement, the covering may facilitate transfer of the substance or surrounding materials. For example, the substance may be released (actively or passively) to the surgical site. The covering may participate in, control, or otherwise adjust the release of the substance.