Abstract: An intervertebral implant for spondylolisthesis correction includes a superior side with serrations angled superiorly and toward the implant insertion direction, an inferior side with serrations angled inferiorly and opposite the implant insertion direction, and an instrument connection feature. An instrument for connection to the implant includes an implant connection feature movable between unlocked and locked states, and a friction-reducing feature movable between disengaged and engaged states. The instrument has a first state, in which the implant connection feature is in the unlocked state and the friction-reducing feature is in the disengaged state; a second state, in which the implant connection feature is in the locked state and the friction-reducing feature is in the engaged state; and a third state, in which the implant connection feature is in the locked state and the friction-reducing feature is in the disengaged state. Methods of apparatus assembly and surgery are disclosed.

Abstract: An expandable spinal fusion implant including first and second endplates coupled to an expansion member that sits within a housing. The expansion member is translated by a drive mechanism, whereby translation of the expansion member by the drive mechanism in a distal and proximal directions causes the distance between the endplates to increase and decrease, respectively.

Abstract: Bone structure coupling devices and methods are provided herein. An example method includes positioning a tubular retraction guide body into a patient, the tubular retraction guide body having two prongs that are positioned in a joint between two adjacent bone structures, creating a hemispherical groove on each of the two adjacent bone structures using a drill bit passed through the tubular retraction guide body, incising out the hemispherical grooves with a broach passed through the tubular retraction guide body, and inserting a graft body having a generally rectangular cross sectional area into the angular grooves to couple the two adjacent bone structures together.

Abstract: A distally expanding facet joint implant and delivery device for distally distracting a facet joint. The facet joint implant generally includes an outer part and an inner part. The outer part includes a pair of opposed distally expandable facet plates connected by a hinge. The inner part includes a wedge that is selectively movable against the facet plates to distally expand and contract the facet joint implant into open and closed states. Teeth on the outer part engage indents on the inner part to maintain the facet joint implant in the distally expanded state. The outer and inner parts include outer and inner connectors, and the delivery device includes corresponding outer and inner connectors adapted to be in locked engagement with the outer and inner connectors to hold the implant and selectively cause it to distally expand and contract.

Abstract: Embodiments are directed to spinal treatments and, more particularly, to a fenestrated pedicle nail, wherein the pedicle nail performs as an anchored system for pedicle instrument constructs that prevents fracturing from over-compressing of bone of poor quality. Embodiments include a pedicle nail comprising a shank and a nail head. The shank may comprise a proximal end and a distal bone engagement end. The nail head may be disposable on the proximal end of the shank, wherein the nail head may threadably engage the proximal end thereof. The nail head may have external bone threads.

Abstract: Implants including non-resorbable frameworks and resorbable components, as well as methods of use thereof are disclosed. The embodiments include different combinations of a non-resorbable framework (in some case structural and in other cases non-structural), and a resorbable component embedded within and/or around the framework (again, in some cases structural and in other cases non-structural). The disclosed implants provide an efficient means of providing structural support for the vertebral bodies post-implantation, as well as encouraging resorption of the implant and fusion of the associated vertebral bodies without negative side effects and/or failure, such as subsidence of the implant or cracking/fracturing of a portion of the implant when implanted.

Abstract: Expandable spinal implants, systems and methods are disclosed. An expandable spinal implant may include a first endplate, a second endplate, and a moving mechanism that is operably coupled to the first and second endplates. The moving mechanism may include a wedge, a first sliding frame and a second sliding frame disposed on opposite sides of the wedge, a screw guide housing a rotatable first set screw and a rotatable second set screw opposite the first set screw. The first set screw may be operably coupled to the second sliding frame and the second set screw may be operably coupled to the wedge. The moving mechanism may operably adjust a spacing between the first and second endplates upon simultaneous rotation of the first and second set screws and operably adjust an angle of inclination between the first and second endplates upon translating the first set screw or second set screw.

Abstract: An expandable intervertebral implant is provided for insertion into an intervertebral space defined by adjacent vertebrae. The expandable intervertebral implant includes a pair of outer sleeve portions and an inner core disposed between the outer sleeve portions. Movement of the inner core relative to the outer sleeve portions causes the outers sleeve portions to deflect away from each other, thereby engaging the expandable intervertebral implant with the vertebrae and adjusting the height of the intervertebral space.

Abstract: An expandable implant having superior and inferior endplates disposed on opposite sides of a core is disclosed. The superior endplate may include a first screw engagement surface disposed on a proximal end thereof and the inferior endplate may include a second screw engagement surface disposed on a proximal end thereof. A pin may extend through corresponding pin apertures of the superior endplate, the inferior endplate, and the core. In various embodiments, the superior endplate and inferior endplate are hingedly connected to the core via the pin. The implant may include a locking screw movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking screw may urge an engagement surface of the superior endplate and inferior endplate such that corresponding interior surfaces of the superior and inferior endplates frictionally engage against a corresponding exterior surface of the core.

Abstract: A knee gap tensioning apparatus includes: a tensioner-balancer, including: a baseplate; a top plate; and a linkage operable to move the top plate relative to the bottom plate between retracted and extended positions in response to application of an actuating force, the linkage including: a first toggle linkage, including: a lower link having a first end pivotally connected to the baseplate; an upper link having a first end pivotally connected to the top plate, wherein second ends of the first and second links are pivotally connected to each other; a second toggle linkage, including: a lower link having a first end pivotally connected to the baseplate; an upper link having a first end pivotally connected to the top plate, wherein second ends of the first and second links are pivotally connected to each other; and a connector linkage interconnecting the first and second toggle linkages.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant for implantation in an intervertebral space between vertebrae. The implant includes a body extending from an upper surface to a lower surface. The body has a front end, a rear end and a pair of spaced apart first and second side walls extending between the front and rear walls such that an interior chamber is defined within the front and rear ends and the first and second walls. The body defines an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter extending about the internal chamber. At least one of the side walls is defined by a solid support structure and an integral porous structure, the porous structure extending from the outer perimeter to the inner perimeter. The porous structure embeds or encapsulates at least a portion of the solid support structure.

Abstract: An expandable includes a base member having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and an adjustable member adjustably coupled to the base member and movable between a first, collapsed position, and a second, expanded position. The adjustable member has a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The top surface of the adjustable member and the bottom surface of the base member form a first angle while the adjustable member is in the first, collapsed position, and the top surface of the adjustable member and the bottom surface of the base member form a second angle while the adjustable member is in the second, expanded position. The first angle is different from the second angle.

Abstract: An expandable intervertebral implant is provided for insertion into an intervertebral space defined by adjacent vertebrae. The expandable intervertebral implant includes a pair of outer sleeve portions and an inner core disposed between the outer sleeve portions. Movement of the inner core relative to the outer sleeve portions causes the outers sleeve portions to deflect away from each other, thereby engaging the expandable intervertebral implant with the vertebrae and adjusting the height of the intervertebral space.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the disclosure, an implant includes a body having a surface with a flexible pattern defined by a plurality of material segments including a first material segment and a second material segment. The first material segment abuts the second material segment. Further, the first material segment includes a first non-linear shape extending between a first end and a second end while the second material segment includes a second non-linear shape extending between a first end and a second end. The two material segments are interconnected such that one of the first end and the second end of the first non-linear shape is interconnected with one of the first end and the second end of the second non-linear shape.

Abstract: A bone graft delivery system can include an elongate tube and a handle having a trigger and a ratcheting mechanism. The trigger is actuated to deliver bone graft material through the tube. The bone graft delivery system can further include a distal tip at a distal end of the tube. The tip has one or more openings to deliver the bone graft material to a desired location and includes a surface suitable to act as a rasp for decorticating bone. A method for delivering bone graft material to a desired surgical location includes providing a bone graft delivery device, positioning the device adjacent the surgical location, decorticating bone, and delivering bone graft material to the surgical location.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating one or more damaged, diseased, or traumatized portions of the spine, including intervertebral discs, to reduce or eliminate associated back pain. In one or more embodiments, the present invention relates to an expandable interbody spacer. The expandable interbody spacer may comprise a first jointed arm comprising a plurality of links pivotally coupled end to end. The expandable interbody spacer further may comprise a second jointed arm comprising a plurality of links pivotally coupled end to end. The first jointed arm and the second jointed arm may be interconnected at a proximal end of the expandable interbody spacer. The first jointed arm and the second jointed arm may be interconnected at a distal end of the expandable interbody spacer.

Abstract: An expandable interbody implant is expandable from a contracted configuration to an expanded configuration by moving opposing first and second vertebral-engaging surfaces apart from one another. The implant includes a locking system for restraining contraction of the implant. The locking system may have a locked configuration, in which the first and second surfaces are prevented from moving back towards the contracted configuration, and the locking system may have an unlocked configuration, in which the first and second surfaces are permitted to move back towards the contracted configuration. The locking system may be controlled by rotation of one or more pinions. The pinions may, in turn, be controlled by linear movement of a rack. The rack may be configured so as to bias the locking system towards the locked configuration. The implant may also include a stop for constraining the maximum expansion of the implant.

Abstract: An expandable implant having superior and inferior endplates disposed on opposite sides of a core is disclosed. The superior endplate may include a first screw engagement surface disposed on a proximal end thereof and the inferior endplate may include a second screw engagement surface disposed on a proximal end thereof. A pin may extend through corresponding pin apertures of the superior endplate, the inferior endplate, and the core. In various embodiments, the superior endplate and inferior endplate are hingedly connected to the core via the pin. The implant may include a locking screw movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking screw may urge an engagement surface of the superior endplate and inferior endplate such that corresponding interior surfaces of the superior and inferior endplates frictionally engage against a corresponding exterior surface of the core.

Abstract: A plate and cage assembly for stabilization of vertebral bodies. The assembly includes at least one fixation member, a cage having a proximal wall, a superior surface and an inferior surface (the superior surface and the inferior surface for engaging adjacent vertebrae), and a plate coupled to the cage and having at least one hole traversing the plate at an angle for insertion of the at least one fixation member into one of the vertebral bodies. The proximal wall of the cage has a blind hole, and the plate has a threaded screw hole aligned with the blind hole in the proximal wall of the cage.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to expandable interbodies that include superior and inferior shells and a control assembly positioned between and inside of the shells, the control assembly including nested cages operably connected to each other with an adjustment screw. Rotation of the adjustment screw translates the cages relative to each other, which in turn causes the shells to open or expand.

Abstract: The present invention provides a delivery tool and a method for bone grafting on a bone surface via a minimally invasive approach, wherein a structure having a layer of hardened paste and particles under the layer is formed by using the delivery tool. The layer helps to keep particles on the bone surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of acid reflux disease comprising two or more movement restriction device segments adapted to be movement restriction device of a controlled size. The movement restriction device can at least partly be invaginated by a patients stomach fundus wall. A substantial part of the outer surface of the movement restriction device is adapted to rest against the stomach wall without injuring the latter in a position between the patients diaphragm and at least a portion of the lower part of the invaginated stomach fundus wall, such that movement of the cardiac notch of the patients stomach towards the patients diaphragm is restricted, to thereby prevent the cardia from sliding through the patients diaphragm opening into the patients thorax, so as to maintain the supporting pressure against the patients cardia sphincter muscle exerted from the patients abdomen.

Abstract: A dynamic interspinous process device for implantation with respect to a first vertebra and an adjacent second vertebra is provided. The dynamic interspinous process device may include a first attachment side and a second attachment side. Each of the first attachment side and second attachment side may include a central portion, a first wing extending from the central portion, a second wing extending from the central portion, and one or more slots extending from an interior side of the respective attachment side to an exterior side of the respective attachment side. The one or more slots of the respective attachment side may be configured to allow the first wing and the second wing to move relative to one another in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the dynamic interspinous process device.

Abstract: A device includes a core defining first and second female threads. A first member includes a first body and a first drive screw coupled to the first body, the first drive screw being configured to engage the first female thread. A second member includes a second body and a second drive screw coupled to the second body, the second drive screw being configured to engage the second female thread. A first plate is coupled to the core and the first body. The first plate includes a first vertebral engaging surface. A second plate is coupled to the core and the second body. The second plate includes a second vertebral engaging surface. The drive screws are configured to independently rotate relative to the core to pivot the first plate relative to the core and to alter a distance between the first vertebral engaging surface and the second vertebral engaging surface.

Abstract: The technical description relates to an expandable intervertebral spacer configured to engage an intervertebral disk. An example expandable intervertebral spacer includes a main body, a first endplate, a second endplate, a driving member, and an actuation member. The expandable intervertebral spacer is transitions from a first configuration to a second configuration by structural interfacing between steps defined on the first endplate, the second endplate, and the driving member. Steps include a surface that lies on a plane disposed at a non-parallel angle to the longitudinal axis of the intervertebral spacer.

Abstract: Provided is a structure of a porous spinal implant including a cage body inserted between adjacent vertebral bodies and divided by an upper surface, a lower surface, a left surface, a right surface, a front surface, and a rear surface, a plurality of vertical pores formed on the upper surface and the lower surface of the cage body, and a plurality of horizontal structures stacked on the left surface and the right surface of the cage body, wherein the plurality of vertical pores and the plurality of horizontal structures are each formed in a pattern that repeats in up-down, left-right, and front-rear directions. The structure of a porous spinal implant is capable of reducing strength of a cage body close to that of a vertebral body.

Abstract: A spinal interbody implant includes a shaft extending along and rotatable about a central axis. The shaft includes a first threaded region. The implant further includes a first link having a first end with first gear teeth. The first end of the first link is fixed at a first point relative to the central axis such that the first gear teeth engage the first threaded region.

Abstract: An implant insertion instrument, and an implant are provided. The instrument includes a handle, a sleeve mounted to a distal end of the handle, and an implant rod disposed within the sleeve. The implant rod includes a gripper disposed on a distal end of the implant rod. The gripper has a first prong spaced apart from a second prong, the second prong being longer than the first prong. The implant includes an implant body, the implant body having a convex surface opposite a concave surface wherein an outer surface of the implant is continuous so as to prevent bone growth within the implant. Accordingly, the instrument facilitates the engagement of the implant by a simple push of the sleeve. Further, the implant has a continuous surface so as to inhibit bone growth and facilitate removal of the implant from the surgical site.

Abstract: Interbody fusion devices, interbody fusion device systems, insertion tools, methods for assembling an interbody fusion device, and methods a method for inserting a medical device between two vertebral bodies are disclosed. The interbody fusion device includes a body member with a pivot cylinder, a superior member with a pivot channel that is configured to engage the pivot cylinder, and a movement mechanism for moving the superior member relative to the body member. The interbody fusion device systems may include an interbody fusion device and an insertion tool. Also disclosed is a method of assembling an interbody fusion device. In addition, a method for inserting a medical device between two vertebral bodies in a spine is disclosed.

Abstract: A spinal implant is provided including an upper surface, a lower surface, a front surface and a back surface, two side surfaces extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, the two side surfaces extending between the front surface and the back surface and an opening positioned closer to the back surface than the front surface. The opening is provided to contain graft material that spans between a cortical rim of the upper vertebral body and the cortical rim of the lower vertebral body. The method includes packing the opening with graft material, wherein the graft, material spans between the decorticated cortical rim of the upper vertebral body and the decorticated cortical rim of the lower vertebral body.

Abstract: An expandable implant movable between a contracted position and an expanded position, is disclosed. In various embodiments, the implant may be defined by a superior endplate and an inferior endplate having proximal ramps and distal ramps disposed on an interior surface thereof, respectively. In various embodiments, a proximal set screw and a distal set screw may be independently coupled to a proximal wedge and a distal wedge. Upon rotation of the proximal set screw, the proximal wedge may act against the proximal ramps of the superior and inferior endplates and cause the implant to expand at the proximal end. Upon rotation of the distal set screw, the distal wedge may act against the distal ramps of the superior and inferior endplates and cause the implant to expand at the distal end. In some embodiments, both the superior and distal set screws may be rotated simultaneously.

Abstract: A vertebral body system and method having a polyaxial fastener receiving member, adjustable width plates and a pedicle screw having a pedicle threaded portion and a threaded portion for fastening to the vertebral body.

Abstract: Spinal implants that are configured for a minimally invasive approach to a patient's intervertebral disc space, optimized to avoid blood vessels and nervous tissue, maximizing endplate coverage and promoting sagittal balance, are provided. Insertion and fixation can be accomplished through a narrow access window, thereby allowing better access to more spinal levels while being less invasive than other approaches. The spinal implants may facilitate fusion, and include visualization features to assist in the implantation and verify proper placement and vary segmental angle of lordosis. Methods of implanting the spinal implants to treat a patient's spine are also disclosed.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surf aces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant for implantation in an intervertebral space between vertebrae. The implant includes a body extending from an upper surface to a lower surface. The body has a front end, a rear end and a pair of spaced apart first and second side walls extending between the front and rear walls such that an interior chamber is defined within the front and rear ends and the first and second walls. The body defines an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter extending about the internal chamber. At least one of the side walls is defined by a solid support structure and an integral porous structure, the porous structure extending from the outer perimeter to the inner perimeter. The porous structure embeds or encapsulates at least a portion of the solid support structure.

Abstract: A kit for installing a spine implant includes an installation tool and a spine implant. The spine implant includes a body having a cavity extending through the body, a channel extending a first length along the first lateral side, a bore in communication with the cavity, a superior blade guide, and an inferior blade guide. The body also includes a first blade situated on the superior blade guide and movable along the superior blade guide after implantation of the, and a second blade situated on the inferior blade movable along the inferior blade guide after implantation of the body. The installation tool includes a handle, a hollow shaft connected to the handle, a pusher rod configured to extend through the hollow shaft and extend the first and second blades, and a graft rod configured to extend through the hollow shaft and introduce graft material into the spine implant.

Abstract: A device adapted to be positioned between two bone regions, the device comprising at least one wall defining at least one interior cavity, and, a load arrangement extending from the wall and comprising at least one interacting feature configured to load material positioned within the cavity by interacting with either a second interacting feature or the wall.

Abstract: The present invention provides a spinal fusion cage that can be inserted between vertebral bodies at the lowest height, and the height thereof may be adjusted with being inserted, such that cages having different heights within a certain range may be replaced by one cage. Therefore, the number of product groups that should be produced is reduced and the amount in stock is also decreased on the manufacturer. In addition, unlike the cage having a predetermined height at a constant interval in the prior art, the height of the spinal fusion cage is linearly adjusted according to a spacing between vertebral bodies of a patient, such that the surgery may be performed at the optimal height according to spinal conditions of the patient.

Abstract: A resilient core is positioned between bony projections which are offset from a principal load bearing region of a spinal joint. Shaped projections extend from the core, and engage the bony projections by conforming to anatomical landmarks, and may be fastened to the bony projections. During flexion of the joint, the core absorbs some of the force of compression, and limits an extent to which the joint may compress. If the shaped projections are connected to the bony projections, extension of the joint is inhibited by the projections and the core, limiting the extent to which the joint may be distracted. In this manner, healing is fostered, and a weakened or damaged joint is protected from excessive movement.

Abstract: Disclosed are laminoplasty devices and systems, kits that include such laminoplasty devices or systems or components thereof; and methods of assembling and using such laminoplasty devices and systems. In particular, articulating laminoplasty devices are provided that allow lamina plates to be adjusted angularly and transitionally with respect to a cage connecting the lamina plates. Also provided are laminoplasty plates that are configured so as to be assembled with a bone graft housing, and which provide an opening configured to facilitate bone graft insertion into the housing. Further provided are expandable laminoplasty fixation systems that include a lateral mass plate, a lamina plate and a set screw that when screwed and unscrewed, allows one to contract and expand the plates with respect to one another.

Abstract: Devices and methods for intervertebral spinal fusion of adjacent intervertebral bodies are provided. An intervertebral spacer is positioned within a narrow disc space between adjacent intervertebral bodies of a patient. The spacer is arranged with upper and lower guides. The guides are adapted to simultaneously guide the deployment of upper and lower anchors of an anchoring device into their respective intervertebral bodies. The spacer is also adapted to lock the upper and lower anchors to the spacer in the deployed position.

Abstract: Embodiments herein are generally directed to vertebral implants and implant trials for use with vertebral implant assemblies. In some embodiments, these implants and implant trials may be used in conjunction with corpectomy procedures.

Abstract: The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube.

Abstract: A bone fusion method, system and device for insertion between bones that are to be fused together in order to replace degenerated discs and/or bones, for example, the vertebrae of a spinal column. The bone fusion device comprises a frame and one or more extendable plates that are able to be angled, rotatable, adjustable, and have top profiles designed to correct and/or match the replaced discs/bones. The bone fusion device is able to be inserted between or replace the vertebrae by using a minimally invasive procedure wherein the dimensions and/or other characteristics of the bone fusion device are selectable based on the type of minimally invasive procedure.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surfaces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: A methodology for grafting together adjacent bony structures is provided using an implant device having an endplate with an inner disc portion and outer ring portion spaced from the inner disc portion by a connecting wall disposed there between. An endplate interior surface includes a retaining structure for securing the endplate to one of the bony structures, and endplate an exterior surface has an integrally formed socket. A ball-joint rod has a longitudinally extending body and an end, and at least a portion of the ball-joint rod end is curvilinear in shape. The curvilinear ball-joint rod end is rotatably disposed in the endplate socket to fixedly interconnect the bony structures.

Abstract: A wedge has an outer perimeter and includes a top surface extending generally in a first plane and having a top osteointegration surface disposed thereon. A bottom surface extends in a second plane that extends obliquely with respect to the first plane. The first plane intersects the second plane outside the outer perimeter of the implant and includes a bottom osteointegration surface disposed thereon. A plurality of side surfaces extends between the top surface and the bottom surface and defines the outer perimeter, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of side surfaces is devoid of any osteointegration surface.

Abstract: A surgical implant system includes a surgical implant for securing adjacent vertebrae of a spine to each other. The surgical implant includes a spacer having at least one implant eyelet. The surgical implant system also includes at least one vertebral anchor configured for insertion through the at least one implant eyelet to fasten the surgical implant to the spine. The vertebral anchor has a tip portion, a head portion, an elongate shank extending from the head portion, and an elongate fin extending from the head portion and along a surface of the elongate shank. The elongate shank and the elongate fin form a generally t-shaped cross-section.

Abstract: An assembly for assisting with positioning of an intervertebral implant, including an implant holder having an elongate body extending along a longitudinal axis between first and second ends, the first end being adapted to be attached to the stabilising wedge of an intervertebral implant, the first end of the implant holder having a deflection device including an opening having a central axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the implant holder but not converging with the longitudinal axis, the opening allowing the braid of an implant to pass therethrough in such a way that, when in use, the braid may have a first portion extending substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis from the implant to the opening, and a second portion extending from the opening to the free end in a plane substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the implant holder to allow the tensioning of the braid.

Abstract: An implant may include a housing having a peripheral frame including an inner edge defining a central opening in a central portion of the implant; and a blade located within the central opening and having a retracted position in the housing and an extended position where the blade extends outwardly. The blade may be configured to be moved in a direction between the retracted position and the extended position. In addition, the blade may have at least one flange extending in a posterior direction. Also, the inner edge of the peripheral frame may include a posterior edge configured to support two portions of the blade in two respective locations, including a first location in which the posterior edge of the peripheral frame supports a first portion of the blade and a second location in which the posterior edge supports a second portion of the blade.