| WARSAW ORTHOPEDIC, INC. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120136391 | Implants and Methods for Inter-Spinous Process Dynamic Stabilization of Spinal Motion Segment - An implant assembly for stabilizing a spinal motion segment includes a spacer which is at least partially flexible and positionable in an interspinous spacer between adjacent spinous processes. The spacer member includes upper and lower surfaces structured to receive a respective adjacent one of the upper and lower spinous processes of the spinal motion segment and a body having distinctive first and second sections with differing flexibility to modify the manner of movement at the spinal motion segment. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120136275 | Apparatus and Method for Locating Defects in Bone Tissue - An instrument for locating defects adjacent neural elements in bone tissue includes a handle member with a rotatable coupling member and a probe member coupled to the coupling member. The probe member extends distally from the handle member and includes a longitudinal shaft portion along a longitudinal axis and a distal angled portion extending transversely to the longitudinal axis at a small acute angle. The angled portion has a probe end that carries an electrical signal. The handle member operates to rotate the probe member and the probe end about the longitudinal axis to sweep holes in the bone tissue to locate possible defects in the bone tissue. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120130386 | BONE GRAFT INJECTION SYRINGE - A syringe that has a barrel with curvature is provided. The curvature enables a greater volume of bone graft materials to be housed than in a straight syringe without increasing the absolute distance from the handle of the plunger to dispensing end of the syringe. Additionally by maintaining a constant diameter, the barrel permits bone graft material to be dispersed with reduced likelihood of clogging. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120116464 | MULTI-THREAD BONE SCREW AND METHOD - A bone screw comprises a threaded shank including a distal end portion and a proximal end portion, and defining a first threaded section extending from the distal end portion toward the proximal end portion and adapted for anchoring in cancellous bone. A second threaded section extends contiguously from the first threaded section toward the proximal end portion The second threaded section has a finer thread pattern relative to the first threaded section. In one embodiment, the first threaded section includes a first helical threading defining a single lead thread pattern for anchoring in cancellous bone, and the second threaded section includes a second helical threading interleaved with the first threading to define a duel lead thread pattern for engagement in cortical bone. In a further embodiment, the bone screw includes a head portion extending from the threaded shank and configured for coupling to a spinal implant. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120116458 | MODULAR PIVOTABLE SCREW ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A bone anchor assembly and a rigid extension rod removably coupleable thereto. The bone anchor assembly includes a screw base and a pivoting post. The post has a first recess in a proximal endface thereof, which may have first threads therein. The extension rod has a distal section separated from a proximal section by an intermediate section. The rod distal section has external threads that are threadingly engageable with the threads of the post recess. The rod third section may have external third threads of a different size. The rod intermediate section has an unthreaded exterior. When the extension rod is coupled to the post, an exterior of the second section of the extension rod is aligned with the exterior of the post. Other connection approaches may be used. An optional spacer may also be used to couple the rod to the post. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120116454 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACET JOINT STABILIZATION - In one form, a method for stabilization of a facet joint of the spinal column includes forming a cavity between adjacent bones defining the facet joint and positioning an implant in the cavity between the adjacent bones. In one aspect of this form, the method also includes positioning a bone anchor across the facet joint and engaging the bone anchor with each of the adjacent bones to force the bones toward one another and clamp the implant therebetween. In a further aspect of this form, the implant is a cancellous bone dowel and becomes fractured into a plurality of fragments upon being clamped between the adjacent bones and/or otherwise interacting with the bone anchor. In another form, systems and devices for performing percutaneous facet joint stabilization and/or fusion are provided. However, different forms and applications are also envisioned. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120114716 | Flowable Carrier Matrix - A carrier matrix may be delivered to a target position within a patient in a minimally invasive manner by first cutting a collagen sponge sheet into a plurality of relatively small pieces. These pieces are sized so that, when wet, they are capable of flowing through a cannula and/or reduced-diameter syringe tip. The pieces are placed into a syringe and wetted, say with a morphogenic solution, and optionally mixed with a bulking material, which is similarly sized to fit through the cannula. The thoroughly mixed and wetted product forms a viscous aggregate which may then be injected into the patient at the target site. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120109314 | Method of Using an Anti-Growth Matrix as a Barrier for Cell Attachment and Osteo-Inductive Factors - The present invention generally relates to a method of using a matrix as a barrier for unwanted cell attachment and bone formation in unwanted areas of the human body during implant procedures. More specifically, a growth-inhibiting matrix may be used to prevent migration of osteo-inductive agents or bone tissue from an intervertebral disc space through the outer bands of annulus fibrosis that abuts the spinal tissue, canal, and other surrounding areas. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109306 | SPINAL IMPLANT - A spinal implant configured for implantation in an intervertebral disc space is disclosed. The implant comprises a section for engaging a vertebral body. The section comprises a bone-engaging surface configured to engage at least a portion of a vertical surface and/or an endplate surface of the vertebral body. The section further comprises a metal component and a polymer component that are bonded together, wherein each of the metal component and the polymer component comprises at least one structural element configured to promote fixation between the polymer component and the metal component. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109304 | MEDICAL IMPLANT AND METHOD FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY - Embodiments of the invention include a medical implant for delivering photodynamic therapy. A device that includes a vertebral interbody device, alone or in combination with other complimentary elements, may be configured to deliver one or more therapeutic substances in combination with light emissions to provide photodynamic therapy. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109303 | IMPLANT ASSEMBLIES, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING STABILIZATION BETWEEN FIRST AND SECOND VERTEBRAE - Systems, methods and devices for providing stabilization between first and second vertebrae are provided. More particularly, in one form an implant assembly includes first and second end members configured to engage with the first and second vertebrae, respectively, and a support body configured to extend between and engage with the end members. In one aspect of this form, one or both of the end members is configured to facilitate injection of a material into one or both of the vertebrae. In another aspect, one or both of the end members includes a mesh material extending across a hollow interior to facilitate bone growth through the end member toward the support body. In another form, techniques for providing stabilization and support to vertebrae on opposite sides of a space created by removal of one or more vertebral elements are provided. However, different forms and applications are also envisioned. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109218 | Directional Control for a Multi-Axial Screw Assembly - A multi-axial screw assembly comprises a receiver, a base member, and a crown. The receiver comprises a channel for receiving a rod and an aperture extending from a bottom portion of the receiver. The base member comprises an aperture extending through the base member and an opening on a bottom portion of the base member. The base member is configured to couple to the receiver such that the aperture of the receiver is generally aligned with the aperture of the base member. The base member is rotatable relative to the receiver. The crown is received in the receiver and configured to mate to the base member. The crown has a mating feature configured to couple to the base member such that the crown rotates the base member when the crown is rotated. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109212 | COLLAR BORE CONFIGURATION FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION ASSEMBLY - A dynamic spinal stabilization assembly includes at least one mounting collar with a bore therethrough along a longitudinal axis, and a spinal rod slidably extending through the bore. The bore includes a medially disposed first section of reduced size that tapers both inwardly and outwardly relative to the axis, and respective end sections of relatively larger size. The bore may be defined by an interior wall that convexly curves toward the axis in the first section, advantageously with a constant non-zero radius of curvature. The bore profile helps minimize potential binding that may occur between the collar and the rod. The rod is coupled to bone anchoring elements, with at least one such connection being via the collar. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109210 | Connector for Connecting Elongated Members - A connector for connecting together elongated members in a side-by-side arrangement. The connector includes a first receptacle for connecting to the first elongated member, and a second receptacle for connecting to the second elongated member. The angular position of the second receptacle may be adjustable relative to the first receptacle to accommodate the elongated members. Further, the connector may be configured to extend between the elongated members and the patient when the connector is implanted in a patient. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109209 | Spinal Connector Assembly - A spinal connector assembly includes a connector body having a first receiver portion defining a first passage for receiving a first implant member, a second receiver portion defining a second passage for receiving a second implant member, and a threaded portion extending axially from the second receiver portion. A washer member is rotationally coupled with the connector body to permit rotational movement about the rotational axis and translational movement along the rotational axis, and includes a transverse channel generally aligned with the second passage of the connector body. A lock member is threadingly engaged with the threaded portion of the connector body such that threading engagement of the lock member along the threaded portion exerts an axial force onto the second implant member to compress the second implant member within the channel in the washer member which in turn displaces the washer member into compressed engagement with the first implant member to thereby lock the washer member and the second implant member at a select angular orientation relative to the connector body, and the axial force also compresses the first implant member into clamped engagement within the first passage of the connector body. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109208 | Low Profile Extension Attachments for Bone Anchors - Systems and methods for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column include at least one anchor assembly having an anchor engageable to bony structure and a receiver for receiving the connecting member. An elongated extension is removably engaged to the receiver and extends proximally from the receiver. The extension and at least a portion of the receiver is removable from the remaining portion of the receiver of the bone anchor after the connecting member is positioned in the receiver to provide a low profile anchor and connecting member assembly when finally implanted in the patient. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109207 | Enhanced Interfacial Conformance for a Composite Rod for Spinal Implant Systems with Higher Modulus Core and Lower Modulus Polymeric Sleeve - A spinal rod includes a core component and a tube. The core component has a diameter and an axial length. The tube has a diameter equal to or less than the diameter of the core component. A vibrational energy is applied between the core and the tube such that the core is received within the tube and the tube is advanced along the axial length of the tube. The spinal rod composite then has facial conformance forces maintaining the tube position along the axial length of the core. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109203 | SPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANT WITH EXTENDED POST - Spinous process implants that may include a first plate sized to extend along a first lateral side of the spinous processes and a second plate sized to extend along a second lateral side of the spinous processes. The second plate may include a bore that extends through the second plate. An elongated post may extend through the bore with a first end attached to the first plate and a second end positioned outward beyond the outer surface of the second plate away from the first plate. A joint may be positioned along the post that attaches a first section of the post to a second section of the post. The joint may be constructed to align the first and second sections in a collinear orientation and to remove the second section from the first section. Additional joints may also be positioned along the post. The bore may be sized relative to the post for the second plate to be movable along a length of the post. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109198 | SPINOUS PROCESS IMPLANT WITH A POST AND AN ENLARGED BOSS - A spinous process implant with two plates that are connected together with a post. The implant is configured for each plate to be positioned on outer lateral sides of spinous processes with the post extending through the interspinous space. One or both plates may be movable along the length of the post to accommodate different anatomies such as for relatively wide or thin spinous processes. The post includes an enlarged head at a first end to prevent the first plate from disassociating from the post in a first direction. The post also includes a boss at a second end to prevent the second plate from disassociating from the post in a second direction. Methods of attaching the implants to the spinous processes are also disclosed. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109143 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PLANTARY GEAR SYSTEM - A surgical instrument for applying a rotational force to a structural element during a surgical procedure. The instrument may be designed for increasing an input force to produce an enlarged output force adequate for fracturing an excess section of the elongated element from a remainder of the structural element. The instrument may include an input mechanism that receives an external rotational input force, a planetary gear system that multiples the input force, and an output mechanism that attaches to and delivers the multiplied rotational output force to the excess section of the structural element. The output mechanism may also be configured to capture the separated excess section. The instrument may include a housing and a handle for grasping and manipulating during the surgical procedure. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109126 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CYCLOIDAL GEAR SYSTEM - A surgical instrument for applying a rotational force to a structural element during a surgical procedure. The instrument may be designed for increasing an input force to produce an enlarged output force adequate for fracturing an excess section of the elongated element from a remainder of the structural element. The instrument may include an input mechanism that receives an external rotational input force, a cycloidal gear system that multiples the input force, and an output mechanism that attaches to and delivers the multiplied rotational output force to the excess section of the structural element. The output mechanism may also be configured to capture the separated excess section. The instrument may include a housing and a handle for grasping and manipulating during the surgical procedure. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120107401 | OSTEOCONDUCTIVE MATRICES COMPRISING STATINS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Osteoconductive matrices and methods are provided that have one or more statins disposed therein. The matrices may be injected into a fracture site. The osteoconductive matrices provided allow for sustain release of the statin and facilitate bone formation and repair of the fracture site. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120107383 | OSTEOCONDUCTIVE MATRICES COMPRISING CALCIUM PHOSPHATE PARTICLES AND STATINS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - Osteoconductive matrices and methods are provided that have one or more statins disposed in calcium phosphate particles. The matrices may be injected into a fracture site. The osteoconductive matrices provided allow for sustained release of the statin and facilitate bone formation and repair of the fracture site. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120101404 | Methods for Detecting Osteolytic Conditions in the Body - Methods and systems for detecting a biological response indicative of osteolysis or preconditions in bone. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120101341 | SURGICAL ACCESS DEVICE SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE - A surgical access device can include a plurality of retractor members that together define a lumen having a first cross-sectional dimension. Each of the plurality of retractor members can be moved radially outward to at least a second cross-sectional dimension to create a surgical access passage. The surgical access device, systems and kits comprising the surgical access device, and methods of using the surgical access device can include a mechanism for inserting an elongate member from exterior the body to the surgical she, a mechanism for moving the retractor members radially outward, a mechanism for guiding the radially outward movement of the retractor members, a mechanism for securing each of the retractor members in a range of positions, and a mechanism for illuminating the surgical site. Variations of the devices, systems, kits, and methods are useful for creating and maintaining a surgical access passage for performing minimally invasive surgery. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120100225 | OSTEOINDUCTIVE BONE GRAFT INJECTABLE CEMENT - Osteoconductive bone graft materials are provided. These compositions contain injectable cements and demineralized bone matrix fibers. The combination of these materials enables the filling of a bone void while balancing strength and resorption. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120095417 | Surgical Delivery Instrument and Method - A surgical instrument includes a needle extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The needle defines a longitudinal axis. The needle includes an elongated cavity that defines an opening disposed proximal to the distal end. A wire extends between a proximal end and a distal end configured for fixation with tissue. The wire is configured for movable disposal within the cavity. The distal end of the wire includes a retainer configured to prevent advancement of the retainer within the tissue. Methods of use are disclosed. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120071784 | Instruments and Methods for Nerve Monitoring in Spinal Surgical Procedures - Systems and methods include an anchor engageable to a vertebra and an extender removably mounted to the anchor. The extender includes an insulating member extending at least partially thereabout to electrically insulate the extender and prevent shunting of electrical signals delivered through the extender to the anchor to structures adjacent the extender. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120065735 | ANNULUS REPAIR SYSTEMS AND TECHNIQUES - Systems and methods for repairing annulus defects include at least one blocking member positionable in or adjacent to the annulus defect, at least one attachment portion for securing the blocking member to adjacent tissue, and instruments for placing and engaging the blocking member in and/or adjacent to the annulus defect. The blocking member extends at least partially across the annulus defect for repair of the defect and/or retention of nucleus material, one or more implants, bio-compatible materials or device, and/or other objects positioned in the disc space. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120065693 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COMPRESSING AND DISTRACTING VERTEBRAE OF THE SPINAL COLUMN - 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. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120065687 | Multi-Radius Vertebral Rod With a Varying Stiffness - Vertebral rods are provided that have predetermined curvatures to support various sections of the spine. The vertebral rods include a first end that is attached to a lower region of the spine, and a second end that is attached to an upper region of the spine. The construction of the rod results in a change in stiffness along the length between the first and second ends. The rods may also include predetermined curvatures to support various sections of the spine. The rods may include two of more longitudinal sections with different radii of curvatures to accommodate attachment to the various regions of the spine. The rods may also include one or more substantially straight sections. The rods may include a length to extend along a limited portion of the spine, or may extend along a majority of the spine. Further, the rods include a varying stiffness along the length. The stiffness generally decreases from the first end that is attached to a lower region of the spine to the second end that is attached to a higher region of the spine. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120065684 | Intervertebral Prosthetic Device For Spinal Stabilization and Method of Implanting Same - A prosthetic device for insertion between first and second vertebrae comprises a unitary body having posterior and anterior portions. The posterior portion includes first and second flanges and the anterior portion includes third and fourth flanges. The first and third flanges form a first groove and the second and fourth flanges form a second groove. The first and second grooves are configured to extend through the sagittal plane when the body is disposed between first and second vertebrae. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120065497 | Three Dimensional Minimally-Invasive Spinal Imaging System and Method - A method and system is disclosed that is operable to generate a location value associated with an implant that has been implanted in a predetermined location of a vertebra of a spine. The location value can be utilized to generate a three-dimensional animation of the spine in motion. The system includes a plurality of implants that include a controller having a memory. The implants also include a telemetry unit connected with the controller that is used to wirelessly transmit and receive data. In addition, the implants include an acoustic generator that is configured to generate an acoustic pulse in response to a signal from the controller. An external control unit is wirelessly connected with the implant for receiving various data values from the implant. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120059434 | Implantable Tissue Growth Stimulator - An implantable tissue growth stimulator is disclosed. The implantable tissue growth stimulator includes electronic circuitry to alter the voltage output by the stimulator. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may he controlled from an external device via wireless communication. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be configured for use with an implants in particular, the implantable tissue growth stimulator may be incorporated into an orthopaedic device such as a hip prosthesis. The implantable. tissue growth stimulator may be used to stimulate bone growth. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120059423 | Deformity Correction Using Neural Integrity Monitoring - A method is provided for detecting neural interference between a bone anchor and a neural element during or subsequent to the application of force on the bone anchor to adjust the orientation of one or more vertebral bodies relative to the spinal column. The method includes engaging at least one bone anchor to the vertebral body and applying force to the bone anchor to adjust the positioning or orientation of the vertebral body. A nerve monitoring system provides an electrical signal and is operable to detect a neural element and its proximity to the bone anchor as a function of a characteristic of the electrical signal. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120046663 | BONE SCORING DEVICE - A bone scoring device having a body, a scoring member configured to engage a bone surface and a first biasing member connected to and configured to rotate the scoring member is provided. The scoring member being axially movable between a first, non-rotatable position, such that the scoring member is engaged with the body and a second rotatable position such that the scoring member is released from engagement with the body and freely rotates. The scoring member having an abrasive surface to score the surface of the bone in which it is put in contact. A method for using the scoring device as well as a kit including the scoring device are also provided. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120045736 | ANCHORING IMPLANT - An implant includes a collar configured for disposal within tissue. The collar defines an axial bore. A shaft extends between a first end and a second end. The shaft is configured for disposal with the bore of the collar. A base defines an axial bore having an inner surface configured for engagement with the shaft such that the base is axially movable relative to the shaft. At least one arm extends between the collar and the base. The at least one arm is movable via axial movement of the base relative to the shaft between a first position and a second position such that the at least one arm is expanded in a configuration to engage tissue. Methods of use are also disclosed. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120045735 | IMPLANT REPAIR SYSTEM AND METHOD - A dental implant system includes bone growth promoting material configured for disposal within a body cavity about an implant. A protective element is configured to overlay the bone growth promoting material. Methods of use are also disclosed. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120041559 | INTERBODY SPINAL IMPLANTS WITH EXTRAVERTEBRAL SUPPORT PLATES - An implant assembly for a spinal column includes at least a plate and an interbody implant attached to the plate. The interbody implant is positioned in the spinal disc space and the plate extends extradiscally for attachment to the first and second vertebrae outside the disc space. The assembly may include recesses in the bottom surface of the plate, spacers, and spacing portions extending from the bottom surface of the plate that allow the plate to be secured to the interbody implant when the trailing end of the interbody implant is positioned in a recessed, flush or overhanging position relative to the laterally facing surfaces of the vertebrae. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041558 | C1 - C2 IMPLANT AND METHODS OF USE - An implant for positioning between the C1 and C2 vertebral members. The implants may include a blade sized to be inserted between the C1 and C2 members. The blade may include a length measured between an insertion tip and a second side, and a height measured between a superior side that contacts against the C1 vertebral member and an inferior side that contacts against the C2 vertebral member. A leg may be positioned at the second side of the blade. The leg may extend outward below the inferior side of the blade and away from second side of the blade to extend across an exterior of the C2 vertebral member. An aperture is positioned to extend through the implant. The implant may extend through the blade or may extend through a flange that extends from the blade. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041494 | VERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An implant and method for attaching to vertebral members with the implant including a plate and a cage. The plate is configured to be positioned against and anchored to the bodies of the vertebral members. The plate may also extend into the intervertebral space between the vertebral members. The cage extends outward from the plate and is positioned within the intervertebral space. The implant provides a low profile that is positionable between the bodies of the vertebral members and the lamina/pars/facet joint. The implant may be implanted utilizing a lateral access to the spine. The implant and method may further include just the plate without the cage. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120041444 | ORTHOPEDIC SURGERIES - The present invention relates to the use of composite materials that can be prepared and delivered to an implant area. The composite materials may be a biocomposite remodeling bone cement (BRBC) material. In one embodiment of the invention the material is introduced in an interface between a first bone and a first joint implant component. | 02-16-2012 |
| 20120035667 | LOCKING MECHANISMS FOR PIVOTING BONE ANCHORS - Bone anchors are provided that include a distal shaft for engaging bony structure of a vertebral body and a proximal post pivotably mounted at or near the proximal end of the shaft during implantation of the bone anchor. The bone anchors include a locking member that is engageable to the post and to the shaft to lock the post in a selected angular orientation relative to the shaft. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035611 | MEASURING INSTRUMENT FOR SIZING AN ELONGATE STABILIZATION ELEMENT - A medical instrument includes first and second support members movably coupled to one another to provide variable spacing between distal portions of the support members. A first engagement element is attached to the distal portion of the first support member and extends generally along a first axis, and a second engagement element is attached to the distal portion of the second support member and extends generally along a second axis. At least one of the engagement elements includes an articulating portion articularly engaged with a mounting portion to provide multi-axial movement therebetween to thereby vary an angular orientation of the first axis relative to the second axis. An indicator extends between proximal portions of the support members and includes multiple indicia corresponding to variable distances between the first and second axes adjacent the engagement elements to provide an indication corresponding to a select distance between the first and second axes adjacent the engagement elements. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035423 | SURGICAL ACCESS INSTRUMENT - Embodiments of the invention include instruments and methods for providing surgical access to a surgical site. Some embodiments include a flexible arm that adjustably holds a retractor blade to enable access to the surgical site. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120029640 | VERTEBRAL IMPLANT END CAP - An implant and method for insertion between adjacent vertebral members. The implant comprising an implant body with a base section having a plurality of base extensions and securing depressions, and an end cap adapted for selective axial positioning at a selected point on the base section and subsequent rotational adjustment about an implant axis. The end cap also comprising a fixed aperture and a variable aperture, both configured to receive and lockingly engage corresponding base extensions and securing depressions to securely maintain the end cap positioned on the base section. The fixed and variable passages are configured and located to permit rotational end cap adjustment. The implant imparts end cap height and angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected or desired point when the implant is positioned and lockingly engaged in the intervertebral space. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029639 | INTERBODY SPINAL IMPLANTS AND INSERTION TECHNIQUES - An implant for a spinal column is disclosed that is capable of being inserted into a patient in a first orientation having a reduced or minimum height and then rotated to a second orientation providing a second or maximum height, wherein in each orientation the height of the implant extends in a direction from one endplate toward the other endplate of adjacent vertebrae. The implant includes first and second side-by-side elongate members that are separately rotated from the first orientation to the second orientation after implantation. The first and second implant members are interconnected by a housing that maintains the first and second members in side-by-side relation. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029638 | VERTEBRAL BODY REPLACEMENT DEVICE CONFIGURED TO DELIVER A THERAPEUTIC SUBSTANCE - Embodiments of the invention include a medical implant having a vertebral body replacement device, alone or in combination with other complimentary elements, configured to deliver one or more therapeutic substances. The one or more therapeutic substances may be contained in the medical implant or be ported to the medical implant. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029634 | VERTEBRAL IMPLANT END CAP - An implant and method for insertion between adjacent vertebral members. The implant comprising an implant body with a base section having a plurality of base extensions, and an end cap adapted for selective axial positioning at a selected point on the base section and subsequent rotational adjustment about an implant axis. The end cap also comprising a fixed aperture and a variable aperture, both configured to receive and lockingly engage corresponding base extensions to securely maintain the end cap positioned on the base section. The fixed and variable passages are configured and located to permit rotational end cap adjustment. The implant imparts end cap height and angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected or desired point when the implant is positioned and lockingly engaged in the intervertebral space, | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029572 | ACHORING MECHANISM - A system for anchoring at least a portion of material to a vertebral body is disclosed. The anchoring system comprises a base configured to affix to the vertebral body and configured to receive the at least a portion of material, and an anchoring mechanism configured to engage with the base and configured to anchor the at least a portion of material, wherein the mechanism comprises at least one elastic element configured to apply pressure to the at least a portion of material so as to anchor the at least a portion of material to the base. Also, a method for attaching at least a portion of material to bone is disclosed. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029571 | Adjustable Connector for Interconnecting Elongate Rod Members at Variable Angular Orientations - An adjustable connector including first and second connector members rotationally coupled together and configured to receive first and second spinal rods, respectively. In one embodiment, the first connector member includes an elongated slot that receives the first rod and has a length extending along an axis arranged transverse to the rotational axis, and the second connector member includes a second passage that receives the second rod. A lock member is positioned between the connector members and includes an angled rod bearing surface extending along a plane oriented at an oblique angle relative to the rotational axis. A compression member extends into the first passage of the first connector member and into compressed engagement with the first rod to displace the first rod along the length of the elongated slot and into sliding engagement with the angled rod bearing surface, which in turn axially displaces the lock member toward the second connector member to compress the first interface surface of the lock member against an opposing second interface surface to selectively prevent relative rotation between the connector members. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029567 | ANCHORING MECHANISM - A system for anchoring at least a portion of material to a vertebral body is disclosed. The anchoring system comprises a base configured to affix to the vertebral body, configured to receive the at least a portion of material, and configured to receive a fastener so as to apply pressure to the at least a portion of material so as to anchor the at least a portion of material to the base. Another system further comprises an anchoring mechanism configured to engage with the base and configured to anchor the at least a portion of material, wherein the anchoring mechanism comprises at least one elastic element configured to engage with a fastener and configured to apply pressure to the at least a portion of material so as to anchor the at least a portion of material to the base. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029566 | ADJUSTABLE SPINAL CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY - A spinal connector assembly including a connector body defining first and second passages arranged transverse to one another and configured to receive respective portions of an implant and an elongate rod. A collet receives a portion of the implant therein and extends through the first passage with an upper portion extending axially beyond an upper side of the connector body and a lower portion extending axially beyond a lower side of the connector body. A washer is positioned annularly about the lower portion of the collet and beneath the connector body with a top side of the washer facing a lower side of the connector body and with one of the top and lower sides defining a convex surface and the other defining a concave surface. A lock member is engaged with the upper portion of the collet and exerts an upward force thereon to pull the collet and the washer in an upward direction to draw the convex and concave surfaces into compressed engagement with one another, and the upward force also drawing an outer surface of the collet against an inner engagement surface to inwardly displace a portion of the collet into clamped engagement with the implant member. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029564 | Composite Rod for Spinal Implant Systems With Higher Modulus Core and Lower Modulus Polymeric Sleeve - A spinal rod includes a metal component and a tube. The core component has a radius. The tube has a first state with a first state tube inner radius and a first state tube outer radius. The first state tube inner radius is greater than the core component radius. The tube has a second state with a second state tube inner radius and a second state tube outer radius. The second state tube inner radius is generally equal to the core component radius. The tube is deformable from the first state to the second state. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029518 | LUMBO-SACRAL IMPLANT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system for treating a lumbo-sacral junction includes at least one dilator configured to create a passageway from a direct lateral trajectory in a body defining a longitudinal axis. A cutting instrument is configured to create a bore, oriented at an angle from the longitudinal axis, in a L5 vertebrae of the body extending to a central portion of a L5-S1 intervertebral disc space of the body. A delivery instrument is configured to deliver an implant through the bore to the central portion of the L5-S1 disc space. Methods of use are disclosed. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029042 | CLONIDINE FOR TREATMENT OF BONE CANCER - The present invention is directed to a method for treating osteolytic bone cancer. The method comprises implanting a drug depot locally at or near the osteolytic bone cancer, wherein the drug depot comprises at least one biodegradable polymer and clonidine in an amount from about 0.1 wt. % to about 30 wt. % of the drug depot. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028219 | BIOADHESIVE FOR PERIODONTAL GINGIVAL AND/OR BONE TISSUES - The invention is directed to an adhesive strip, particularly an adhesive strip or bandage for use in periodontal treatments. The biocompatible adhesive strip comprises a flexible barrier with a biocompatible adhesive for use in an oral environment, wherein the adhesive is in a non-tacky state when dry and becomes adherent upon contact with liquids. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120022570 | DILATION APPARATUS AND METHOD - A surgical dilator and method of dilating an incision in a patient is disclosed. The surgical dilator includes a first dilation member having a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end includes an aperture having a first retaining pin positioned therein that is exposed on an outside surface of the proximal end of the first dilation member. A second dilation member is included that has a distal end, a proximal end, and a hollow interior. The distal end is sized to receive the proximal end of the first dilation member. The second dilation member includes a first compression slot sized to receive the retaining pin of the first dilation member. The first and second dilation members are configured to be oriented in an expanded state and a compressed state in which the second dilation member is compressed down onto the first dilation member such that the first dilation member is received in the hollow interior of the second dilation member. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022541 | BONE REPLACEMENT MATERIAL DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS OF MONITORING BONE REPLACEMENT MATERIAL - Bone material delivery devices and methods of using the devices are provided. The bone material delivery devices and methods comprise thermochromic material disposed on the exterior of the syringe, the thermochromic material configured to provide an indication of temperature, viscosity, and/or age of bone replacement material in the interior of the syringe. In some embodiments, a time indicating label is disposed on the exterior of the syringe, the time indicating label comprising a label substrate having a first surface comprising an acid-base indicator and a second surface comprising an activator, wherein when the first surface is brought into contact with the second surface or when the second surface is brought into contact with the first surface, at least a portion of the label changes color indicating elapsed time. In some embodiments, the devices and methods allow the practitioner to know the dough time, working time, and setting time of the bone replacement material when it is in the syringe. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021370 | BIODEGRADABLE STENTS AND METHODS FOR TREATING PERIODONTAL DISEASE - Biodegradable stents and methods for selectively guided tissue regeneration in treating a periodontal defect adjacent to a root of a tooth are provided. The biodegradable stents and methods comprise a coronal portion and a transverse portion or shelf, which reduce unwanted migration of gingival epithelium, gingival connective tissue, and soft tissue and enable the cementum and periodontal ligament cells to re-establish the periodontal ligament in a proper sequence resulting in a new periodontal attachment. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021369 | PERIODONTAL DISEASE SPACE MAINTENANCE DEVICES AND METHODS - Devices and methods are provided for maintaining space to treat a periodontal defect adjacent to a tooth, the devices and methods comprise a supporting structure comprising a pin, or suture or mesh having a body configured to extend over the periodontal defect and hold gingival tissue above the defect, the supporting structure having a first end configured to retain the supporting structure against at least a portion of the tooth and a second end configured to be attached or implanted in or on at least a portion of bone adjacent to the periodontal defect. The devices and methods provided maintain space between at least gingival tissue and the periodontal ligament and avoid compression of any bone replacement material in the defect. In some embodiments, the devices and methods provided can be removed from the healed periodontal defect without the need to cut into healed soft tissue. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120016478 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT WITH MULTI-PIECE END CAP - Implants sized to be inserted into an intervertebral space between first and second vertebral members, and related methods. The spinal implant may have a body extending along a longitudinal axis with opposing first and second longitudinal ends. An end cap is mounted to the body at one of the ends and disposed longitudinally outboard of the corresponding end. The end cap comprises a first portion, a second portion, and an annular elastic element, such as an O-ring. The first and second portions are disposed circumferentially around the longitudinal axis. The annular elastic member circumferentially surrounds the first portion, the second portion, and the longitudinal axis. The annular elastic member applies a compressive force that urges the first and second portions together in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. The end cap may be flat or angled. Other implants and related methods are disclosed. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120016477 | LOCKABLE IMPLANT AND METHOD OF USE - A spinal implant includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and an outer surface. The outer surface includes a first portion configured to engage a first bone surface and a second portion configured to engage a second opposing bone surface. A first locking element has a center of rotation along a first axis offset from the longitudinal axis. The first locking element is rotatable relative to the body between a first, non-engaging configuration and a second engaging configuration such that the first locking element extends beyond the outer surface. Methods of use are disclosed. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120016476 | INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT WITH A HINGE END CAP - Devices and methods for spacing apart vertebral members. The implant may include a body and an end cap. Connectors may extend outward from the body to attach with the end cap. The end cap may include a hinged design to securely attach to the body. The hinged design may include first and second sections that are connected at a hinge. The implant may also include a second end cap positioned at the opposite end of the body. The second end cap may be the same or different than the first end cap. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120016424 | EXTENSIONS FOR SPINAL ANCHORS - Systems and methods for positioning a connecting member adjacent the spinal column include at least one anchor assembly having an anchor engageable to bony structure and a receiver for receiving the connecting member. An extension member is engaged to the receiver and defines a pathway that extends proximally from the receiver. The connecting member is movable along the extension member to the receiver of the bone anchor. The extension member is removable from the receiver of the bone anchor after the connecting member is positioned in the receiver to provide a low profile anchor and connecting member assembly when finally implanted in the patient. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120014868 | METHODS TO DIAGNOSE DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE - Methods are provided that better describe, and localize the pain generator or suspected pain generator in and around spinal discs in relation to neck or back pain so as to improve the diagnosis of degenerative disc disease. In some embodiments, there are methods for diagnosing a pain generator or a suspected pain generator in a patient suffering from back pain, the methods comprise labeling an inflammatory, vascular, neuronal, and/or metabolic pain marker at a location inside of or adjacent to an intervertebral disc in the patient suffering from back pain to increase an image of the pain marker with an imaging procedure; and imaging the labeled inflammatory, vascular, neuronal, and/or metabolic pain marker in a manner sufficient to diagnose the pain generator or suspected pain generator. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120010668 | EXPANDABLE SURGICAL IMPLANT - An implant includes an elongate body having at least two radially expandable portions in the vicinity of the distal end thereof. An expander is disposed at least partially within the axial bore of the body, the expander including a longitudinal shaft and a tip at the distal end of the shaft. The expander is longitudinally movable between a distal position wherein the tip is positioned distal to the distal end of the body and a proximal position wherein the expandable portions of the body are moved to a radially outward expanded configuration by a camming action of the tip. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010661 | MULTI-AXIAL ORTHOPEDIC DEVICE AND SYSTEM - Embodiments of an orthopedic implant device and system, and methods for implanting them, are disclosed. The implant may include a receiver member having a channel for accommodating an elongated rod or other longitudinal member, a bone anchoring member such as a screw or hook, and a base member rotatable with respect to the receiver member for retaining the bone anchoring member in the receiver member. The base member is configured to allow at least two different degrees of maximum angulation of the bone anchoring member with respect to the receiver member. The number and relative direction of such angulations are independent of the orientation of the channel or other part of the receiving member. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010629 | SURGICAL ASSEMBLY WITH FLEXIBLE ARM - A surgical assembly includes a tensioner having a first end and a second end. A tension member extends from the first end of the tensioner. A mounting member is connected to the second end of the tensioner. An arm extends from the first end of the tensioner and includes a series of relatively moveable links that define an axial bore configured for disposal of the tension member. Each link defines a first mating surface and a second mating surface disposed in a configuration such that tensioning of the tension member interlocks the first mating surface with the second mating surface of an adjacent link in the series to selectively fix the links in a selected orientation. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010471 | OVER DILATION - A device, system and method for dilating a patient during a minimally invasive surgical procedure is disclosed. A surgical dilation system includes a dilator having an outer tubular member and an inner tubular member sized to be movably received within an inside diameter of the outer tubular member. The outer tubular member includes a vertical slot running through a side of the outer tubular member. The inner tubular member has an upper portion and a lower portion. The retractor has a proximal end including at least one mounting member protruding outwardly from a side surface of the retractor and a distal end including at least one fanned blade protruding outwardly from the side surface. When the inner tubular member is oriented in a first position the vertical slot is in a closed state, when the inner tubular member is oriented in a second position the mounting member is permitted to travel downwardly a predetermined distance in the vertical slot, and when the inner tubular member is positioned in a third state the mounting member is permitted to freely travel through the vertical slot. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120009230 | MALLEABLE IMPLANTS CONTAINING DEMINERALIZED BONE MATRIX - Described are malleable medical compositions such as pastes or putties that include solids combined with a liquid carrier. The solids can include particulate collagen and particulate demineralized bone matrix. The liquid carrier includes an aqueous medium comprising one or more polysaccharides. Also described are methods for making and using such medical compositions. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120003315 | Flowable Carrier Matrix - A carrier matrix may be delivered to a target position within a patient in a minimally invasive manner by first cutting a collagen sponge sheet into a plurality of relatively small pieces. These pieces are sized so that, when wet, they are capable of flowing through a cannula and/or reduced-diameter syringe tip. The pieces are placed into a syringe and wetted, say with a morphogenic solution, and optionally mixed with a bulking material, which is similarly sized to fit through the cannula. The thoroughly mixed and wetted product forms a viscous aggregate which may then be injected into the patient at the target site. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110320001 | REVISION SPACER - An intervertebral fusion device for promoting fusion of first and second vertebrae comprises first and second endplate modules. Each endplate module includes an outer surface adapted to interface with vertebral bone and an opposite inner surface. The endplate modules further include an attachment feature. A central module is adapted to extend between the first and second endplate modules and is further adapted for connection with the attachment feature. A through passage extends through the outer and inner surfaces of the each of the first and second endplates and through the central module. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110319938 | COPLANAR DEFORMITY CORRECTION SYSTEM - A bone anchor assembly is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver mounted to the bone anchor, a saddle within the receiver, a spacer within the receiver, and an engaging member. The receiver extends along a central longitudinal axis proximally away from the bone anchor. A rod or other elongated connecting element is received in a passage of the receiver in contact with the saddle, and the engaging member engages the connecting element against the saddle, which engages the saddle against the spacer, which in turn engages the proximal head of the bone anchor in the receiver. The orientation of the saddle in the receiver is adjustable to correspond to the orientation of the connecting element relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiver. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110313461 | FLEXIBLE SPINAL STABILIZATION ELEMENT AND SYSTEM - Systems and devices for providing dynamic stabilization of one or more spinal motion segments are provided. The systems include a connecting element between two or more bone anchor assemblies that can be attached to two or more vertebral bodies of at least one spinal motion segment. The connecting element includes a first end, a second end, an intermediate resilient element and a sheathed tether extending from the first end to the second end and through the resilient intermediate element. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110313431 | SUTURE AND ANCHOR FOR PERIODONTAL PROCEDURES AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A suture system that includes at least one suture having an end portion, a loop portion configured to be disposed about a fixed point and an anchor configured to be connected to the end portion for anchoring the suture to tissue adjacent to the fixed point, wherein the loop portion of the suture is disposed about the fixed point so as to reduce a gap between the tissue and the fixed point. A kit including at least one suture system, a surgical tool for manipulating the suture and written instructions of use are disclosed. A method for using the suture system is also described. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110313393 | Implantable Device and Method for Delivering Drug Depots to a Site Beneath the Skin - An implantable device and method is provided for anchoring a drug depot to a site beneath the skin of a patient, the device and method comprising a head, a shaft and a tip, the head having a recess and/or at least one projection arranged to be engaged by an implantation tool, the shaft having an outer surface that engages the site in a manner that holds the device at the site beneath the skin, the head or shaft having means for attaching the drug depot thereto, and the tip disposed on the shaft opposite the head and capable of insertion into the site beneath the skin of the patient. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308665 | BONE REPLACEMENT MATERIAL MIXING AND DELIVERY DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - Bone cement mixing and delivery devices and methods of using the devices are provided. The bone cement mixing and delivery devices and methods comprise a container having a bottom opening that can be sealed by a spacer in a syringe where movement of the plunger of the syringe moves the spacer away from the bottom opening in the container to dispense bone cement into the syringe. In some embodiments, the devices and methods increases efficiency and reduce the mess associated with transferring the bone cement to the syringe for delivery to a patient. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110307066 | Spacer with Height and Angle Adjustments for Spacing Vertebral Members - 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. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110307017 | DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION ASSEMBLY WITH SLIDING COLLARS - A dynamic spinal stabilization assembly includes a rod having a plurality of slidable collars thereon. The rod is mounted to at least one of the relevant bone anchoring element(s) via the collars. The collars are spaced from one another such that the bone anchoring element engages at least two collars. The collars may be arranged on the rod so that adjacent collars are longitudinally spaced from one another by a distance not more than one-half the length of the rod-receiving channel in the relevant bone anchoring element. There may be elastic elements slidably disposed on the rod between adjacent collars. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110301712 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR A LATERALLY EXPANDING IMPLANT - An implant for a spinal column and a method for inserting the same into a patient is disclosed. The implant includes an elongated body positionable in a spinal disc space. The body comprises a first body member and a second body member that each include at least one wedge extending into an interior cavity. A front bracket is connected with a leading portion of the first and second body members and a rear bracket connected with a trailing portion of said first and second body members. The brackets allow the first and second body members to move between an expanded state and an unexpanded state. An expansion component is positioned within the interior cavity when the implant is in an expanded state and the implant is then positioned in an unexpanded state. The expansion component includes at least one inverted wedge in engagement with the wedge of the first and second body members. The inverted wedge is operable to cause the first and second body members to expand way from one another to the expanded state. A bone graft member is then inserted into the interior cavity defined by the first and second body members. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301711 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR A LATERALLY EXPANDING IMPLANT - An implant for a spinal column and a method for inserting the same into a patient is disclosed. The implant includes an elongated body positionable in a spinal disc space. The body comprises a first body member and a second body member that each include at least one wedge extending into an interior cavity. A front bracket is connected with a leading portion of the first and second body members and a rear bracket connected with a trailing portion of said first and second body members. The brackets allow the first and second body members to move between an expanded state and an unexpanded state. An expansion component is positioned within the interior cavity when the implant is in an expanded state and the implant is then positioned in an unexpanded state. The expansion component includes at least one inverted wedge in engagement with the wedge of the first and second body members. The inverted wedge is operable to cause the first and second body members to expand way from one another to the expanded state. A bone graft member is then inserted into the interior cavity defined by the first and second body members. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301650 | ADJSUTABLE BONE ANCHOR ASEMBLY - A medical implant device has in one embodiment a receiver member for receiving an elongated member, a crown member, an anchor member and a retaining member. An embodiment of the receiver member has an axial opening, a transverse channel, a chamber including at least one substantially flat wall, and a groove. An embodiment of the crown member has at least one substantially flat side. An embodiment of the anchor member has a head with at least one substantially flat surface that may be parallel to the anchor member's longitudinal axis, and an anchoring portion. An embodiment of the retaining member is a substantially flat clip. The crown member and anchor member are inserted into the chamber, and the retaining member is inserted into the groove beneath them. The anchor member may be pivoted substantially in one plane with respect to the receiver member until locked. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301593 | SURGICAL NAVIGATIONAL AND NEUROMONITORING INSTRUMENT - The invention relates to a surgical instrument capable of applying an electrostimulation to a neural structure. The surgical instrument also has a tracking system associated therewith to provide navigational tracking during a surgical procedure. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297732 | Surgical Staple Assembly - A surgical staple assembly is disclosed and can include a surgical staple. The surgical staple assembly can be moved between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the surgical staple can be in an original shape. Moreover, in the second configuration, the surgical staple can be in a deformed configuration. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295374 | IMPLANTABLE JOINT PROSTHESIS - The invention relates to a surgical implant that provides an artificial diarthroidal-like joint, suitable for use in replacing any joint, but particularly suitable for use as an intervertebral disc endoprosthesis. The invention contains two rigid opposing shells, each having an outer surface adapted to engage the surfaces of the bones of a joint in such a way that the shells are immobilized by friction between their outer surfaces and the surfaces of the bone. These outer surfaces are sufficiently rough that large frictional forces strongly resist any slippage between the outer surface and the bone surfaces in the joint. They may be convex, and when inserted into a milled concavity, are immediately mechanically stable. Desirably, the outer surfaces of the shells are adapted to allow for bony ingrowth, which further stabilizes the shells in place. The inner surfaces of the shells are relatively smooth, and adapted to slide easily across a portion of the outer surface of a central body disposed between the shells. The central body has a shape that cooperates with the shape of the inner surface of the shell so as to provide a range of motion similar to that provided by a healthy joint. A flexible sheath extends between edges of the opposing shells. The inner surface of this sheath, together with the inner surfaces of the rigid shells, defines a cavity encasing the central body. At least a portion of this cavity is filled with a fluid lubricant, further decreasing the frictional force between inner surfaces of the shell and the surface of the central body. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295373 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINAL DISTRACTION DEVICES AND METHODS - Systems are provided for reducing the complexity and invasiveness of spinal stabilization procedures and provide an expandable device deliverable to a spinal implantation location. The expandable device can be delivered through a minimally invasive access portal and expanded at the implantation location to manipulate one or more bony structures or maintain a configuration of one or more bony structures. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110288645 | INTERVERTEBRAL PROSTHETIC SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Intervertebral prosthetic systems, devices, and associated methods are provided. The present disclosure provides top and bottom endplates that engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies for stability and incorporate a compliant core, ball-and-socket core, fusion-cage core, or any other suitable type of motion-preserving or fusion cores. The endplate designs allow insertion through a unilateral approach yet still have engagement on both sides of the vertebral body to provide stability and reduce the risk of subsidence. In some instances, saddle style endplates are inserted and then rotated to engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies. In other instances, hinged style endplates are inserted in a first orientation and then at least one end portion is pivoted to a second orientation so that the endplates engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288644 | INTERVERTEBRAL PROSTHETIC SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - Intervertebral prosthetic systems, devices, and associated methods are provided. The present disclosure provides intervertebral prosthetic devices that include lateral plates to engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies for stability and include a compliant central component, fusion-cage central component, or any other suitable type of motion-preserving or fusion component positioned between the lateral plates. In some instances, the lateral plates and the central component are connected by an elongated member that extends across the disc space. The designs of the present disclosure allow insertion through a unilateral approach yet still have engagement on both sides of the vertebral body to provide stability and reduce the risk of subsidence. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288587 | ANTERIOR LUMBAR PLATE AND METHOD - A plate of biocompatible material is provided having curvature in two planes such that it conforms to the curvature of the L5 vertebral body and to the patient's lordotic curve. Holes are provided receiving screws for anchorage in the vertebral body and sacrum. A flange or foot portion on the plate provides a wider base end area for support in the L5-S1 interspace. The foot portion is also arranged for appropriate entry angle of screws into the sacrum such as to improve anchorage in the sacrum. Anti-backout and low profile features are incorporated. The anterior lumbar plate is situated to maintain the anterior interbody bone graft in compression by resisting tensile forces during extension. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110286939 | OSTEOGENIC COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING A COLORING AGENT - An osteogenic composition is provided for implantation at or near a target tissue site beneath the skin, the osteogenic composition comprising a growth factor and a coloring agent, wherein the coloring agent imparts color to the growth factor to allow the user to see the growth factor at or near the target tissue site. In some embodiments, a method is provided for accelerating bone repair, the method comprising mixing bone morphogenic protein- | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110282455 | Stackable Intervertebral Devices and Methods of Use - An intervertebral device for spacing apart vertebral members comprises a plurality of stackable shims including at least a first shim and a second shim. The first shim includes a first body with a first portion of a male-female connector, and a removable guide that is affixed to the first body and extends along at least a portion of the first body. The second shim includes a second body with a second portion of the male-female connector. A longitudinal passage extends through the second body and is sized to receive the guide on the first body. The second shim is moveable relative to the first shim with the guide disposed in the passage between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In the engaged position, the first shim is stacked on the second shim. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110282396 | IMPLANT WITH DEPLOYABLE STABILIZERS - An implant includes a body having an upper and lower ends, a longitudinal bore defined by a threaded interior surface, and a threaded exterior surface; at least one stabilizer arm associated with a corresponding longitudinal slot in the body, the stabilizer arm being hingedly attached to the body and having a bone gripping protuberance projecting laterally outward therefrom. The stabilizer arm is movable from a first position wherein the bone gripping protuberance is positioned within the bore and a second fully extended position wherein the bone gripping protuberance is positioned outside the threaded exterior surface of the body. The stabilizer arm is resiliently biased to the first position. A camming member is movable through the bore of the body from an initial position to a final position wherein the stabilizer arm is moved to the second stabilizer arm position. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110282388 | Multi Axial Cross Link Connector System for Spinal Implants - This invention relates to interconnection assemblies for use with spinal fixation systems to treat spinal defects. The interconnection assemblies can include various spinal rod connecting members and interconnecting elements to secure the spinal rod connecting members to each other in variable orientations and lengths. The interconnection assemblies can be adjusted to minimize interference with the spinal column, bony processes, and associated neural, muscular, and ligament components of the spine all the while exhibiting a low profile. The interconnecting elements and related components can be provided as a completely assembled unit that does not inadvertently become disassembled prior to or during implantation. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110276096 | LOW PROFILE VERTEBRAL STABILZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Skeletal stabilization systems include a base, a longitudinal member, and a retaining member. The base includes an engagement surface with a surface area that is positionable in contact with a bone to atraumatically or traumatically engage the base to the bone. The retaining member engages the base to retain the longitudinal member relative to the base so that the longitudinal member can provide a desired stabilization effect to one or more adjacent bony portions. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110274668 | VOLUME MAINTAINING OSTEOINDUCTIVE/OSTEOCONDUCTIVE COMPOSITIONS - An osteoinductive/osteoconductive composition prepared from a quantity, of demineralized fibrous bone elements possessing an average surface area to volume ratio of about 100:1 to about 20:1, a quantity of mostly shaped regular non-fibrous bone elements possessing an average surface area to volume ratio of about 10:1 or less and a sufficient quantity of biocompatible fluid carrier sufficient to provide the composition as a deformable mass is provided herein. Also provided is a method of using the composition to repair a bone defect site. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110270402 | DEVICES AND TECHNIQUES FOR A POSTERIOR LATERAL DISC SPACE APPROACH - This invention relates to devices and instruments for implant insertion through a posterior lateral opening to the disc space. The instruments include an implant inserter, and the devices include a spinal fusion implant engageable by the implant inserter. The implant provides bilateral support of the adjacent vertebrae when inserted into the disc space from a postero-lateral approach. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270401 | SYNTHETIC REINFORCED INTERBODY FUSION IMPLANTS - Interbody fusion implants that include a load bearing body composed of a calcium phosphate material hardened around one or more structural reinforcing members are provided. The reinforcing members aid the load bearing body in resisting bending forces and, in certain forms, aid in preventing expulsion of the implant after implantation. Methods for promoting fusion bone growth in the space between adjacent vertebrae and methods for making the inventive implants are also provided. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270396 | EXPANDABLE IMPLANTS FOR STABILIZING ADJACENT ANATOMICAL STRUCTURES - In one form, an expandable implant configured for positioning between one or more adjacent bones or bony portions, such as vertebrae of the spinal column for example, is provided. In one aspect, the implant includes a plurality of deformable members that is each positionable between an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration in response to axial compression of the deformable members. In the unexpanded configuration, each of the deformable members engages with one or more immediately adjacent deformable members, while in the expanded configuration each of the deformable members further engages with one or more additional deformable members positioned on the other side of the one or more immediately adjacent deformable members. In another form, a method for positioning an expandable implant in a minimally invasive approach is provided. However, in other embodiments, different forms and applications are envisioned. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270395 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING RADIATION IN SELECTED DIRECTIONS - Embodiments of the invention include a device for supplementing or replacing a spinal structure and therapeutically delivering radiation to tissue. Some embodiments include a radiation source and a combination of members surrounding the radiation source that move relative to one another to permit or restrict emission of radiation from the device. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270321 | Engaging Member With a Cavity-Base for Engaging a Connecting Element to a Bone Anchor - Devices and methods include an anchor assembly engageable to a vertebra and a connecting element positionable through a receiver of the anchor assembly. The assembly includes an engaging member for engaging the connecting element in the receiver. The engaging member includes a base with a cavity that receives a deformed portion the connecting element when the engaging member is securely engaged to the connecting element. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270313 | Spinal Rods Having Different Flexural Rigidities About Different Axes and Methods of Use - A vertebral rod for stabilizing a patient's spine. The rod may include an elongated body with first and second ends and have an elongated cross-sectional shape with a major axis and a minor axis and a centroid positioned at an intersection of the axes. First and second longitudinal channels may extend through the body. The channels may be spaced apart and contained within the body. The body may have a first flexural rigidity along the major axis and a different second flexural rigidity along the minor axis. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270311 | ANTERIOR IMPLANT FOR THE SPINE - Implant for the cervical spine comprising an anterior plate ( | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270262 | Systems, Devices and Methods for Bending an Elongate Member - Systems, devices and methods are provided for bending an elongate member used in a medical procedure. In one form, the device includes a bending mechanism having a plurality of engaging members are selectively positioned relative to a receiving area. In one embodiment, a first set of engaging members is positioned in a select arrangement, and a second set of the engaging members is movable relative to the select arrangement of the first set of engaging members to compressingly engage the elongate member to bend the elongate member to a desired shape/contour. The device also includes a heating element configured to apply heat to one or more portions of the elongate member to facilitate bending. In one form, the elongate member is formed of a heat deformable material, and heat is applied to soften one or more portions of the elongate member to provide added flexibility to facilitate bending. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270082 | MEDICAL DEVICE TRACKING SYSTEM WITH TAG AND METHOD - Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for tracking a medical device. Systems configured for such tracking may include the capability to either or both detect tampering with the medical device and to effectively expose the medical device to sterilization substances while the medical device is captured by a mechanism including an identifying characteristic. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110270012 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING EMISSION OF RADIATION - Embodiments of the invention include a device for therapeutically delivering radiation to tissue. Some embodiments include a radiation source and a combination of members surrounding the radiation source that move relative to one another to permit or restrict the emitting of radiation from the device. Limits to the movement of the combination of members may be imposed by one or more biodegradable members. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110269103 | EXPANDABLE IMPLANT - An implant includes a body having a longitudinal axis, at least one expandable portion configured to move between an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, and at least one linearly and non-rotatably movable expander member configured to contact the at least one expandable portions such that linear movement of the expander member moves the expandable portion between the unexpanded configuration and the expanded configuration. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110268782 | POLYURETHANES FOR OSTEOIMPLANTS - Biological-based polyurethanes and methods of making the same. The polyurethanes are formed by reacting a biodegradable polyisocyanate (such as lysine diisocyanate) with an optionally hydroxylated biomolecule to form polyurethane. The polymers formed may be combined with ceramic and/or bone particles to form a composite, which may be used as an osteoimplant. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110265538 | Systems, Devices and Methods for Multi-Dimensional Bending of an Elongate Member - Systems, devices and methods are provided for bending an elongate member used in association with a medical procedure. In one form, a device for bending an elongate member includes a support platform and a plurality of engaging members positioned on the support platform. Each of the plurality of engaging members includes at least one engaging portion configured for positioning in contact with the elongate member. Each of the plurality of engaging members is movable in at least three directions relative to the support platform to form one or more bends in the elongate member. In one aspect, the elongate member is formed of a heat deformable material and the device includes a heating member configured to apply heat to one or more portions of the elongate member to facilitate bending. However, other embodiments, forms and applications are also envisioned. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110264220 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING RADIATION - Embodiments of the invention include a device for supplementing or replacing a spinal structure and therapeutically delivering radiation to tissue. Some embodiments include a plug with an integrated radiation source. The plug may be coupled to an interbody spinal implant or a vertebral body replacement implant. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110264145 | SPINAL CONSTRUCT SYSTEM - Embodiments for a spinal construct system including a spinal fixation plate attachable to fixture element in end-to-end fashion with a coupling mechanism that axially and torsionally constrains the first and second rods to one another. In one form, the end-to-end attachment arrangement is aligned along a common axis of the rods. In another form, the axes of the rods are offset laterally relative to one another. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110257751 | SELF-CONTAINED EXPANDABLE IMPLANT AND METHOD - Embodiments of the invention include expandable, implantable devices and methods having internally contained expansion mechanisms. Devices expand linearly to provide secure fixation between or among anatomical structures. In some embodiments, an implant replaces one or more vertebral bodies of the spine. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257745 | IMPLANT WITH INSERTION DEVICE AND METHOD - Embodiments of the invention include expandable medical implant systems and methods. The systems may include devices to reinforce a tube through which a fill material may be moved at least in part into expandable medical implants. In some embodiments, an implant replaces one or more of vertebral bodies, portions of vertebral bodies, discs, and portions of discs of the spine. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257690 | Transverse and Sagittal Adjusting Screw - A bone anchor assembly is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver mounted to the bone anchor, a saddle within the receiver, a spacer within the receiver, and an engaging member. The receiver extends along a central longitudinal axis proximally away from the bone anchor. A rod or other elongated connecting element is received in a passage of the receiver in contact with the saddle, and the engaging member engages the connecting element against the saddle, which engages the saddle against the spacer, which in turn engages the proximal head of the bone anchor in the receiver. The orientation of the saddle in the receiver is adjustable to correspond to the orientation of the connecting element relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiver. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257688 | EXPANDABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD - Embodiments of the invention include expandable, implantable devices and methods. Devices may be inserted with a longitudinal biasing force between anatomical structures to be stabilized and then expanded laterally or otherwise filled to provide secure fixation between or among the anatomical structures. In some embodiments, an implant replaces one or more vertebral bodies, or portions of vertebral bodies, of the spine. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257687 | LOAD SHARING BONE FASTENER AND METHODS OF USE - A bone fastener includes a first section configured to support a bone construct. A second section is configured for fixation with bone and defines a longitudinal axis. An intermediate flexible section is disposed between the first section and the second section such that the first section is longitudinally aligned with the second section. The intermediate flexible section includes an inner surface that defines a cavity and an open end. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110257686 | FLEXIBLE BONE FASTENER AND METHODS OF USE - A bone fastener includes an elongated first section having a distal end. A flexible member has an outer surface and defines an inner cavity configured for disposal of the distal end of the first section. An elongated second section defines a longitudinal axis and includes a wall that defines an interior cavity configured for disposal of the flexible member such that the distal end of the first section is disposed within the interior cavity of the second section. The outer surface of the flexible member engages the wall in a configuration such that the first section is pivotable to a plurality of axial orientations relative to the longitudinal axis of the second section. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110251597 | NEURAL-MONITORING ENABLED SLEEVES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A neural monitoring enabled insulating sleeve for use with a surgical instrument during a surgical procedure on a patient in patient body tissue includes a tubular portion having a proximal end, a distal end, and a bore extending therethrough. The bore is configured to receive the surgical instrument. The tubular portion being formed of a material that electrically insulates the surgical instrument from the patient body tissue and having a flexible portion configured to flex between a locked and an unlocked condition. A camming component is configured to interface at the proximal end of the tubular portion. It is configured to cam the flexible portion between the locked and unlocked condition. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110245884 | Reducing Instrument for Spinal Surgery - An instrument is provided for use in orthopedic surgery for reduction of a connecting member such as a spinal rod toward an implant such as a bone screw. An embodiment of the instrument includes handle portions that are pivotable relative to each other and biased apart, and arm portions pivotable relative to each other and to the handle portions. Distal portions of the arm portions, which may be offset from the arm portions, provide structure for engaging a connecting member and an implant. Squeezing the handle portions force the distal portions of the arm portions together, forcing together the connecting member and the implant. A toothed bar and pawl may be provided to retain the instrument in a squeezed state. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110245878 | RETENTION MECHANISMS FOR ROD LOCKING SET SCREWS - The present invention concerns spinal fixation systems, and particularly systems utilizing pedicle screws, connectors and elongated members positioned adjacent to the spinal column. More specifically, the invention concerns improvements to spinal connectors having set screws used to connect to the elongate members, such as spinal rods, that include a means for inhibiting rotational movement of a partially inserted set screw before such connectors are implanted by the surgeon. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110238182 | Expandable Intervertebral Spacers and Methods of Use - An intervertebral spacer for positioning between vertebral members. The spacer may include contact surfaces that are configured to contact against the vertebral members. A fluid cylinder may be positioned between the first and second contact surfaces and configured to contain a fluid. The fluid cylinder may include an outer cylinder with an open first end that telescopingly receives an inner cylinder. The spacer is configured to maintain the distance between the contact surfaces at a desired amount. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110238114 | INTERSPINOUS PROCESS BRACE - An interspinous process brace is disclosed and can include a superior component and an inferior component. The superior component can include a superior spinous process bracket that can engage a superior spinous process. The inferior component can include an inferior spinous process bracket that can engage an inferior spinous process. Further, the interspinous process brace can be moved between a bent configuration and a straight configuration. In the bent configuration, an overall height of the interspinous process brace can be minimised to facilitate installation between the superior spinous process and the inferior spinous process. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110230966 | SACRO-ILIAC IMPLANT SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS - A sacro-iliac implant system includes at least one implant including a body defining an outer surface and being disposed to space apart opposing articular surfaces of a sacro-iliac joint. The body is engageable with the opposing articular surfaces and the outer surface is compliant to a configuration of the opposing articular surfaces such that the body facilitates relative movement of the opposing articular surfaces. Methods of use are disclosed. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110230917 | ADJUSTABLE MULTI-AXIAL SPINAL COUPLING ASSEMBLIES - Coupling assemblies and systems and methods are provided with an anchor member movably coupled with a receiver member extending along a receiver axis. A seat member is movable in the receiver member to assume any one of a plurality of orientations corresponding to an orientation of a connecting element extending through the receiver member transversely to the receiver axis. | 09-22-2011 |
| 20110218627 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REPLACING AT LEAST A PORTION OF A VERTEBRAL BODY - Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for replacing at least a part of a vertebral body. Systems may include end components for interfacing with adjacent vertebrae and a central component for placement between end components. Instruments for placing system components and preparing anatomical structures to receive system embodiments may also be included. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110218581 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURES - One nonlimiting embodiment of the present application is directed to a system for positioning a connecting element adjacent one or more bones or bony portions, such as the spinal column, through a minimally invasive surgical approach. The system generally includes a number of bone anchors engageable to the one or more bones or bony portions and a number of anchor extenders removably engaged to the bone anchors. A connecting element inserter instrument is engageable with one of the anchor extenders and is movable along a longitudinal axis of the anchor extender. As the inserter instrument is moved along the longitudinal axis toward the bone anchors, a leading end of the connecting element is rotated away from the longitudinal axis and the connecting element is positioned at a location adjacent the number of bone anchors in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. However, in other embodiments, different forms and applications are envisioned. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110218574 | DYNAMIC VERTEBRAL CONSTRUCT - A vertebral construct includes a first fastening element having a first portion and a second portion configured for engagement with tissue. A rod defines an elongated cavity configured to facilitate dynamic translation of the first portion therein relative to the rod. A second fastening element has a first portion fixedly connected to the rod. Methods of use are disclosed. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110217382 | Methods and Compositions for Treating Pain Comprising a Statin - Methods and compositions are provided for reducing, treating or preventing pain and/or inflammation in a patient in need of such treatment, the methods and compositions comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a statin or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to a target tissue site beneath the skin. | 09-08-2011 |
| 20110213418 | MULTI-CHAMBER EXPANDABLE INTERSPINOUS PROCESS SPACER - An expandable interspinous process spacer is disclosed that includes at least two chambers, one disposed within the other. Each of the at least two chambers can receive an injectable biocompatible material, which advantageously may have different material properties such as hardness. Further, the expandable interspinous process spacer can be changed from a deflated configuration to an inflated configuration. In the inflated configuration, the expandable interspinous process spacer can engage and support a superior spinous process and an inferior spinous process. | 09-01-2011 |
| 20110208193 | System and Method of Harvesting Osteochondral Plugs - A method is disclosed and can include engaging a harvest guide with bony tissue and placing a cutting device within the harvest guide. The harvest guide can maintain the cutting device substantially perpendicular to a tangent through a point on the bony tissue aligned with the cutting device. The cutting device can be an osteochondral chisel, a trephine, or a combination thereof. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110202091 | NON-METALLIC IMPLANT DEVICES AND INTRA-OPERATIVE METHODS FOR ASSEMBLY AND FIXATION - This invention relates to orthopedic implants and to methods of treating bone defects. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present invention is directed to non-metallic implants and to methods for intra-operative assembly and fixation of orthopedic implants to facilitate medical treatment. The non-metallic implant assembly can be secured to underlying tissue by a fastener, such as a bone screw, that is capable of swelling on contact with fluid in the underlying tissue. Alternatively, the non-metallic implant assembly can be assembled intra-operatively using a fastener that is adhesively bonded to a bone plate or the bone plate can be deformed using heat, force, or solvents to inhibit withdrawal of the fastener. In preferred embodiments, both the fastener and the bone plate are formed of biodegradable material. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110196496 | Interbody Fusion Device - An interbody spacer includes concave lateral surfaces extending at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. In one aspect, the interbody spacer includes upper and lower convex surfaces defined by an arc extending from a center point offset from the spacer midpoint. In another aspect, lateral edges of the upper and lower surfaces are also defined by convex arcs extending from a center point offset from the spacer midpoint. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110196425 | Connector and Method - Embodiments of the invention include a device and method for securing linear elements relative to one another. In some embodiments, medical implant linear elements are secured in a connector by forcing one or both of the linear elements against at least another member such as a tapered member or wedge. The secured linear elements may include rods, posts, screws, hooks, bars, bolts, or other members. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110196373 | BONE PREPARATION DEVICE - A bone preparation device for shaping endplates forming an intervertebral disc space between two adjacent vertebrae includes a cutter component and a cutter-positioner component. The cutter-positioner is arranged to limit the distal travel of the cutter component and to restrict the range of motion of the distal end of the cutter component. The bone preparation device also includes a rotational interface between the cutter component and the cutter-positioner component. The rotational interface is structurally arranged to permit the cutting blade to be rotated at the same time the cutter component is restricted in its range of motion. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110190890 | END CAP FOR A VERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An implant for insertion between adjacent vertebral members, comprising an implant body with a base section having positioning teeth, and an end cap for positioning at a selected point on the base section via adjustment of an approach direction. The end cap comprises a seating surface which contacts the base section when positioned on the implant body, an end cap angulation, and positioning passages for receiving positioning teeth. The implant may comprise a locking mechanism for lockingly engaging the end cap and base section and preventing end cap axial movement. The positioning passages and positioning teeth configured to facilitate end cap slideable positioning on the base section. And, a positioning passage comprising a locking tenon for lockingly engaging a positioning tooth in the positioning passage. The implant body and end cap combination imparting angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected point when positioned in the intervertebral space. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190889 | LORDOTIC INTERBODY DEVICE WITH DIFFERENT SIZES RAILS - A vertebral implant for installation in a disc space is disclosed that includes a body defining a first vertebral support rail and a second vertebral support rail extending along a vertical axis. Each vertebral support rail is separated by a channel running circumferentially around at least a portion of the body along a longitudinal axis of the body. The first vertebral support rail has a first height and the second vertebral support rail has a second height. The first height is smaller than the second height. The height or apex of each vertebral support rail is sized and configured to match the concave nature of the endplates of vertebra of the spine. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190828 | ORTHOPEDIC REVISION CONNECTOR - A connector apparatus for use in orthopedic procedures includes a base portion and an extending leg portion that forms a channel. Part of the base portion can be placed atop or adjacent implanted fixation members (e.g. bone screws), and a locking member can be inserted through the base and into the fixation member to anchor the connector to the fixation member. A rod can be inserted into the channel and fixed to the connector by a set screw. The apparatus is useful in connecting a rod to a fixation member, particularly in situations in which a rod is already connected to the fixation member, as by a previous implantation procedure, for example. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190826 | Devices and Methods for Correcting Spinal Deformities - The present application discloses methods for treating a spinal deformity. In one embodiment, an elongated member is attached to vertebral members with fasteners. A separate fastener may attach the elongated member to each of the vertebral members. The elongated member may apply a force to limit growth on one side of the vertebral members, such as a convex side of a scoliotic spine. Each fastener may be constructed to limit a direction of growth of the vertebral member thereby applying a specific, corrective force to the vertebral member. The fasteners may allow relative motion between adjacent vertebral members without losing the attachment between the vertebral members and the fasteners. The net result may be controlled modulation of growth to reduce and/or eliminate the spinal deformity through redirection of growth potential. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110190588 | SURGICAL RETRACTOR INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - A retractor system for percutaneous surgery in a patient includes first and second retractor portions positionable opposite one another in an incision of the patient. The system also includes at least one actuating member operable to provide an oscillating motion to at least one of the first and second retractor portions. The actuating member is in communication with a controller and is responsive to the controller to move and adjust at least one of the first and second retractor portions between a first position and a second position. The system also includes at least one pressure sensor and display and at least one timing circuit with display. In another form, a method is directed to retracting tissue for percutaneous access to a surgical site in a patient using the pressure sensors and display as will as the timing circuit and display to assure that the amount of pressure applied and the duration does not exceed pre-determined values. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110189253 | BIOMATERIAL COMPOSITION AND METHOD - The disclosure is directed to a composition includes a macromer having a polymeric backbone comprising units with a 1,2-diol or 1,3-diol structure and at least two pendant chains bearing crosslinkable groups, an amphiphilic comonomer, and a crosslinking initiator, wherein the composition has a setting time of less than about 3 minutes. The disclosure is further directed to a kit and a method of making the above-mentioned composition. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110187534 | Insertable Form Factor for an Instrument Tray - An apparatus including a device having a slot formed on an exterior wall and a slot wall within the slot. A form factor may be insertable into the slot. The form factor also may include a transmitter embedded in the form factor, wherein the transmitter is adapted to wirelessly communicate identification data. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110184523 | SLIDE-ON END CAP FOR A VERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An implant for insertion between adjacent vertebral members, comprising an implant body with a base section having positioning teeth, and an end cap adapted for positioning at a selected point on the base section via adjustment of an approach direction. The end cap comprises a seating surface adapted to contact the base section when positioned on the implant body, an end cap angulation, and positioning passages adapted to receive the positioning teeth. The implant may further comprise a locking mechanism adapted to lockingly engage the end cap and base section and prevent axial movement of the end cap. The positioning passages and positioning teeth are complementarily configured to facilitate slideably positioning the end cap on the base section. The implant body and end cap combination will impart end cap angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected point when the implant is positioned in the intervertebral space. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184522 | MODULAR INTERBODY DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE - 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. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184521 | PROSTHESIS CONNECTION MECHANISM - A prosthesis comprising a component for engaging a surface of a vertebral body is disclosed. The component comprises a bone-engaging surface and an outer surface that is not bone-engaging, wherein the bone-engaging surface is configured to engage a portion of the surface of the vertebral body, wherein the vertebral body has been configured to engage with the bone-engaging surface, and wherein after the component is engaged with the vertebral body, at least at a location of an area of a junction between a vertical surface and an endplate surface of the vertebral body, the outer surface of the component has a shape that is substantially similar to an anatomical shape of the vertebral body. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184520 | SACRO-ILIAC JOINT IMPLANT, METHOD AND APPARATUS - A sacro-iliac implant system includes at least one implant including a body defining an outer surface and being expandable in at least one dimension. The body is configured to expand in the at least one dimension from a first orientation to a second orientation such that the outer surface engages and spaces apart opposing articular surfaces of a sacro-iliac joint to fix the body with the articular surfaces. Methods of use are disclosed. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184519 | SACRO-ILIAC JOINT IMPLANT SYSTEM, METHOD AND INSTRUMENT - A sacro-iliac implant delivery instrument includes a first arm connected to a first cannula. The first cannula is rotatable relative to the first arm and is configured for support of a fastening element. A second arm is connected to the first arm. The second arm is rotatable relative to the first arm and is configured for detachable connection to a sacro-iliac implant. The second arm and the first cannula are configured for rotation relative to the first arm to a preset orientation such that the second arm is disposed along a first predetermined trajectory for delivering the sacro-iliac implant and the first cannula is disposed along a second predetermined trajectory for delivering the fastening element in alignment with the sacro-iliac implant for transarticular fixation. Methods of use are disclosed. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184518 | SACRO-ILIAC JOINT IMPLANT - A sacro-iliac implant includes at least one wedge-shaped body. The body defines an outer surface configured to engage at least one articular surface of a sacro-iliac joint. Systems and methods employing the sacro-iliac implant are disclosed. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184471 | BONE ANCHOR WITH PREDETERMINED BREAK POINT AND REMOVAL FEATURES - A bone anchor including a bone engaging portion, a tool engaging portion configured for engagement with an anchor removal tool, a head portion having a transverse base portion and two arm portions that together define a U-shaped channel, and a reduced strength portion extending between the tool engaging portion and the head portion and defining a region of reduced strength to provide a pre-defined fracture initiator or break zone. In another embodiment, the bone anchor includes a proximal head and a threaded shank having a plurality of thread turns adapted for anchoring to bone and extending along a threaded length that is at least twice the overall height of the proximal head, and a plurality of grooves circumferentially interrupting at least one of the thread turns along a proximal region of the threaded shank and sized and shaped for engagement with an anchor removal instrument. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184469 | SET SCREW ALIGNMENT TOOL - A surgical instrument for reducing a rod toward a bone fastener and securing it thereto with a set screw having a cylindrical fastener engaging member extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The distal portion of said fastener engaging member being adapted to receive a portion of the rod therein and being further adapted to engage the bone fastener. The instrument further being provided with a coaxial set screw installation member extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the set screw installation member being adapted to receive and hold the set screw securely within its distal end. The fastener engaging member and coaxial set screw installation member being operable together to reduce the rod distally into the bone fastener and then rotationally attach the set screw into the bone fastener while holding the rod in contact with the bone fastener. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184464 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE STABILIZATION OF BONY STRUCTURES - One nonlimiting embodiment of the present application is directed to a system for positioning a connecting element adjacent one or more bones or bony portions, such as the spinal column, through a minimally invasive surgical approach. The system generally includes a number of bone anchors engageable to the one or more bones or bony portions and a number of anchor extenders removably engaged to the bone anchors. An inserter instrument is removably positioned adjacent to one of the anchor extenders and is operable to position a connecting element engaged thereto to a location adjacent the number of bone anchors in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. However, in other embodiments, different forms and applications are envisioned. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184462 | VERTEBRAL ROD CONNECTOR AND METHODS OF USE - A vertebral rod connector includes a first portion configured to engage a fastener construct and define a first longitudinal axis. A second portion is configured to engage a vertebral rod and define a second longitudinal axis disposed transverse to the first longitudinal axis. A flexible linking portion is disposed for connecting the first portion with the second portion. The linking portion has a bifurcated configuration oriented transverse to the first longitudinal axis. Methods of use are disclosed. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184447 | SURGICAL CUTTING TOOL AND METHOD - Embodiments of the invention include surgical cutting tools with expandable blade portions configured to be inserted through a relatively small opening and expanded in place to manipulate tissue. Some embodiments include expandable blades that may be used to one or more of cut, detach, and remove tissue of or associated with skeletal structures such as one or more vertebrae or portions of the spine or vertebrae. Some embodiments may include use in related methods. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184416 | PRE-ASSEMBLED CONSTRUCT FOR INSERTION INTO A PATIENT - Surgical constructs pre-assembled for insertion as a unit into a patient. The pre-assembled construct may include an elongated member with opposing first and second ends. The construct may also include a connector with a body, a first receptacle that extends through the body and receives the elongated member, a threaded aperture that extends from an exterior of the body into the first receptacle, a fastener threaded into the threaded aperture, and a second receptacle that receives a structural member in the patient. The first receptacle may be larger than the elongated member for the connector to be movable along the elongated member. The construct may also include retaining members permanently attached to each of the first and second ends of the elongated member. The retaining members may include a central opening with an inner radial surface that contacts the elongated member and an outer radial surface that extends outward beyond the elongated member. The retaining members may be larger than the first receptacle to prevent the connector from detaching from the elongated member. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184412 | Pre-Assembled Construct With One or More Non-Rotating Connectors for Insertion Into a Patient - Surgical constructs pre-assembled for insertion as a unit into a patient. The construct may include an elongated member with opposing first and second ends and a non-circular cross-sectional shape. Connectors may be positioned on the elongated member and may include a first receptacle that receives the elongated member and a second receptacle spaced away from the first receptacle that receives a structural member in the patient. The first receptacles may be smaller than the elongated member to prevent the connectors from completely rotating around the elongated member. The construct may also include retaining members attached to the first and second ends of the elongated member. The retaining members may extend radially outward beyond the elongated member and may be larger than the first receptacles to prevent the connectors from escaping from the elongated member. Methods of assembling a construct prior to insertion into a patient are also disclosed. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184350 | NEEDLE GUIDE SYSTEM - A needle guide system comprising a needle guide including at least one wall defining an internal cavity and an outside of the needle guide. A lock is connected to the needle guide. The lock is movable between a first and a second position. A needle is disposed in the internal cavity of the needle guide, the needle having a long axis and a tip. The needle is movable along the long axis with respect to the needle guide when the lock is in the first position and the needle is locked to the needle guide and the tip extends beyond the wall of the needle guide when the lock is in the second position. Visual indicia on the lock may indicate whether the lock is in the first or the second position. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184349 | DRUG DISPENSING BALLOON FOR TREATING DISC DISEASE OR PAIN - Methods for administering medication at or near an intervertebral spinal disc are provided. In various embodiments, a microporous uninflated balloon is inserted into a spinal disk and after insertion of the balloon into the disc space, a medication is inserted into the interior of the balloon. Due to both the pressure on the balloon from the spine and drug diffusion, the medication moves through the pores over time. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184284 | NON-INVASIVE DEVICES AND METHODS TO DIAGNOSE PAIN GENERATORS - Devices and methods are provided that diagnose one or more pain generators at or near the spine in a patient suffering from pain. In one embodiment, a device is provided that includes: an external transducer probe having a proximal end, a distal end and a body therebetween wherein the probe is configured to be placed in contact with the skin of a patient near a pain generator or suspected pain generator; an energy source that supplies the probe with energy; and a conduit for engaging the energy source and the proximal end of the probe. The energy is transferred from the energy source to the distal end of the probe through the skin of the patient and has an intensity to deliver and produce a pain signal when at least the distal end of the probe is near the pain generator or suspected pain generator. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110184037 | METHODS FOR TREATING AN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC USING LOCAL ANALGESICS - Effective methods of treating back pain from an intervertebral disc are provided. The methods of treatment include administering an immediate release analgesic at or near the intervertebral disc; administering a bulking agent or sealing agent within the intervertebral disc; and administering a sustained release analgesic within the intervertebral disc, wherein the sustained release analgesic releases the analgesic over a period of at least one day. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110182965 | HIGHLY COMPRESSION RESISTANT MATRIX WITH POROUS SKELETON - A highly compression resistant matrix is provided for implantation at or near a target tissue site beneath the skin. The matrix comprises a polymer and a ceramic skeleton. The compression resistance provides retention of a volume that facilitates bone regeneration. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110182963 | OSTEOIMPLANT AND METHODS FOR MAKING - An osteoimplant is disclosed and includes a plurality of partially demineralized fibers. Each fiber has an elongated, thin body having a length of about 1 centimeter to about 3 centimeters. Further, the plurality of fibers engages to establish a matrix of material. The disclosure is further directed to a method of making the above-mentioned osteoimplant. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110182962 | RESORBABLE MATRIX HAVING ELONGATED PARTICLES - Compression resistant matrices and methods are provided that have elongated particles embedded therein. The compression resistant matrices provide improved stability and mechanical strength and resists shifting, extrusion and rotation after implantation. In some embodiments, the matrices provided reduce or prevent surface compression of the implantable matrix which will cause unwanted increased amounts of growth factor (e.g., bone morphogenic protein) to leak from the matrix. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110182961 | OSTEOGENIC CELL DELIVERY MATRIX - Compositions and methods for augmenting bone formation by administering isolated human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) within a matrix provided. By adding calcium and/or phosphate ions to the matrix, one may foster greater bone regeneration. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110182849 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR TREATING AN INTERVERTEBRAL DISC USING BULKING AGENTS OR SEALING AGENTS - Effective compositions and methods for treating an intervertebral disc are provided. The compositions and methods comprise a bulking agent or sealing agent, the bulking agent or sealing agent adapted to be administered at or within the intervertebral disc, the bulking or sealing agent having a drug depot comprising an effective amount of a therapeutic agent disposed therein, wherein the drug depot is capable of releasing an effective amount of the therapeutic agent over a period of at least one day. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110178601 | Adjustable Insertion Device For A Vertebral Implant - Intervertebral implants configured to engage with an insertion device for insertion between first and second vertebral members. The implants may include a body with a sidewall that forms an interior space. An opening may extend through the sidewall and into the interior space. Receptacles may be positioned at the opening and include an inlet to receive the insertion device. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110178551 | RETAINING SYSTEM - A retaining system for affixing a component to a vertebral body is disclosed. The system comprises a component and a retaining mechanism. The component comprises an inner surface configured to engage at least a portion of an endplate surface of the vertebral body, and an outer surface configured to engage the retaining mechanism, wherein the outer surface of the component comprises a first face directed substantially toward the vertebral body. The retaining mechanism comprises an inner surface configured to engage the outer surface of the component, and an outer surface configured to receive a fastener, wherein the inner surface of the retaining mechanism comprising a second face directed substantially away from the vertebral body. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110172779 | Expandable Implant, Instrument, and Method - Embodiments of the invention include expandable, implantable devices and methods. Devices expand linearly to provide secure fixation between or among anatomical structures. In some embodiments, an implant replaces one or more vertebral bodies of the spine. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172778 | Vertebral Implant Including Preformed Osteoconductive Insert and Methods of Forming - A vertebral implant for insertion into a patient includes an insert formed from an osteoconductive material and further including a biocompatible polymer body that is formed into the insert. The insert may extend over part of or substantially the entire bone contact surface of the implant. The insert includes a bone contact surface and a substrate interface. The implant may include fibers that extend across the substrate interface from the insert to the body. The insert may be thin relative to the overall thickness of the implant. The insert may be preformed. The insert may be formed using a molding process. The body may be molded onto the insert. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172777 | IMPLANT DERIVED FROM BONE - An implant which is particularly suitable for the repair and/or replacement of a skeletal joint, e.g., a vertebral joint, includes a unit of monolithic bone possessing at least one demineralized region exhibiting properties of flexibility and resilience, the demineralized region having diminished or insignificant capacity for promoting new bone growth. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172723 | MULTI-DIRECTIONAL ROD REDUCER INSTRUMENT AND METHOD - A surgical reducing instrument is used to position an elongated implant element in a desired position relative to one or more of the bone anchors of a spinal implant system. The reducing instrument includes a mounting member that is mounted to the anchor and extends along a first longitudinal axis and an implant reducing member pivotally linked to the mounting member that extends along a second longitudinal axis that is offset from and variably positionable relative to the first longitudinal axis about a pivot axis. The reducing member contacts the implant element and includes a manipulation portion to move the implant element along the second longitudinal axis and can maintain contact to move the implant element toward the bone anchor when the reducing member is pivoted relative to the mounting member about the pivot axis. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172717 | Spinal Rod Extenders and Methods of Use - A spinal rod assembly may be formed by attaching an extension portion onto a spinal rod that extends along a longitudinal axis. The extension portion may include a rod coupler that attaches to the spinal rod with a first coupling that includes a first degree of rotational freedom and a first degree of translational freedom in positioning the rod coupler relative to the spinal rod along the longitudinal axis. The extension portion may further include an extender rod including an elongated rod body that may be secured to the rod coupler using a second coupling that includes at least a second degree of rotational freedom in positioning the extender rod relative to the rod coupler about an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The extension portion may be assembled in situ to a spinal rod that has been previously secured to vertebral bodies in a patient. | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110172715 | Spinal Anchor Assemblies Having Extended Receivers - There are provided systems ( | 07-14-2011 |
| 20110165215 | COHESIVE OSTEOGENIC PUTTY AND MATERIALS THEREFOR - Described is an implantable medical material comprising a malleable, cohesive, shape-retaining putty including mineral particles, insoluble collagen fibers and soluble collagen. The medical material can be used in conjunction with biologically active factors such as osteogenic proteins to treat bone or other tissue defects in patients. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110160777 | SYSTEM AND METHODS OF MAINTAINING SPACE FOR AUGMENTATION OF THE ALVEOLAR RIDGE - An implantable screw for maintaining space during bone grafting procedures is provided, where the screw has a highly-polished contoured head having a region adapted to support soft tissue, a threaded shaft and a tip adapted to penetrate bone tissue. Also provided, a device combining multiple implantable screws in series in order to increase the available space to grow new bone and a method for implanting the implantable screw. The implantable screws provided may be used in conjunction with bone graft materials and are removable once a desired amount of new bone is generated. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110160775 | Locking Device And Method Employing A Posted Member To Control Positioning Of A Stabilization Member Of A Bone Stabilization System - A locking device and method are provided for a bone stabilization system which includes a bone anchor, a coupling mechanism and a stabilization member, wherein the coupling mechanism couples the stabilization member to the bone anchor. The locking device includes a seating member and a posted member. The seating member is operatively associated with the coupling mechanism for securing the stabilization member within the coupling mechanism, and is configured with an opening therein. The posted member, which includes an interface member and a post extending therefrom, is configured for disposition between the seating member and the stabilization member with the post extending therefrom being received into the opening in the seating member when the seating member is employed to secure the stabilization member within the coupling mechanism. The post is sized to engage and facilitate control of the stabilization member as the seating member operatively engages the coupling mechanism. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110160587 | VOLUMETRIC MEASUREMENT AND VISUAL FEEDBACK OF TISSUES - Apparatus and methods for assessing tissue characteristics such as the dimensions and volume of an osteolytic lesion are disclosed. The apparatus may utilize ultrasound to provide visual and volumetric feedback related to a lesion or other tissue. Further the apparatus may be utilized to determine whether the lesion has been completely removed and filled with the appropriate amount of graft material. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110152937 | Surgical Implants for Selectively Controlling Spinal Motion Segments - Elongated connecting elements include bodies having composite cross-sections defining a first resistance to bending about a first bending axis and a second resistance to bending about a second bending axis that is transverse to the first bending axis. The cross-section also includes intermediate bending axes between the first and second bending axes that provide resistance to bending that is less than that provided about the first bending axis and greater than that provided about the second bending axis. The connecting elements are positioned along one or more spinal motion segments and engaged to vertebrae with anchors with one of the first, second, and intermediate bending axes in the desired orientation relative to the spinal motion segment to provide the desired stiffness and resistance to bending. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110152936 | DIRECTIONAL VERTEBRAL ROD - A vertebral rod includes a first elongated section having a first thinned portion. A second elongated section has a second thinned portion. An intermediate section has a flat, thin configuration, and is connected with and disposed between the first section and the second section. The flat, thin configuration of the intermediate section is disposed in an orientation transverse to at least one of the first thinned portion and the second thinned portion. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110144648 | OSTEOCHONDRAL PLUG GRAFT TRIMMING DEVICE AND METHOD - A device for trimming an osteochondral plug graft to an implantable configuration, includes a blade assembly terminating in a configured leading cutting blade and a plug graft housing comprising a substantially longitudinal holding sleeve having a bore and oriented complementarily to the longitudinal structure of the blade assembly to receive the longitudinal structure within the sleeve bore with the assembly cutting blade in close tolerance along an inner bore surface of the longitudinal housing structure. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110143331 | Methods and Compositions for the Preservation of Cells and Tissues - Disclosed are methods for the preservation and storage of living biological tissues, organs, and populations of isolated cells. Also disclosed are compositions and methods to permit biological samples (including e.g., cells, cell cultures, tissues, and organs) to be harvested from suitable donor animals, stored for prolonged periods under refrigerated, cryogenic, or near-freezing, and then transported and implanted into a site within the body of a selected recipient animal, all without significant loss of cellular viability, tissue integrity, and/or biochemical function of the stored biological sample. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110137315 | CUTTING INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE FOR PREPARING AN OSTEOCHONDRAL PLUG FOR IMPLANTATION - A cutting instrument and method of use for preparing an osteochondral plug for implantation into a bone defect site. The instrument includes a dual function cutting block, a base holder, a rod mechanism and a trimming mechanism. The cutting block has a bore sized to receive the plug, at least one trimming channel and a transverse paring slot. The cutting block functions to hold the plug within the bore to allow for length and cross-sectional sizing. The base holder is constructed to fix the cutting block in a first orientation that allows the rod mechanism to position the plug within the cutting block for accurate length sizing. The base holder is also constructed to fix the cutting block in a second orientation which aligns the cutting block with the trimming mechanism so that an angled blade may engage the trimming channel and cut at least two sides of the plug. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110125192 | Anchor Extenders for Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures - Systems for positioning a connecting element adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive surgical procedures include one or more extenders removably engaged to one or more anchors engaged to a bony segment. The anchor extenders provide a reference to the respective anchor locations within the patient even when the anchor is obstructed by skin and/or tissue of the patient. An inserter can be movably mounted to the one or more anchor extenders, or an inserter can be employed without mounting to the one or more anchor extenders. In either form, the inserter is operable to position a stabilization element relative to the anchors for engagement to the anchors to stabilize the bony segment to which the anchors are engaged. At least one of the one or more anchor extenders includes a reduction assembly that is operable to move one or more portions of the bony segment while maintaining the minimally invasive character of the procedure. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110123705 | COHESIVE OSTEOGENIC PUTTY AND MATERIALS THEREFOR - Described is an implantable medical material comprising a malleable, cohesive, shape-retaining putty including mineral particles, insoluble collagen fibers and soluble collagen. The medical material can be used in conjunction with biologically active factors such as osteogenic proteins to treat bone or other tissue defects in patients. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110114514 | Medical Device Tracking System With Capsule and Method - Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for tracking a medical device. Systems configured for such tracking may include the capability to either or both detect tampering with the medical device and to effectively expose an encapsulated medical device to sterilization substances and associate the medical device with an identifying characteristic. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110106263 | Spinal Disc Prosthesis and Associated Methods - A prosthetic device for insertion into a spondylosed intervertebral space is provided. The prosthetic device includes a first component having a first flange for longitudinally engaging a first vertebra during longitudinal insertion therein, and a second component having a second flange for longitudinally engaging a second vertebra during longitudinal insertion therein. One of the first and second components comprises a projection and the other of the first and second components comprises a recess, the projection and recess being adapted to engage one another. One of the projection and the recess are offset relative to the other of the projection and the recess to accommodate the spondylosed relationship between the first and second vertebrae. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106258 | END CAP FOR A VERTEBRAL IMPLANT - An implant for insertion between adjacent vertebral members, comprising an implant body with at least one base section and an end cap. The end cap is adapted for selective positioning on a base section via rotational adjustment of the end cap. The end cap comprises an exterior contact surface that faces away from the implant body when positioned on the base section, a seating surface which contacts the base section when positioned on the implant body, end cap angulation, positioning passages adapted to receive positioning teeth, the positioning passages and positioning teeth complimentarily configured to facilitate positioning the end cap on the base section, and a locking mechanism adapted to lockingly engage the end cap and base section such that the implant imparts end cap angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected point when the implant is positioned in the intervertebral space. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106185 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR APPLYING SUSTAINED TENSION ON A TETHER - Apparatus for applying sustained tension on tether in treatment site includes a positioning mechanism, gripping mechanism and pressurized fluid actuated mechanism. The positioning mechanism is operable to position the pressurized fluid actuated mechanism at a fixed distance relative to treatment site, and to engage a target at treatment site and secure the tether proximate to the target. The gripping mechanism is operable to selectively grip the tether and maintain tether when tether is held in tension. The pressurized fluid actuated mechanism is selectively operable to apply desired pulling force on gripping mechanism directed away from treatment site so as to transmit and apply in a sustained manner the desired pulling force on the tether independently from the tether displacement and place it under desired level of tension while the tether is being secured. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106181 | ADJUSTABLE SADDLE FOR A BONE ANCHOR - A bone anchor is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor includes an anchoring portion, a receiving portion, and an internal saddle that is rotatable with respect to the receiving portion at least to a degree. The anchoring portion is attachable to a bone. A rod or other elongated support member is received in the receiving portion in contact with the saddle. The rod and saddle may be rotated for variability substantially in a plane, and an engaging member is engaged to the receiving portion to lock the rod within the receiving portion. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106180 | Implants With Adjustable Saddles - A bone anchor assembly is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor assembly includes a bone engaging portion, a receiver, a saddle within a channel defined by the receiver, and an engaging member. The receiver extends along a central longitudinal axis and is fixed to the bone engaging portion. A rod or other elongated connecting element is received in a channel of the receiver in contact with the saddle, and the engaging member engages the connecting element against the saddle. The orientation of the saddle in the receiver is adjustable to correspond to the orientation of the connecting element relative to the central longitudinal axis at any one of a plurality of angles of the connecting element through the receiver while the receiver and bone engaging portion remain fixed relative to one another. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106179 | Set Screw Having Variable Pitch Thread for Use With Spinal Implant Systems - An improved set screw for use with spinal implants to attach an elongated member to a bone. The set screw has a body with a lower portion. An external thread is on the lower portion wherein at least a portion of the external thread has a variable pitch. The set screw will engage a receiver member by a predetermined longitudinal distance before encountering the variable pitch of the external thread on the set screw. A preselected torque value for seating the set screw is achieved at this predetermined longitudinal distance of thread engagement by the set screw into the receiver member. The variable pitch provides consistent clamping force even when excessive torque is applied to the set screw. An upper portion can be connected to the lower portion of the set screw through a frangible portion. The preselected torque value for seating the set screw is selected at a value less than the break-off or separation torque required to cause the frangible portion to separate the upper portion from the lower portion of the set screw. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106178 | PEDICLE SCREW HEAD EXTENDER - The present invention relates to pedicle screw spinal rod connectors and more specifically, a pedicle screw head extender for use with a pedicle screw to ease connection to a spinal rod. The pedicle screw head extenders provided herein can be used with either fixed head pedicle screws or multi-axial head pedicle screws. The pedicle screw head extenders can either be threaded to or snapped into place within the various pedicle screws. It may also be possible to use the present invention with other types of spinal screws that may be connected to spinal rods without the screw actually being implanted through the pedicle of the spine. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106175 | Bone Engaging Implant With Adjustment Saddle - A bone anchor assembly is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver mounted to the bone anchor, a saddle within the receiver, and an engaging member. The receiver extends along a central longitudinal axis proximally away from the bone anchor. A rod or other elongated connecting element is received in a passage of the receiver in contact with the saddle, and the engaging member engages the connecting element against the saddle, which engages the saddle against the proximal head of the bone anchor in the receiver. The orientation of the saddle in the receiver is adjustable to correspond to the orientation of the connecting element relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiver. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106174 | Direct Control Spinal Implant - A bone anchor assembly is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. The anchor assembly includes a bone anchor, a receiver mounted to the bone anchor, a saddle within the receiver, a spacer within the receiver, and an engaging member. The receiver extends along a central longitudinal axis proximally away from the bone anchor. A rod or other elongated connecting element is received in a passage of the receiver in contact with the saddle, and the engaging member engages the connecting element against the saddle, which engages the saddle against the spacer, which in turn engages the proximal head of the bone anchor in the receiver. The orientation of the saddle in the receiver is adjustable to correspond to the orientation of the connecting element relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiver. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106173 | Anchor Assembly With Directionally Controlled Saddle Adjustment And Transversely Adjustable Receiver - A bone anchor assembly includes a receiver extending along a central longitudinal axis between a proximal end and an opposite distal end and a bone anchor extending from the receiver. The receiver includes a distal portion defining a receptacle opening at the distal end and a pair of arms extending from the distal portion along the central longitudinal axis on opposite sides of a passage. The receiver includes a saddle that is adjustable in the receiver in one plane to accommodate the angle of placement of the connecting element through the receiver. The receiver is adjustable in another plane that is transverse to the adjustment plane of the saddle to better position the receiver to receive the connecting element. The adjustable saddle and receiver reduce the bending or contouring of the connecting element that may be required to position the connecting element in the receiver. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106165 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION AND CORRECTION OF SPINAL DEFORMITIES - An apparatus for attachment to a vertebral body for correcting spinal deformities. The apparatus has a plate member having an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface having at least one receiving member defining a channel for receiving a flexible connection member. The at least one receiving member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal and distal portions interfacing along a frangible connection such that the at least one receiving member extends axially from the upper surface a first distance when the frangible connection is unbroken and the at least one receiving member extends axially from the upper surface a second distance when the frangible connection is broken. The second distance is less than the first distance. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106162 | Composite Connecting Elements for Spinal Stabilization Systems - Elongated connecting elements include bodies having composite cross-sections defined by a center core that is surrounded by an outer portion. The center core includes a first material and the outer portion includes a second material that is distinct from the first material. In one particular form, a connecting element includes a maximum dimension across an outer cross-sectional shape of the outer portion that is less than a minimum dimension across an oblong or round outer cross-sectional shape of a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) connecting element, and the connecting element exhibits mechanical properties that are at least equivalent to the mechanical properties of the polyetheretherketone (PEEK) connecting element. In another form, the center core has a non-circular cross-sectional shape and the first material is defined by a reinforcing material randomly dispersed throughout a polymer, and the outer portion includes a circular, outer cross-sectional shape. However, other embodiments, forms and applications are also envisioned. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106161 | Position Retaining Crosslink - A crosslink for a spinal stabilization system is disclosed that provides significant increased torsional stability for the spinal stabilization system. The crosslink includes a first crosslink arm and a second crosslink arm having an eye. An eyebolt is included that has a horizontal passageway for receiving at least a portion of the first crosslink arm and an upper portion for receiving the eye of the second crosslink arm. The eyebolt includes a means for inhibiting rotational and translational movement of the portion of the first crosslink arm. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106125 | SUGICAL CUTTING ATTACHMENT - A surgical cutting attachment that may include an elongated first member with a proximal end and a distal end including a first blade and an elongated second member with a proximal end and a distal end including a second blade. The second member may be positioned in a side-by-side orientation with the first member and may be connected to the first member at a pivot. A first set of apertures may extend through the first member and a second set of apertures may extend through the second member. A connector may be positioned on the proximal end of at least one of the first and second members. The first and second members may be movable between a first orientation with the first set of apertures aligned with the second set of apertures and the first blade spaced away from the second blade, and a second orientation with the first and second sets of apertures spaced away from each other and the first blade in proximity to the second blade. The first and second blades may form a scissor mechanism and the first and second set of apertures may form a shear mechanism. Methods of using the surgical cutting attachment are also disclosed. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106110 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR IMPLANTING A PLURALITY OF DRUG DEPOTS HAVING ONE OR MORE ANCHORING MEMBERS - The present invention is directed to a device for implanting a plurality of drug depots at or near a target tissue site beneath the skin of a patient. The device comprises at least three or more drug depots, wherein each of the at least three or more drug depots has a first surface adapted to receive one or more anchoring members so as to limit movement of the at least three or more drug depots at or near the target tissue site, and wherein at least two of the at least three or more drug depots comprise a second surface adapted to receive the anchoring member after the anchoring member contacts the target tissue site. Each drug depot is capable of releasing a therapeutically effective amount of a drug over a period of at least one day. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106085 | ADJUSTABLE OCCIPITAL VERTEBRAL FIXATION SYSTEM - An occipital plating system includes a plating assembly with a plate body defining a profile adapted for positioning on the occiput. The plate body includes a central portion that extends bi-laterally across the central axis of the spinal column to opposite lateral portions of the plate. At least one coupling member extends from each of the lateral portions of the plate body to receive a connecting element extending from the spinal column. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110106082 | INSTRUMENTS AND SYSTEMS FOR VERTEBRAL COLUMN MANIPULATION - Vertebral column manipulation systems include spinal derotation instrumentation to affect one or more derotation maneuvers on a scoliotic spine or on a spine having one or more displaced, misaligned or curved vertebral levels. Derotation instrumentation is attached to at least one vertebral body, with the instrumentation including at least two elongated extensions mounted to and extending proximally from the at least one vertebral body. A linking assembly extends between and links proximal ends of the extensions to one another. The linking assembly includes first and second mounting assemblies movably engaged to an elongate link member extending transversely to the extensions. Each of the mounting assemblies includes a movable joint for receiving the proximal end of a respective one of the extensions and a cam assembly for securing the mounting assembly in position relative to the link member and to fix the joint around the extension. | 05-05-2011 |
