Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080234761 | Polyaxial bone screw with shank-retainer insert capture - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body member having an upper portion with an internal drive and, alternatively, a laterally extending alignment rib or fin. The bone screw assembly also includes a lockable receiver coupling member, an open retainer ring member having a slit or gap and a compression insert member. An inset conical or cylindrical surface on the shank upper portion frictionally engages a similarly shaped inner surface of the retainer ring. The receiver includes a restrictive lower opening that allows for uploading the shank upper portion and compressed retainer ring into the receiver cavity, but prevents passage of the retainer ring out of the receiver once the ring inner surface engages the conical surface of the shank upper portion. | 09-25-2008 |
20080288005 | Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 11-20-2008 |
20080294198 | Dynamic spinal stabilization assembly with torsion and shear control - A dynamic stabilization assembly includes a flexible inner cord, an outer spacer, and a pair of anti-torque and anti-shear sleeves located on either end of the spacer and rotationally fixed with respect to the spacer, each sleeve having at least one and up to a plurality of protrusions or radially directed ridges and grooves on an outer surface thereof. Bone screws cooperating with the sleeves include at least one aperture or a plurality of ridges and grooves for close cooperation and engagement with the ridges and grooves of the anti-torque/anti-shear sleeves. | 11-27-2008 |
20080300633 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with pre-tensioned solid core - A dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly includes an anchor member having an integral or otherwise fixed elongate core of circular or non-circular cross-section. The core is pre-tensioned and extends through at least one elastic spacer and at least one outer sleeve. The anchor member and the outer sleeve each attach to at least one bone anchor. In operation, the core is held in tension by the spacer. | 12-04-2008 |
20080319482 | Dynamic fixation assemblies with pre-tensioned cord segments - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having a core portion made from at least one pre-tensioned flexible member and a cooperating pre-compressed surrounding outer sleeve. The sleeve surrounds the core and is disposed between cooperating rigid end members that are attached to the bone anchors. | 12-25-2008 |
20080319490 | Polyaxial bone anchor assembly with one-piece closure, pressure insert and plastic elongate member - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank, a receiver, a lower compression insert with planar surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member with planar surfaces and a one-piece closure structure. The connecting member is made from a polymer. The closure structure engages both the connecting member and the insert with the engagement between the closure structure and the insert securely locking the polyaxial mechanism even if the connecting member exhibits creep. | 12-25-2008 |
20090036935 | Polyaxial bone screw with helically wound capture connection - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and a closed retainer ring. The external capture structure surface and retainer ring internal bore surface are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the closed retainer ring out of the head. The retainer ring has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure or the closed retainer structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 02-05-2009 |
20090062866 | Polyaxial bone anchor with helical capture connection, insert and dual locking assembly - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank, a receiver, a lower compression insert with surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member and a dual closure structure that may include a single flange or helical flange. The dual closure structure independently engages the connecting member and the lower compression insert. A threaded capture connection of the bone anchor includes a shank upper surface exclusively engaging the lower compression insert and a retainer threadably attached to the shank and spaced from the upper surface, the retainer configured for polyaxial motion with respect to the receiver prior to locking. | 03-05-2009 |
20090093844 | Elastic covered dynamic stabilization connector and assembly - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connector having a solid core with an elastic over-molded portion. The over-molded portion may be firmly adhered or clamped to at least a portion of the solid core. Alternatively, the over-molded portion may completely envelope the solid core and in some embodiments slide on the core. At least one bone anchor includes at least one insert for gripping the over-molded portion without crushing such portion into fixed relation with the core. | 04-09-2009 |
20090105762 | Dynamic stabilization member with fin supported segment - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly having the following features: a pair of elongate segments, each segment having an abutment plate and a plurality of integral fins axially extending therefrom; and a molded elastomer that substantially surrounds the fins. | 04-23-2009 |
20090105764 | Dynamic stabilization member with fin support and solid core extension - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly having the following features: a pair of elongate segments, each segment having at least one and up to a plurality of integral fins axially extending therefrom; a core extension integral with one of the elongate segments and slidingly received in the other elongate segment; a molded spacer that substantially surrounds the fins and may partially or substantially surround the abutment plates; an optional bumper; an optional crimp ring; and optional sleeves having abutment plates and fins for placement between elongate segments. | 04-23-2009 |
20090105820 | Dynamic stabilization member with fin support and cable core extension - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly having the following features: a pair of elongate segments, each segment having at least one and up to a plurality of integral fins axially extending therefrom; an inner cable fixed to one of the elongate segments and slidingly received in the other elongate segment; a molded spacer that substantially surrounds the fins and may partially or substantially surround the abutment plates; a bumper; a crimp ring; and optional sleeves having abutment plates and fins for placement between elongate segments. | 04-23-2009 |
20090259259 | Helical wound mechanically interlocking mating guide and advancement structure - A structure including a pair of helically wound interlocking forms located on a cylindrical closure for an open headed medical implant and in a receiver between arms of the implant respectively. The interlocking forms each include overlapping gripping elements that engage mating elements during assembly to prevent radial splaying of arms of the implant. | 10-15-2009 |
20090275985 | Dynamic stabilization assembly having pre-compressed spacers with differential displacements - A dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly includes an anchor member having an integral or otherwise fixed elongate core extending through at least two elastic spacers and at least one outer sleeve or trolley. The anchor member and the outer sleeve each attach to at least one bone anchor. The spacers have differing durometers and/or geometries, resulting in greater axial movement of the sleeve in one direction than in an opposite direction. The spacers are compressed prior to attachment to the bone anchors. | 11-05-2009 |
20090281574 | Dynamic stabilization assembly with frusto-conical connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer. | 11-12-2009 |
20090282614 | Patient positioning support structure - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 11-19-2009 |
20090287261 | Polyaxial bone screw with discontinuous helically wound capture connection - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and an open, compressible retainer collar. The capture structure and retainer collar are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the attached retainer collar out of the head. The open retainer collar may be bottom- or top-loaded by compressing open ends of the ring towards each other, the collar springing back into a rounded shape after insertion in the head. The open collar has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 11-19-2009 |
20090299414 | Polyaxial bone screw with uploaded threaded shank and method of assembly and use - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body integral with an upper capture structure and a head having an inner cavity for receiving the capture structure. The capture structure is threaded and the head includes a threaded opening for rotatable assembly with the capture structure and eventual locking frictional engagement between the capture structure and the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with the threaded opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents pushing or pulling of the capture structure out of the head. The capture structure and the head provide a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The capture structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 12-03-2009 |
20090318972 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A spinal implant tool set includes end guide tools having flexible back wall flaps that receive opposite ends of the rod and intermediate guide tools that hold the rod in intermediate locations between the end guide tools. Both the end and intermediate guide tools include an attachment structure for operably connecting the guide tool to a bone screw. A multi-function installation tool and a bone screw driver each mate and cooperate with the guide tools. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 12-24-2009 |
20100004696 | Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 01-07-2010 |
20100010542 | Flexible spinal stbilization assembly with spacer having off-axis core member - A flexible stabilization assembly includes a flexible inner core, an outer spacer with an off-axis lumen that receives the inner core, and at least one end cap located on either end of the spacer and rotationally fixed with respect to the spacer. Bone screws cooperating with the end cap and spacer include structure for close cooperation and engagement with the end cap. When implanted, the flexible inner core is posteriorly biased with respect to the spacer. | 01-14-2010 |
20100010543 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with floating core, compression spacer and over-mold - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly having the following features: a pair of elongate bone anchor engagement segments, a floating inner core disposed in apertures of both anchor segments, at least one compression spacer surrounding the core and located between the anchor segments and in some embodiments an over-mold surrounding the compression spacer and at least a portion of one of the anchor segments. The implant may further include a tubed sleeve surrounding the core and located between the anchor segments. | 01-14-2010 |
20100016904 | Upload shank swivel head bone screw spinal implant - A polyaxial bone screw having a bone implantable shank, a head and a retaining ring. The retaining ring includes an outer partial hemispherical surface and an inner bore with radially extending channels and partial capture recesses. The shank includes a bone implantable body with an external helical wound thread and an upwardly extending capture structure. The capture structure includes at least one spline which extends radially outward and has a wedged surface that faces radially outward therefrom. The capture structure operably passes through a central bore of the retaining ring while the spline passes through a suitably shaped channel so that the spline becomes positioned above the head at which time the shank is rotated appropriately and the shank is drawn back downwardly so that the spline engages and seats in the capture recess. The head includes an internal cavity having a spherical shaped surface that mates with the ring surface and has a lower restrictive neck that prevents passage of the ring once the ring is seated in the cavity. | 01-21-2010 |
20100030280 | Upload shank swivel head bone screw spinal implant - A polyaxial bone screw having a bone implantable shank, a head and a retaining ring. The retaining ring includes an outer partial hemispherical surface and an inner bore with radially extending channels and partial capture recesses. The shank includes a bone implantable body with an external helical wound thread and an upwardly extending capture structure. The capture structure includes at least one spline which extends radially outward and has a wedged surface that faces radially outward therefrom. The capture structure operably passes through a central bore of the retaining ring while the spline passes through a suitably shaped channel so that the spline becomes positioned above the head at which time the shank is rotated appropriately and the shank is drawn back downwardly so that the spline engages and seats in the capture recess. The head includes an internal cavity having a spherical shaped surface that mates with the ring surface and has a lower restrictive neck that prevents passage of the ring once the ring is seated in the cavity. | 02-04-2010 |
20100036433 | Polyaxial Bone screw assembly with fixed retaining structure - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver and retained within the receiver by a retaining structure in the form of an open ring. The retaining structure is compressible, having an opening with two ends that may be pressed toward one another. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The receiver channel communicates with a cavity partially defined by an upper spherical surface and a substantially cylindrical surface communicating with a bottom opening of the receiver that allows for bottom loading the shank upper portion and the compressed retaining structure into the receiver, but prevents passage of the retaining structure out of the receiver once the retaining structure expands to an original form thereof and thus retains the shank upper portion within the cavity. In some embodiments, the shank upper portion is designed to directly frictionally engage the spinal fixation rod when a closure structure operably urges the rod toward the upper portion, fixing the bone screw shank body in a selected angular orientation with respect to the receiver. | 02-11-2010 |
20100174319 | Dynamic spinal stabilization assembly with elastic bumpers and locking limited travel closure mechanisms - A dynamic stabilization assembly includes a core, typically in the form of a tensioned cord, at least one pair of bone anchors, a spacer surrounding the core located between the bone anchors, at least one elastic bumper and at least one fixing or blocking member. The core is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone anchors, the spacer and the bumper. The bumper is compressed. Bone screws of the assembly include closure structures that lock against the bone screw independent of any fixing or sliding of the core with respect to the bone screw. | 07-08-2010 |
20100191293 | Polyaxial bone anchor with spline capture connection and lower pressure insert - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank with an upper portion, a receiver, a retainer for holding the shank upper portion in the receiver, a lower compression insert with surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member and a closure structure that may independently engage the lower compression insert to lock the shank with respect to the receiver while selectively not locking the elongate member. Projections or splines of the shank upper portion mate with holding pockets on the retainer. The bone anchor includes a shank upper surface exclusively engaging the lower compression insert that is spaced from the retainer, the retainer and shank being configured for polyaxial motion with respect to the receiver prior to locking. | 07-29-2010 |
20100211114 | Polyaxial bone anchor with shelf capture connection - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank, a receiver and a retainer structure for capturing and supporting an upper end portion of the shank in the receiver. The shank includes radially extending projections on its upper end and the retainer structure includes shelves with seating surfaces for receiving and supporting the shank projections. Some embodiments include a lower compression insert. | 08-19-2010 |
20100262195 | Polyaxial bone screw with shank articulation pressure insert and method - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 10-14-2010 |
20100298891 | Bone anchors with longitudinal connecting member engaging inserts and closures for fixation and optional angulation - Polyaxial bone anchors include a retainer for holding a shank within a receiver, the retainer being in at least two discrete pieces and cooperating with a variety of inserts, some of which independently lock the polyaxial mechanism. Polyaxial and mono-axial bone anchor assemblies include pivot and/or pressure inserts or pads that cooperate with longitudinal connecting members to provide a desired degree of continued control of angulation of the longitudinal connecting member in the sagittal plane or to hold the connecting member in place. Pressure pads for deformable rods may also be made from a deformable plastic material. | 11-25-2010 |
20100312287 | Dynamic fixation assemblies with inner core and outer coil-like member - A dynamic fixation medical implant includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate coil-like outer member and an inner cylindrical core attached to the outer member at only one end thereof. Some assemblies include a second longitudinal connecting member in the form of a rod that is fixed to the inner core and extends outwardly from the assembly. Certain assemblies include a threaded core or threaded inserts that cooperate with a helical slit of the coil-like outer member. Two or more cooperating bone screw assemblies attach to the connecting member assembly. The bone screw assemblies may include upper and lower compression members for affixing to and cradling the coil-like outer member only, allowing relative movement between the outer member and the inner cylindrical core. Press fit or snap-on features attach one end of the coil-like outer member to one end of the inner cylindrical core. | 12-09-2010 |
20100318136 | Polyaxial bone screw assembly - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper head portion with a mating segment and a first partial spherical surface, a retainer structure being mateable with the mating segment of the upper head portion, the retainer structure having a second partial spherical surface such that when mated, the first and second partial spherical surfaces form a spherical ball member, a receiver defining an open channel and having a base with a seating surface partially defining a cavity, the open channel communicating with the cavity, the cavity communicating with an exterior of the base through an opening sized and shaped to receive the shank upper head portion therethrough, and a bushing sized and shaped to fit within open channel and cavity, the bushing having a lower rounded surface engageable with a top surface of the spherical ball member formed by the shank and retainer structure. | 12-16-2010 |
20100331887 | Longitudinal connecting member with sleeved tensioned cords - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having rigid sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A flexible cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The spacer may include an optional inelastic inner liner, with at least one of the sleeves having an extension slidingly receivable within the liner. Some sleeves include apertures for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 12-30-2010 |
20110009910 | Polyaxial bone screw with helically wound capture connection - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and a closed retainer ring. The external capture structure surface and retainer ring internal bore surface are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the closed retainer ring out of the head. The retainer ring has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure or the closed retainer structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 01-13-2011 |
20110015678 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Each end guide tool includes a laterally extending, rigid, rod holding structure located near a bottom surface thereof. Intermediate guide tools having pass-through slots are utilized to guide the rod to the bone screws at intermediate locations. For bone screw implantation, the end guide tools and intermediate guide tools are assembled with a driver. The driver is coaxial with the respective guide tool and rotatingly mateable thereto. The driver includes a stem and a nut-type fastener, the stem receivable in the guide tool. The fastener allows for rotation of the bone screw without rotating the attached guide tool. For reducing a rod into the bone screw, a rod pusher is deployed that is coaxial with a respective guide tool and includes an outer sleeve that abuts the rod as the sleeve is translated along the guide tool and toward the bone screw. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 01-20-2011 |
20110015683 | Polyaxial bone screw assembly - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion with a capture structure thereon, a retaining and articulating structure, a compression structure and a receiver for holding the capture structure, retaining and articulating structure, compression structure and a rod. The receiver includes arms that define a channel for receiving the rod. The arms have inner surfaces with a discontinuous flange form thereon for mating with a cooperating continuous flange form of a closure structure for capturing the rod within the receiver. The shank capture structure and the retaining and articulating structure are threadably attached and secured to one another with a buttress stop. In operation, the compression structure is disposed within the receiver between the shank upper portion and a rod but presses only upon the retaining and articulating structure. The retaining and articulating structure has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the receiver, providing a ball joint, enabling the receiver to be disposed at numerous angles relative to the shank body. The shank upper portion includes a tool engagement formation for driving the shank body into bone. | 01-20-2011 |
20110040338 | Polyaxial bone anchor having an open retainer with conical, cylindrical or curvate capture - Polyaxial bone anchor assemblies include a shank having an upper portion and a retainer for holding the shank upper portion in a receiver. The shank upper portion retainer interface is one of conical, cylindrical or curvate and may further include a radial ridge or undercut. The assemblies may include compression inserts. | 02-17-2011 |
20110077692 | Dynamic spinal stabilization assemblies, tool set and method - A hinged bone screw and tool set is used for implanting such bone screws in a human spine, followed by the implantation of a longitudinal connecting member into the bone screws. The hinged bone screw includes a shank with an upper portion and a receiver with integral arms forming a U-shaped channel. A lower curved seat partially defining the U-shaped channel cooperates with an upper portion of the bone screw shank for hinged movement of the shank with respect to the receiver. The tool set includes an insertion tool, a bone screw driver, a reduction tool and a closure starter. The insertion tool includes a bone screw attachment structure and a laterally opening channel. The insertion tool further includes a threaded portion for cooperation with the reduction tool to provide synchronized placement of a closure structure in the bone screw receiver while reducing and capturing a longitudinal connecting member within the receiver. Further alternative bone screws are hinged, polyaxial or fixed and include lordosing or kyphosing lateral surfaces. | 03-31-2011 |
20110098755 | Polyaxial bone anchor with non-pivotable retainer and pop-on shank, some with friction fit - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. The upper portion expands a retaining member in the receiver cavity to capture the shank upper portion in the receiver. In some embodiment either the retaining member or an insert provide for a friction fit of the shank upper portion in the receiver resulting in non-floppy placement of the shank with respect to the receiver. Some retainers and inserts have a lock-and-release feature. Final locking of the polyaxial mechanism is provided by frictional engagement between the shank upper portion and the retaining member. A pre-assembled receiver, retaining member and optional insert may be popped-on or snapped-on to the shank upper portion prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. | 04-28-2011 |
20110099716 | Patient positioning support structure - A patient support structure includes a pair of independently height-adjustable supports, each connected to a patient support structure. The supports may be independently raised, lowered, rolled or tilted about a longitudinal axis, laterally shifted and angled upwardly or downwardly. Position sensors are provided to sense all of the foregoing movements. The sensors communicate data to a computer for coordinated adjustment and maintenance of the inboard ends of the patient support structures in an approximated position during such movements. Longitudinal translation structure provides for compensation in the length of the structure when the supports are angled upwardly or downwardly. Patient translation structure provides coordinated translational movement of the patient's upper body along the respective patient support in a caudad or cephalad direction as the support structures are angled upwardly or downwardly for maintaining proper spinal biomechanics and avoiding undue spinal traction or compression. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106176 | Polyaxial bone screw with multi-part shank retainer and pressure insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver, a compression insert and an articulation structure made from at least two discrete pieces. The shank upper portion cooperates with the compression insert to place the retainer in frictional engagement with the receiver. The geometry of the retainer structure pieces corresponds and cooperates with the external geometry of the shank upper portion to frictionally envelope the retainer structure between the capture structure and an internal surface defining a cavity of the receiver. | 05-05-2011 |
20110107516 | Patient positioning support structure with trunk translator - A patient support structure includes a pair of independently height-adjustable supports, each connected to a patient support. The supports may be independently raised, lowered, rolled or tilted about a longitudinal axis, laterally shifted and angled upwardly or downwardly. Position sensors are provided to sense all of the foregoing movements. The sensors communicate data to a computer for coordinated adjustment and maintenance of the inboard ends of the patient supports in an approximated position during such movements. A longitudinal translator provides for compensation in the length of the structure when the supports are angled upwardly or downwardly. A patient trunk translator provides coordinated translational movement of the patient's upper body along the respective patient support in a caudad or cephalad direction as the patient supports are angled upwardly or downwardly for maintaining proper spinal biomechanics and avoiding undue spinal traction or compression. | 05-12-2011 |
20110107517 | Surgery table apparatus - A surgery table utilizing first and second sections which are hingedly attached to one another. First and second sections are also connected to supports apart from the hinged portion. An elevator moves one of the sections upwardly and downwardly at the support. The resultant position of the frame formed by the first and second sections may take the configuration of a flat surface or an upwardly or downwardly oriented “vee”. | 05-12-2011 |
20110137348 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with molded connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having at least one transition portion and cooperating outer sleeve, both the transition portion and sleeve being disposed between the two bone anchors. The transition portion includes a rigid length or rod having apertures therein and a molded plastic length that extends through the apertures, thus attaching the plastic length to the rigid length. The sleeve surrounds the transition portion and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors. | 06-09-2011 |
20110218578 | Polyaxial bone screw with cam connection and lock and release insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A retaining member for capturing the shank in the receiver includes a sloping surface for a frictional, press fit, cammed engagement with the shank. A compression insert having a resilient structure provides non-floppy positioning of the shank with respect to the receiver and also independent locking of the shank with respect to the receiver. | 09-08-2011 |
20110218579 | Polyaxial bone anchor with helical capture connection, insert and dual locking assembly - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank, a receiver, a lower compression insert with surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member and a dual closure structure that may include a single flange or helical flange. The dual closure structure independently engages the connecting member and the lower compression insert. A threaded capture connection of the bone anchor includes a shank upper surface exclusively engaging the lower compression insert and a retainer threadably attached to the shank and spaced from the upper surface, the retainer configured for polyaxial motion with respect to the receiver prior to locking. | 09-08-2011 |
20110282399 | Polyaxial bone screw with cam connection and lock and release insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes, a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A retaining member for capturing the shank in the receiver includes a sloping surface for a frictional, press fit, cammed engagement with the shank. A compression insert having a resilient structure provides non-floppy positioning of the shank with respect to the receiver and also independent locking of the shank with respect to the receiver. | 11-17-2011 |
20110282400 | Reverse angled threadform with anti-splay Clearance - A reverse angled threadform with anti-splay clearance includes inner and outer helical threads, each with respective leading stab flanks and trailing load flanks, the load flanks mutually engaging when an inner member with the inner threads is advanced into an outer member with the outer threads. The inner load flanks form acute angles with a helical axis, while the outer load flanks form obtuse angles with the helical axis. The clearance is formed between the stab flanks of the inner and outer threads. On threadforms with root and crest other than angular peaks, such as cylindrical root and crest surfaces, the anti-splay clearance is also formed between the mutually facing root and crest surfaces of the inner and outer threads. The load flanks may be parallel, outwardly diverging, or outwardly converging. | 11-17-2011 |
20110295320 | Dynamic stabilization assembly with frusto-conical connection - A dynamic fixation medical implant for attachment to at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having first and second rigid sections, at least one section having a convex or frusto-conical surface held in spaced relation with the other section by an elastic spacer. The spacer may be an over-mold that connects the first and second rigid sections. Some embodiments include an inner, tougher spacer and a separate over-molded spacer. | 12-01-2011 |
20110319937 | Side-loading interspinous process spacer an installation tool - A side-loading interbody or intervertebral spacer device for placement in an interspinous space between a pair of adjacent spinous processes includes opposed abutment portions sized and shaped for engaging adjacent spinal processes and an arcuate rim. A through-channel is disposed between the opposed abutment portions. A tool configured and arranged for releasably engaging and installing said intervertebral spacer. | 12-29-2011 |
20120023672 | Patient positioning support structure - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 02-02-2012 |
20120029568 | Spinal connecting members with radiused rigid sleeves and tensioned cords - A spinal implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having hard, non-elastic sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The sleeves include a lower radiused surface for direct engagement with a radiused surface of a shank of the cooperating bone anchor. The sleeves include an aperture for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 02-02-2012 |
20120035660 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with pre-tensioned solid core - A dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly includes an anchor member having an integral or otherwise fixed elongate core of circular or non-circular cross-section. The core is pre-tensioned and extends through at least one elastic spacer and at least one outer sleeve. The anchor member and the outer sleeve each attach to at least one bone anchor. In operation, the core is held in tension by the spacer. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035663 | Dynamic stabilization medical implant assemblies and methods - Bone screw assemblies include longitudinal connecting members that provide for dynamic stabilization, some including non-uniform portions that are configured to flex, contract or expand. Composite longitudinal connecting members include longitudinal segments made from different materials having different flexibilities. Polyaxial bone screw assemblies include change-out receivers for cooperating with replacement longitudinal connecting members having a different flexibility. Bone screw shanks for cooperating with one or more open receivers include treatment or coating to provide biologically active interface with bone. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035669 | Polyaxial bone screw - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head, a retaining ring and a nut. The external capture structure surface includes a threaded portion and a smooth portion; the smooth portion for slidably mating with the retaining ring and the threaded portion for rotatable attachment to the nut within a cavity of the head. The nut fixes the retaining ring to the shank and also provides a tool engagement formation for driving the shank body into bone. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035670 | Polyaxial bone anchors with pop-on shank, fully constrained friction fit retainer and lock and release insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. The receiver can have crimp tabs, but is devoid of spring tabs and collet-like flexible structures. A down-loadable compression insert (some with lock and release feature), a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having super structure for temporary friction fit with an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 02-09-2012 |
20120046700 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank and pivotable retainer - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. The shank upper portion expands a retaining member in the receiver cavity to capture the shank upper portion in the receiver. The retaining member and attached shank are pivotable with respect to the receiver until locked in place with respect to the receiver. A pre-assembled receiver, retaining member and compression insert may be popped-on or snapped-on to the shank upper portion prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. | 02-23-2012 |
20120059426 | Polyaxial bone anchors with pop-on shank, friction fit fully restrained retainer, insert and tool receiving features - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. The receiver can have crimp tabs, but is devoid of spring tabs and collet-like flexible structures. A down-loadable compression insert (some with lock and release feature), a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. The receiver and insert include aligned tool receiving apertures for lock and release of the polyaxial mechanism. | 03-08-2012 |
20120071886 | Tool system for dynamic spinal implants - A tool set for implanting bone screws in a human spine, followed by the implantation of a longitudinal connecting member into the bone screws includes a pair of independently mountable and manipulatable elongate guide tools that form a unitary tool guide when desired. Each guide tool includes attachment structure for independent operable connection of the guide tool to an arm of the bone screw. The bone screw/guide tool attachment includes an undercut and/or recess so as to resist separation of the guide tool member from an attached bone screw. Further tools include a removable stabilizer, a cooperating bone screw driver with an attached stabilizer, a closure starter/reduction tool, a closure driver and a counter torque tool. | 03-22-2012 |
20120071928 | Dynamic stabilization members with elastic and inelastic sections - An improved dynamic longitudinal connecting member includes a rod portion joined with a tensioned cord portion, for use in a medical implant assembly having at least two bone attachment structures, a spacer covering the join of the rod and cord portions and extending between the at least two bone attachment structures, a sleeve, a bumper and a cord blocker. The spacer and bumper are compressed. The cord portion is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone attachment members. | 03-22-2012 |
20120089188 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with slitted core and outer sleeve - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate core and an outer sleeve. The core may be substantially cylindrical, of one-piece construction, and includes end portions for attachment to the bone anchors. A portion of the core extending between the bone anchors has at least one slit. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The sleeve surrounds the core and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors. | 04-12-2012 |
20120089196 | Upload shank swivel head bone screw spinal implant - A polyaxial bone screw having a bone implantable shank, a head and a retaining ring. The retaining ring includes an outer partial hemispherical surface and an inner bore. The shank mates and polyaxially rotates with the retaining ring inside the head. The head includes an internal cavity having a spherical shaped surface that mates with the ring surface and has a lower restrictive neck that prevents passage of the ring once the ring is seated in the cavity. | 04-12-2012 |
20120143255 | Spinal connecting members with tensioned cords and rigid sleeves for engaging compression inserts - A spinal implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having hard, non-elastic sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer located between the bone anchors, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper and cord blocker. A cord is received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper, the cord being in fixed or sliding relationship with cooperating sleeves. The sleeves include portions for direct engagement with bone screw inserts and closure tops and may include a channel for receiving a projected portion of a spacer. | 06-07-2012 |
20120143266 | Polyaxial bone anchor with open planar retainer, pop-on shank and friction fit insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A friction fit compression insert (some with lock and release feature), a planar split retaining ring and a shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled and the receiver and insert may include aligned tool receiving apertures for lock and release of the polyaxial mechanism. | 06-07-2012 |
20120158070 | Orthopedic implant rod reductiion tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. | 06-21-2012 |
20120179212 | Polyaxial bone anchor with compound articulation and pop-on shank - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral shank head receivable in a one-piece receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A compression insert (some with an independent tool lock, lock and release feature and/or friction fit feature) and a split retaining ring articulatable with respect to both the shank head and the receiver (prior to locking) cooperate with the receiver to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. | 07-12-2012 |
20120198625 | Patient positioning support structure - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. Primary and secondary elevators and a failsafe locking system are provided. | 08-09-2012 |
20120209336 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank, friction fit retainer and winged insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert with tool receiving arm extensions, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 08-16-2012 |
20120221054 | Soft stabilization assemblies with pretensioned cords - A soft dynamic stabilization assembly includes a core, typically in the form of a tensioned cord, at least one pair of bone anchors, a spacer surrounding the core located between the bone anchors, typically, at least one elastic bumper and at least one fixing or blocking member. The core is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone anchors and cooperating spacer. | 08-30-2012 |
20120246829 | Surgery table apparatus - A surgery table utilizing first and second sections which are hingedly attached to one another. First and second sections are also connected to supports apart from the hinged portion. An elevator moves one of the sections upwardly and downwardly at the support. The resultant position of the frame formed by the first and second sections may take the configuration of a flat surface or an upwardly or downwardly oriented “vee”. | 10-04-2012 |
20120265257 | Polyaxial bone screw with shank-retainer insert capture - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body member having an upper portion with an internal drive and, alternatively, a laterally extending alignment rib or fin. The bone screw assembly also includes a lockable receiver coupling member, an open retainer ring member having a slit or gap and a compression insert member. An inset conical or cylindrical surface on the shank upper portion frictionally engages a similarly shaped inner surface of the retainer ring. The receiver includes a restrictive lower opening that allows for uploading the shank upper portion and compressed retainer ring into the receiver cavity, but prevents passage of the retainer ring out of the receiver once the ring inner surface engages the conical surface of the shank upper portion. | 10-18-2012 |
20120277800 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Each end guide tool includes a laterally extending, rigid, rod holding structure located near a bottom surface thereof. Intermediate guide tools having pass-through slots are utilized to guide the rod to the bone screws at intermediate locations. | 11-01-2012 |
20120303070 | Polyaxial bone anchor assembly with one-piece closure, pressure insert and plastic elongate member - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank, a receiver, a lower compression insert with planar surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member with planar surfaces and a one-piece closure structure. The connecting member is made from a polymer. The closure structure engages both the connecting member and the insert with the engagement between the closure structure and the insert securely locking the polyaxial mechanism even if the connecting member exhibits creep. | 11-29-2012 |
20120303075 | Dynamic stabilization connecting member with elastic core and outer sleeve - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate core and an outer sleeve. The core is of one-piece construction, elastic, and includes end portions for attachment to the bone anchors. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The sleeve surrounds the core and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible between the bone anchors. | 11-29-2012 |
20120310286 | Anti-splay medical implant closure with multi-surface removal aperture - A convex spinal fusion interbody space device includes spaced apart superior and inferior abutment surfaces which are effectively medially convex. The peak of such convexity is displaced anteriorly of a central plane through the device. The spacer device has a height which is greater than the width of the device. The spacer device is implanted between a pair of adjacent vertebrae by insertion in a tipped-over orientation and then reoriented to an upright orientation for engagement by facing surfaces of the vertebrae. Fusion promoting bone material is packed between the vertebrae and about and within the spacer device subsequent to implantation. | 12-06-2012 |
20120310290 | Polyaxial bone screw with spherical capture, compression insert and alignment and retention structures - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a receiver, a shank, an articulation structure for retaining the shank in the receiver and a compression insert for engagement with a longitudinal connecting member such as a rod. The articulation structure includes substantially spherical convex and concave surfaces that slidably engage both shank and receiver surfaces to provide compound articulation between the receiver and the shank. The receiver includes inwardly directed spring tabs engaging the insert and prohibiting rotation of the insert within the receiver. | 12-06-2012 |
20120310291 | Polyaxial bone screw with split retainer ring - A polyaxial bone screw includes a head member and a shank member. The shank has a capture end and an opposite threaded end for threaded insertion into a vertebra. The head has a U-shaped cradle for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a central bore for receiving the capture end of the shank. An expandible retainer ring with a radial split is snapped onto the capture end of the shank to retain it within the head. The retainer ring has a spherical outer surface which forms a ball joint with a spherical socket cavity within the head to enable the head to be angled relative to the shank. A threaded closure plug is tightened within the cradle to clamp the rod into engagement with a knurled dome on the capture end of the shank to secure the rod relative to the vertebra. | 12-06-2012 |
20130023941 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH POP-ON SHANK AND WINGED INSERT WITH FRICTION FIT COMPRESSIVE COLLET - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert has a lower friction fit collet and an outer receiver press fit surface. A down-loadable retaining ring has at least one inner edge and outer tiered surfaces. The ring cooperates with the shank to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. A uni-planar assembly is included. | 01-24-2013 |
20130035728 | Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 02-07-2013 |
20130046350 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank, shank, friction fit retainer, winged insert and low profile edge lock - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 02-21-2013 |
20130060292 | Bone anchors with longitudinal connecting member engaging inserts and closures for fixation and optional angulation - Polyaxial bone anchors include a retainer for holding a shank within a receiver, the retainer being in at least two discrete pieces and cooperating with a variety of inserts, some of which independently lock the polyaxial mechanism. Polyaxial and mono-axial bone anchor assemblies include pivot and/or pressure inserts or pads that cooperate with longitudinal connecting members to provide a desired degree of continued control of angulation of the longitudinal connecting member in the sagittal plane or to hold the connecting member in place. Pressure pads for deformable rods may also be made from a deformable plastic material. | 03-07-2013 |
20130060293 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank and winged insert with lower skirt for engaging a friction fit retainer - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert having a sub-structure, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 03-07-2013 |
20130072981 | Connecting member with tensioned cord, low profile rigid sleeve and spacer with torsion control - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body and a receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity. The longitudinal connecting member assembly includes a tensioned cord and has hard, non-elastic sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer located between the bone anchors, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper and cord blocker. A down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver. | 03-21-2013 |
20130072992 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank and friction fit retainer with low profile edge lock - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 03-21-2013 |
20130103098 | Polyaxial bone anchor with pop-on shank, friction fit retainer and lateral alignment feature - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a one piece receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert and a friction fit split retainer are located in the receiver providing pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. Laterally located, spaced crimping apertures in the receiver press receiver walls into engagement with the insert to prohibit rotation of the insert with respect to the receiver. | 04-25-2013 |
20130111666 | Patient positioning support structure - An articulating patient support table comprises first and second patient support sections hingedly connected together along respective hinge ends. A longitudinal translation subassembly connected to a base by a position adjustable pedestal supports the first patient support section in cantilevered relationship. The position adjustment assembly includes a lift mechanism operable to raise and lower the longitudinal translation subassembly relative to the base and a pivot assembly operable to pivot the longitudinal translation subassembly fore and aft and side to side relative to the base. | 05-09-2013 |
20130117938 | Surgery table apparatus - A surgery table utilizing first and second sections which are hingedly attached to one another. First and second sections are also connected to supports apart from the hinged portion. An elevator moves one of the sections upwardly and downwardly at the support. The resultant position of the frame formed by the first and second sections may take the configuration of a flat surface or an upwardly or downwardly oriented “vee”. | 05-16-2013 |
20130131730 | Polyaxial bone anchor with articulating retainer and multi-start closure - An open polyaxial bone anchor includes a pre-assembled receiver, retaining member and compression insert that may be popped-on or snapped-on to the shank upper portion prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. Cooperating closures have at least two helically wound forms thereon providing a multi-start closing mechanism for use between spaced arms of the bone anchor having mating helically wound structure thereon. | 05-23-2013 |
20130133137 | Patient positioning support structure with coordinated continuous nonsegmented articulation, rotation and lift, and locking fail-safe device - An apparatus for supporting a patient during a medical procedure with a breaking patient support subassembly and an angulation subassembly for changing patient angulation while substantially maintaining the height of the point of angulation. The angulation assembly includes an angulation wedge with upper and lower sides and a pair of opposed upper and lower guide members that slidably engage respective upper and lower sides. The guide members each include a key guide structure that slidably engages a complementary lock guide channel in the associated wedge upper and lower sides. The apparatus includes a torso trolley joined with the angulation subassembly and adapted for moving in cephalad and caudad directions in response to upward and downward breaking of the patient support subassembly. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138153 | Dynamic stabilization assembly having pre-compressed spacers with differential displacements - A dynamic longitudinal connecting member assembly includes an anchor member having an integral or otherwise fixed elongate core extending through at least two elastic spacers and at least one outer sleeve or trolley. The anchor member and the outer sleeve each attach to at least one bone anchor. The spacers have differing durometers and/or geometries, resulting in greater axial movement of the sleeve in one direction than in an opposite direction. The spacers are compressed prior to attachment to the bone anchors. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138157 | Polyaxial bone anchor having an open retainer with conical, cylindrical or curvate capture - Polyaxial bone anchor assemblies include a shank having an upper portion and a retainer for holding the shank upper portion in a receiver. The shank upper portion retainer interface is one of conical, cylindrical or curvate and may further include a radial ridge or undercut. The assemblies may include compression inserts. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138158 | Polyaxial bone anchor having an open retainer with conical, cylindrical or curvate capture - Polyaxial bone anchor assemblies include a shank having an upper portion and a retainer for holding the shank upper portion in a receiver. The shank upper portion retainer interface is one of conical, cylindrical or curvate and may further include a radial ridge or undercut. The assemblies may include compression inserts. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138159 | Polyaxial bone anchor having an open retainer with conical, cylindrical or curvate capture - Polyaxial bone anchor assemblies include a shank having an upper portion and a retainer for holding the shank upper portion in a receiver. The shank upper portion retainer interface is one of conical, cylindrical or curvate and may further include a radial ridge or undercut. The assemblies may include compression inserts. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138160 | Polyaxial Bone Anchor With Spline Capture Connection And Lower Pressure Insert - A medical implant assembly includes a polyaxial bone anchor having a shank with an upper portion, a receiver, a retainer for holding the shank upper portion in the receiver, a lower compression insert with surfaces for closely receiving an elongate connecting member and a closure structure that may independently engage the lower compression insert to lock the shank with respect to the receiver while selectively not locking the elongate member. Projections or splines of the shank upper portion mate with holding pockets on the retainer. The bone anchor includes a shank upper surface exclusively engaging the lower compression insert that is spaced from the retainer, the retainer and shank being configured for polyaxial motion with respect to the receiver prior to locking. | 05-30-2013 |
20130138161 | Polyaxial bone screw assembly with fixed retaining structure - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver and retained within the receiver by a retaining structure in the form of an open ring. The receiver has a U-shaped channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The shank upper portion is designed to directly frictionally engage the spinal fixation rod when a closure structure operably urges the rod toward the upper portion, fixing the bone screw shank body in a selected angular orientation with respect to the receiver. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144341 | Dynamic fixation assemblies with inner core and outer coil-like member - A dynamic fixation medical implant includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate coil-like outer member and an inner cylindrical core attached to the outer member at only one end thereof. Some assemblies include a second longitudinal connecting member in the form of a rod that is fixed to the inner core and extends outwardly from the assembly. Certain assemblies include a threaded core or threaded inserts that cooperate with a helical slit of the coil-like outer member. Two or more cooperating bone screw assemblies attach to the connecting member assembly. The bone screw assemblies may include upper and lower compression members for affixing to and cradling the coil-like outer member only, allowing relative movement between the outer member and the inner cylindrical core. Press fit or snap-on features attach one end of the coil-like outer member to one end of the inner cylindrical core. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144346 | Modular polyaxial bone anchor with retainer having interconnected pieces - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a one-piece receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable, friction fit compression insert (some with lock and release feature), a down-loadable two-piece, interconnected retaining ring articulatable with respect to the receiver and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144347 | Closure for open headed implant - A closure for an open headed medical implant, such as a bone screw. The closure having a cylindrical body having an axis of rotation and also having a radially outer surface with a thread or other guide and advancement structure thereon. The body having a plurality of apertures that open onto a top surface of the body and that are parallel to but spaced from the axis of rotation. The closure also has a break-off head centrally attached by a neck to the top surface of the body. | 06-06-2013 |
20130197585 | Multi-start closures for open implants - An open implant closure structure includes a helically wound guide and advancement structure having at least two helically wound forms thereon providing a multi-start closing mechanism for use between spaced arms of a cooperating open medical implant having mating helically wound structure thereon. Illustrated structures include interlocking flange forms, v-threads, square threads, reverse angle threads and buttress threads and receivers with break-off extensions and cooperating tooling. | 08-01-2013 |
20130198958 | Fail-safe release mechanism for use with patient positioning support apparati - A fail-safe release mechanism for use with patient positioning support apparati having a base structure and a patient support structure, to prevent collapse of the patient support during disconnection of the patient support structure from the base structure. | 08-08-2013 |
20130205500 | Patient Positioning Support Structure - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 08-15-2013 |
20130218212 | Polyaxial bone screw with cam connection and lock and release insert - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes, a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A retaining member for capturing the shank in the receiver includes a sloping surface for a frictional, press fit, cammed engagement with the shank. A compression insert having a resilient structure provides non-floppy positioning of the shank with respect to the receiver and also independent locking of the shank with respect to the receiver. | 08-22-2013 |
20130219623 | Patient positioning support structure - A patient support structure includes a pair of independently height-adjustable supports, each connected to a patient support. The supports may be independently raised, lowered, rolled or tilted about a longitudinal axis, laterally shifted and angled upwardly or downwardly. Position sensors are provided to sense all of the foregoing movements. The sensors communicate data to a computer for coordinated adjustment and maintenance of the inboard ends of the patient supports in an approximated position during such movements. A longitudinal translator provides for compensation in the length of the structure when the supports are angled upwardly or downwardly. A patient trunk translator provides coordinated translational movement of the patient's upper body along the respective patient support in a caudad or cephalad direction as the patient supports are angled upwardly or downwardly for maintaining proper spinal biomechanics and avoiding undue spinal traction or compression. | 08-29-2013 |
20130253598 | Orthopedic implant rod reduction tool set and method - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. | 09-26-2013 |
20130254992 | MODULAR MULTI-ARTICULATED PATIENT SUPPORT SYSTEM - A modular, multi-articulated patient support system includes independently adjustable columns connected by an adjustable base and supporting a patient support structure. Each column includes rotation, angulation and separation adjustment structure. The patient support may be raised, lowered and rotated about a longitudinal axis in either horizontal or tilted orientation. The patient support includes a body support rotatably coupled with right and left leg supports disengageable at the outboard ends, that can be tilted, rotated and locked in place. An intermediate brace engages the base when the outboard ends of the leg supports are disengaged. The patient support structure may include two pairs of patient supports, each attached at the outboard end of a column and having a free inboard end. A coordinated drive system raises, lowers, tilts and rotates the patient supports, which may be positioned in overlapping relation. The pairs of patient supports may be rotated in unison to achieve 180° repositioning of a patient. | 10-03-2013 |
20130254993 | MODULAR MULTI-ARTICULATED PATIENT SUPPORT SYSTEM - A modular, multi-articulated patient support system includes independently adjustable columns connected by an adjustable base and supporting a patient support structure. Each column includes rotation, angulation and separation adjustment structure. The patient support may be raised, lowered and rotated about a longitudinal axis in either horizontal or tilted orientation. The patient support includes a body support rotatably coupled with right and left leg supports disengageable at the outboard ends, that can be tilted, rotated and locked in place. An intermediate brace engages the base when the outboard ends of the leg supports are disengaged. The patient support structure may include two pairs of patient supports, each attached at the outboard end of a column and having a free inboard end. A coordinated drive system raises, lowers, tilts and rotates the patient supports, which may be positioned in overlapping relation. The pairs of patient supports may be rotated in unison to achieve 180° repositioning of a patient. | 10-03-2013 |
20130254994 | MODULAR MULTI-ARTICULATED PATIENT SUPPORT SYSTEM - A modular, multi-articulated patient support system includes independently adjustable columns connected by an adjustable base and supporting a patient support structure. Each column includes rotation, angulation and separation adjustment structure. The patient support may be raised, lowered and rotated about a longitudinal axis in either horizontal or tilted orientation. The patient support includes a body support rotatably coupled with right and left leg supports disengageable at the outboard ends, that can be tilted, rotated and locked in place. An intermediate brace engages the base when the outboard ends of the leg supports are disengaged. The patient support structure may include two pairs of patient supports, each attached at the outboard end of a column and having a free inboard end. A coordinated drive system raises, lowers, tilts and rotates the patient supports, which may be positioned in overlapping relation. The pairs of patient supports may be rotated in unison to achieve 180° repositioning of a patient. | 10-03-2013 |
20130254995 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 10-03-2013 |
20130254996 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 10-03-2013 |
20130254997 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 10-03-2013 |
20130274806 | HELICAL GUIDE AND ADVANCEMENT FLANGE WITH RADIALLY LOADED LIP - A spinal fixation device combines an open-headed anchor member, such as a bone screw or a hook, with a closure member to thereby clamp a spinal fixation rod to the anchor member. The anchor member has spaced apart arms forming a rod receiving channel. The closure member and inner surfaces of the arms and tabs have helical anti-splay guide and advancement interlocking flanges formed thereon which cooperate to prevent splaying the arms and extensions as the closure member is advanced into the rod receiving channel. | 10-17-2013 |
20130274815 | Polyaxial bone screw with spherical capture, compression insert and alignment and retention structures - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a receiver, a shank, an articulation structure for retaining the shank in the receiver and a compression insert for engagement with a longitudinal connecting member such as a rod. The articulation structure includes substantially spherical convex and concave surfaces that slidably engage both shank and receiver surfaces to provide compound articulation between the receiver and the shank. The receiver includes inwardly directed spring tabs engaging the insert and prohibiting rotation of the insert within the receiver. | 10-17-2013 |
20130274817 | Polyaxial bone screw with spherical capture, compression and alignment and retention structures - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a receiver, a shank, an articulation structure for retaining the shank in the receiver and a compression insert for engagement with a longitudinal connecting member such as a rod. The articulation structure includes substantially spherical convex and concave surfaces that slidably engage both shank and receiver surfaces to provide compound articulation between the receiver and the shank. The receiver includes inwardly directed spring tabs engaging the insert and prohibiting rotation of the insert within the receiver. | 10-17-2013 |
20130289631 | Polyaxial Bone Screw Assembly - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a shank body having an upper head portion with a mating segment and a first partial spherical surface, a retainer structure being mateable with the mating segment of the upper head portion, the retainer structure having a second partial spherical surface such that when mated, the first and second partial spherical surfaces form a spherical ball member, a receiver defining an open channel and having a base with a seating surface partially defining a cavity, the open channel communicating with the cavity, the cavity communicating with an exterior of the base through an opening sized and shaped to receive the shank upper head portion therethrough, and a bushing sized and shaped to fit within open channel and cavity, the bushing having a lower rounded surface engageable with a top surface of the spherical ball member formed by the shank and retainer structure. | 10-31-2013 |
20130289632 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SPLIT RETAINER RING - A polyaxial bone screw includes a head member and a shank member. The shank has a capture end and an opposite threaded end for threaded insertion into a vertebra. The head has a U-shaped cradle for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a central bore for receiving the capture end of the shank. An expandible retainer ring with a radial split is snapped onto the capture end of the shank to retain it within the head. The retainer ring has a spherical outer surface which forms a ball joint with a spherical socket cavity within the head to enable the head to be angled relative to the shank. A threaded closure plug is tightened within the cradle to clamp the rod into engagement with a knurled dome on the capture end of the shank to secure the rod relative to the vertebra. | 10-31-2013 |
20130296944 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head, a retaining ring and a nut. The external capture structure surface includes a threaded portion and a smooth portion; the smooth portion for slidably mating with the retaining ring and the threaded portion for rotatable attachment to the nut within a cavity of the head. The nut fixes the retaining ring to the shank and also provides a tool engagement formation for driving the shank body into bone. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296946 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head, a retaining ring and a nut. The external capture structure surface includes a threaded portion and a smooth portion; the smooth portion for slidably mating with the retaining ring and the threaded portion for rotatable attachment to the nut within a cavity of the head. The nut fixes the retaining ring to the shank and also provides a tool engagement formation for driving the shank body into bone. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296947 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH HELICALLY WOUND CAPTURE CONNECTION - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and a closed retainer ring. The external capture structure surface and retainer ring internal bore surface are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the closed retainer ring out of the head. The retainer ring has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure or the closed retainer structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296951 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH POP-ON SHANK, FRICTION FIT RETAINER AND WINGED INSERT - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert with tool receiving arm extensions, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 11-07-2013 |
20130304130 | TOOL SYSTEM FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL IMPLANTS - A tool set for implanting bone screws in a human spine, followed by the implantation of a longitudinal connecting member into the bone screws includes a pair of independently mountable and manipulatable elongate guide tools that form a unitary tool guide when desired. Each guide tool includes attachment structure for independent operable connection of the guide tool to an arm of the bone screw. The bone screw/guide tool attachment includes an undercut and/or recess so as to resist separation of the guide tool member from an attached bone screw. Further tools include a removable stabilizer, a cooperating bone screw driver with an attached stabilizer, a closure starter/reduction tool, a closure driver and a counter torque tool. | 11-14-2013 |
20130312181 | SYNCRONIZED PATIENT ELEVATION AND POSITIONING APPARATUS FOR USE WITH PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT SYSTEMS - An apparatus for transferring a supine patient to a prone position on a patient support structure, and for rotating such a prone patient between prone and supine positions without removing the patient from the patient support structure. | 11-28-2013 |
20130312182 | SYNCRONIZED PATIENT ELEVATION AND POSITIONING APPARATUS FOR USE WITH PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT SYSTEMS - An apparatus for transferring a supine patient to a prone position on a patient positioning support system, and for rotating such a prone patient between prone and supine positions without removing the patient from the patient positioning support system. | 11-28-2013 |
20130312187 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH BODY SLIDE POSITION DIGITALLY COORDINATED WITH HINGE ANGLE - An articulated patient support apparatus includes upper and lower body support frames hinged together to form a patient support assembly which is hinged to head and foot end supports. One end of the assembly includes a length compensator to enable hinged angulation between the body support frames. Hinge motors are connected between the frames to cause hinged articulation therebetween. One or both of the body support frames has a body slide assembly mounted thereon to enable part of a patient's body to move linearly along the particular body support frame by operation of a slide motor to compensate for hinged articulation of the frames. The hinge motors and slide motor have encoders interfaced to a controller to digitally coordinate sliding movement with hinging articulation. | 11-28-2013 |
20130312188 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH BODY SLIDE POSITION DIGITALLY COORDINATED WITH HINGE ANGLE - An articulated patient support apparatus includes upper and lower body support frames hinged together to form a patient support assembly which is hinged to head and foot end supports. One end of the assembly includes a length compensator to enable hinged angulation between the body support frames. Hinge motors are connected between the frames to cause hinged articulation therebetween. One or both of the body support frames has a body slide assembly mounted thereon to enable part of a patient's body to move linearly along the particular body support frame by operation of a slide motor to compensate for hinged articulation of the frames. The hinge motors and slide motor have encoders interfaced to a controller to digitally coordinate sliding movement with hinging articulation. | 11-28-2013 |
20130318718 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 12-05-2013 |
20130318719 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 12-05-2013 |
20130325075 | Polyaxial bone screw assembly - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a shank body having an upper head portion with a mating segment and a first partial spherical surface, a retainer structure being mateable with the mating segment of the upper head portion, the retainer structure having a second partial spherical surface such that when mated, the first and second partial spherical surfaces form a spherical ball member, a receiver defining an open channel and having a base with a seating surface partially defining a cavity with a shaped wall, the open channel communicating with the cavity, the cavity communicating with an exterior of the base through an opening sized and shaped to receive the shank upper head portion therethrough, and a bushing sized and shaped to fit within open channel and cavity and lock in recesses on interior of receiver. | 12-05-2013 |
20130326812 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 12-12-2013 |
20130326813 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 12-12-2013 |
20140005726 | HELICAL GUIDE AND ADVANCEMENT FLANGE WITH BREAK-OFF EXTENSIONS | 01-02-2014 |
20140012275 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012319 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012331 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012332 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 01-09-2014 |
20140018857 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION CONNECTING MEMBER WITH CORD CONNECTION - A dynamic fixation medical implant having two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having a transition portion and cooperating outer sleeve, both the transition portion and sleeve being disposed between the two bone anchors. In a first embodiment, the transition portion includes a rigid length or rod having apertures therein for tying or otherwise attaching the rigid length to a second rigid length or to a flexible cord. Slender ties or cords extend through a plurality of apertures in the rigid lengths or are threaded, tied or plaited to the larger flexible cord or cable. In a second embodiment, a transition portion includes slender ties of a cord that are imbedded in a molded plastic of a more rigid member. The sleeve surrounds the transition portion and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible in a longitudinal direction between the bone anchors. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018863 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH POP-ON SHANK, FRICTION FIT RETAINER, WINGED INSERT AND LOW PROFILE EDGE LOCK - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018864 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018865 | POLYAXIAL BONE SCREW WITH SHANK ARTICULATION PRESSURE INSERT AND METHOD - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure. | 01-16-2014 |
20140020181 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE WITH TRUNK TRANSLATOR - A patient support structure includes a pair of independently height-adjustable supports, each connected to a patient support. The supports may be independently raised, lowered, rolled or tilted about a longitudinal axis, laterally shifted and angled upwardly or downwardly. Position sensors are provided to sense all of the foregoing movements. The sensors communicate data to a computer for coordinated adjustment and maintenance of the inboard ends of the patient supports in an approximated position during such movements. A longitudinal translator provides for compensation in the length of the structure when the supports are angled upwardly or downwardly. A patient trunk translator provides coordinated translational movement of the patient's upper body along the respective patient support in a caudad or cephalad direction as the patient supports are angled upwardly or downwardly for maintaining proper spinal biomechanics and avoiding undue spinal traction or compression. | 01-23-2014 |
20140031872 | SPINAL FIXATION TOOL SET AND METHOD - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Each end guide tool includes a laterally extending, rigid, rod holding structure located near a bottom surface thereof. For bone screw implantation, the end guide tools and intermediate guide tools are assembled with a driver. For reducing a rod into the bone screw, a rod pusher is deployed that is coaxial with a respective guide tool and includes an outer sleeve that abuts the rod as the sleeve is translated along the guide tool and toward the bone screw. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031873 | Spinal fixation tool set and method - A spinal implant tool set includes end guide tools having flexible back wall flaps that receive opposite ends of the rod and intermediate guide tools that hold the rod in intermediate locations between the end guide tools. Both the end and intermediate guide tools include an attachment structure for operably connecting the guide tool to a bone screw. A multi-function installation tool and a bone screw driver each mate and cooperate with the guide tools. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the bone screws and the rod in the patient. | 01-30-2014 |
20140033434 | CANTILEVERED PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 02-06-2014 |
20140033436 | CANTILEVERED PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 02-06-2014 |
20140039555 | LONGITUDINAL CONNECTING MEMBER WITH SLEEVED TENSIONED CORDS - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having rigid sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A flexible cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The spacer may include an optional inelastic inner liner, with at least one of the sleeves having an extension slidingly receivable within the liner. Some sleeves include apertures for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 02-06-2014 |
20140052184 | DYNAMIC STABILIZATION CONNECTING MEMBER WITH ELASTIC CORE AND OUTER SLEEVE - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having an elongate+ core and an outer sleeve. The core is of one-piece construction, elastic, and includes end portions for attachment to the bone anchors. The outer sleeve may include compression grooves. The sleeve surrounds the core and extends between the pair of bone anchors, the sleeve being compressible between the bone anchors. | 02-20-2014 |
20140068861 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH VIRTUAL PIVOT-SHIFT PELVIC PADS, UPPER BODY STABILIZATION AND FAIL-SAFE TABLE ATTACHMENT MECHANISM - A patient support apparatus for supporting a patient in a prone position during a surgical procedure is provided, including an open fixed frame suspended above a floor and a pair of spaced opposed radially sliding joints cooperating with the frame, each joint including a virtual pivot point and an arc of motion spaced from the virtual pivot point, the joints being movable along the arc providing a pivot ship mechanism for a pair of pelvic pads attached to the joints. A base for supporting and suspending a patient support structure above the floor, for supporting a patient during a surgical procedure, the base including a pair of spaced opposed vertical translation subassemblies reversibly attachable to a patient support structure, a cross-bar, and a rotation subassembly having two degrees of rotational freedom; wherein a location of each vertical translation subassembly is substantially constant during operation of the patient support structure. | 03-13-2014 |
20140081333 | Dynamic stabilization medical implant assembles and methods - Bone screw assemblies include longitudinal connecting members that provide for dynamic stabilization, some including non-uniform portions that are configured to flex, contract or expand. Composite longitudinal connecting members include longitudinal segments made from different materials having different flexibilities. Polyaxial bone screw assemblies include change-out receivers for cooperating with replacement longitudinal connecting members having a different flexibility. Bone screw shanks for cooperating with one or more open receivers include treatment or coating to provide biologically active interface with bone. | 03-20-2014 |
20140081334 | SPLAY CONTROL CLOSURE FOR OPEN BONE ANCHOR - Open implant closure structures include a helically wound guide and advancement flange form having splay control surfaces. Multi-start closures and closures with inner set screws have splay control contours for interlocking with cooperating flange forms of bone anchor receivers. Flange form heights, thicknesses and other geometry, such as splay control ramp angle may be varied. | 03-20-2014 |
20140081335 | ANTI-SPLAY MEDICAL IMPLANT CLOSURE WITH MULTI-SURFACE REMOVAL APERTURE - A convex spinal fusion interbody space device includes spaced apart superior and inferior abutment surfaces which are effectively medially convex. The peak of such convexity is displaced anteriorly of a central plane through the device. The spacer device has a height which is greater than the width of the device. The spacer device is implanted between a pair of adjacent vertebrae by insertion in a tipped-over orientation and then reoriented to an upright orientation for engagement by facing surfaces of the vertebrae. Fusion promoting bone material is packed between the vertebrae and about and within the spacer device subsequent to implantation. | 03-20-2014 |
20140082842 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 03-27-2014 |
20140109316 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH VIRTUAL PIVOT-SHIFT PELVIC PADS, UPPER BODY STABILIZATION AND FAIL-SAFE TABLE ATTACHMENT MECHANISM - A patient support apparatus for supporting a patient in a prone position during a surgical procedure includes a patient support structure incorporating an open fixed frame suspended above a floor and a pair of spaced opposed radially sliding joints cooperating with the frame, each joint including a virtual pivot point and an arc of motion spaced from the pivot point, the joints being movable along the arc providing a pivot-shift mechanism for a pair of pelvic pads attached to the joints. A base supports and suspends the patient support structure above the floor, for supporting a patient during a surgical procedure, the base including a pair of spaced opposed vertical translation subassemblies reversibly attachable to the support structure, a cross-bar, and a rotation subassembly having two degrees of rotational freedom; wherein a location of each vertical translation subassembly is substantially constant during operation of the patient support structure. | 04-24-2014 |
20140121703 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH POP-ON MULTI-THREAD SHANK, SOME WITH DIAMETRIC INTERFERENCE FIT INSERTS - Polyaxial and uni-planar bone screw assemblies include a multi-threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in a one piece receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A compression insert and open retaining ring located in the receiver may be made of cobalt-chrome and the compression insert may provide a diametric interference fit with the receiver. Receivers or inserts may include resilient arm portions. The open ring cooperates with the shank to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. | 05-01-2014 |
20140128927 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH NON-PIVOTABLE RETAINER AND POP-ON SHANK, SOME WITH FRICTION FIT - A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. The upper portion expands a retaining member in the receiver cavity to capture the shank upper portion in the receiver. In some embodiments either the retaining member or an insert provide for a friction fit of the shank upper portion in the receiver resulting in non-floppy placement of the shank with respect to the receiver. | 05-08-2014 |
20140142633 | SPLAY CONTROL CLOSURE FOR OPEN BONE ANCHOR - Open implant closure structures include a helically wound guide and advancement flange form having splay control surfaces. Multi-start closures and closures with inner set screws have splay control contours for interlocking with cooperating flange forms of bone anchor receivers. Flange form heights, thicknesses and other geometry, such as splay control ramp angle may be varied. | 05-22-2014 |
20140173826 | SURGERY TABLE APPARATUS - A surgery table utilizing first and second sections which are hingedly attached to one another. First and second sections are also connected to supports apart from the hinged portion. An elevator moves one of the sections upwardly and downwardly at the support. The resultant position of the frame formed by the first and second sections may take the configuration of a flat surface or an upwardly or downwardly oriented “vee”. | 06-26-2014 |
20140196212 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 07-17-2014 |
20140201913 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 07-24-2014 |
20140201914 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 07-24-2014 |
20140208512 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 07-31-2014 |
20140214084 | POLYAXIAL BONE ANCHOR WITH RECEIVER WITH SPHERIC EDGE FOR FRICTION FIT - Polyaxial bone screws include a receiver and a shank, the receiver having in inner concave surface defining a spherical void and the shank having an upper spherical portion, the shank upper portion and receiver concave surface being in moveable friction fit engagement prior to locking of the shank with respect to the receiver. The receiver includes a circular edge formed by a spheric section, the edge capturing the shank upper portion within the receiver. Bone screws may include pressure inserts, shank upper portions having separate retainer rings, receiver arms having break-off extensions, and one or two-piece closures. | 07-31-2014 |
20140214097 | DUAL MEDICAL IMPLANT CLOSURE DRIVE SYSTEM - A two-piece closure for polyaxial bone screws includes an outer fastener and an inner set screw, the outer fastener having a drive system with pockets that cooperate with a pronged drive tool. The polyaxial screw includes a lower pressure insert engaged with the outer fastener, the insert in some embodiments being made from a cobalt chrome alloy. | 07-31-2014 |
20140222076 | SOFT STABILIZATION ASSEMBLIES WITH OFF-SET CONNECTOR - A spinal longitudinal connecting member includes a soft stabilization assembly segment having a tensioned cord and a hard rod segment. A connector in fixed engagement with the hard rod also captures the tensioned cord of the soft segment, the connector being in fixed or sliding relation with the tensioned cord. The connector places the soft assembly segment in lateral or off-set and staggered relation to the hard rod segment. The connector may be integral to a bone anchor. | 08-07-2014 |
20140222077 | SYSTEM FOR ANCHORING AN ELONGATED IMPLANT TO A VERTEBRAE OF A PATIENT SPINE - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 08-07-2014 |
20140222082 | METHOD FOR IMPLANTING AN ELONGATED IMPLANT ALONG A SPINE OF A PATIENT - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 08-07-2014 |
20140222090 | BONE ANCHOR CONFIGURED TO ANCHOR AN ELONGATED IMPLANT TO A PATIENT BONE - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 08-07-2014 |
20140236235 | SAGITTAL ANGLE SCREW WITH INTEGRAL SHANK AND RECEIVER - A spinal bone screw has a receiver with upstanding arms forming a channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member, such as a rod, the receiver being integral with a threaded shank. The receiver further includes inner surfaces in sliding engagement with an insert, the insert having a seating surface for the rod. The insert and rod being pivotable with respect to the bone screw in a single plane. | 08-21-2014 |
20140236243 | METHOD FOR IMPLANTING A ROD IMPLANT ALONG A SPINE OF A PATIENT - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 08-21-2014 |
20140257394 | Dynamic stabilization members with elastic and inelastic sections - An improved dynamic longitudinal connecting member includes a rod portion joined with a tensioned cord portion, for use in a medical implant assembly having at least two bone attachment structures, a spacer covering the join of the rod and cord portions and extending between the at least two bone attachment structures, a sleeve, a bumper and a cord blocker. The spacer and bumper are compressed. The cord portion is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone attachment members. | 09-11-2014 |
20140276895 | TOWER TOOL FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY - A rod reduction tool assembly includes an outer tube with outer tangs for engaging a bone anchor, an inner partially tubular pin support and a threaded cap mated to the outer tube and engaging the inner pin support. | 09-18-2014 |
20140317847 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. | 10-30-2014 |
20140343610 | DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION ASSEMBLY WITH ELASTIC BUMPERS AND LOCKING LIMITED TRAVEL CLOSURE MECHANISMS - A dynamic stabilization assembly includes a core, typically in the form of a tensioned cord, at least one pair of bone anchors, a spacer surrounding the core located between the bone anchors, at least one elastic bumper and at least one fixing or blocking member. The core is slidable with respect to at least one of the bone anchors, the spacer and the bumper. The bumper is compressed. Bone screws of the assembly include closure structures that lock against the bone screw independent of any fixing or sliding of the core with respect to the bone screw. | 11-20-2014 |
20140379030 | DYNAMIC SPINAL STABILIZATION ASSEMBLIES, TOOL SET AND METHOD - A hinged bone screw and tool set is used for implanting such bone screws in a human spine, followed by the implantation of a longitudinal connecting member into the bone screws. The hinged bone screw includes a shank with an upper portion and a receiver with integral arms forming a U-shaped channel. A lower curved seat partially defining the U-shaped channel cooperates with an upper portion of the bone screw shank for hinged movement of the shank with respect to the receiver. The tool set includes an insertion tool, a bone screw driver, a reduction tool and a closure starter. The insertion tool includes a bone screw attachment structure and a laterally opening channel. The insertion tool further includes a threaded portion for cooperation with the reduction tool to provide synchronized placement of a closure structure in the bone screw receiver while reducing and capturing a longitudinal connecting member within the receiver. Further alternative bone screws are hinged, polyaxial or fixed and include lordosing or kyphosing lateral surfaces. | 12-25-2014 |
20150025577 | LONGITUDINAL CONNECTING MEMBER WITH SLEEVED TENSIONED CORDS - A dynamic fixation medical implant having at least two bone anchors includes a longitudinal connecting member assembly having rigid sleeves for attachment to the bone anchors, at least one spacer engaging the bone anchors and the sleeves, and in some embodiments, an end elastic bumper. A flexible cord is initially slidingly received within the rigid sleeves, the spacer and the bumper. The spacer may include an optional inelastic inner liner, with at least one of the sleeves having an extension slidingly receivable within the liner. Some sleeves include apertures for receiving a closure top portion for locking the cord against the sleeve, or alternatively receiving a closure top that does not extend into the aperture, the slip or grip option provided by the aperture in each sleeve resulting in an overall connector with variable segmental stiffness. | 01-22-2015 |
20150025580 | CLOSURE FOR OPEN-HEADED MEDICAL IMPLANT - A closure for an open headed medical implant, such as a bone screw. The closure having a cylindrical body having an axis of rotation and also having a radially outer surface with a thread or other guide and advancement structure thereon. The body having a plurality of apertures that open onto a top surface of the body and that are parallel to but spaced from the axis of rotation. The closure also has a break-off head centrally attached by a neck to the top surface of the body. | 01-22-2015 |
20150059094 | PATIENT POSITIONING SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included. | 03-05-2015 |
20150080957 | SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTING A ROD IMPLANT ALONG A SPINE OF A PATIENT - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080962 | SYSTEM FOR IMPLANTING A ROD IMPLANT ALONG A SPINE OF A PATIENT - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080965 | METHOD FOR IMPLANTING A ROD IMPLANT ALONG A SPINE OF A PATIENT - A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080974 | TOOL SYSTEM FOR DYNAMIC SPINAL IMPLANTS - A tool set for implanting bone screws in a human spine, followed by the implantation of a longitudinal connecting member into the bone screws includes a pair of independently mountable and manipulatable elongate guide tools that form a unitary tool guide when desired. Each guide tool includes attachment structure for independent operable connection of the guide tool to an arm of the bone screw. The bone screw/guide tool attachment includes an undercut and/or recess so as to resist separation of the guide tool member from an attached bone screw. Further tools include a removable stabilizer, a cooperating bone screw driver with an attached stabilizer, a closure starter/reduction tool, a closure driver and a counter torque tool. | 03-19-2015 |