Abstract:
A posterior fixation system includes a saddle member, an anchoring member, an occipital plate, an occipital rod, and a cross-link connector. The anchoring member anchors the saddle member to bone. The saddle member includes a channel that is adapted to receive an orthopedic rod. The saddle member and the anchoring member can be coupled so as to allow multi-axial movement of the members. Connection of individual rods can be accomplished by connecting the rods with the cross-link connector. The occipital plate secures the rods to the occipital bone of the skull. Alternatively, the occipital rod can be secured to the occipital bone.
Abstract:
A device to space vertebral members with first and second members that may have at least one ramped section. The first and second members may be positioned in a vertically overlapping arrangement with interior sides of the members facing together. The device may be positionable between a first orientation with the ramped section of the first member positioned away from the ramped section of the second member, and a second orientation with the ramped section of the first member positioned against the ramped section of the second member. The device may include a greater height measured between the exterior sides in the second orientation than in the first orientation.
Abstract:
A posterior fixation system includes a saddle member, an anchoring member, an occipital plate, an occipital rod, and a cross-link connector. The anchoring member anchors the saddle member to bone. The saddle member includes a pair of upright portions that define a channel. The channel is adapted to receive an orthopedic rod, and the saddle member can include a hole to receive the anchoring member. The saddle member and the anchoring member can be coupled so as to allow multi-axial movement of the members. The anchoring member in one embodiment is a screw coupled to the hole of the saddle, and in another embodiment, the anchoring member is a hook. The offset member may be coupled to the saddle member to allow for offset connection of rods. Connection of individual rods can be accomplished by connecting the rods with the cross-link connector. The cross-link connector has an integrally formed cylindrical member that couples a pair of coupling portions together. The cylindrical member can be bent along multiple axes. The occipital plate secures the rods to the occipital bone of the skull. The occipital plate has a cross-shaped plate with a plurality of apertures defined in the plate and at least one saddle member coupled to the plate. Alternatively, the occipital rod can be secured to the occipital bone.
Abstract:
An apparatus and procedures for percutaneous placement of surgical implants and instruments such as, for example, screws, rods, wires and plates into various body parts using image guided surgery. The invention includes an apparatus for use with a surgical navigation system, an attaching device rigidly connected to a body part, such as the spinous process of a vertebrae, with an identification superstructure rigidly but removably connected to the attaching device. This identification superstructure, for example, is a reference arc and fiducial array which accomplishes the function of identifying the location of the superstructure, and, therefore, the body part to which it is fixed, during imaging by CAT scan or MRI, and later during medical procedures.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to a brace installation instrument placement that is mounted to anchors secured in an animal subject. The installation instrument includes anchor extensions coupled to the anchors. The instrument is movable with respect to the anchors to position a brace in a position more proximate the anchors. The brace can be indexed for insertion at a predetermined orientation with respect to the installation instrument. Methods and techniques for using the installation instrument are also provided.
Abstract:
A minimally invasive spacer for positioning between vertebral members. The spacer is adjustable between a first orientation having a reduced size to facilitate insertion between the vertebral members. A second orientation has an enlarged size for contacting the vertebral members. The spacer includes linkages that are attached to a pair of plates. A pull arm is operatively connected to the linkages for adjusting the spacer from the first orientation to the second orientation. A indicator gauge indicates the height of the spacer.
Abstract:
A minimally invasive spacer for positioning between vertebral members. The spacer is adjustable between a first orientation having a reduced size to facilitate insertion between the vertebral members. A second orientation has an enlarged size for contacting the vertebral members. The spacer includes linkages that are attached to a pair of plates. A pull arm is operatively connected to the linkages for adjusting the spacer from the first orientation to the second orientation. A indicator gauge indicates the height of the spacer.
Abstract:
This invention relates to methods and instruments for performing a surgical procedure in a disc space between adjacent vertebrae. A cannula is inserted to create a working channel through the skin and tissue of a patient using a transformational approach to the disc space. A viewing element is used to visualize working end of the cannula and the disc space. A facetectomy is performed through the working channel to access the disc space. The disc space is prepared with various instruments, such as distractors, shims, chisels and distractor-cutters that extend through the working channel. At least implant is inserted into the disc space. The procedure allows bi-lateral support of the adjacent vertebrae with the at least one implant inserted via a unitary, minimally invasive approach to disc space.
Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a drill guide and methods of using a drill guide with a plate having at least one slotted hole extending therethrough. The drill guide positions a bone engaging fastener away from the ends of the slot, allowing compression or distraction of the bony segment to which the plate is attached.
Abstract:
This invention relates to methods and instruments for performing a surgical procedure in a disc space between adjacent vertebrae. The instruments include a distractor and a cutting instrument. In one embodiment the distractor includes a body portion and a pair of flanges extending along opposite sides of the body portion such that a slot is formed between the flanges and the body portion. The cutting instrument is positionable over the body portion and into the slots of the distractor so that the flanges are positioned between the cutting instrument and the adjacent tissue.