Zimmer Spine, Inc.

Sulzer Spine-tech Inc.

John J Grabowski

Kevin V Guenther

Hugh D Hestad

John Fritz Otte

Peter J Pohndorf

Ross A Longhini

Mike E Lancial

Erik E Emstad

Scott C Lynch

Julie Osterberg

An interspinous vertebral implant comprises a resiliently compressible body that is adapted for position between adjacent superior and inferior spinous processes, and an anchoring member that is affixed to the superior and the inferior spinous processes posterior to the resiliently compressible body. The anchoring member provides a compressive force while the resiliently compressible body provides a distraction. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the combination of the distraction and compressive forces created by this type of interspinous vertebral implant results in a rotational moment, which alleviates compression on the intervertebral disk.

Posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine

A bone fixation device is provided that includes one or more plates and one or more screws having an arcuate outer surface. One or more fastener-receiving apertures with frustoconical inner surface extend through the plate. The bone fixation device may also include one or more locking arrangements that are configured to secure on or more screws in one or more fastener-receiving apertures.

Bone fixation device

A bone fixation device is provided that includes one or more plates and one or more screws having an acruate outer surface. One or more fastener-receiving apertures with a frustoconical inner surface extend through the plate. The bone fixation device may also include one or more locking arrangements that are configured to secure one or more screws in one or more fastener-receiving apertures.

Instruments and methods for insertion of one or more spinal implants into an intervertebral space between opposing vertebral bodies are disclosed. Instruments according to the invention include a guide for preparing a spinal fusion implant site, a guide starter, implant depth gauges, reamers, taps and implant drivers. The instruments and methods disclosed provide improved visualization of the surgical field and enhanced precision of placement of spinal fusion implants between vertebral bodies.

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Bloomington, MN, United States of America

John J Grabowski