Non-metallic implant devices and intra-operative methods for assembly and fixation

An implant assembly comprising:

• a bone plate having at least one opening extending therethrough;
• and
• at least one bone fastener received within the at least one opening and having a proximal head, a distal portion and a shaft therebetween, the distal portion comprising a helical thread extending from an outer surface of the distal portion, the helical thread being configured to engage tissue,
• wherein at least a portion of the bone fastener is formed of a polymeric material configured to swell upon contact with fluid to secure the bone plate and the at least one bone fastener with tissue.

A method of treating vertebrae, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing an implant, the implant including a plate having at least one opening extending therethrough, and at least one fastener configured for disposal within the at least one opening, wherein at least a portion of the at least one fastener is configured to swell upon contact with fluid;
• disposing the plate adjacent to bone tissue;
• and
• inserting the at least one fastener through the at least one opening such that a helical thread extending from an outer surface of the at least one fastener engages with the bone tissue and fluid contacts the at least a portion of the at least one fastener and causes the at least a portion of the at least one fastener to swell and secure the at least one fastener and the plate with the bone tissue.