Patent ID: 6471703
Filing Date: 2002-10-29
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A connection assembly for connecting an elongated spinal implant, configured to span a length of the spine, to a bone fastener having an elongated stem at one end and an opposite end configured to engage a bone of the spine, the assembly comprising:a body defining; a first opening sized to receive the elongated spinal implant therethrough, said first opening being elongated along a first axis, and a second opening sized to allow variable angular placement of the bone fastener therethrough, said second opening being elongated along a second axis substantially perpendicular to said first axis, said second opening overlapping said first opening to allow direct contact between the elongated spinal implant and the elongated stem of the bone fastener therein, said second opening defining a plug slot opposite said first opening, said plug slot including a wall opposite said first opening and defining an engagement surface thereon; a plug insertable within said plug slot, said plug defining a mating surface interlockingly matable to said engagement surface of said wall, and a second surface defining a groove for contacting the elongated stem of the bone fastener; and means for urging the elongated spinal implant against the elongated stem of the bone fastener and simultaneously urging the elongated stem of the bone fastener against said plug and said plug against said engagement surface of said wall.