Patent ID: 6682532
Filing Date: 2004-01-27
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A coupler for connecting a first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element to a second spinal fixation element, the coupler comprising:a post and a head disposed on a distal end of the post, the head having a width shorter than a width of a slot in the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element and a length longer than the width of the slot in the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element, the post having a connecting element; wherein when placed in a first orientation, the head passes through the slot in the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element, and when then placed in a second orientation, the head is trapped beneath the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element while the connecting element extends through the slot.