Patent ID: 8968366
Filing Date: 2015-03-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A flexible spinal fixation device for spinal stabilization of a spinal segment comprising at least a first vertebra and a second vertebra, comprising: a first pedicle screw including a first rod-receiving channel; a second pedicle screw including a second rod-receiving channel; and a flexible fixation rod comprising: a first rigid end portion having a first longitudinal channel, the first rigid end portion being circular or cylindrical and having an outer circumference wherein the first rigid end portion is receivable within the first rod-receiving channel, the outer circumference of the first rigid end portion being entirely receivable within the first rod-receiving channel; a second rigid end portion having a second longitudinal channel, the second rigid end portion being circular or cylindrical and having an outer circumference wherein the second rigid end portion is receivable within the second rod-receiving channel, the outer circumference of the second rigid end portion being entirely receivable within the second rod-receiving channel; a flexible wire extending through at least a portion of the first and second longitudinal channels and flexibly linking the first and second end portions; the first rigid end portion is permanently affixed to the flexible wire prior to the first end portion being received within the first rod-receiving channel of the first pedicle screw, the spinal fixation device is configured and adapted to permit movement of the first vertebra relative to the second vertebra when in use on the spinal segment; and a central portion located between the first and second rigid end portions and having a central longitudinal channel, wherein the flexible wire extends through the central longitudinal channel, wherein the first and second end portions have the same shape as the central portion; and wherein the central portion is flexible.