Patent ID: 8932335
Filing Date: 2015-01-13
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A retaining mechanism for use in affixing a stratum to bone, the mechanism comprising: a stratum comprising a first surface, a second surface, and a hole extending between the first surface and the second surface, the hole having a central longitudinal axis that extends substantially perpendicular to the first surface and the second surface, wherein the first surface is configured to engage at least a portion of the bone, and a retaining element comprising: a spring element configured to engage the stratum, the spring element configured to move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the hole, as the retaining element rotates about an axis extending parallel to the central longitudinal axis to move the retaining element between its first and second positions, and the spring element configured to engage the retaining element such that the spring element helps maintain the retaining element in its second position so as to help prevent inadvertent backing out of the fastener after the fastener has been fully inserted into the hole.