Patent ID: 6063090
Filing Date: 2000-05-16
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A spinal fixation system comprising:a longitudinal member positionable along a spinal column;a fastener having a threaded end for engaging a vertebra; anda connector member for connecting the fastener and the longitudinal member, said connector member having top, bottom, and side surfaces, and comprising:a channel extending through the side surfaces for receiving the longitudinal member;a tapered opening extending through the bottom surface for receiving the fastener;a top opening extending through the top surface and operatively associated with the tapered opening;a fastener clamping element having a hollow truncated cone shape, top and bottom surfaces, and a plurality of slots, the element securing the fastener in the tapered opening at a surgeon selected angle relative to the connector member and longitudinal member; anda tension element insertable in the top opening,wherein insertion of the tension element in the top opening causes downward movement of the fastener clamping element in the tapered opening and thereby radial compression of the fastener clamping element to secure the fastener at the surgeon selected angle.