Patent ID: 7794478
Filing Date: 2010-09-14
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A connector device for a spinal stabilization apparatus, the device comprising: at least a first elongated member having first and second ends, adapted to engage at least a first spinal stabilizer rod proximal to the first end of the first elongated member and further adapted to engage a spinal cross connector rod proximal to a second end of the first elongated member, wherein the first end of the elongated member is adapted to engage the first spinal stabilizer rod up to about 20 degrees from perpendicular to the first spinal stabilizer rod in any direction, and wherein the first end of the first elongated member comprises a hook shape and a ferrule that is generally spherical in shape with a generally cylindrical channel located therethrough, and wherein the ferrule is adapted to be seated within the hook shape and is further adapted to engage the first spinal stabilizer rod, wherein the hook shape of the first end of the first elongated member comprises two opposed tabs separated by a first gap which forms an entrance into a cavity of the hook shape and wherein the ferrule has an outside diameter that is greater than the width of the first gap at the entrance wherein the first end of the first elongated member additionally comprises a retainer adapted to maintain the ferrule in contact with one or more side walls of the hook shape proximal to the first gap, and wherein the retainer comprises a spring in contact with the ferrule.