Patent ID: 8066748
Filing Date: 2011-11-29
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method of affixing a plurality of body structures together in a flexible manner, the method comprising the steps of: providing a first articulated fastener having substantially rigid proximal and distal portions, longitudinally separated by a first flexible articulating portion; providing a second articulated fastener having substantially rigid proximal and distal portions, longitudinally separated by a second flexible articulating portion; inserting the first articulated fastener into the plurality of body structures; inserting the second articulated fastener into the plurality of body structures; securing the first articulated fastener to at least one of the plurality of body structures by rotating the first articulated fastener in a first rotation direction; and securing the second articulated fastener to at least one of the plurality of body structures by rotating the second articulated fastener in a second rotation direction opposite the first rotation direction, wherein the step of inserting the first articulated fastener into the plurality of body structures includes the step of inserting the first articulated fastener into a plurality of adjacent vertebrae, and the step of inserting the second articulated fastener into the plurality of body structures includes the step of inserting the second articulated fastener into a plurality of adjacent vertebrae.