Patent ID: 9113962
Filing Date: 2015-08-25
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A rod connector extension assembly for use in attaching a rod connector to an existing spinal rod in an existing spinal construct implanted in a patient, comprising: a rod connector comprising a first portion and a second portion, said first portion having a first opening extending therethrough and a rod receiving opening in communication with said first opening for receipt of said existing spinal rod of said existing spinal construct, said second portion being attached to said first portion in a first unlocked position in which said second portion articulates relative to said first portion and a second locked position in which said second portion is fixed relative to said first portion, said second portion having a second opening in communication with said first opening, said rod connector comprising a locking member supported for non-polyaxial movement in said first opening for fixedly securing said first portion to said existing spinal rod; and an elongate extension releasably secured to said rod connector, said extension including an elongate sleeve having a distal end releasably secured to said second portion of said rod connector, a proximal end, and a lumen extending axially through said distal end and said proximal end in communication with said second opening, said sleeve having a length between said distal end and said proximal end such that said proximal end of said sleeve extends outside a patient when said rod connector approximates said existing spinal rod, said rod connector being manipulable by said sleeve from outside said patient to attach said first portion to said existing spinal rod at a location distal from the location where said second portion is releasably secured to said sleeve, said sleeve being articulatable with said second portion when said second portion is in said first unlocked position, said locking element being accessible through said the lumen of said sleeve to lock said first portion to said existing spinal rod.