Patent ID: 7559942
Filing Date: 2009-07-14
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A flexible spine stabilization system comprising: a rod having a substantially solid body extending from a first end portion to a second end portion, the rod made from a first material; a first flexible element formed in the body of the rod comprising at least a first slit formed on the body of the rod, wherein said first flexible element is disposed between the first and second end portions, wherein the first flexible element is integrally fonned between said first and second end portions, wherein a second material is positioned within at least a portion of the slit, the second material being bioabsorbable, and wherein the first flexible element has a first flexibility that permits motion of the first end portion relative to the second end portion and the first flexibility increases over time as the second material is absorbed; a first fastener connected with the first end portion; and a second fastener connected with the second end portion; wherein the first and second fasteners are adapted to secure the rod at least partially between the exterior of a first vertebra and a second vertebra such that the spine stabilization system permits movement of the first vertebra relative to the second vertebra.