Patent ID: 7766943
Filing Date: 2010-08-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method comprising: implanting a first fixation member in a first vertebra; positioning an engagement surface of a caudal mounting portion of a superior segment into engagement with an engagement surface of a cephalad mounting portion of an inferior segment; polyaxially adjusting the engagement surface of the caudal mounting portion of the superior segment relative to the engagement surface of the cephalad mounting portion of the inferior segment while the engagement surfaces are in engagement with one another; attaching the caudal mounting portion to the first fixation member; attaching the cephalad mounting portion to the first fixation member; implanting a second fixation member in a second vertebra superior to the first vertebra; implanting a third fixation member in a third vertebra inferior to the first vertebra; attaching a cephalad mounting portion of the superior segment to the second fixation member to substantially prevent relative motion between the first and second vertebrae; and attaching a caudal mounting portion of the inferior segment to the third fixation member to substantially prevent relative motion between the first and third vertebrae.