Patent ID: 6083224
Filing Date: 2000-07-04
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A spinal fixation system comprising:at least two longitudinal members;a one-piece transverse connector defining a thru-hole and havinga lower bone engagement surface,an opposite upper surface, andsaid connector defining a continuous slot intersecting said thru-hole to receive said members and a number of internal clamping surfaces surrounding said slot, said clamping surfaces configured to engage said members;a bolt havinga vertebra engaging portion on a first end,a post on an opposite second end, said post insertable through said thru-hole of said connector,an integral flange between said vertebra engaging portion and said post for supporting said connector;fixation means for provisionally holding said connector in engagement with a first vertebra;a fastener engageable to the post of said bolt to secure the connector to the bolt and to clamp said connector between said fastener and said flange of said bolt; andsecond means engageable to a second vertebrae and fixable to said longitudinal members for varying the distance between the first vertebra and a second vertebra for compression or distraction of the spine.