Patent ID: 6402749
Filing Date: 2002-06-11
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A connection assembly for connecting an elongated spinal implant, configured to span a length of the spine, to a bone fastener having an elongated stem at one end and an opposite end configured to engage a bone of the spine, the assembly comprising:a one-piece body defining a first opening sized to receive the elongated spinal implant therethrough, said first opening being elongated relative to a first axis, said one-piece body also defining a second opening sized to allow variable angular placement of the bone fastener therethrough, said second opening being elongated relative to a second axis substantially perpendicular to said first axis, said second opening overlapping said first opening to allow direct contact between the elongated spinal implant and the elongated stem of the bone fastener therein, said second opening including a wall opposite said first opening defining a surface defining an engaging element thereon configured to interlockingly engage the stem when the stem extends through said second opening, said one-piece body further defining a bore intersecting said first opening at an opposite end of said surface; and means, extending through said bore, for urging the elongated spinal implant against the elongated stem of the bone fastener and simultaneously urging the elongated stem of the bone fastener against said surface of said connection assembly.