Patent ID: 7604638
Filing Date: 2009-10-20
Classification: A61B,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A multi-segment spinal fixation plate comprising: a first plate segment having a top surface, a bottom surface for engaging a first vertebra, and at least one screw hole extending through the top surface and the bottom surface and adapted to receive a bone screw therethrough and an adjacent second plate segment having a top surface, a bottom surface for engaging a second vertebra, and at least one screw hole extending through the top surface and the bottom surface and adapted to receive a bone screw therethrough, the second plate segment being connected to the first plate segment and movable relative to the first plate segment; and an instrument for holding the first plate segment relative to the second plate segment, the instrument comprising: a first portion positionable over at least a portion of the top surface of the first plate segment and configured to releasably hold a portion of the first plate segment; and a second portion configured to fit between the first and second plate segments to create a space between the first and second plate segments, wherein removal of the first portion of the instrument from the first plate segment and removal of the second portion of the instrument from between the first plate segment and the second plate segment allows the second plate segment to move relative to the first plate segment while remaining connected to the first plate segment.