Patent ID: 7686806

Claim:
A bone fixation apparatus for engaging at least first and second vertebrae, comprising: a bone plate having a first support bar and a second support bar, at least one cross connector member connecting the first support bar and second support bar, the cross connector member having an anterior surface and a posterior portion, the anterior surface being recessed at least between the first and second support bars and at least a part of the posterior portion being configured to extend into an intervertebral disc space; and at least first and second openings formed in the first support bar and at least third and fourth openings formed in the second support bar, the first and third openings for receiving fasteners therein for fixing the bone plate to the first vertebrae along the anterior cervical spine and the second and fourth openings for receiving fasteners therein for fixing the bone plate to the second vertebra along the anterior cervical spine, wherein the bone fixation apparatus prevents movement between the first and second vertebrae, and the anterior surface of the cross connector member is sufficiently recessed to provide room for an esophagus.