Flexible stabilization system for a vertebral column

Claim 1

A spinal implant device for stabilizing a portion of a vertebral column without fusion, the vertebral column having first and second vertebrae which have posterior vertebral elements removed, the first vertebra being adjacent the second vertebra, each vertebra having a posterior vertebral element which when removed leaves first and second pedicles on each of the vertebra, the pedicles having a top surface, said device comprising: (a) a strong, plastic, biocompatible stabilization means having first and second ends to stabilize the vertebral column but flexible enough to provide at least limited normal movement of the vertebral column; and (b) anchoring means for securing said stabilization means to the pedicles, said anchoring means having means for fastening said first end of said stabilization means to said one of the top surface of the pedicles of the first posterior element and said second end of said stabilization means to said one of the top surface of the pedicles of the second posterior element, said anchoring means adapted to be driven into and secured into the top surfaces of the pedicles, wherein when secured said stabilization means stabilizes the vertebral column while still allowing for flexibility to that forces on the stabilization means are dissipated throughout, thereby reducing force concentration.