US6132430A — Spinal fixation system

Claim 1

Independent Claim 147 words

A connector for connecting spinal fixation components to a spinal rod, comprising a threaded end; a receiving end opposite the threaded end, the receiving end terminating in a first arm and a second arm that together form a substantially U-shaped borehole for receiving the spinal rod, the first arm comprising a first tip and the second arm comprising a second tip, and wherein the borehole comprises an open end having a width defined by the first tip and the second tip; and a slot extending between the threaded end and the receiving end; and wherein the arms are deflectable to cause narrowing or widening of a portion of the slot and variation of the width of the open end to allow the spinal rod to be snapped into the borehole through the open end to form a fixable engagement between the spinal rod and the receiving end.

Claim 2

Dependent Claim 147 words

A connector for connecting spinal fixation components to a spinal rod, comprising a threaded end; a receiving end opposite the threaded end, the receiving end terminating in a first arm and a second arm that together form a substantially U-shaped borehole for receiving the spinal rod, the first arm comprising a first tip and the second arm comprising a second tip, and wherein the borehole comprises an open end having a width defined by the first tip and the second tip; and a slot extending between the threaded end and the receiving end; and wherein the arms are deflectable to cause narrowing or widening of a portion of the slot and variation of the width of the open end to allow the spinal rod to be snapped into the borehole through the open end to form a fixable engagement between the spinal rod and the receiving end.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 33 words

The connector of claim 1 wherein the connector is adapted to fixably hold the spinal rod within the borehole such that a portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the receiving end.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 43 words

The connector of claim 1 wherein the spinal rod comprises a circumferential portion consisting of 2 π radians, and wherein the receiving end is adapted to engage greater than about π radians and less than about 2 π radians of the circumferential portion.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 23 words

The connector of claim 1 wherein the first and second arms are deflectable to form a locking taper engagement with the spinal rod.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 24 words

The connector of claim 1 wherein the first and second arms each have a tapered outer surface that is angled toward the threaded end.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 46 words

The connector of claim 1 wherein the connector is adapted to fixably hold the spinal rod within the borehole such that a portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the receiving end, and wherein the exposed portion extends from the borehole through the open end.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 125 words

A connecting device for a spinal implant system comprising: a connector comprising a fastening end and a receiving end opposite the fastening end, the receiving end terminating in a first arm and a second arm that together form a substantially U-shaped borehole; and a body comprising a tapered cavity having an inner surface, the tapered cavity comprising a first end and a second end narrowing in a direction from the first end to the second end; and wherein the connector is adapted to being drawn into the tapered cavity such that the inner surface of the tapered cavity engages the receiving end and exerts a compressive force on the receiving end, thereby causing the receiving end to exert a clamping force on a spinal rod.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 125 words

A connecting device for a spinal implant system comprising: a connector comprising a fastening end and a receiving end opposite the fastening end, the receiving end terminating in a first arm and a second arm that together form a substantially U-shaped borehole; and a body comprising a tapered cavity having an inner surface, the tapered cavity comprising a first end and a second end narrowing in a direction from the first end to the second end; and wherein the connector is adapted to being drawn into the tapered cavity such that the inner surface of the tapered cavity engages the receiving end and exerts a compressive force on the receiving end, thereby causing the receiving end to exert a clamping force on a spinal rod.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 139 words

A connector for connecting a spinal fixation component to a spinal rod comprising: an opposing pair of deflectable arms; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to extend through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and wherein the arms define an open-sided borehole, and further wherein the arms are configured to snap lock to a spinal rod and to surround more than half, but less than the complete circumference of a spinal rod in the snap-locked position, such that the connector is slidable along the length of a spinal rod while the spinal rod and connector are engaged in the snap-locked position, and further wherein the arms are configured to be compressible against the spinal rod when the connector is fixed to a spinal fixation component.

Claim 11

Dependent Claim 139 words

A connector for connecting a spinal fixation component to a spinal rod comprising: an opposing pair of deflectable arms; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to extend through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and wherein the arms define an open-sided borehole, and further wherein the arms are configured to snap lock to a spinal rod and to surround more than half, but less than the complete circumference of a spinal rod in the snap-locked position, such that the connector is slidable along the length of a spinal rod while the spinal rod and connector are engaged in the snap-locked position, and further wherein the arms are configured to be compressible against the spinal rod when the connector is fixed to a spinal fixation component.

Claim 12

Dependent Claim 13 words

The connector of claim 8, wherein the arms define an arcuate, open-sided borehole.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 13 words

The connector of claim 8, wherein the member is comprises a threaded projection.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 39 words

The connector of claim 8, wherein the member comprises a collapsible slot extending to the borehole, wherein compressing the slot decreases the size of the borehole, effective to press and lock the arms against a spinal rod during use.

Claim 15

Dependent Claim 30 words

The connector of claim 8, wherein the arms are configured to be disposed within a tapered cavity so that movement of the arms into the cavity forces the arms together.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 20 words

The connector of claim 8 wherein the arms each have a tapered outer surface that is angled toward the member.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 11 words

The connector of claim 8, connected to a spinal fixation component.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 14 words

The connector of claim 14, wherein the spinal fixation component is a bone screw.

Claim 19

Dependent Claim 14 words

The connector of claim 14, wherein the spinal fixation component is a spinal hook.

Claim 20

Dependent Claim 142 words

A connector for connecting a spinal fixation component to a spinal rod comprising: an opposing pair of deflectable arms configured to define an open-sided borehole; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to extend through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and an opposing pair of deflectable arms configured to define an open-sided borehole; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to extend through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and wherein the member comprises a slot extending from the borehole into the member, and wherein the arms are configured to be pressed during use against a spinal rod disposed in the borehole when a compressing force is applied to the member or to the arms.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 142 words

A connector for connecting a spinal fixation component to a spinal rod comprising: an opposing pair of deflectable arms configured to define an open-sided borehole; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to extend through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and an opposing pair of deflectable arms configured to define an open-sided borehole; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to extend through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and wherein the member comprises a slot extending from the borehole into the member, and wherein the arms are configured to be pressed during use against a spinal rod disposed in the borehole when a compressing force is applied to the member or to the arms.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 62 words

The connector of claim 17, wherein the arms are configured to snap lock to a spinal rod and to surround more than half, but less than the complete circumference of a spinal rod in the snap-locked position, such that the connector is slidable along the length of a spinal rod while the spinal rod and connector are engaged in the snap-locked position.

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 20 words

The connector of claim 18 wherein the arms each have a tapered outer surface that is angled toward the member.

Claim 24

Dependent Claim 11 words

The connector of claim 19, connected to a spinal fixation component.

Claim 25

Dependent Claim 14 words

The connector of claim 20, wherein the spinal fixation component is a bone screw.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 14 words

The connector of claim 20, wherein the spinal fixation component is a spinal hook.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 152 words

A connector for connecting a spinal fixation component to a spinal rod comprising: an opposing pair of deflectable arms, each comprising a tapered outer surface that is angled toward an attached member; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to project through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and wherein the arms define an open-sided borehole, and further wherein the arms are configured to snap lock to a spinal rod and to surround more than half, but less than the complete circumference of a spinal rod in the snap-locked position, such that the connector is slidable along the length of a spinal rod while the spinal rod and connector are engaged in the snap-locked position, and further wherein the arms are configured to be compressible against the spinal rod when the connector is fixed to a spinal fixation component.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 152 words

A connector for connecting a spinal fixation component to a spinal rod comprising: an opposing pair of deflectable arms, each comprising a tapered outer surface that is angled toward an attached member; a member attached to the arms and extending away from the arms, wherein the member is configured to project through an opening in a spinal fixation component during use; and wherein the arms define an open-sided borehole, and further wherein the arms are configured to snap lock to a spinal rod and to surround more than half, but less than the complete circumference of a spinal rod in the snap-locked position, such that the connector is slidable along the length of a spinal rod while the spinal rod and connector are engaged in the snap-locked position, and further wherein the arms are configured to be compressible against the spinal rod when the connector is fixed to a spinal fixation component.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 10 words

The connector of claim 22, wherein the member is threaded.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 193 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a receiving end and a fastening end, the receiving end forming a substantially U-shaped opening; a spinal rod axially positionable within the opening so that a circumferential portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening, the spinal rod being fixable within the opening by a clamping force exerted by the connector during use; a fixation component comprising a body, a fixation device having protrusions, and a spacer having teeth; a cavity in the body, the cavity comprising an inner surface, wherein the connector is configured to be at least partially disposed within the cavity during use such that the inner surface of the cavity engages an outer surface of the receiving end; and a fastener configured to engage the body and the connector to secure the connector and the fixation component together during use; wherein the fixation device and the spacer are configured to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod, and wherein the teeth of the spacer engage the protrusions of the fixation device to inhibit rotation of the fixation device about the spacer during use.

Claim 31

Dependent Claim 193 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a receiving end and a fastening end, the receiving end forming a substantially U-shaped opening; a spinal rod axially positionable within the opening so that a circumferential portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening, the spinal rod being fixable within the opening by a clamping force exerted by the connector during use; a fixation component comprising a body, a fixation device having protrusions, and a spacer having teeth; a cavity in the body, the cavity comprising an inner surface, wherein the connector is configured to be at least partially disposed within the cavity during use such that the inner surface of the cavity engages an outer surface of the receiving end; and a fastener configured to engage the body and the connector to secure the connector and the fixation component together during use; wherein the fixation device and the spacer are configured to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod, and wherein the teeth of the spacer engage the protrusions of the fixation device to inhibit rotation of the fixation device about the spacer during use.

Claim 32

Dependent Claim 41 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the receiving end comprises a first arm having a first tip, and a second arm having a second tip, wherein the substantially U-shaped opening is formed between said first arm and said second arm.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 49 words

The implant system of claim 26, further comprising a slot in the connector between the receiving end and the fastening end, the slot enabling the first arm and the second arm to deflect relative to one another and change a distance between the first tip and the second tip.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 24 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the fastener is a threaded nut and the fastening end comprises threading adapted to engage the nut.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 47 words

The implant system of claim 28, wherein tightening the nut along the fastening end causes movement of the receiving end within the cavity whereby the inner surface of the cavity exerts a compressive force against an outer surface of the receiving end that compresses the U-shaped opening.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 29 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein greater than about π radians and less than about 2 π radians of the circumferential portion is engaged by the receiving end.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 79 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the body comprises a substantially U-shaped yoke having an axial length, the yoke being formed between a top section and a bottom section, the top section comprising a first edge, the bottom section comprising a second edge, the first and second edges defining a width of the yoke, and wherein the first and second edges are curved such that the width of the yoke varies across the axial length of the yoke.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 43 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the spacer has a width between about 1 mm and about 10 mm and wherein the spacer is disposed between the fastener and the spinal rod to laterally offset the fixation device from the spinal rod.

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 61 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the fixation component further comprises a transverse connector for connecting the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod, the transverse connector comprising a reduced section and a beveled section, the reduced section having a width less than a width of the body, the beveled section being located between the body and the reduced section.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 41 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the cavity of the body is a tapered cavity having a first end and a second end, and wherein the tapered cavity narrows in a direction from the first end to the second end.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 39 words

The implant system of claim 34, wherein the tapered cavity is adapted to substantially surround a portion of the receiving end and impart a compressive force against the receiving end to fixably secure the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 42

Dependent Claim 23 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device for attaching the spinal rod to a vertebra.

Claim 43

Dependent Claim 92 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the body further comprises a top section and a bottom section, the cavity being formed in between the top section and the bottom section, the top section and the bottom section each comprising edges that are curved, and wherein the fixation component is adapted to pivot about the spinal rod in a substantially vertical plane, and wherein the curved edges are adapted to contact the spinal rod during the pivoting of the fixation component, thereby defining a range of pivotal motion of the fixation component.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 34 words

The implant system of claim 25, wherein the connector is adapted to be at least partially disposed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the fastening end extends from the cavity.

Claim 45

Dependent Claim 184 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a receiving end and a fastening end, the receiving end forming a substantially U-shaped opening; a spinal rod axially positionable within the opening so that a circumferential portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening, the spinal rod being fixable within the opening by a clamping force exerted by the connector during use; a fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a top section having curved edges, a bottom section having curved edges, and a cavity having an inner surface, the cavity formed between the top section and the bottom section; and a fastener configured to engage the body and the connector to secure the connector and the fixation component together during use; wherein the fixation component is configured to pivot about the spinal rod in a substantially vertical plane, and wherein the curved edges of the top section and the bottom section are configured to contact the spinal rod during the pivoting of the fixation component, thereby defining a range of pivotal motion of the fixation component.

Claim 46

Dependent Claim 184 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a receiving end and a fastening end, the receiving end forming a substantially U-shaped opening; a spinal rod axially positionable within the opening so that a circumferential portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening, the spinal rod being fixable within the opening by a clamping force exerted by the connector during use; a fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a top section having curved edges, a bottom section having curved edges, and a cavity having an inner surface, the cavity formed between the top section and the bottom section; and a fastener configured to engage the body and the connector to secure the connector and the fixation component together during use; wherein the fixation component is configured to pivot about the spinal rod in a substantially vertical plane, and wherein the curved edges of the top section and the bottom section are configured to contact the spinal rod during the pivoting of the fixation component, thereby defining a range of pivotal motion of the fixation component.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 41 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the receiving end comprises a first arm having a first tip, and a second arm having a second tip, wherein the substantially U-shaped opening is formed between said first arm and said second arm.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 49 words

The implant system of claim 40, further comprising a slot in the connector between the receiving end and the fastening end, the slot enabling the first arm and the second arm to deflect relative to one another and change a distance between the first tip and the second tip.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 24 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the fastener is a threaded nut and the fastening end comprises threading adapted to engage the nut.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 47 words

The implant system of claim 42, wherein tightening the nut along the fastening end causes movement of the receiving end within the cavity whereby the inner surface of the cavity exerts a compressive force against an outer surface of the receiving end that compresses the U-shaped opening.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 29 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein greater than about π radians and less than about 2 π radians of the circumferential portion is engaged by the receiving end.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 79 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the body comprises a substantially U-shaped yoke having an axial length, the yoke being formed between a top section and a bottom section, the top section comprising a first edge, the bottom section comprising a second edge, the first and second edges defining a width of the yoke, and wherein the first and second edges are curved such that the width of the yoke varies across the axial length of the yoke.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 61 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer, the fixation device extending from the body, the spacer having a width between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, and wherein the spacer is disposed between the fastener and the spinal rod to laterally offset the fixation device from the spinal rod.

Claim 54

Dependent Claim 61 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the fixation component further comprises a transverse connector for connecting the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod, the transverse connector comprising a reduced section and a beveled section, the reduced section having a width less than a width of the body, the beveled section being located between the body and the reduced section.

Claim 55

Dependent Claim 41 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the cavity of the body is a tapered cavity having a first end and a second end, and wherein the tapered cavity narrows in a direction from the first end to the second end.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 39 words

The implant system of claim 48, wherein the tapered cavity is adapted to substantially surround a portion of the receiving end and impart a compressive force against the receiving end to fixably secure the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 23 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device for attaching the spinal rod to a vertebra.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 65 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer adapted to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod, the fixation device comprising protrusions, the spacer offsetting the fixation device from the spinal rod and comprising teeth adapted to form a complementary engagement with the protrusions to inhibit rotation of the fixation device about the spacer.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 34 words

The implant system of claim 39, wherein the connector is adapted to be at least partially disposed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the fastening end extends from the cavity.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 207 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a receiving end and a fastening end, the receiving end forming a substantially U-shaped opening; a spinal rod axially positionable within the opening so that a circumferential portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening, the spinal rod being fixable within the opening by a clamping force exerted by the connector during use; a fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a cavity having an inner surface, and wherein the connector is configured to be at least partially disposed within the cavity such that the inner surface of the cavity engages an outer surface of the receiving end; a fastener configured to engage the body and the connector to secure the connector and the fixation component together during use; and a transverse connector configured to connect the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod, the transverse connector comprising a reduced section and a beveled section, the reduced section having a width less than a width of the body, the beveled section being located between the body and the reduced section; wherein the reduced section comprises a bend to shorten a lateral distance between the spinal rod and the neighboring spinal rod.

Claim 61

Dependent Claim 207 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a receiving end and a fastening end, the receiving end forming a substantially U-shaped opening; a spinal rod axially positionable within the opening so that a circumferential portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening, the spinal rod being fixable within the opening by a clamping force exerted by the connector during use; a fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a cavity having an inner surface, and wherein the connector is configured to be at least partially disposed within the cavity such that the inner surface of the cavity engages an outer surface of the receiving end; a fastener configured to engage the body and the connector to secure the connector and the fixation component together during use; and a transverse connector configured to connect the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod, the transverse connector comprising a reduced section and a beveled section, the reduced section having a width less than a width of the body, the beveled section being located between the body and the reduced section; wherein the reduced section comprises a bend to shorten a lateral distance between the spinal rod and the neighboring spinal rod.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 41 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the receiving end comprises a first arm having a first tip, and a second arm having a second tip, wherein the substantially U-shaped opening is formed between said first arm and said second arm.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 49 words

The implant system of claim 54, further comprising a slot in the connector between the receiving end and the fastening end, the slot enabling the first arm and the second arm to deflect relative to one another and change a distance between the first tip and the second tip.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 24 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the fastener is a threaded nut and the fastening end comprises threading adapted to engage the nut.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 47 words

The implant system of claim 56, wherein tightening the nut along the fastening end causes movement of the receiving end within the cavity whereby the inner surface of the cavity exerts a compressive force against an outer surface of the receiving end that compresses the U-shaped opening.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 29 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein greater than about π radians and less than about 2 π radians of the circumferential portion is engaged by the receiving end.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 79 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the body comprises a substantially U-shaped yoke having an axial length, the yoke being formed between a top section and a bottom section, the top section comprising a first edge, the bottom section comprising a second edge, the first and second edges defining a width of the yoke, and wherein the first and second edges are curved such that the width of the yoke varies across the axial length of the yoke.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 61 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer, the fixation device extending from the body, the spacer having a width between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, and wherein the spacer is disposed between the fastener and the spinal rod to laterally offset the fixation device from the spinal rod.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 92 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the body further comprises a top section and a bottom section, the cavity being formed in between the top section and the bottom section, the top section and the bottom section each comprising edges that are curved, and wherein the fixation component is adapted to pivot about the spinal rod in a substantially vertical plane, and wherein the curved edges are adapted to contact the spinal rod during the pivoting of the fixation component, thereby defining a range of pivotal motion of the fixation component.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 41 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the cavity of the body is a tapered cavity having a first end and a second end, and wherein the tapered cavity narrows in a direction from the first end to the second end.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 39 words

The implant system of claim 62, wherein the tapered cavity is adapted to substantially surround a portion of the receiving end and impart a compressive force against the receiving end to fixably secure the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 23 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device for attaching the spinal rod to a vertebra.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 65 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer adapted to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod, the fixation device comprising protrusions, the spacer offsetting the fixation device from the spinal rod and comprising teeth adapted to form a complementary engagement with the protrusions to inhibit rotation of the fixation device about the spacer.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 34 words

The implant system of claim 53, wherein the connector is adapted to be at least partially disposed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the fastening end extends from the cavity.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 180 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a threaded end, a receiving end opposite the threaded end, the receiving end terminating in a first arm and a second arm that together form a substantially U-shaped opening, the first arm comprising a first tip and the second arm comprising a second tip; a spinal rod axially positionable between the first and the second arm; a fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a tapered cavity having an inner surface, the tapered cavity being adapted to receive the connector such that the inner surface engages the first arm and the second arm; a fastener adapted to engage the threaded end of the connector and the body of the fixation component, and wherein the fastener is adapted to being moved along the threaded end to cause movement of the receiving end within the tapered cavity and deflection of the first and second arms such that the first and second arms exert a compressive force against the spinal rod to maintain the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 180 words

An implant system for fixation of the human spine, comprising: a connector comprising a threaded end, a receiving end opposite the threaded end, the receiving end terminating in a first arm and a second arm that together form a substantially U-shaped opening, the first arm comprising a first tip and the second arm comprising a second tip; a spinal rod axially positionable between the first and the second arm; a fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a tapered cavity having an inner surface, the tapered cavity being adapted to receive the connector such that the inner surface engages the first arm and the second arm; a fastener adapted to engage the threaded end of the connector and the body of the fixation component, and wherein the fastener is adapted to being moved along the threaded end to cause movement of the receiving end within the tapered cavity and deflection of the first and second arms such that the first and second arms exert a compressive force against the spinal rod to maintain the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 43 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the spinal rod comprises a diameter, and wherein the opening has a width defined by the first tip and the second tip, and wherein the width is adjustable by rotating the fastener about the threaded end.

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 28 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the first and second arms are deflectable in a direction toward one another and in a direction away from one another.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 40 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the spinal rod is positioned within the opening and wherein a portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the receiving end of the connector in a direction away from the threaded end.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 125 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the connector further comprises a slot between the receiving end and the fastening end, and wherein the fastener is adapted to be tightened to move the connector within the tapered cavity in a direction from a first end of the tapered cavity to a second end of the tapered cavity, the tapered cavity being narrower at a location proximate the second end than at a location proximate the first end, and wherein contact between the tapered cavity and the receiving end causes deflection of the first arm and the second arm such that a portion of the slot narrows and the arms exert a compressive force against the spinal rod to clamp the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 38 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the spinal rod comprises a cross-section having a circumferential portion, and wherein between about π radians and about 2 π radians of the circumferential portion is surrounded by the receiving end.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 26 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a bone screw having a shank with a threaded portion and a tap relief.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 21 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a bone screw having a substantially smooth, unthreaded shank.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 29 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a transverse connector for connecting the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod at a fixed distance.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 79 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the body comprises a substantially U-shaped yoke having an axial length, the yoke being formed between a top section and a bottom section, the top section comprising a first edge, the bottom section comprising a second edge, the first and second edges defining a width of the yoke, and wherein the first and second edges are curved such that the width of the yoke varies across the axial length of the yoke.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 38 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer adapted to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod to laterally offset the fixation device from the spinal rod.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 71 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer, the spacer being adapted to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod, the fixation device comprising protrusions, the spacer being adapted to offset the fixation device from the spinal rod and comprising teeth adapted to form a complementary engagement with the protrusions to inhibit rotation of the fixation device about the spacer.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 53 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the body further comprises a top section and a bottom section, the tapered cavity being formed in between the top section and the bottom section, the top section and the bottom section each comprising edges that are curved in a direction away from the spinal rod.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 60 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a fixation device and a spacer, the fixation device extending from the body, the spacer having a width between about 1 mm and about 10 mm and being adapted to fit between the fastener and the spinal rod to laterally offset the fixation device from the spinal rod.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 32 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the compressive force exerted against the spinal rod is selectively variable and is a function of a position of the fastener on the threaded end.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 58 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a transverse connector connecting the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod, the transverse connector comprising a reduced section and a beveled section, the reduced section having a width less than a width of the body, the beveled section connecting the reduced section to the body.

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 81 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the fixation component further comprises a transverse connector connecting the spinal rod to a neighboring spinal rod, the transverse connector comprising a reduced section and a beveled section, the reduced section having a width less than a width of the body, the beveled section extending between the body and the reduced section, and wherein the reduced section comprises a bend to shorten a lateral distance between the spinal rod and the neighboring spinal rod.

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 28 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the first arm and the second arm each further comprise a tapered outer surface that is angled toward the threaded end.

Claim 94

Dependent Claim 28 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the spinal rod is positioned within the opening, and wherein a portion of the spinal rod is exposed from the opening.

Claim 95

Dependent Claim 115 words

The implant system of claim 67, wherein the body comprises a substantially U-shaped yoke having an axial length defined between a pair of outer edges, the yoke being formed between a top section and a bottom section, the top section comprising a first edge, the bottom section comprising a second edge, the first and second edges defining a width of the yoke, and wherein the first and second edges are curved such that the width of the yoke varies across the axial length of the yoke, and wherein the width of the yoke is greater at one of the outer edges of the yoke than at a location between the outer edges of the yoke.

Claim 96

Dependent Claim 24 words

The implant system of claim 67 wherein the first and second arms are deflectable to form a locking taper engagement with the spinal rod.

Claim 97

Dependent Claim 38 words

The implant system of claim 67, further comprising a slot in the connector between the receiving end and the fastening end, the slot enabling the first arm and the second arm to be deflected relative to one another.

Claim 98

Dependent Claim 24 words

The implant system of claim 67 wherein the fixation component further comprises a hook adapted to connect the fixation component to a spine element.

Claim 99

Dependent Claim 12 words

The implant system of claim 67 wherein the fastener is a nut.

Claim 100

Independent Claim 106 words

A method of surgically implanting a spinal fixation system comprising: connecting a fixation component to a portion of a spine, the fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a cavity having an inner surface; positioning a connector within the cavity, the connector comprising a receiving end that forms a substantially U-shaped opening having an open end, and wherein the connector is positioned within the cavity such that the inner surface of the cavity engages an outer surface of the receiving end; positioning a spinal rod in the connector; clamping the receiving end around the spinal rod to fixably secure the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 101

Independent Claim 106 words

A method of surgically implanting a spinal fixation system comprising: connecting a fixation component to a portion of a spine, the fixation component comprising a body, the body comprising a cavity having an inner surface; positioning a connector within the cavity, the connector comprising a receiving end that forms a substantially U-shaped opening having an open end, and wherein the connector is positioned within the cavity such that the inner surface of the cavity engages an outer surface of the receiving end; positioning a spinal rod in the connector; clamping the receiving end around the spinal rod to fixably secure the spinal rod within the opening.

Claim 102

Dependent Claim 21 words

The method of claim 91 wherein positioning a spinal rod in the connector comprises snapping the spinal rod into the opening.

Claim 103

Dependent Claim 47 words

The method of claim 91, wherein clamping the receiving end around the spinal rod comprises attaching a fastener to a fastener end of the connector and securing the fastener against the fixation component to compress the receiving end against the spinal rod and against the inner surface.

Claim 104

Dependent Claim 40 words

The method of claim 93, wherein the fastening end comprises a threaded shaft, wherein the fastener comprises a nut, and wherein securing the fastener against the fixation component comprises rotating the nut to couple the nut to the fixation component.

Claim 105

Dependent Claim 52 words

The connecting device of claim 7, further comprising a slot in the fastening end, the slot in communication with the borehole, wherein the slot is configured to allow the first arm and the second arm to flex so that the receiving end exerts a compressive force on the spinal rod during use.

Claim 106

Dependent Claim 30 words

The connecting device of claim 7, further comprising a fastener configured to engage the fastening end, wherein the fastener inhibits movement of the connector along the spinal rod during use.

Claim 107

Dependent Claim 21 words

The connecting device of claim 94, wherein the fastening end comprises a threaded shaft, and wherein the fastener comprises a nut.

Claim 108

Dependent Claim 12 words

The connecting device of claim 7, wherein the body is a hook.

Claim 109

Dependent Claim 13 words

The connecting device of claim 7, wherein the body is a bone screw.

Claim 110

Dependent Claim 29 words

The connecting device of claim 7, wherein the body is a transverse connector, the transverse connector configured to engage a second spinal rod positioned adjacent to the spinal rod.

Claim 111

Dependent Claim 43 words

The connecting device of claim 7, wherein the first arm and the second arm are configured to engage the spinal rod and surround more than half of a circumference of the spinal rod, but less than the complete circumference of the spinal rod.

Claim 112

Dependent Claim 31 words

The connector of claim 23, wherein the member comprises a slot in communication with the borehole, the slot configured to allowed the pair of deflectable arms to move towards each other.

Claim 113

Dependent Claim 41 words

The connector of claim 23, further comprising a nut configured to engage the member, and wherein the nut inhibits movement of the connector along the spinal rod when the nut is coupled to the member and tightened against the fixation component.

Claim 114

Dependent Claim 27 words

The connector of claim 23, wherein the fixation component comprises a transverse connector configured to engage a second spinal rod that positioned adjacent to the spinal rod.

Claim 115

Dependent Claim 13 words

The connector of claim 23, wherein the fixation component comprises a bone screw.

Claim 116

Dependent Claim 12 words

The connector of claim 23, wherein the fixation component comprises a hook.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	2003-10-17	2004-04-17	2004-10-17	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2007-10-17	2008-04-17	2008-10-17	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2011-10-17	2012-04-17	2012-10-17	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Spinal fixation system

Abstract

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