Abstract: An adjustable spinal fixation system comprises a collection of anchoring assemblies attached, via a variety of connectors, to spine-stabilizing rods. The anchoring assemblies include a linking member attached in a ball-and-socket fashion to a bone-engaging member that is adapted to engage a spinal bone of a patient. The linking member joins one of the included connectors to an associated bone-engaging member. The connectors are selectively attached to one of the stabilizing rods. The anchoring assemblies each include a support collar and a retention collet that cooperate to allow adjustment of the bone-engaging member and corresponding connector during surgery. When surgery is complete, a securing nut and locking bolt cooperate with the support collar and retention collet to maintain the relative position of the entire fixation system, preventing unwanted movement between the system components.

Abstract: An articulation toggle bolt bone screw for use in surgical implants having particular usefulness in the stabilization of the human spine by fixation of vertebra. The apparatus employs a self-tapping anchoring screw having a ball joint socket for receipt of a rotatable threaded bolt. The ball joint allows angular placement of the bolt which is secured into position by an attachment nut coupling directly to the anchoring screw. An upper surface of the attaching nut is rounded allowing engagement of component devices. A rod clamp is disclosed for use in combination with the device providing attachment to support rods and serving to bias the bolt into a permanent fixed position upon attachment. An alternative embodiment is disclosed of the rod clamp providing a single support rod attachment system.