Abstract: Apparatus for connecting and stabilizing adjacent vertebral segments, comprising a flexible composite connecting rod extending between the segments, and connection devices for connecting the rod to the vertebral segments. The rod comprises a rod member formed of a flexible plastic material having a predetermined compression strength, and a high tensile strength, low stretch, flexible reinforcing element extending longitudinally through the entire length of the rod member. The reinforcing element may be in the form of a single cord, rope, braid or monofilament, a plurality of substantially parallel cords, ropes, braids or monofilaments, or a tubular cord, rope, braid or woven or wire mesh strain relief device extending through the rod member in slidable relation or bonded thereto.

Abstract: Apparatus for connecting and stabilizing adjacent vertebral segments, comprising a flexible composite connecting rod extending between the segments, and connection devices for connecting the rod to the vertebral segments. The rod comprises a rod member formed of a flexible plastic material having a predetermined compression strength, and a high tensile strength, low stretch, flexible reinforcing element extending longitudinally through the entire length of the rod member and being bonded thereto. The reinforcing element may be in the form of a single cord, rope, braid or monofilament, a plurality of substantially parallel cords, ropes, braids or monofilaments, or a tubular cord, rope or braid extending through the rod member.