Abstract: A spinal fixation assembly has a bone screw with head having a continuously curved spherical outer surface. The curved surface nests in a split annular bushing having a plurality of segments curving around the screw head. The bushing has an outward extending flange that fits into a recess in a socket in a fixation plate. The plate has at least three legs which extend from ends of a cross-member to form one of an H shaped, X shaped or A shaped configuration. Each socket is curved to rotatably receive rotation of the bushing. The socket recess is larger than the bushing flange to allow the bushing to tilt a predetermined amount depending on a thickness of the outward extending flange.

Abstract: A bone stabilization system is provided having a plate with a top and bottom surface and a hole therethrough extending along a longitudinal axis. An annular groove in the top surface encircles the axis and defines outer facing sides of a plurality of spring members integral to the plate. A plurality of slots define sides of the spring members the inward facing side of the spring members form the upper portion of the hole, which includes a first spherical portion. A fastener with a spherical portion on the fastener head extends into the hole with the spring members urged apart to allow the head to pass but restraining removal until the resistance provide by the spring members is overcome.

Abstract: A bone stabilization system is provided having a plate with a top and bottom surface and a hole therethrough extending along a longitudinal axis. An annular groove in the top surface encircles the axis and defines outer facing sides of a plurality of spring members integral to the plate. A plurality of slots define sides of the spring members the inward facing side of the spring members form the upper portion of the hole, which includes a first spherical portion. A fastener with a spherical portion on the fastener head extends into the hole with the spring members urged apart to allow the head to pass but restraining removal until the resistance provide by the spring members is overcome.