Abstract: A locking mechanism (100) and method of fixation, such as the fixation of a fixation device (104) like a bone screw and of a rod (106) to the spine. The locking mechanism (100) includes a body (102), an insert (108, 308), a rod seat (110, 310) and a set screw. The body (102) includes a bottom portion (114) configured to receive the fixation device (104) and the insert (108, 308) but prevents the insert (108, 308) and fixation device (104) from passing therethrough once the insert (108, 308) and fixation device (104) are engaged. The body (102) further includes a side portion (120) configured to receive the rod (106). Between the rod (106) and the insert (108, 308) is a rod seat (110, 310).

Abstract: A rod, such as that used for spinal stabilization, made of both metal material and elastomeric material. The rod may have a metal infrastructure, which may be non-cylindrical, to provide a desired stiffness for bending in at least one direction and may also have metal exterior surfaces for engaging metal components of spinal fixation locking mechanisms. In addition, the elastomeric material may only partially circumferentially encapsulate the metal material so that the metal material forms part of the surface of the rod.