Abstract: A surgically implanted spinal stabilization system uses posterior anchor hooks attached to vertebrae to retain elastic bands to retain flexibility and mobility while maintaining alignment and preventing excessive motion and deformity. The elastic bands may parallel the longitudinal axis of the spine, or, for enhanced promotion of alignment, they may also arranged in a diagonally crossing configuration. Multi-level fixation can be achieved using the spinal stabilization system with longer elastic bands. A method of applying the spinal stabilization system using an elastic band application tool facilitates simple, rapid application of the system to a patient.