Abstract: A stabilization system for implantation in a patient includes: at least first and second bone anchors, each bone anchor including a shaft extending in a respective bone insertion direction for connection to a respective bone of a patient, and a fastening member; and an elongate member comprising a first end portion, a first transverse portion extending transversely from the first end portion, a second end portion, a second transverse portion extending transversely from the second end portion, and a connecting portion extending in a longitudinal direction between the first and second transverse portions.

Abstract: A guide device for use in securing a spinal fixation plate to a spine is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the guide device generally includes a support member having first and second arms mated thereto. Each arm includes a proximal end and a distal end having at least one guide member coupled thereto and defining a pathway for receiving a tool. One or both arms can be slidably movable along the support member to allow the distance between the arms to be adjusted. In use, the arms can be adjusted to couple to a spinal fixation plate and to position the guide member on each arm in alignment with the fixation plate. The guide device can then be used to drill, awl, tap, and insert implants, such as spinal screws, into the vertebral bodies to attach the fixation plate thereto.

Abstract: A drill guide for use in securing a spinal fixation plate to a spine is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the drill guide generally includes a support member having first and second arms mated thereto. Each arm includes a proximal end and a distal end having at least one barrel coupled thereto and defining a lumen for receiving a tool. One or both arms can be slidably movable along the support member to allow the distance between the arms to be adjusted. In use, the arms can be adjusted to engage a spinal fixation plate and to position the barrels on each arm in alignment with bores formed in the fixation plate. The drill guide can then be used to drill, awl, tap, and insert implants, such as spinal screws, into the vertebral bodies to attach the fixation plate thereto.