Abstract: A transverse connector system for interconnecting two spinal rods includes a connector arranged to span the distance between the rods with a rod receiving recess and a pin receiving bore on each end. A one-piece pin member such as a set screw is disposed within each bore with an enlarged head protruding from the bottom of the connector so that when the set screw is retracted into the bore the head engages a side of the respective rod to clamp the rod within the recess. The connector may comprise two elongated members with a recess and pin receiving bore at one end of each member, a middle coupler which allows three degrees of freedom between the members to accommodate any anticipated spatial orientation between the members and a set screw for securing the other ends of the members together.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a pair of bone attachment devices and a crosslink device for a spinal fixation system or other implant arrangement. The bone attachment devices include a head with socket to receive a spinal rod or other elongate element and the crosslink device includes a pair of bridging members each having an end section for connecting with the bone attachment devices. An interconnection device situated between the bridging members receives the bridging members and allows translational and rotational freedom therebetween while being operable to secure the bridging members in position relative to one another. A pair of engaging members are structured to engage the head of the respective bone attachment device and bear against the respective adjacent end of crosslink device to lock the crosslink and the bone attachment device in a rigid construct are also included.

Abstract: A bridging device for laminoplasty includes a bridge (5) and two attachment arms (7), each attachment arm (7) including a tab ending in a tip and provided with backstop asperities (8), wherein at least one of the attachment arms (7) further includes a blocking device (9) for a cervical blade (2) for clamping the cervical blade (2) between the tab (7) and the blocking device (9), the backstop asperities (8) being provided between the tab (7) and the blocking device (9).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous vertebral stabilization system. A first anchor is positionable within a body of a patient through a first percutaneous opening and a second anchor is positionable within a body of a patient through a second percutaneous opening. A stabilization member is positionable within the body of a patient through the first percutaneous opening to engage and connect the first and second anchors.

Abstract: An electronically guided spinal rod system for the placement of a spinal rod into the heads of pedicle screws and other types of bone fixation systems includes a bone screw inserter having rod access slots extending longitudinally for a length along the screw inserter, a rod detection system coupled to the rod access slots and a rod pusher for inserting a spinal rod through the rod access slots. The electronically guided spinal rod system insures that the spinal rod will be accurately positioned while allowing the operator complete freedom to choose its specific path into the screw inserter rod access slots.

Abstract: A method for providing vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening that restores the loss of disc height and provides disc regeneration. In one non-limiting embodiment, the method includes inserting pedicle screws into the vertebral bodies of adjacent vertebra and positioning a spring in compression between and in contact with the pedicle screws so that the spring bias forces the pedicle screws apart to provide a distractive force that increases the height of the disc space and promotes the disc regeneration.

Abstract: A crosslink member for securing spinal rods is disclosed having connector ends that include a brace and a locking member, each having an arcuate face resting on and securing a spinal rod. The locking member is secured by a cam member that rotates relative to the locking member and that cams against the connector to displace the cam member. The crosslink includes a male connector with a cylindrical cross rod received by a cavity in a female connector. The cross rod is secured by a pivotable clamp device in the female connector, and the cross rod connector and female connector may pivot, rotate, and telescope relative to each other. To reduce size without sacrificing pivot sweep, the cross rod has beveled edges, and the cavity of the female connector has windows to provide pivot clearance.

Abstract: An apparatus for coupling a spinal rod to a cross bar comprising a main body having a channel with a wall for receiving a spinal rod therein, an opening for receiving a fastener with at least one tang adjacent to the opening, a clamping body pivotally disposed in the main body, the clamping body being moveable between a first position in which it does not clamp the spinal rod in the channel and a second position in which it does clamp the spinal rod in the channel, a cross bar having an opening aligned substantially with the opening of the main body and having the tang disposed therein, and a fastener for rigidly coupling the cross bar to the main body, the fastener being positioned within the openings of the cross bar and the main body, wherein the fastener is operable to force the tang into the cross bar to clamp the cross bar to the main body and simultaneously to move the clamping body between the first position and the second position.

Abstract: A method of interconnecting first and second longitudinal members extending along a spinal column of a patient includes inserting an access port into the body of the patient. A transverse connector is moved through the access port. A first end of the transverse connector is connected to the first longitudinal member. A second end of the transverse connector is connected to the second longitudinal member.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a pair of bone attachment devices and a crosslink device for a spinal fixation system or other implant arrangement. The bone attachment devices include a head with socket to receive a spinal rod or other elongate element and the crosslink device includes a pair of bridging members each having an end section for connecting with the bone attachment devices. An interconnection device situated between the bridging members receives the bridging members and allows translational and rotational freedom therebetween while being operable to secure the bridging members in position relative to one another. A pair of engaging members are structured to engage the head of the respective bone attachment device and bear against the respective adjacent end of crosslink device to lock the crosslink and the bone attachment device in a rigid construct are also included.

Abstract: A novel cross-connector assembly for interconnecting first and second bracing members or rods, one to the other. The cross-connector assembly is capable of multi-directional articulation in three dimensions, length, azimuth, and elevation and is also capable of having one end rotated along its longitudinal axis in relation to the other end so as to custom fit and securely connect the assembly to two opposing bracing members or rods. Also provided is a kit including the device and ancillary instrumentation to facilitate the method of the present invention.

Abstract: An implantable spinal cross connector is provided for connecting one or more spinal fixation devices, and more preferably for connecting two spinal fixation rods that are implanted within a patient's spinal system. In general, an exemplary cross connector in accordance with the present invention includes an elongate body with at least one rod-receiving recess formed therein, and a locking mechanism that is adapted to couple to the elongate body and that is effective to lock a spinal fixation rod within the rod-receiving recess(es). The present invention also provides an inserter tool to facilitate implanting a spinal implant or device, such as a spinal cross connector.

Abstract: Exemplary spinal fixation devices, systems, and method are provided for stabilizing vertebrae in a patient's spine. In one exemplary embodiment, methods and devices are provided for coupling one or more bone anchors, such as hooks, screws, etc., and/or one or more spinal fixation elements, such as spinal rods, cables, plates, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, a cross connector is provided for connecting and stabilizing two bone anchors, a bone anchor and a spinal fixation element, or a bone anchor and bone.

Abstract: A vertebral stabilization assembly for stabilizing vertebrae is provided. The vertebral stabilization assembly includes a first and a second pedicle screw, a first and second connecting screw, and a connecting member. The first and second pedicle screws each have a shaft provided with a threaded portion operable for threading engagement of the first and second pedicle screws with a first and second vertebra, respectively, each shaft also has an engaging portion. The first and second connecting screws each have a first end adapted to be received by the engaging portions of the first and second pedicle screws, respectively. The connecting member has a first end connected to the first connecting screw and a second end connected to the second connecting screw for stabilization of the first and second vertebra. A guide member for placement of the connecting screw and method for anteriorly stabilizing vertebrae is also provided.

Abstract: A device for supporting vertebral components of a spinal column includes a first spinal rod, a second spinal rod, and a connection element disposed between the first and second rods. The connection element has a front surface with a rod-receiving opening having a first region sized greater than a cross-section of the second rod, and has a second region sized smaller than the cross-section of the second rod, wherein the first and second rods align in series in an end-to-end manner. A locking member is associated with the connection element that urges the second rod toward the second region in a manner that the second rod frictionally engages with the connection element to restrict removal of the second rod from the connection element.

Abstract: Devices and methods for anchoring one or more elongate connecting members along the spinal column include a transverse linking member positionable through a spinous process in a generally orthogonal orientation to the sagittal plane. At least one coupling assembly is engageable about an end of the linking member extending from the spinous process. The elongate connecting member is engaged to the coupling assembly in a transverse orientation to the transverse linking member.

Abstract: A posterior fixation system includes a saddle member, an anchoring member, an occipital plate, an occipital rod, and a cross-link connector. The anchoring member anchors the saddle member to bone. The saddle member includes a pair of upright portions that define a channel. The channel is adapted to receive an orthopedic rod, and the saddle member can include a hole to receive the anchoring member. The saddle member and the anchoring member can be coupled so as to allow multi-axial movement of the members. The anchoring member in one embodiment is a screw coupled to the hole of the saddle, and in another embodiment, the anchoring member is a hook. The offset member may be coupled to the saddle member to allow for offset connection of rods. Connection of individual rods can be accomplished by connecting the rods with the cross-link connector. The cross-link connector has an integrally formed cylindrical member that couples a pair of coupling portions together.

Abstract: A spinal rod system includes a first rod and a second rod engaged to a connector with the first and second rods extending axially therefrom in opposite direction and in laterally offset relation. The connector includes first and second side-by-side receptacles for receiving respective ones of the rods. The connector includes a clamping arrangement to releasably secure the rods in the respective receptacles. The receptacles allow the relative axial position between the rods to be adjusted to accommodate anatomical conditions.

Abstract: A spinal connection assembly for use with a posterior spinal connector having a head and a groove adjacent the head for providing a neck and a connector element to treat a spine of a mammalian body is provided. The assembly includes a housing having first and second side portions and a top and a bottom. The first side portion is provided with a bottom-facing first opening adapted for receiving the posterior spinal connector. A capture mechanism is carried by the first side portion for engaging the head of the posterior spinal connector and extends at least partially into the groove so as to capture the head within the first opening. The second side portion is provided with a second opening. A securement mechanism is carried by the second side portion for capturing the connector element within the second opening.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a transconnector for joining adjacent longitudinal spinal rods. The transconnector preferably includes a bridge member and a pair of bone fixation coupling elements, the bridge member is preferably sized and configured to span a distance between the pair of bone fixation coupling elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the bridge member and sized and configured to receive one of the bone fixation elements. The bone fixation coupling elements are preferably sized and configured to engage the body portion of the bone fixation element. The bone fixation coupling elements may include a locking cap having a first set of threads for threadably engaging the bone fixation element.

Abstract: A polyaxial occipital plate assembly and method comprises a longitudinal member; a polyaxial connector head; a socket portion adapted to retain the connector head; a flexible clip operatively connected to the socket portion and adapted to receive the longitudinal member; an occipital plate comprising clips operatively connected to the connector head; and a locking mechanism operatively connected to the connector head and the clips, wherein engagement of the locking mechanism to the connector head causes the clips to lock into the connector head and outwardly expand the connector head thereby causing the flexible clip to squeeze against the longitudinal member. The plate comprises a pair of opposed legs comprising the clips attached to ends of the legs; a body portion operatively connected to the pair of opposed legs, wherein the body portion is positioned at any of an obtuse and an acute angle relative to the pair of opposed legs.

Abstract: Systems for positioning a connecting element adjacent the spinal column in minimally invasive procedures include installation instruments that guide the connecting element from a location remote from one or more anchors to a location proximate to the one or more anchors. The installation instruments include extensions mountable to anchors engageable to the spinal column or other bony structure, and inserters mountable to the anchor extensions for positioning the connecting element adjacent the anchors.

Abstract: Cephalad and caudal vertebral facet joint prostheses and methods of use are provided. A pair of fixation elements are adapted to be secured within a vertebra in an orientation that best assures a secure and durable attachment to cortical and/or cancellous bone. Artificial facet joint surfaces are mounted on the fixation elements, either directly or with the aid of a support. The artificial facet joint structure may be carried by an arm. The artificial facet joint structure is adapted for articulation with a complementary natural or artificial facet joint structure. Bilateral prostheses may by coupled by a brace to further secure and stabilize the prostheses.

Abstract: A spinal stabilizing system includes a collar having a tubular sidewall with an interior surface and an exterior surface, the interior surface at least partially bounding a longitudinal passage extending therethrough. A shoulder radially inwardly projects from a second end of the sidewall so as to at last partially encircle the longitudinal passage. A pair of spaced apart channels transversely extend through the sidewall at the first end thereof. The system further includes a screw having a threaded portion and an enlarged head mounted on the end thereof, the head of the screw resting against the shoulder of the collar so that the head can pivot on the shoulder, a locking slot being formed on the head of the screw. A pin is secured to the collar and projects into the locking slot on the head of the screw such rotation of the collar facilitates rotation of the screw.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device includes a fixation rod including a body having an aperture formed therethrough. First and second vertebral fasteners are secured to the body and are adapted to be secured to respective vertebrae. A third vertebral fastener extends through the aperture in the body of the fixation rod and adapted to be secured to a vertebra.

Abstract: A polyaxial transverse connector for stabilizing a portion of the spine. Connector bodies are coupled to rods attached to either side of the spine. Heads of transverse members are positioned in the connector bodies such that they exhibit polyaxial motion. The transverse members may have curves or offsets to accommodate other components or patient anatomy. A connector connects the transverse members and male threaded inserts are advanced into the connector bodies to inhibit motion of the polyaxial transverse connector.

Abstract: An extension rod device is provided for extending an existing spinal fixation system. The device can engage with implanted spinal fixation elements and house extension spinal rods that expand the fixation system to adjacent vertebrae. According to various embodiments, an extension rod device may include one or more extension spinal rods attachable to a transverse connector that is secured between an existing, implanted spinal fixation system. The extension rod device may attach to an existing transverse connector, already implanted with the existing spinal fixation system, or the extension rod device may include a new transverse connector, also for securing to the existing spinal fixation system.

Abstract: A system for connecting a spinal osteosynthesis rod and a crossbar include a passage for receiving the crossbar and hinge mounted jaws for clamping the rod. A locking device biases the crossbar against the jaws. A return spring pulls the jaws relatively close to one another independently of the crossbar such that the jaws may clamp the osteosynthesis rod to ensure a stable mounting of the connection system to the osteosynthesis rod.

Abstract: A vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening device that restores the loss of disc height as a result of disc degeneration and other factors. The vertebral disc annular fibrosis tensioning and lengthening device includes pedicle screws having heads with cup-shaped cavities. The pedicle screws are threaded into the vertebral bodies of adjacent vertebrae through the pedicles so that open parts of the heads of the pedicle screws face each other. A spring is inserted into the cup-shaped cavities in compression so that the spring bias forces the pedicle screws apart, thus increasing the height of the disc space.

Abstract: A posterior vertebral stabilizer has a resilient member such as a linear spring, which operates in tension and compression. The resilient member may be kept straight by a stabilization rod extending through the spring, or by a telescoping assembly that encases the resilient member. The ends of the stabilizer are attachable to pedicles of adjacent vertebrae so that the stabilizer adds stiffness to control flexion and extension of the vertebrae. Two such stabilizers may be used, and may be connected together by a crosslink designed to limit relative rotation of the stabilizers. Thus, the stabilizers may restrict axial rotation and lateral bending between the vertebrae, while permitting stiffened flexion and extension. Such stabilizers help provide the stiffness of a healthy intervertebral disc. In the event that fusion of the joint becomes necessary, a set screw or other component may be used to further restrict flexion and extension.

Abstract: A dynamic stabilization apparatus comprises elongated members mounted within the proximal end of anchoring devices that are placed in adjacent vertebral bodies. A flexible element having elastic properties within the applicable range of loading, for example loads that the spine experiences, is disposed between the proximal ends of the elongated members. At least one additional flexible element is mounted about the proximal ends of the elongated members adjacent the central flexible element. A housing encapsulates the proximal ends of the members such that the flexible element and the additional flexible elements are contained therein. As compressive, tensile, angular, shear and rotational forces are applied to the elongated members the central flexible element and the additional flexible elements interact with the elongated members and the housing to allow for motion of the elongated members.

Abstract: A spinal fixation system comprising at least two bone anchors, a rod connecting the bone anchors and a connecting plate extending from a proximal surface of at least one of the bone anchors. A method of fixing vertebrae relative to each other comprising the steps of: implanting bone anchors in two adjacent vertebrae, each bone anchor having a rod receiving portion; placing a rod in the rod receiving portions, thereby connecting the bone anchors; threadably engaging set screws in the rod receiving portions of at least a portion of the bone anchors, thereby fixing the rod to the bone anchors; mating one end of a connecting plate to a proximal bearing surface of at least a portion of the bone anchors; and engaging a cap with at least a portion of the set screws, thereby fixing the connecting plate to the bone anchors.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing vertebrae while permitting a range of motion therebetween may include first and second fasteners for engaging adjacent vertebrae and a motion preserving device that can be coupled to the first and second fasteners. The motion preserving device may include a longitudinal member that includes an array of load-bearing elements. The longitudinal member may be configured to permit the load-bearing elements to move relative to each other and/or relative to other portions of the member. In some embodiments, the longitudinal member is relatively inflexible along a longitudinal axis and relatively flexible in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A system for installing a cross member between first and second anchor members within a patient's body generally includes first and second docking members configured to be removably coupled to the respective first and second anchor members. Each docking member has a first end with an opening, a second end, and a body extending between the first and second ends. The body includes an outer surface with an opening, and a bore extends from the opening on the first end of the body to the opening on the outer surface. The openings on the outer surface of each docking member are configured to be aligned so that the bore in the first docking member is able to direct a wire member into the bore in the second docking member. A method for minimally invasive surgery using the system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A device having a universal coupling linkage for stabilizing vertebrae is developed that is comprising: a first link integrally forming a hook-shaped end to engage the connecting rod, a first flat top surface with first thread hole, a sink-down middle portion, an uprising wall in a right angle, an inner flat top surface adjacent to inner end with a central thread hole, a mounting cavity formed at the uprising wall and a circumference edge seat; a second link integrally forming a second hook-shaped end to engage the connecting rod, a second flat top surface adjacent to the outer end with a second thread hole, a sliding rod at opposite end; a swivel forming a plurality of slits for squeezing, a through-hole for inserting the sliding rod to adjust a clearance between the first and second connecting rods; a plurality of plug bolts and thread holes for depressing the connecting rods and the swivel.

Abstract: A spinal fixation system comprising at least two bone anchors, a rod connecting the bone anchors and a connecting plate extending from a proximal surface of at least one of the bone anchors. A method of fixing vertebrae relative to each other comprising the steps of: implanting bone anchors in two adjacent vertebrae, each bone anchor having a rod receiving portion; placing a rod in the rod receiving portions, thereby connecting the bone anchors; threadably engaging set screws in the rod receiving portions of at least a portion of the bone anchors, thereby fixing the rod to the bone anchors; mating one end of a connecting plate to a proximal bearing surface of at least a portion of the bone anchors; and engaging a cap with at least a portion of the set screws, thereby fixing the connecting plate to the bone anchors.

Abstract: A lateral fixation assembly engages vertebrae in a spinal column. The lateral fixation assembly includes a housing having a first rod and a second rod supported thereon. The first rod is adapted to be secured to a first vertebra in the spinal column and is fixed in position relative to the housing. The second rod is adapted to be secured to a second vertebra in the spinal column and is movable relative to the housing. Respective pluralities of such first and second rods may be provided. Staples having varying thicknesses may be provided to facilitate the installation of the lateral fixation assembly on the vertebrae in the spinal column. A temporary blocking device can be used to prevent relative movement of the movable rod during the installation of the lateral fixation assembly.

Abstract: A cross connector that can be used with a spinal implant includes a first rod clamp having a first end and an opposing second end, the first rod clamp having a first clamp arm crossing a second clamp arm so as to form a scissor coupling. The cross connector also includes a second rod clamp and a cross bar assembly extending between the first rod clamp and the second rod clamp.

Abstract: A system for providing dynamic stabilization and balance control at a vertebral motion segment has first and second bridge elements and at least one bias element. The bridge elements anchor to adjacent vertebrae with polyaxially adjustable anchoring members, and the bias elements attach to each bridge element to span between them. Each bias element has two fixation portions and a bias body extending between the fixation portions. Each bias element may comprise an elastically deformable material to provide dynamic stabilization with motion, or may comprise rigid material to provide rigid stabilization, and both bias element types may be included in one system. The bias elements are attachable to the bridge elements at discrete attachment locations, or at non-discrete attachment locations. Alternate embodiments may include three or more bridge elements on adjacent vertebrae, and multiple bias elements. A tensioning tool may provide adjustable tension to an elastically deformable bias element.

Abstract: The invention is a rod to rod connector that can be used to interconnect two generally parallel spinal rods of a spinal rod and anchor system. The connector comprises a transverse rod and two pairs of clamping bodies, one for each spinal rod. Each pair connects one of the longitudinal spinal rods to the transverse rod in infinitely adjustable angular relationship. One of the two clamping bodies of each pair comprises a C-shaped channel for accepting the spinal rod. The channel is in communication with a slot that defines a hinge. A threaded screw hole passes transversely through the slot and permits a screw to squeeze the hinge, thereby causing the C-shaped channel to close around and clamp the rod. The second clamping body is similar to the first except that there is no slot or hinge and the screw hole preferably is not threaded, but includes a countersink for seating a chamfered screw head. Also, an angular portion of the screw hole intersects the C-shaped channel.

Abstract: A system for flexibly stabilizing a vertebral motion segment of the facet joint by connecting a first vertebra and a second vertebra is disclosed. The system includes an elongate connection element with end portions interconnected by a flexible coupling member. The system includes first and second attachment portions for connecting the connection element to the vertebrae. A first resilient member is positioned between the first end portion and the first attachment portion, and a second resilient member is positioned between the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. The system is designed such that the second resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions move towards each other, and the first resilient member is compressed when the first and second attachment portions extend away from each other and a part of the first and second attachment portions extend towards each other on opposing walls of the elongate connection element.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system includes an implant and instrumentation for stabilizing the spine. In one embodiment, the system includes a plate having a side rail and a channel extending adjacent the side rail. A pedicle screw assembly is positioned in the channel in releasable engagement with the side rail. The pedicle screw assembly includes a polyaxial screw seated in a lower housing having a lower locking flange. An upper housing having an upper locking flange secures the plate to the lower housing. The side rail of the plate is releasably engaged between the upper locking flange and the lower locking flange. The upper and lower housings include on-board locking mechanisms for fixing components in the screw assembly. The screw assembly and plate are inserted and oriented by remote manipulation. Minimally invasive techniques for inserting the implant are performed with the instrumentation, and cause minimal disturbance to surrounding tissue.

Abstract: Embodiments of a spinal implant system include a fixation element, a connector body, and a compression member. The fixation element has a bone engaging portion, a pivoting portion, and a hinge portion. The hinge portion permits pivotal motion of the pivoting portion relative to the bone engaging portion. Additionally, the connector body defines a channel configured for receipt of an elongate member and defines an elongate slot configured for receipt of the pivoting portion of the fixation element. The pivoting portion is positionable in any one of a plurality of positions along the elongate slot. The compression member is adapted to engage the pivoting portion of the fixation element and press against the connector body to lock the pivoting portion at a desired angular position relative to the bone engaging portion and lock the connector body to the fixation element at the desired position along the elongate slot.

Abstract: An implantable article for use with an anchor and a non-metal rod assembly includes a ring having a body including an outer surface, an inner surface defining an aperture extending through the body configured to engage a non-metal rod. The ring body further includes protrusions extending from the inner surface into the aperture, wherein the protrusions are spaced apart from each other axially and circumferentially along the inner surface.

Abstract: A spinal surgical system includes at least one extender mounted to an anchor engaged to the spinal column. The extender extends proximally away from the anchor to a proximal end outside the patient. The extender is configured to receive a connecting member from an approach that is generally parallel or along the longitudinal axis of the extender so that the connecting member can be positioned from the proximal end of the extender to the anchor at the distal end of the extender without requiring an additional incision or puncture to accommodate the connecting member insertion.

Abstract: The present application relates to connectors for coupling together two surgical members of different materials while inhibiting galvanic corrosion. The connector may include a first coupling element composed of a material with a similar galvanic potential to one of the surgical members, and a second coupling element composed of a material with a similar galvanic potential to the second surgical member. Each of the first and second coupling elements may be configured to connect to the respective surgical member. The connector may also include a coupling medium disposed between the first and second coupling elements. The coupling medium may function to connect together the two coupling elements, and isolate the coupling elements to inhibit galvanic corrosion.

Abstract: Methods and devices for a motion-preserving spinal rod are disclosed including an elongate first rod portion extending generally along a first curved path wherein at least a portion of the first curved path substantially approximates a kinematic curve defined by flexion and extension of a superior vertebra relative to an inferior vertebra. An elongate second rod portion is coupled to the first rod portion. It extends along a second curved path wherein at least a portion of the second curved path substantially approximates a posterior lordotic curve, and wherein the first curved path is oriented relative to the second curved path to substantially form an S-shaped curve. A core extends between the first rod portion and the second rod portion and a resilient damper is disposed about the core.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant includes a middle part, comprising two pins, which can be introduced into the intervertebral space between two vertebrae having a central axis, a first end intersecting the central axis, and a second end intersecting the central axis, and two longitudinal parts each with a longitudinal axis extending transversely to the central axis of the middle part and each with an apposition surface directed transversely to the central axis of the middle part contacting the two processi spinosi of two adjacent vertebra bodies. Each part is connectable with one end of the middle part in such a manner that the apposition surfaces are directed against one another. The middle part of the implant is extendable transversely to its central axis along the longitudinal axes of the two parts.

Abstract: A transconnector is adapted to connect first and second spinal rods that are positioned longitudinally along a spine. The transconnector includes a first member and a second member that clamp onto first and second spinal rods.

Abstract: A connector assembly includes a coupling body for securing an elongate member to an implant engaged to the spinal column. The elongate member is offset to one side of and transversely oriented to the implant. The coupling body includes a first passage for receiving the implant and a second passage for receiving the elongate member and a clamping member positioned about the elongate member. The coupling assembly also includes an engaging member that engages the coupling body and contacts the clamping member to clampingly engage the elongate member with the clamping member while manipulating the coupling body positioned about the implant to engage the coupling body to the implant.