Importance

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Abstract

An improved system of transverse connectors for fixing the relative alignment of spinal rods in an osteosynthesis apparatus which can accommodate variations in the divergence and skew of the spinal rods and arch along a connector. In one embodiment of the invention a rotating hooked connector includes a shaft which is rotatably and slidably securable within a shaft receiving bore in a base hooked connector. Hooked ends of the connectors are secured to the spinal rods. Once a desired alignment of the rotating hooked connector is established relative to the base hooked connector to accommodate the orientation of the spinal rods, the alignment of the two connectors is fixed utilizing a set screw threadingly advanced into engagement with the shaft through a threaded bore in the base hooked connector. In an alternative embodiment the hooked end of the rotating hooked connector is connected to shaft thereof by a flanged screw such that the pivotal relationship of the shaft and hooked end is adjustable until the flanged screw is tightened to fix the pivotal relationship. In another embodiment, the shaft receiving bore of the base connector extends through a pivot mount which is pivotally mounted to a support arm of the base connector.

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First Claim