Importance

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Abstract

A spinal fixation implant system for correction and fixation of the human spine to facilitate an anatomically correct fusion. The spinal fixation system may include a connector, a spinal rod, a spinal fixation component, a sleeve, and a fastener. The spinal fixation component preferably includes a fixation device such as a hook or screw for securing the spinal rod to vertebrae of the thoracic or lumbar spine. The spinal fixation component preferably includes a threaded end on its top that is adapted to receive the fastener. The fixation component may include a body having a tapered cavity for engaging the receiving end of the connector. Tightening of the fastener preferably downwardly translates the sleeve over the fixation component body to force the connector through the tapered cavity, which compresses the receiving end about the spinal rod to fixably connect the spinal rod and the spinal fixation component. In an alternate embodiment, assembly pliers may be used to move the connector into the tapered cavity. The fixation component may also include a rotatable fixation member. The spinal rod and connector may include a textured surface to inhibit movement of the connector with respect to the spinal rod. The fastener may be a clip configured to engage an indentation formed in the connector to secure the connector within the fixation component. The connector may include a tab which is configured to interact with a channel formed in the cavity to inhibit the removal of the connector from the cavity.

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First Claim