Importance

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Abstract

A coupler for connecting a first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element to a second spinal fixation element includes a post and a head disposed on a distal end of the post. The head of the coupler has a width shorter than a width of a slot in the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element, and a length longer than the width of the slot in the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element. The coupler with a head so configured can be placed in a first orientation so that the head passes through the slot in the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element, and then can be placed in a second orientation wherein the head is trapped beneath the first, slotted, implanted spinal fixation element while the post having a connecting element extends through the slot. Systems and methods for extending a first, implanted spinal fixation element to one or more additional vertebrae while leaving the first, implanted spinal fixation element in place are also disclosed.

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First Claim