Cross-connector and related methods

摘要

A cross-connector, sized and dimensioned to stabilize the distance between a pair of rods in the spine. The cross-connector includes a first coupling assembly, a second coupling assembly, and a connecting device, extending therebetween. Each coupling assembly further includes a coupler, which attaches to a tulip head, and a camming assembly. The connecting device further includes a first arm element, a second arm element, and a screw. The arm elements move within the ball joints of the couplers and pivot around the screw, allowing a surgeon to adjust the length of the cross-connector and place the cross-connector above and around features within the body. The camming assemblies lock the tulip heads and the arm elements in place on the couplers. The screw locks the center rotation of the cross-connector.

主权项

1. A cross-connector for linking a pair of bilateral spinal fixation constructs, each of the bilateral fixation constructs including at least a first bone anchor having a rod receiving body, the cross-connector comprising:
a first coupler directly coupled to the rod receiving body of the first bone anchor of one of the bilateral fixation constructs, a second coupler directly coupled to the rod receiving body of the first bone anchor of the other of the bilateral fixation constructs; a connecting arm that connects the first coupler and the second coupler;wherein the first coupler includes a cavity for receiving the rod receiving body therein and a protrusion extending into the cavity, the protrusion being dimensioned to be received within a recess in a side wall of the rod receiving body to couple the first coupler to the rod receiving body; and wherein the first coupler includes a cam locking element that prevents decoupling of the first coupler and the rod receiving body when engaged.