APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AFFIXING BODY STRUCTURES

摘要

An apparatus for affixing a plurality of body structures e.g. vertebrae together in a flexible manner includes a first articulated fastener (100a) having substantially rigid proximal and distal portions, longitudinally separated by a first flexible articulating portion. The first articulated fastener has a first thread direction. A second articulated fastener (100b) has substantially rigid proximal and distal portions, longitudinally separated by a second flexible articulating portion. The second articulated fastener has a second thread direction opposite the first thread direction. The first and second articulated fasteners are both adapted for insertion into each of the plurality of body structures. A method of affixing a plurality of body structures together in a flexible manner is also provided.