MULTISTAGE SPINAL FIXATION LOCKING MECHANISM

摘要

Described is a locking mechanism and method of locking the relative positions of a fixation device (104) like a bone screw and of a stabilization device (106) like a rod. The locking mechanism includes a seat (102), a washer (108) and a cap (110). The seat (102) includes a bottom portion (114) configured to receive the fixation device (104) such that a socket (116) of the bottom portion (114) engages part of the fixation device (104) and prevents the fixation device (104) from passing entirely therethrough. The seat (102) further includes a side portion (112) configured to receive the stabilization device (106), a washer (108) and a cap (110). When the washer (108) and cap (110) are fully engaged with the seat (102), the fixation device (104) may be locked independent of the stabilization device (106). The locking mechanism may also include a locking element for locking the stabilization device (106).