CERVICAL PLATE FOR STABILIZING THE HUMAN SPINE

摘要

A dynamic spinal fixation plate assembly includes a spinal plate (60), a receiving member (64), and a fastener (70) resulting in a low profile o rthopedic device. The plate (60) comprises a plurality of holes (62) for maintaining the receiving member (64). The relationship between the receiving member (64) and the plate (60) allows the plate (60) to adjust during graft settling. The receiving member (64) may be locked to the plate (60) utilizing the mechanical or chemical properties of the device or the receiving member (64) may be configured to rotate freely within the plate hole (62). Utilizing the features of the present invention, the plate (60) controllably subsides and settles into a position of stability. Additionally, each receiving member (64) has a tapered internal sidewall (68) defining a through hole (62) to matingly engage the fastener (70), which also has a tapered portion (72) forming a tapered lock-fit between the fastener (70) and the receiving member (64).