SPINAL FIXATION SYSTEM

摘要

A spinal implant system (20) for correcting spinal deformities and abnormalities includes an elongated spinal rod (21) spanning across several vertebral levels and supporting a number of fixation elements, such as spinal hooks (25). At least some of the fixation elements include an elongated stem (26) projecting from a vertebra engaging portion, connected to the spinal rod by way of a rod connector (28) having a one-piece body defining a rod channel (47) adapted to receive the spinal rod therethrough, a stem bore (49) adapted to receive the stem therethrough, and a threaded bore (54). The stem bore and rod channel intersect to permit contact between the rod and the stem of a fixation element and the threaded bore intersects either the rod channel or the stem bore so that a set screw (58) threaded into the threaded bore bears against either the spinal rod or fixation element stem. The rod channel includes a channel opening (48) to permit top-loading of the rod connector.