Spinal column retaining apparatus
US5312404A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 20, 1992 |
| Grant date | May 17, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 20, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/7038
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus is provided to retain elements of the spine or pelvis or both in a desired spatial relationship. A plurality of fasteners are connected with a plurality of the elements. A longitudinal member is connected with that fasteners by a plurality of connector members. The longitudinal members and fasteners are movable relative to each other to adjust the distance between the longitudinal member and fasteners to thereby obtain the desired spatial relationship. Clamps are engaged to hold the longitudinal member, fasteners, and connector members against relative movement. To provide for adjustability, oblong openings are formed in the connector members. The fasteners have a plurality of tapered washers to create variable angles between the axis of the fastener and the axis of the oblong opening.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.