Plating system for bone fixation and method of implantation

Abstract

A modular bone distraction screw and a plate-based bone fixation device are well adapted for use in the spine. A plate has adjustable length and can accommodate bone settling. The method of use for each device is described and illustrated herein.

1 . A device for positioning a bone fixation plate relative to a bone structure, comprising:
 a holder portion configured to be removably attached to the bone fixation plate;   an actuator coupled to the holder portion, wherein the actuator is actuated to move the holder portion to thereby adjust the size of the bone fixation plate.   
     
     
         2 . A device as in  claim 1 , wherein the holder portion comprises a first holder member configured to removably attach to a first component of the bone fixation plate, and a second holder member configured to removably attach to a second component of the bone fixation plate, and wherein actuation of the actuator moves the first holder member relative to the second holder member to thereby slidably move the first component relative to the second component. 
     
     
         3 . A device as in  claim 2 , wherein the first holder member is sized to be removably inserted into a portion of the first component and wherein the second holder member is sized to be removably inserted in a portion of the second component. 
     
     
         4 . A device as in  claim 1 , wherein the actuator member is positioned in a handle of the device. 
     
     
         5 . A device as in  claim 4 , wherein the actuator member is configured to be actuated using a single hand.