Modular system for the stabilization of the spinal column

Abstract

A modular system for stabilization the spinal column or other bones includes a first stabilization element, a second stabilization element to be connected to the first stabilization element, and an outer connection element to connect the first stabilization element to the second stabilization element. An end portion of the first stabilization element and an end portion of the second stabilization element each include a structure engaging with a corresponding structure provided in the outer connection element to establish a form-fit connection.

1 - 42 . (canceled) 
     
     
         43 . Modular stabilization system for the stabilization of the spinal column or other bones including
 a first stabilization element ( 2 );   a second stabilization element ( 2 ′,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ) to be connected to the first stabilization element ( 2 );   an outer connection element ( 4   a , 4   b ; 400   a , 400   b ; 500   a , 500   b ) to connect the first stabilization element to the second stabilization element;   wherein an end portion of the first stabilization element and an end portion of the second stabilization element each comprise a structure ( 23 ) engaging with a corresponding structure ( 44 ,  404 , 504 ) provided in the outer connection element to establish a form-fit connection.   
     
     
         44 . The system according to  claim 43 , further comprising at least one bone anchor ( 8 , 8 ′), comprising a shaft to be anchored in the bone and a receiving part ( 9 , 9 ′, 90 ) for receiving the end portions of the first stabilization element and the second stabilization element and a securing device ( 13 ) for securing the first and the second stabilization element in the receiving part. 
     
     
         45 . The system according to  claim 44 , wherein the outer connection element ( 4   a , 4   b ; 400   a , 400   b ; 500   a , 500   b ) is integrated in the receiving portion ( 9 , 9 ′) or is inserted into the receiving portion. 
     
     
         46 . The system according to one of  claims 43 , wherein at least the first stabilization element ( 2 , 2 ′, 2 ″, 2 ″', 20 , 200 ) is flexible. 
     
     
         47 . The system according to  claim 46 , wherein the stabilization element is made of an elastomer. 
     
     
         48 . The system according to one of  claims 43 , wherein the second stabilization element ( 5 , 6 , 7 ) is made of a rigid material, such as a bio-compatible metal or a rigid plastic material. 
     
     
         49 . The system according to one of  claims 43 , wherein an inner connection element ( 3 ) is provided which connects the first stabilization element to the second stabilization element. 
     
     
         50 . The system of  claim 49 , wherein the inner connection element ( 3 ) is rigid. 
     
     
         51 . The system according to  claim 49 , wherein the inner connection element is rod-like shaped and engages in respective bores ( 21 ) at the end portions of the first and the second stabilization element. 
     
     
         52 . The system according to one of  claims 43 , wherein the structure ( 32 , 44 ) comprises rib-shaped projections ( 23 ) and/or coaxial bores ( 21 ) with undercuts ( 22 ). 
     
     
         53 . The system according to one of  claims 43  wherein the stabilization elements are rod-shaped. 
     
     
         54 . The system according to one of  claims 43 , wherein the length of a flexible stabilization element ( 2 , 2 ′) is designed such that only one single motion element of the spinal column can be bridged with the stabilization element. 
     
     
         55 . The system according to one of  claims 43 , wherein the outer connection element ( 4   a , 4   b ; 400   a , 400   b ; 500   a , 500   b ) consists of two complementary halves each having the structure for engagement with the structure of the stabilization element. 
     
     
         56 . A method for manufacturing a stabilization system for the spinal column, the method comprising assembling at least two stabilization elements of the modular system of  claim 43 .