Transverse vertebral connector

Abstract

Devices are adapted for interconnecting first and second longitudinal members extending along a spinal column of a patient. The devices are particularly suited for use in the cervical region of the spine.

1 . A transconnector for connecting first and second spinal rods that are positioned longitudinally along a spine, comprising:
 a first cross member having a first clamp member adapted to clamp onto a first spinal rod, the first member having a first connecting region extending away from the clamp member;   a second cross member having a second clamp member adapted to clamp onto a second spinal rod, the second member having a second connecting region extending away from the second clamp member toward the first member, wherein the second member and first member are interconnected along the first and second connecting regions;   a central attachment mechanism positioned at a location where the first and second members connecting member couple with one another, the central attachment mechanism configured to tighten and secure the first and second members relative to one another, wherein the central attachment mechanism includes a seat having a scalloped surface and a set screw having a scalloped surface that mates with the scalloped surface of the seat.   
     
     
         2 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the scalloped surfaces are ribbed surfaces. 
     
     
         3 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the scalloped surfaces are saw tooth surfaces. 
     
     
         4 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the clamp members are hooks. 
     
     
         5 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the second member and first member are slidably interconnected along the first and second connecting regions. 
     
     
         6 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the second member and first member are rotatably interconnected along the first and second connecting regions. 
     
     
         7 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the central attachment mechanism includes a ball and socket. 
     
     
         8 . A transconnector as in  claim 1 , wherein the gap of the scat forms a pair of surfaces of the seat that face one another