Spinal fixation device

A method for stabilizing a spine during surgery, the method comprising:

• attaching an engagement portion of a surgical instrument to an aperture in an outer housing of a spinal fixation device, the housing coupled with an end plate assembly;
• manipulating the surgical instrument to insert the spinal fixation device between vertebral bodies;
• moving at least one of a first and second elongate member each pivotably coupled to a first end plate of the end plate assembly such that the first endplate moves and engages one of the vertebral bodies, wherein the first elongate member receives a portion of the second elongate member;
• moving one or both of the first and second elongate members to transition the first end plate from a first angular orientation to a second angular orientation;
• coupling a rod connector having an anchoring portion and a head portion with the outer housing of the spinal fixation device;
• and
• inserting the spinal rod into the head portion of the rod connector.

A method for delivering drugs into a spinal cavity during surgery, the method comprising:

• attaching a spinal fixation device having an outer housing and adjustable end plate coupled with the outer housing to a surgical instrument;
• inserting the spinal fixation device into the spinal cavity using the surgical instrument;
• moving at least one a first and second elongate member each pivotably coupled to the end plate such that the end plate moves and engages the vertebral bodies, wherein the first elongate member receives a portion of the second elongate member;
• moving one or both of the first and second elongate members to transition the first end plate from a first angular orientation to a second angular orientation;
• and
• attaching a drug delivery assembly having a drug reservoir and a catheter to at least one of the spinal fixation device and rod connector.