Cranial fixation devices

A method of adjustably fixing a first structure to a second structure, the method comprising:

• providing a fixation device comprising:
• a body having a first axial end and a second axial end defining a longitudinal axis of the fixation device, the body having a bore therein extending longitudinally from the first axial end toward the second axial end and a slot in a first side of the body, the slot extending longitudinally from the first axial end toward the second axial end and laterally from the first side of the body to the bore;
• a mounting bracket connected to the first axial end of the body at a second side opposite the slot, the mounting bracket having a proximal end connected to the first axial end of the body and a distal end extending outward from the second side of the body, the distal end having at least one mounting hole therein;
• a support member retained in the bore and configured to move longitudinally in the bore, the support member having a base retained in the bore and an arm extending from a first side of the base through the slot such that the arm protrudes outward from the first side of the body;
• and
• a lead screw configured to engage a threaded hole in the base of the support member to retain the support member in the bore whereby rotation of the lead screw moves the support member longitudinally in the bore;
• positioning the body of the fixation device adjacent an edge of the first structure such that the distal end of the mounting bracket is atop the first structure;
• inserting a fastener through each of the at least one mounting holes of the mounting bracket to secure the fixation device to the first structure;
• positioning a bottom surface of the second structure atop the arm of the support member;
• and
• rotating the lead screw to adjust a longitudinal distance between the first structure and the second structure.