Spinal fixation apparatus with enhanced axial support and methods for use

A method for stabilizing vertebrae relative to one another, the method comprising:

• screwing a first anchor screw into a first vertebra;
• screwing a second anchor screw into a second vertebra adjacent the first vertebra;
• securing an elongate member to the first and second anchor screws, thereby fixing a relative spacing of the first and second vertebrae;
• and
• securing a spacer to the elongate member, the spacer extending substantially between the first and the second anchor screws to prevent the first and second anchor from moving towards one another.

A kit for stabilizing vertebrae relative to one another, comprising:

• one or more substantially rigid rods,
• a plurality of “C” shaped spacers having a plurality of lengths, the spacers comprising opposing edges defining a pocket therebetween for receiving the one or more rods therein;
• and
• a plurality of anchor screw assemblies, the anchor screw assemblies comprising anchor screws and a plurality of clamp assemblies for receiving the one or more rods therein.