Lateral fixation plates for a spinal system

An implant system comprising:

• a fastener having threads for engaging a vertebra;
• an elongated rod positionable along the spinal column in the superior/inferior direction and laterally from said fastener;
• connector means for connecting said fastener to said rod at a plurality of lateral distances substantially perpendicular to said rod while said fastener is stationary relative to said rod and while said connector means is connected to said rod, wherein said connector means includes:
• an elongated plate having an opening at one end for receiving a portion of said fastener therethrough,
• said elongated plate defining an axis from said one end to an opposite end;
• and
• said plate including an integral portion at said one end offset in the superior/inferior direction relative to said axis;
• said portion defining said opening for receiving said fastener.

An implant system comprising:

• a fastener having an upper portion with an axis extending therethrough, a lower portion configured to engage a vertebra, and a shoulder between said upper portion and said lower portion;
• an elongated rod positionable along the spinal column laterally from a line containing said axis of said fastener;
• a connector configured to connect said fastener to said rod at a plurality of lateral distances substantially perpendicular to said rod, said connector including a first portion for engaging said upper portion of said fastener adjacent said shoulder, a second portion integral with said first portion and having a surface for engaging said elongated rod and an elongated slot between said first portion and said second portion to permit relative lateral adjustment between said rod and upper portion of said fastener;
• and
• a rod to clamp fastener for clamping said rod against said surface of said first portion of said connector wherein said rod to clamp fastener includes aperture for receiving said rod therethrough.