Cross connector apparatus for spinal fixation rods

A cross connector apparatus for retaining a pair of spinal rods in spaced relation, comprising:

• a middle portion having a first end, a second end, and an extendable member which is able to extend beyond said second end a specified amount;
• a first side portion positioned adjacent to said first end of said middle portion, wherein said first side portion is rotatably or pivotally coupled to said middle portion in at least a first plane;
• and
• a second side portion positioned adjacent to said second end of said middle portion, wherein said second side portion is rotatably or pivotally coupled to said extendable member in at least a second plane;
• at least one of said first side portion or said second side portion comprising a retaining mechanism for retaining said at least one of said first side portion or said second side portion, respectively, in a fixed or locked position with respect to said middle portion and substantially simultaneously retaining a spinal rod member in a locked position in said at least one of said first side portion or said second side portion:
• said retaining mechanism comprising at least one deformable member situated on a tightening member, said at least one deformable member being deformable so that when said tightening member is tightened, said at least one deformable member at least partially deforms against at least one of said spinal rod member, said first side portion or second side portion, and substantially simultaneously cause said at least one of said first side portion or said second side portion to become fixed or locked relative to said middle portion.