Multi-axial transverse rod connector

A method of securing a plurality of spinal rods using a multi-axial rod connector,

• wherein the multi-axial rod connector includes
• a poly-axial rod assembly configured to include a lateral translation mechanism,
• a fixed hook configured to be rigidly coupled to a first end of the poly-axial rod assembly, wherein the fixed hook includes a fixed hook cavity configured to secure a first spinal rod,
• a variable hook configured to be rotatably coupled to a second end of the poly-axial rod assembly, wherein the variable hook includes a variable hook cavity configured to secure a second spinal rod;
• a bushing disposed between said second end of said poly-axial rod assembly and said second spinal rod;
• and
• a second rod locking setscrew disposed within said variable hook on an opposite side of said second spinal rod as said poly-axial rod assembly and configured to contact said second spinal rod to force second spinal rod against said bushing and towards said second end of said poly-axial rod assembly,
• and wherein the lateral translation mechanism is configured to change distance between the fixed hook and the variable hook,
• comprising the steps of
• adjusting and fixating the distance between the fixed hook and the variable hook using the lateral translation mechanism;
• inserting the first spinal rod into the fixed hook cavity and securing the first spinal rod in the fixed hook cavity using a first rod locking setscrew;
• inserting the second spinal rod into the variable hook cavity;
• rotatably adjusting an orientation of the variable hook;
• securing the second spinal rod in the variable hook cavity;
• and
• adjusting said second rod locking setscrew to force said second spinal rod and said bushing towards said second end of said poly-axial rod assembly.