Spinal fixation system having locking and unlocking devices for use with a multi-planar, taper lock screw

#1. Technical Field

#The present invention relates to orthopedic surgery, and in particular to devices for stabilizing and fixing the bones and joints of the body. Particularly, the present invention relates to a spinal fixation system that includes surgical instruments that can be used for locking or unlocking a taper lock screw, the screw preferably being multi-planar and useful for securing a spinal rod or plate to a vertebra.

#2. Background of Related Art

#Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

#FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a surgical rod positioned within the connecting rod slot of each of three multi-planar taper lock screws, the screws being in an unlocked mode;

#FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D show components of the system including a cross-sectional view of the multi-planar taper lock screw (FIG. 2A unlocked and FIG. 2B locked with a spinal rod in place), a locking device (FIG. 2C) and an unlocking device (FIG. 2D), each of the locking and unlocking devices being specifically and distinctly configured for use with the multi-planar taper lock screw so as to selectively lock or unlock a spinal rod therefrom;

#Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is understood that the following description is provided as being exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Thus, the specific structural and functional details provided in the description are non-limiting, but serve merely as a basis for the invention defined by the claims provided herewith.

#FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a unilateral orthopedic fixation assembly that includes a connecting rod 12 and three separate screw components 3. In the example shown, the connecting rod 12 is a spinal rod having a generally circular cross section; however, it is within the concept of the invention to secure connecting rods of any suitable cross-sectional configuration required for the need at hand.

#The System