US Patent 6843790 Anatomic posterior lumbar plate

An anatomic posterior lumbar system comprising of a thin plate and fasteners for securing the plate to vertebra or other osseous material. The plate is preferably a thin rectangular structure having an opening running lengthwise in its central portion. At least one pedicle screw having a hollow threaded interior is fastened to a vertebra, and the plate located on the screw using the opening. A washer spans the width of the plate, and accommodates an inner screw, which is threaded into the pedicle screw, and captures the head of the inner screw. Miscellaneous shapes of plates are also disclosed which are fitted to specific portions of the spine.