US Patent 7753940 Lateral connector assembly

A lateral connector assembly for connecting a bone engaging fastener to an elongated member, such as a spinal rod includes a lateral connector having an opening for receiving a portion of the bone engaging fastener therethrough. The lateral connector includes a plate portion and an integral yoke portion, which yoke portion is attached to the elongated member by way of a clamp. The lateral connector assembly can include variable angle means between the clamp and the yoke portion of the lateral connector that permits rotation of the lateral connector about an axis projecting outward from the spinal rod. The clamp includes a tapering channel to capture the elongated member and lock the connector assembly.