US Patent 8246654 Transfacet fixation assembly and related surgical methods

The present invention provides a transfacet fixation assembly, including: an engaging bolt; and a receiving bolt selectively coupled to and engaged with the engaging bolt at an angle of between about 30 degrees and about 120 degrees; wherein each of the engaging bolt and the receiving bolt is configured to be disposed through a hole or bore formed through one of a plurality of bony structures making up a portion of a facet joint of a spine. Optionally, the engaging bolt includes a spherical distal end for engaging a locking sleeve disposed at a distal end of the receiving bolt.