Pedicle screws are secured in two columns, one along each side of the
spine. Cross support rods have ends connected to pedicle screw heads. A
longitudinally extending rod is supported on the cross supports and
recessed in the cavity created by removal of portions of spinous
processes, providing a reduced profile of the installed construct.
Several types of cross supports are shown such as: arms from the screws
inward to rings or yokes connecting the longitudinal rod; cross rods with
ends connected to the screws and having centrally-located yokes for the
longitudinal rod; cross rods with articulating longitudinal rod portions
fixed or swiveled to them. These cross rods may have end portions angled
posterior toward anterior to accommodate lateral positioned pedicle
screws, but shorter cross rods without angled end portions enable
medialized pedicle screw orientation.