A spinal stabilization system comprises a bone screw including a bone engaging portion and a yoke, the yoke having top surface and bottom surfaces. The yoke has a rod receiving channel defined by a pair of opposed arms, an elongate connecting rod being received within the channel. A head to head cross connector comprises a connecting element having one end in connection with the bone screw and an opposite other end. The one end defines a connecting portion having an opening therethrough and a connecting bar communicating with the opening. The connecting bar, having upper and lower surfaces, resides within the channel, the lower surface contacting the rod. The connecting bar in a non-secured position is movable within the channel in at least two degrees of freedom. A set screw supported by the yoke rigidly secures the connecting bar to the rod and the rod to the yoke.
