Spinal distraction apparatus includes at least one plate member having upper and lower surfaces adapted for placement between opposing upper and lower spinous processes having outer lateral surfaces. A pair of scissoring elements are hingedly affixed to the plate member to engage with the lateral surfaces of the spinous processes. A device is provided for locking the scissoring elements in position once a desired degree of contact is made. In a preferred configuration, the scissoring elements are sandwiched between a pair of opposing plate members, each having upper and lower surfaces adapted for placement between opposing upper and lower spinous processes, and the inner surfaces of the scissoring elements are concave. The device for locking the scissoring elements in position is a fastener that extends through a central portion of both scissoring elements and the plate members. The apparatus may further include a retractor with upper and lower plates for spreading the upper and lower spinous processes apart to receive the plate with scissoring element(s), and wherein the upper and lower surfaces of the plate member have notches to accommodate the upper and lower plates.
