Fixation systems including a member, a first attachment portion, a second attachment portion, and an intermediate portion. The first attachment portion is attached at a superior end of the member and includes a first opening. The second attachment portion is attached at an inferior end of the member and includes a second opening. The intermediate portion connects the first and second attachment portions. The fixation systems may also include a relief in at least one of the first opening and the second opening. Surgical methods for inserting the fixation systems in a patient are also disclosed.
