Minimally invasive spinal surgical methods and instruments
US5885291A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 29, 1997 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 29, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S606/907
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Minimally invasive spinal surgical techniques and tools are provided. The methods include separating the iliocostalis lumborum muscle from the anterior leaf of the thoracolumbar fascia to create a channel from the patient's skin to the intertransverse interval. In one embodiment, the method also includes delivering graft material through the channel to the intertransverse interval. A device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a retraction portion having a flattened plate configured to atraumatically retract tissue to create a working space within an endosurgical site and a curved shaft attached to the retraction portion. The shaft includes a bend having a radius of preferably 160 degrees. A gripping portion is attached to the shaft and is configured for manually gripping and manipulating the device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.