Methods and instrumentation for vertebral interbody fusion
US6648895B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 8, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 18, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 19, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2250/0063
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and instrumentation particularly adapted for disc space preparation for insertion of implants from an anterior approach to the spine are provided. The instruments include a guide sleeve defining a channel having overlapping cylindrical working channel portions and lateral non-distracting extensions extending from reduced thickness wall portions. The guide sleeve has an overall reduced width configuration. A pair of distractors are provided. A first distractor includes a shaft and distal tip, each having convex walls. A second distractor includes a shaft and distal tip including a recessed area at least along the tip. The first distractor is at least partially received within the recessed area of the second distractor when the first and second distractors are in side-by-side relation and a reduced overall width of the distractors is obtained. Preferably, the first and second distractors are used with the guide sleeve. Methods using the disclosed instruments are also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.