Retractor and method for spinal pedicle screw placement
US6951538B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 29, 2002 |
| Grant date | Oct 4, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 3, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2034/2055
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
To avoid traditional muscle dissection required in the placement of a screw for a pedicle screw fixation, a retractor is provided having a guide of an appropriate length to provide access from the skin surface to the dorsal aspect of the vertebra over the pedicle. The retractor has a handle to provide appropriate holding leverage and to maintain the guide so as to stabilize the guide against the lateral aspects of the facet with the paraspinous musculature. The retractor has a channel of an appropriate size to accommodate a variety of tools, including a drill bit or a tap. The channel also provides a pathway for a probe or feeler to inspect the placement of the screw.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.