Method for fixing a connecting rod to a thoracic spine
US8454664B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 8, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jun 4, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 12, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/7086
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of attaching a curved rod to a plurality of pedicle screws in the thoracic region of the spine is disclosed. Preferably, the method is practiced in a procedure for percutaneously fixing the rod to the pedicle screws through slots formed through a plurality of screw extensions releasably attached respectively to the pedicle screws. The method includes the steps of releasably and pivotally attaching the curved rod to a rod introducer having a handle and holding the rod initially in a fixed position. The rod is introduced in the fixed position through the slots in the extensions with the rod curvature defining a lordotic angle relative to the spine. The rod is released from the fixed position without separating the rod from the introducer. While the rod is in the released position the handle is rotated 180° thereby rotating the rod to a kyphotic angle relative to the thoracic region of the spine.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.