Spinal access systems and methods
US8840621B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2009 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 29, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2250/0006
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for accessing a spine from a curved postero-lateral approach may include a curved cannula positioned along a curved path from an opening in the skin to a location proximate the spine. The location may be at the L4-L5 vertebral level, and the curved path may lie in a plane oblique to the transverse, coronal and sagittal planes of the spine, and avoid the iliac crest. A targeting post may be inserted adjacent the spine to determine the location, and a guide member may be inserted to establish the curved path. A micrometer assembly may adjust a cephalad-caudal displacement between the post and the guide member. One or more intermediate cannulas may be inserted over the guide member to dilate tissues prior to insertion of the main cannula. An interbody device may be implanted into an intervertebral space through the cannula.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.