Dilator
US8845726B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 2009 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/346
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A dilator that facilitates implantation of an interspinous spacer is provided. The dilator includes a proximal portion and a tapered distal portion interconnected by an elongated body portion. The tapered distal portion is ideally suited for splitting ligamentous tissue for creating a posterior midline pathway through the supraspinous ligament as well as for distracting the adjacent spinous processes. Two oppositely located and longitudinally extending channels or grooves are formed in the outer surface of the dilator for stabilizing the dilator with respect to the spinous processes. An accompanying cannula together with the dilator form a system for the distraction of the adjacent spinous processes, stabilization of the spinous processes with respect to the system and creation of a working channel for the implantation of an interspinous spacer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.