Tissue dilator and method for performing a spinal procedure
First Claim
1. A tissue dilator, comprising:
- a sleeve having a tapered working end and an opposite end, said working end configured to displace tissue; and
a gripping portion on an outer surface of said sleeve adjacent said opposite end, said gripping portion defining a plurality of circumferential grooves configured for manually gripping the dilator to manipulate the dilator within tissue.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted, a hollow sleeve having teeth at one end is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve. Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted to restore the normal angular relationship of the vertebrae adjacent to that disc space. An extended outer sleeve having extended portions capable of maintaining the vertebrae distracted in their normal angular relationship is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve.
261 Citations
2 Claims
-
1. A tissue dilator, comprising:
-
a sleeve having a tapered working end and an opposite end, said working end configured to displace tissue; and
a gripping portion on an outer surface of said sleeve adjacent said opposite end, said gripping portion defining a plurality of circumferential grooves configured for manually gripping the dilator to manipulate the dilator within tissue.
-
-
2. A method for performing a surgical procedure at a location on the spine, comprising:
-
inserting a cannula into a patient through skin and tissue to create a working channel;
creating a working space in communication with the working channel and adjacent the location on the spine;
removably inserting a first tool through the working channel;
manipulating the first tool to perform a function at the location;
removably inserting a second tool through the working channel simultaneous with the first tool; and
manipulating the second tool to perform a function at the location.
-
Specification