METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE INSERTION OF INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANTS

摘要

A dilation introducer for orthopedic surgery is provided for minimally invasive access for insertion of an intervertebral implant. The dilation introducer may be used to provide an access position through Kambin's triangle from a posterolateral approach. A first dilator tube with a first longitudinal axis is provided. An access cannula may be introduced over the first dilator tube. A drill may be inserted through the access cannula and used to perform a foraminoplasty, Surgical instruments may pass through the access cannula to operate on an intervertebral disc and/or insert an intervertebral implant.

主权项

1. An access device for orthopedic surgery comprising:
an access cannula having a longitudinal lumen extending between proximal and distal ends, wherein the distal end of the access cannula has a semi-annular cross-section; and a drill bit configured to be slidably received within the longitudinal lumen of the access cannula, the drill bit comprising first and second cutting portions, wherein the diameters of the first and second cutting portions differ.