SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERCUTANEOUS SPINAL FUSION

摘要

A system for percutaneous spinal fusion is disclosed that includes two spaced apart blades 12 connected together by a coupling 17. The blades 12 define a percutaneous pathway from a skin incision to an implanted pedicle fastener. The coupling 17 may be C-shaped and have at least one flexible tab 35 for engaging a hole along the length of the blades 12. If one of the blades 12 becomes disconnected from the pedicle fastener, a supplemental access device may be provided comprising a tubular body having a channel therein for receiving another blade. If both blades 12 become disconnected, another supplemental access device may be provided comprising a gripping member received within a locking member. The gripping member has two legs engageable with the pedicle fastener. The locking member moves along the gripping member to prevent the legs from disengaging the pedicle fastener. FIG 2B FOR PUBLICATION (.0