METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REMOVING A SPINAL DISC

摘要

Devices and methods for removing a spinal disc are provided herein. Discectomy instruments are disclosed that can remove a spinal disc in a single-pass, i.e., without repeatedly inserting and removing the instrument from a patient. In an exemplary embodiment, the discectomy instrument includes a distal housing, at least one cutting blade, and a handle. When the distal housing is positioned adjacent to a spinal disc, a handle can be actuated to advance the cutting blade along a substantially arc-shaped path through the disc. In certain aspects, the path of the blade can correspond to the anatomy of the disc and to the approach used to access the spine. A second cutting blade can be advanced through the disc and can intersect with the arc-shaped path, forming a complete cut. The cut disc can be received in the distal housing and removed from the patient.

主权项

1. A device for removing a spinal disc, comprising:
a housing having four walls that form a substantially rectangular shape with an open interior configured to receive a cut portion of a spinal disc; a first blade actuator having a distal end operatively coupled to a first cutting blade; and a second blade actuator having a distal end operatively coupled to a second cutting blade; wherein the first blade actuator is configured to move the first cutting blade along an arc-shaped path through a spinal disc, and the second actuator element is configured to move the second cutting blade such that the second cutting blade contacts the first cutting blade, thereby cutting the spinal disc.