MINIMALLY INVASIVE METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLACING FACET SCREWS AND FUSING ADJACENT VERTEBRAE

摘要

The present invention provides a minimally invasive apparatus for placing screws across a facet joint between adjacent first and second vertebrae. The apparatus includes a first K-wire (12) for inserting into the spinous process of the first vertebrae and a first fixation block removably connected to the first K-wire. The apparatus further includes a second K-wire (14) for inserting into a transverse process of the second vertebrae and a second fixation block (18) removably connected to the second K-wire. A rod member (20) is removably connected to both of the first and second fixation blocks. A swivel block assembly (22) includes relatively movable first and second block members. The rod member is removably connected to the first block member. A cannula (28) extends from the second block member. The screws are insertable through the cannula for implantation across the facet joint. Methods for using the apparatus to place facet screws and fuse adjacent vertebrae are also provided.