PENETRATION LIMITING STOP ELEMENTS FOR A DRILL BIT USED FOR BONE TISSUE

摘要

The stop element is set forth for solving a problem of the clinician only being able to visualize a depth marking on a drill bit or a similar tool. The detachable stop element limits the penetration of the drill bit beyond a predetermined axial distance on the drill bit. The stop element consists of a connecting portion and an extending portion, both having an inner wall defining a bore extending entirely through the connecting portion and extending portions. The connecting portion has a surface that contacts the drill bit for restricting the axial movement of the stop element relative to the drill bit. The extending portion terminates in a lower end for engaging the bone surrounding the bore to limit the penetration of the drill bit. The stop element may include a plurality of grooves for altering its length so that the penetration depth of the drill bit can be altered.