METHOD AND INSTRUMENTATION FOR POSTERIOR INTERBODY FUSION

摘要

A method and instrumentation for spinal interbody fusion is disclosed. The instruments and methods are particularly adapted for interbody fusion from a posterior approach to the spine. One instrument is a retractor (10) having a lockable pivotally mounted handle (12). Another instrument is a template (100) for straddling the dura. A modular distractor (150) is also provided and preferably includes a tapered shaft (160) with a visualization window (168) disposed therein. Yet another instrument is a depth gauge (360) to verify bone opening depth and dimension, preferably including a radiopaque portion (370). A method contemplates the use of these instruments to prepare a disc space to receive an implant.