METHOD AND INSTRUMENTATION FOR VERTEBRAL INTERBODY FUSION

摘要

A method and instrumentation particularly adapted for disc space preparation from an anterior approach to the spine. In one aspect, an expandable template (10) is provided having guides (26 and 24) to guide a cutting device (601) for bilateral formation of openings in the disc space. In another aspect, an improved guide member (450) is provided for guiding a cutting tool. Still further, the invention provides an improved double barrel guide sleeve (100) with a central distraction extension (116) and lateral non-distracting extensions (118 and 120). Optionally, the guide sleeve (100) includes windows (110 and 112) and a cover (160) to selectively cover the windows. An improved reamer (200) with an internal chamber (209) and optional modular coupling (254) is also provided. A depth stop (326) is provided to selectively engage a tool shaft (360) and a guide sleeve (370) to control tool penetration into the disc space. A method of using the disclosed instruments is also provided.