초록 ▼

Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an

Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end with one or more cutouts. The cutouts on adjacent access devices are generally aligned with each other to permit passage of a portion of a fixation element from one access device to the other access device. A fastener with an elongated removable head may be delivered to the surgical site through the access device. After a distal end of the fastener is secured to the surgical site, a portion of the elongated housing is detached from the remainder of the fastener and removed from the patient.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A method for treating the spine of a patient, the method comprising:advancing a first access device including a first passage into the patient such that a distal end of the first access device is adjacent a first spinal location;advancing a second access device including a sec

What is claimed is: 1. A method for treating the spine of a patient, the method comprising:advancing a first access device including a first passage into the patient such that a distal end of the first access device is adjacent a first spinal location;advancing a second access device including a second passage into the patient such that a distal end of the second access device is adjacent a second spinal location, wherein the first and second spinal locations are on the same side of a mid-line of the spine;providing a flexible guide member coupled to a spinal fixation element;providing a passing instrument configured to pass the flexible guide member through the first and second passages;inserting the passing instrument holding the flexible guide member into the first passage;using the passing instrument to pass the flexible guide member through the first passage, up into and through the second passage; andmoving the spinal fixation element into position adjacent the first and second spinal locations using the flexible guide member.