Patent ID: 6514260
Filing Date: 2003-02-04
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A method for performing a surgical procedure in a disc space between adjacent vertebrae of a patient, comprising:accessing the disc space; providing an instrument assembly including a sleeve having a distal end and an opposite proximal end, the sleeve defining a substantially sealable working channel between the distal and proximal ends, the working channel having a first portion and an adjacent second portion, further including a cap member secured to the proximal end of the sleeve, the cap member having a sealable access port; advancing the sleeve in the patient until the proximal end of the sleeve is positioned adjacent the disc space; positioning the cap member with the access port aligned with the first portion of the working channel with the working channel substantially sealed; and positioning the cap member with the access port aligned with the second portion of the working channel with the working channel substantially sealed.