Patent ID: 8002798
Filing Date: 2011-08-23
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A system for providing access to a spine of a patient, the system comprising: a first connecting element implantable in a first vertebra of a spine; and a first cannula adapted to receive at least a portion of a spinal fusion rod therealong, the first cannula comprising: wherein the first and second blades are configured to be assembled together substantially parallel to each other and mated with the first connecting element, without being directly connected to one another, in order to provide the first cannula such that the first cannula has a distal end terminating at the connecting element, whereby the first cannula provides access to the spine when the first connecting element is implanted in the first vertebra of the spine; and wherein the first and second blades are independently detachable from the first connecting element such that the first and second blades are independently removable from the patient.