Patent ID: 6033405
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
A method of inserting an implant comprising the steps of:providing an apparatus including a handle portion and a body portion attached to the handle portion and defining a longitudinal axis, the body portion including an outer tubular member fixed relative to the handle portion for rotation therewith about the longitudinal axis, the outer tubular member having first implant engaging structure adjacent a distal end, an inner tubular member disposed at least partially within the outer tubular member and mounted for longitudinal motion relative to the outer tubular member and having second implant engaging structure adjacent a distal end and an inner shaft, coaxially mounted at least partially within the inner tubular member for independent rotation relative to the inner and outer tubular members, the inner shaft having third implant engaging structure adjacent a distal end;providing an implant having a hollow portion with a closed distal end and a removable proximal end cap;attaching the first, second and third implant engaging structures to the implant; andinserting the implant into a desired surgical location.