Patent ID: 8523874
Filing Date: 2013-09-03
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. An instrument for separating bony structures, comprising: an actuator assembly comprising a first handle and a second handle; a spreader assembly at a distal end of said actuator assembly, wherein said spreader assembly includes first and second spreading members positionable between the bony structures and movable away from and toward one another with said actuator assembly, wherein said first and second spreading members each include: a linkage assembly comprising a first link member pivotally coupled to the first and second handles and a second link member pivotally coupled to the first and second handles, the first and second link members being pivotally coupled to one another, wherein at least one of said first and second spreading members includes a stepped region extending vertically from said coupling portion to said body portion, said stepped region vertically spacing said body portion and said first and second extension members of said at least one of said first and second spreading members from said body portion and said first and second extension members of the other of said first and second spreading members when said actuator assembly is in an unactuated position to place said spreading members at a minimum height relative to one another.