Patent ID: 8979851
Filing Date: 2015-03-17
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A system for configuring or selecting one or more implants and for implanting the implants proximate a bone in the body of a patient, the system comprising: a first blade and a second blade positionable at least partially within the body of the patient in a first implanted position, wherein, in the first implanted position, a distal end of each of the first and second blades is positioned within the body such that a proximal portion of each of the first and second blades protrudes above the skin of the patient, the first and second blades being positioned adjacent to one another to provide a first longitudinal pathway therealong between the first and second blades, and wherein the first and second blades are independently removable from the body; a third blade and a fourth blade positionable at least partially within the body of the patient in a second implanted position, wherein, in the second implanted position, a distal end of each of the third and fourth blades is positioned within the body such that a proximal portion of each of the third and fourth blades protrudes above the skin of the patient, the third and fourth blades being positioned adjacent to one another to provide a second longitudinal pathway therealong between the third and fourth blades; a first simulation member attachable to the proximal portions of both of the first and second blades so as to provide a first projected point outside the body; and a second simulation member attachable to the proximal portions of both of the third and fourth blades so as to provide a second projected point outside the body; wherein the first and second simulation members are configured to receive the one or more implants to facilitate configuration or selection of the one or more implants based on locations of the first and second projected points.