Patent ID: 8211013
Filing Date: 2012-07-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A bone access tool, comprising: a handle assembly having a first portion and a second portion that are movable relative to one another; a speculum assembly having a central axis coupled to the handle assembly, the speculum assembly comprising: (a) a first speculum member; (b) a second speculum member movably positioned relative to the first speculum member, wherein the first and second speculum members each include a wall having a concave inner surface surrounding the central axis of the speculum assembly, and wherein the walls of the first and second speculum members have a convex outer surface that defines a tapered shape when positioned adjacent one another wherein the tapered shape gradually reduces in size from a proximal rim to a distal edge of the speculum assembly; and (c) at least one annular rib extending outwardly from the convex outer surface of each of the first and second speculum members and around the central axis of the speculum assembly, the rib having an upper surface and an inclined lower surface; and wherein actuation of the handle assembly causes the first speculum member and second speculum member to spread apart from one another about the central axis so as to retract anatomical tissue and widen a space between the first and second speculum members for deploying a tool through the space between the speculum members.