Patent ID: 8142441
Filing Date: 2012-03-27
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A surgical instrument for inserting an implant between two bones, the surgical instrument comprising: a handle assembly; an elongate member having a first end and a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending there between, the elongate member being moveably connected to an implant engagement assembly, the implant engagement assembly being at a distal end of the surgical instrument and being configured to hold the implant; and a length control mechanism for adjusting the overall length of the implant when the implant has been placed between the two bones, the length control mechanism comprising a gripping portion, a gear assembly and a drive shaft positioned intermediate the gripping portion and gear assembly, the drive shaft extending through an opening within the handle assembly and oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member, wherein upon movement of the elongate member relative to the implant engagement assembly, the implant engagement assembly adjusts the implant for insertion between the two bones.