Patent ID: 8157845
Filing Date: 2012-04-17
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for inserting an interbody spacer into a surgical site comprising: creating a coupled connection between said interbody spacer and an insertion instrument such that said interbody spacer is free to rotate with respect to said insertion instrument about at least one degree of freedom, said coupled connection comprises a plurality of movable jaws extending from said insertion instrument, moving said jaws with respect to each other and enclosing a portion of said interbody spacer within said plurality of jaws; fixing said interbody spacer in a first angular orientation with respect to said insertion instrument; inserting said interbody spacer into said surgical site; releasing said interbody spacer from said first angular position while maintaining said coupled connection; pivoting said insertion instrument about said coupled connection such that said interbody spacer is in a second angular position with respect to said insertion instrument; fixing said interbody spacer in said second angular position; and further inserting and rotating said interbody spacer.