Patent ID: 9084645
Filing Date: 2015-07-21
Classification: A61B,B65B

Abstract:
1. A bone fixation instrument configured to apply tension to a bone fixation member so as to tighten the bone fixation member about a target bone, the fixation instrument comprising: a body defining a front end and an opposed rear end; a grip configured to secure a free end of the fixation member to the fixation instrument; a traveler that is connected to the grip such that the grip moves rearward along with the traveler so as to increase tension in the bone fixation member; an actuator operatively coupled to the traveler, the actuator configured to move from an initial position toward a tension position in response to an applied force, thereby biasing the traveler to move rearward; a tension limiter operatively connected between the actuator and the traveler, wherein the tension limiter allows the traveler to move rearward when the tension in the bone fixation member is less than a select tension, and prevents the traveler from moving rearward when the tension in the bone fixation member reaches the select tension; a cutter assembly configured to move from a disengaged position to an engaged position; and, a safety mechanism that is activated by movement of the cutter assembly from the disengaged position to the engaged position in order to prevent the actuator from moving to the tension position.