Patent ID: 7722530
Filing Date: 2010-05-25
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A system enabling minimally invasive procedures at a surgical location at or near the spine of a patient, said system comprising: an elongate body having an inner surface defining a passage extending through the elongate body and through which surgical instruments can be inserted to the surgical location, said elongate body capable of having a configuration when inserted within the patient wherein the cross-sectional area of said passage at a first location is greater than the cross-sectional area of said passage at a second location, wherein the first location is distal to the second location, said elongate body having a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion is independently pivotable relative to the distal portion; and a support arm configured to support the proximal portion of the elongate body hands-free outside the patient when the distal portion is inserted at the surgical location, the support arm configured to pivot the proximal portion relative to the distal portion, and to support and maintain the proximal portion in the pivoted position.