Patent ID: 7951152
Filing Date: 2011-05-31
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method, including: providing a compressor-distractor tool having (a) a handle, (b) an elongated arm extending from the handle and configured to attach to a connecting element, (c) a rigid connector slidably attached to the arm and configured to couple to a bony structure coupling system, and (d) a mechanism configured to slidably move the connector along the arm; engaging a first bony structure coupling system that includes a first bone screw to a first bony structure; engaging a second bony structure coupling system that includes a second bone screw to a second bony structure, wherein the second bony structure coupling system is positioned a distance from the first bony structure coupling system; releasably engaging the first bony structure coupling system to a the slidable connector; releasably engaging a bony structure connecting element to a distal end of the arm; and actuating the mechanism to translate incrementally the slidable connector relative to the bony structure connection element coupler so as slidably translate the first bony structure coupling system engaged with the slidable connector and alter the distance between the first bony structure coupling system and the second bony structure coupling system.