Patent ID: 9132020
Filing Date: 2015-09-15
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. An instrument for distracting an intervertebral space, the instrument being adapted for use with an inserter having vertebral body stops for preventing overinsertion of an associated intervertebral disc into the intervertebral space, the instrument comprising: first and second elongated ramp members each having a first ramp portion including an interior surface with first and second laterally spaced grooves extending from a proximal end to a distal end thereof, and a second ramp portion extending distally from the first ramp portion, the second ramp portion including first and second laterally spaced prongs each having an interior surface and a groove extending from a proximal to a distal end thereof, wherein the first laterally spaced groove of the first elongate ramp is co-linear with the groove of the first prong and the second laterally spaced groove of the first elongate ramp is co-linear with the groove of the second prong, wherein the first and second elongated ramp members are connected at their proximal ends such that said interior surfaces face each other, the interior surfaces forming a passage dimensioned to accommodate the passage of an artificial intervertebral disc and a device for manipulating said disc, said passage effecting distraction of the intervertebral space, wherein at least one of said elongated ramp members further comprises longitudinal slot formed medially therethrough, the slot extending from the distal end towards the proximal end of said elongated ramp members, and wherein at least one of said elongated ramp members further comprises an exterior side having a ridge formed at the distal end of said elongated ramp members and disposed transversely to the longitudinal slot, the longitudinal slot extending through the ridge to allow vertebral body stops of the inserter to pass through the ridge.