Patent ID: 6428541
Filing Date: 2002-08-06
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
A guide sleeve assembly for defining a protected passageway to a disc space, comprising:a first tube defining a first working channel, and a first bone engaging end; a second tube defining a second working channel and a second bone engaging end, said second tube connected to said first tube with said second bone engaging end disposed adjacent said first bone engaging end; a central distracting extension disposed between said first working channel and said second working channel adjacent said first and second bone engaging ends, said central distracting extension having a first height, a first lateral extension extending from said first bone engaging end opposite said central distracting extension, said first lateral extension having a second height; and a second lateral extension extending from said second bone engaging end opposite said central distracting extension, said second lateral extension having a third height, said first height greater than said second height and said third height, wherein said central distracting extension maintains distraction in a disc space and said first and second lateral extensions inhibit encroachment of adjacent tissue into said first and second channels.