Patent Description:
Spinal disorders such as degenerative disc disease, disc herniation, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, stenosis, scoliosis, kyphosis and other curvature abnormalities, tumor, and fracture may result from factors including trauma, disease and degenerative conditions caused by injury and aging. Spinal disorders typically result in symptoms including pain, nerve damage, and partial or complete loss of mobility.

Non-surgical treatments, such as medication, rehabilitation and exercise can be effective, however, may fail to relieve the symptoms associated with these disorders. Surgical treatment of these spinal disorders includes correction, ligamentotaxy, corpectomy, discectomy, laminectomy, fusion, fixation and implantable prosthetics. Correction treatments used for positioning and alignment of vertebrae may employ spinal implants including spinal constructs and interbody devices for stabilization of a treated section of a spine. In some cases, the spinal implants may be manipulated with surgical instruments for compression and distraction of vertebrae.

<CIT> discloses a bidirectional ratchet integrated distractor for providing distraction and compression of vertebral bodies of patient. This disclosure describes an improvement over these prior technologies.

The present invention relates to a surgical system as claimed hereafter. Preferred embodiments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims. Associated methods are also described herein to aid understanding of the invention, but these do not form part of the claimed invention. In one embodiment, a surgical system is provided. The surgical system includes a plurality of alternate engaging surfaces. A first member is connectable with an engaging surface such that the first member is interchangeable with the plurality of engaging surfaces. A second member is connectable with an engaging surface such that the second member is interchangeable with the plurality of engaging surfaces. The members are relatively movable to distract and/or compress vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, surgical instruments, constructs and implants are disclosed.

The surgical system includes a longitudinal element and a plurality of alternate engaging surfaces. A first member is connected with the longitudinal element and is connectable with an engaging surface such that the first member is interchangeable with the plurality of engaging surfaces. A second member is connected with the longitudinal element and is connectable with an engaging surface such that the second member is interchangeable with the plurality of engaging surfaces. The members are relatively movable to distract and/or compress vertebral tissue.

In one embodiment, the surgical system includes a plurality of engaging surfaces. A first member is connectable with an engaging surface such that the first member is compatible with the plurality of engaging surfaces. A second member is connectable with an engaging surface such that the second member is compatible with the plurality of engaging surfaces. The engaging surfaces are selected for connection with the members such that the members are relatively movable to distract and/or compress vertebral tissue.

The exemplary embodiments of the system disclosed are discussed in terms of medical devices for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and more particularly, in terms of a surgical system for treating a spine disorder. In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes a surgical instrument including a distractor that allows vertebral manipulation during one or more surgical procedures, for example, correction, ligamentotaxy, corpectomy, discectomy, laminectomy, fusion, fixation, implantable prosthetics, facetectomy, disc preparation and/or interbody placement. In some embodiments, the present surgical system is configured for engagement with vertebral tissue, for example, spinous process, laminae and/or attachment to bone fasteners, including pedicle screws for parallel distraction and/or compression of the vertebral tissue.

In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes a modular spinal distraction system that consolidates stand-alone instrumentation into a single modular distraction platform that can be employed to distract vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes a surgical instrument, for example, a distractor rack and a plurality of legs. In some embodiments, the distractor rack and the plurality of legs are configured to create a cavity between adjacent vertebral bodies and/or multilevel vertebral bodies to provide space for a practitioner to perform a surgical procedure.

In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes a distractor including a distraction rack. In some embodiments, the distraction rack includes a frame and a pair of legs. In some embodiments, the frame is configured to drive the pair of legs apart or together to distract or compress vertebral tissue such that a gap is formed between vertebral bodies to provide space at a surgical site for a surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the pair of legs are variously configured for attachment to vertebral tissue, for example, the spinous process and/or the lamina tissue. In some embodiments, the pair of legs are variously configured for attachment to pedicle screws fixed with vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, the pair of legs include anatomic distractor legs configured for attachment to vertebral tissue including laminae and/or spinous process. In some embodiments, the anatomic distractor legs include an end including a textured surface configured for engagement with vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, the surface is textured to facilitate connection with a surface of vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, the pair of legs include shank based distractor legs configured for connection with a shank of a bone fastener, for example, a bone screw.

In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes a modular distraction rack configured to connect with a plurality of alternately configured distractor legs, each configured for engagement with selected vertebral tissue or pedicle screws fixed with vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, the distraction rack includes a pair of arms that each include a sleeve. In some embodiments, each leg is configured for connection with each sleeve. In some embodiments, an end of the leg includes a mating surface including a projection configured for mating connection with a mating surface including a groove defined from the sleeve. In some embodiments, the projection is square or circular shaped and matingly corresponds to a square or circular shaped groove. In some embodiments, the mating surfaces enable assembly of the surgical system. In some embodiments, the pair of legs are assembled on a back table in an operating room or in situ by positioning the pair of legs adjacent to respective anatomy/shanks and slidably engaging the sleeves with ends of the legs. In some embodiments, each leg includes a height that is configured for adjustment within the sleeves.

In some embodiments, the present distraction rack includes a spring loaded tab configured to prevent disassembly of components of the distraction rack including disassembly of a rack from a frame of the distraction rack. In some embodiments, the spring loaded tab is disposed on an end of the rack. In some embodiments, the distraction rack includes a spring loaded ball configured to prevent disassembly of the rack from the frame. In some embodiments, the sleeves of the distraction rack include a friction fit connection with portions of each of the legs to fix the legs with the sleeves. In some embodiments, the friction connection enables height adjustment of the pair of legs. In some embodiments, the pair of legs include a square profile and the sleeves include a square profile to facilitate a mating fixation, load transfer and/or modularity.

In some examples, the present surgical system is utilized with a not claimed method to correct spinal deformities. In some examples, the present surgical system is utilized with a not claimed method to treat degenerative spinal disorders and/or employed with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedures. In some embodiments, the present surgical system is configured for utilization with a sagittal adjusting screw (SAS), a fixed axis screw (FAS) and/or a multi-axial screw (MAS). In some embodiments, the present surgical system comprises a single distractor to treat degenerative spinal disorders, for example, for disposal along a side of vertebrae oriented for decompression and/or interbody cage insertion.

In some examples, the present surgical system includes a surgical method, not part of the claimed invention, including an interbody fusion, posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) utilizing a minimally invasive surgical approach or a percutaneous approach. In some embodiments, the present surgical system includes segmental distraction to facilitate decompression, including final construct compression.

In some examples, one or all of the components of the surgical system are disposable, peel-pack, pre-packed sterile devices used with a spinal construct. One or all of the components of the surgical system may be reusable. The surgical system may be configured as a kit with multiple sized and configured components.

In some examples, the present disclosure may be employed to treat spinal disorders such as, for example, degenerative disc disease, disc herniation, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, stenosis, scoliosis and other curvature abnormalities, kyphosis, tumor and fractures. In some embodiments, the present disclosure may be employed with other osteal and bone related applications, including those associated with diagnostics and therapeutics. In some embodiments, the disclosed surgical system may be alternatively employed in a surgical treatment with a patient in a prone or supine position, and/or employ various surgical approaches to the spine, including posterior and/or posterior mid-line and in other body regions. The present disclosure may also be alternatively employed with procedures for treating the lumbar, cervical, thoracic, sacral and pelvic regions of a spinal column. The system and methods of the present disclosure may also be used on animals, bone models and other non-living substrates, such as, for example, in training, testing and demonstration.

The present disclosure may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the embodiments taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this application is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting. In some embodiments, as used in the specification and including the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and/or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It is also understood that all spatial references, such as, for example, horizontal, vertical, top, upper, lower, bottom, left and right, are for illustrative purposes only and can be varied within the scope of the disclosure. For example, the references "upper" and "lower" are relative and used only in the context to the other, and are not necessarily "superior" and "inferior.

As used in the specification and including the appended claims, "treating" or "treatment" of a disease or condition refers to performing a procedure that may include administering one or more drugs to a patient (human, normal or otherwise or other mammal), employing implantable devices, and/or employing instruments that treat the disease, such as, for example, microdiscectomy instruments used to remove portions bulging or herniated discs and/or bone spurs, in an effort to alleviate signs or symptoms of the disease or condition. Alleviation can occur prior to signs or symptoms of the disease or condition appearing, as well as after their appearance. Thus, treating or treatment includes preventing or prevention of disease or undesirable condition (e.g., preventing the disease from occurring in a patient, who may be predisposed to the disease but has not yet been diagnosed as having it). In addition, treating or treatment does not require complete alleviation of signs or symptoms, does not require a cure, and specifically includes procedures that have only a marginal effect on the patient. Treatment can include inhibiting the disease, e.g., arresting its development, or relieving the disease, e.g., causing regression of the disease. For example, treatment can include reducing acute or chronic inflammation; alleviating pain and mitigating and inducing re-growth of new ligament, bone and other tissues; as an adjunct in surgery; and/or any repair procedure. Also, as used in the specification and including the appended claims, the term "tissue" includes soft tissue, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and/or bone unless specifically referred to otherwise.

The following discussion includes a description of a surgical system and related methods (not claimed) of employing the surgical system in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Alternate embodiments are disclosed. Reference is made to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. Turning to <FIG>, there are illustrated components of a surgical system <NUM>.

The components of surgical system <NUM> can be fabricated from biologically acceptable materials suitable for medical applications, including metals, synthetic polymers, ceramics and bone material and/or their composites. For example, the components of surgical system <NUM>, individually or collectively, can be fabricated from materials such as stainless steel alloys, commercially pure titanium, titanium alloys, Grade <NUM> titanium, super-elastic titanium alloys, cobalt-chrome alloys, superelastic metallic alloys (e.g., Nitinol, super elasto-plastic metals), ceramics and composites thereof such as calcium phosphate (e.g., SKELITETM), thermoplastics such as polyaryletherketone (PAEK) including polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK) and polyetherketone (PEK), carbon-PEEK composites, PEEK-BaSO<NUM> polymeric rubbers, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), fabric, silicone, polyurethane, silicone-polyurethane copolymers, polymeric rubbers, polyolefin rubbers, hydrogels, semi-rigid and rigid materials, elastomers, rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoset elastomers, elastomeric composites, rigid polymers including polyphenylene, polyamide, polyimide, polyetherimide, polyethylene, epoxy, bone material including autograft, allograft, xenograft or transgenic cortical and/or corticocancellous bone, and tissue growth or differentiation factors, partially resorbable materials, such as, for example, composites of metals and calcium-based ceramics, composites of PEEK and calcium based ceramics, composites of PEEK with resorbable polymers, totally resorbable materials, such as, for example, calcium based ceramics such as calcium phosphate, tri-calcium phosphate (TCP), hydroxyapatite (HA)-TCP, calcium sulfate, or other resorbable polymers such as polyaetide, polyglycolide, polytyrosine carbonate, polycaroplaetohe and their combinations.

Surgical system <NUM> is employed, for example, with a minimally invasive procedure, including percutaneous techniques, mini-open and open surgical techniques to deliver and introduce instrumentation and/or components of spinal constructs at a surgical site within a patient body of a patient, for example, a section of a spine. In some embodiments, one or more of the components of surgical system <NUM> are configured for engagement with spinal constructs attached with vertebrae to manipulate tissue and/or correct a spinal disorder, as described herein. In some embodiments, surgical system <NUM> may be employed with surgical procedures, such as, for example, corpectomy, discectomy and/or fracture/trauma treatment and may include fusion and/or fixation that employ implants to restore the mechanical support function of vertebrae.

Surgical system <NUM> includes a longitudinal element including a distractor rack <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Rack <NUM> is configured for connection with a member, including a tubular arm <NUM> and a member including a tubular arm <NUM>, as described herein, that are connectable to engaging surfaces, for example, a leg <NUM> and/or a leg <NUM> that are movable to distract and/or compress vertebral tissue. Arms <NUM>, <NUM> are connectable with alternate engaging surfaces such that the engaging surfaces are interchangeable depending on the selected surgical treatment, surgical procedure, method and/or vertebral tissue at a surgical site, as described herein. In some embodiments, the engaging surface may include a blade, an arm, a paddle, and/or a hook. In some embodiments, arms <NUM>, <NUM> are connectable with one or more engaging surfaces having the same or different configurations. In some embodiments, the engaging surface may be configured, oriented and/or disposed to contact, abut, engage, support, deform and/or penetrate tissue, one or more implants and/or surgical instrumentation. In some embodiments, the engaging surface may be employed with and/or include an insert, barrier, layer, coating and/or substrate.

Rack <NUM> extends between an end <NUM> and an end <NUM> and defines a longitudinal axis XX, as shown in <FIG>. Rack <NUM> includes a ratchet configuration including an outer surface <NUM> that defines a plurality of teeth, for example, splines <NUM> engageable with a portion of arm <NUM> such that arm <NUM> is translatable relative to longitudinal axis XX in a bi-directional and/or two-way ratchet configuration, as shown in <FIG> and described herein.

End <NUM> is configured for connection with arm <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Arm <NUM> extends between an end <NUM> and an end <NUM> and defines a longitudinal axis YY. Longitudinal axis YY is transverse relative to longitudinal axis XX. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> is solid. In some embodiments, all or a portion of arm <NUM> is solid. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> may have alternately shaped configurations, for example, oval, oblong, triangular, square, polygonal, irregular, uniform, non-uniform, offset, staggered, undulating, arcuate, variable and/or tapered. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

End <NUM> engages with an extension <NUM> of end <NUM> via disposal of a pin <NUM> through an opening <NUM> of extension <NUM> and an opening <NUM> of end <NUM>. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> is engageable with extension <NUM>, for example, via clips, hooks, adhesives and/or flanges.

Arm <NUM> includes an inner surface <NUM> that defines a passageway <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Passageway <NUM> is configured to receive the engaging surfaces, as shown in <FIG> and described herein. The engaging surfaces are configured for engagement with vertebral tissue and are selected according to the particular vertebral tissue that is being distracted and/or compressed. In some embodiments, passageway <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

Arm <NUM> extends between an end <NUM> and an end <NUM> and defines a longitudinal axis ZZ, as shown in <FIG>. Longitudinal axis ZZ is parallel to longitudinal axis YY and is transverse relative to longitudinal axis XX. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> is solid. In some embodiments, all or a portion of arm <NUM> is solid. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> may have alternately shaped configurations, for example, oval, oblong, triangular, square, polygonal, irregular, uniform, non-uniform, offset, staggered, undulating, arcuate, variable and/or tapered. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

End <NUM> engages with an extension <NUM> engaged to a mount <NUM> via disposal of a pin <NUM> through an opening <NUM> of extension <NUM> and an opening <NUM> of end <NUM>. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> is engageable with extension <NUM>, for example, via clips, hooks, adhesives and/or flanges.

Arm <NUM> includes an inner surface <NUM> that defines a passageway <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Passageway <NUM> is configured to receive the engaging surfaces, as shown in <FIG> and described herein. In some embodiments, passageway <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

Mount <NUM> includes a surface that defines an opening <NUM> configured for disposal of surface <NUM> of rack <NUM> for mounting arm <NUM> with rack <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Mount <NUM> is configured to facilitate translation of arm <NUM> relative to rack <NUM>. In some embodiments, arm <NUM> is engageable with rack <NUM>, for example, via clips, hooks, adhesives and/or flanges. End <NUM> of rack <NUM> includes a ball <NUM> that is spring loaded, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Mount <NUM> is configured to contact ball <NUM> when mount <NUM> is translated in the direction of end <NUM> and prevents mount <NUM> from disengaging from rack <NUM> during translation.

Rack <NUM> includes a ratchet configuration, including splines <NUM> and opening <NUM> of mount <NUM> engageable in a bi-directional and/or two-way ratchet configuration. Mount <NUM> includes a latch <NUM> that includes a pinion or pawl (not shown) engageable with splines <NUM>. Latch <NUM> is pivotable relative to mount <NUM> for disposal in a distraction position, as described herein. In the distraction position, latch <NUM> engages rack <NUM> to allow axial and/or incremental translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM> and prevents axial translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM>, in an opposing direction. As such, distraction of vertebral tissue connected with the engaging surfaces can be performed.

Latch <NUM> is pivotable relative to mount <NUM>. For example, latch <NUM> is pivotable for disposal in a neutral position. In the neutral position, latch <NUM> disengages from rack <NUM> to allow free axial translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM>. Latch <NUM> is pivotable relative to mount <NUM> for disposal in a compression position (not shown). In the compression position, latch <NUM> engages rack <NUM> to allow axial and/or incremental translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM> to compress vertebral tissue and prevents axial translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM>, in an opposing direction. As such, compression of vertebral tissue connected with the engaging surfaces can be performed. In some embodiments, a rotatable key <NUM> includes a gear surface (not shown) engageable with splines <NUM> to axially and/or incrementally translate rack <NUM> to facilitate distraction and/or compression, as described herein.

The engaging surfaces include leg <NUM> and leg <NUM>, similar to leg <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Legs <NUM>, <NUM> are connectable with arms <NUM>, <NUM> and are selected for engagement with spinous process tissue, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Leg <NUM> includes an end <NUM>, an end <NUM> and a longitudinal axis AA disposed therebetween. End <NUM> includes a mating surface <NUM> configured for connection with a mating surface <NUM> of arm <NUM> or a mating surface <NUM> of arm <NUM>. Mating surface <NUM> includes a projection <NUM> and mating surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> define openings <NUM>, <NUM> that are configured to receive projection <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Projection <NUM> and openings <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to facilitate accurate assembly of arms <NUM>, <NUM> with leg <NUM>. Projection <NUM> includes a square or circular shape that corresponds with a square or circular shape openings <NUM>, <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, projection <NUM> and openings <NUM>, <NUM> are variously shaped and include rectangular, star, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, uniform and/or irregular configurations. In some embodiments, projection <NUM> and openings <NUM>, <NUM> alternatively include adhesive labels that matingly correspond to each other. In some embodiments, the adhesive labels are variously configured and include a circular, square, rectangular, star, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, uniform and/or irregular shaped configurations.

An exterior surface of leg <NUM> defines a longitudinal groove <NUM> configured for slidable engagement with an interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> and/or an interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> to form a dovetail connection, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In some embodiments, longitudinal groove <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis AA, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset. In some embodiments, longitudinal groove <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured. In some embodiments, interior rails <NUM>, <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis YY and/or ZZ, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset. In some embodiments, interior rails <NUM>, <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

Arm <NUM> includes a longitudinal tab <NUM> and arm <NUM> includes a longitudinal tab <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Leg <NUM> is connectable with arms <NUM> and/or <NUM> via a friction fit connection formed between an exterior surface of arms <NUM>, <NUM> and longitudinal tabs <NUM> and/or <NUM>. In some embodiments, the friction connection enables height adjustment of leg <NUM>. In some embodiments, longitudinal tabs <NUM> and/or <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis YY and/or ZZ, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset. In some embodiments, longitudinal tabs <NUM> and/or <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

End <NUM> includes a capturing element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, configured for engagement with spinous process tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a bracket configuration for engagement with the spinous process tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a textured gripping surface <NUM> configured to facilitate gripping of surfaces of the spinous process tissue during distraction of the spinous process tissue. In some embodiments, textured gripping surface <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

In assembly, operation and use, surgical system <NUM>, similar to the systems and methods described herein, is employed with a surgical procedure, for treatment of a spine of a patient including vertebrae V, as shown in <FIG>. Surgical system <NUM> may also be employed with surgical procedures, such as, for example, discectomy, laminectomy, fusion, laminotomy, laminectomy, nerve root retraction, foramenotomy, facetectomy, decompression, spinal nucleus or disc replacement and bone graft and implantable prosthetics including plates, rods, and bone engaging fasteners.

Surgical system <NUM> is employed with a procedure for treatment of an applicable condition or injury of an affected section of a spinal column and adjacent areas within a body. For example, vertebrae V includes a vertebral level V1 and a vertebral level V2, as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, components of surgical system <NUM> are configured for insertion with a vertebral space to space apart vertebral tissue, provide support and maximize stabilization of vertebrae V.

In use, to treat an affected section of vertebrae V, a medical practitioner obtains access to a surgical site including vertebrae V in any appropriate manner, such as through incision and retraction of tissues. In some embodiments, surgical system <NUM> may be used in any existing surgical method or technique including open surgery, mini-open surgery, minimally invasive surgery and percutaneous surgical implantation, whereby vertebrae V is accessed through a mini-incision, or sleeve that provides a protected passageway to the area.

An incision is made in the body of a patient and a cutting instrument (not shown) creates a surgical pathway for implantation of components of surgical system <NUM>. A preparation instrument (not shown) can be employed to prepare tissue surfaces of vertebrae V, as well as for aspiration and irrigation of a surgical region.

Rack <NUM> via arms <NUM>, <NUM> is connected with a pair of engaging surfaces, for example, legs <NUM>, <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, to allow for distraction and/or compression of vertebrae V, at for example, the spinous process. A capturing element <NUM> of leg <NUM> and a capturing element <NUM> of leg <NUM> engage with the vertebral tissue, for example, surfaces of the spinous process. Latch <NUM> is rotated relative to mount <NUM> in a direction, as shown by arrow A in <FIG>, to dispose rack <NUM> in a distraction position, as described herein. In the distraction position, latch <NUM> engages rack <NUM> to allow axial and/or incremental translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM> and prevents axial translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM>, in an opposing direction. As such, distraction of vertebral tissue can be performed.

Latch <NUM> is pivotable relative to mount <NUM> for example, for disposal in a neutral position. In the neutral position, latch <NUM> disengages from rack <NUM> to allow free axial translation of arm <NUM> relative to arm <NUM>/rack <NUM>. Rotatable key <NUM> is engageable with splines <NUM> to axially and/or incrementally translate rack <NUM> to facilitate distraction and/or compression, as described herein. For example, latch <NUM> is pivotable to the distraction position to allow translation of arm <NUM>, in a direction shown by arrows B in <FIG>, while arm <NUM> is fixed. Distraction of vertebrae V1, V2 can be performed. To adjust the distance of distraction, arm <NUM> is axially translated in a direction shown by arrows C in <FIG>. In some embodiments, to compress a selected section of vertebrae, arm <NUM> is axially translated in the direction shown by arrows C in <FIG>. In some embodiments, rack <NUM> is connected with a selected engaging surface to allow for engagement, distraction and/or compression of vertebrae V, at for example, the laminae process and/or attachment to bone fasteners, including pedicle screws.

In some examples, a light source is disposed with rack <NUM> to provide illumination to the working channel. In some embodiments, rack <NUM> is employed in segmental distraction to facilitate insertion of an interbody implant and for decompressing tissue.

Upon completion of a procedure, as described herein, the surgical instruments, assemblies and non-implanted components of surgical system <NUM> are removed and the incision(s) are closed. One or more of the components of surgical system <NUM> can be made of radiolucent materials such as polymers. Radiomarkers may be included for identification under x-ray, fluoroscopy, CT or other imaging techniques. In some embodiments, the use of surgical navigation, microsurgical and image guided technologies may be employed to access, view and repair spinal deterioration or damage, with the aid of surgical system <NUM>. In some embodiments, surgical system <NUM> may include one or a plurality of plates, connectors and/or bone fasteners for use with a single vertebral level or a plurality of vertebral levels.

In some embodiments, surgical system <NUM> includes one or a plurality of alternate surgical instruments, each configured for mating engagement in a quick release configuration with spinal constructs, rack <NUM> and/or other surgical instruments, as described herein. This configuration facilitates the interchangeability of the spinal constructs with the alternate surgical instruments. In some embodiments, surgical system <NUM> includes one or a plurality of alternate surgical instruments, such as, for example, inserters, extenders, reducers, spreaders, distractors, blades, retractors, clamps, forceps, elevators and drills, which may be alternately sized and dimensioned, and arranged as a kit.

In some examples, surgical system <NUM> includes an agent, which may be disposed, packed, coated or layered within, on or about the components and/or surfaces of surgical system <NUM>. In some examples, the agent may include bone growth promoting material, such as, for example, bone graft to enhance fixation of the components and/or surfaces of surgical system <NUM> with vertebrae. In some embodiments, the agent may include one or a plurality of therapeutic agents and/or pharmacological agents for release, including sustained release, to treat, for example, pain, inflammation and degeneration.

In one embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, surgical system <NUM>, similar to the systems described with regard to <FIG>, includes engaging surfaces, for example, a leg <NUM>, similar to leg <NUM>. Leg <NUM> is connectable and/or interchangeable with arms <NUM>, <NUM>, as described herein, and configured to engage laminae tissue. Leg <NUM> includes an end <NUM>, an end <NUM> and a longitudinal axis BB disposed therebetween. End <NUM> includes a mating surface <NUM>, similar to mating surface <NUM> described herein, configured for connection with mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of arms <NUM>, <NUM>. Mating surface <NUM> includes a projection <NUM>, similar to projection <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, that is configured to be received by openings <NUM>, <NUM> of mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>.

An exterior surface of leg <NUM> defines a longitudinal groove <NUM>, similar to longitudinal groove <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for slidable engagement with interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> and/or interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> to form a dovetail connection. In some embodiments, longitudinal groove <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis BB, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset.

End <NUM> includes a capturing element <NUM>, similar to capturing element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Capturing element <NUM> is configured for engagement with laminae tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a C-shaped configuration for engagement with the laminae tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a textured gripping surface <NUM>, similar to textured gripping surface <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured to facilitate gripping of surfaces of the laminae tissue during distraction of the vertebral tissue. In some embodiments, textured gripping surface <NUM> may have alternate surface configurations, for example, smooth, rough, arcuate, undulating, porous, semi-porous, dimpled, polished and/or textured.

Rack <NUM> via arms <NUM>, <NUM> is connected with leg <NUM> to allow for distraction and/or compression of vertebrae V, at for example, the laminae. Capturing element <NUM> engages with the laminae tissue, for example, surfaces of the laminae during distraction and/or compression.

In one embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, surgical system <NUM>, similar to the systems described herein with regard to <FIG>, includes engaging surfaces, for example, a leg <NUM>, similar to leg <NUM>. Leg <NUM> is connectable and/or interchangeable with arms <NUM>, <NUM>, as described herein, and configured to engage with a spinal implant, for example, a bone fastener (not shown) that is connected to vertebral tissue. Leg <NUM> includes an end <NUM>, an end <NUM> and a longitudinal axis CC disposed therebetween. End <NUM> includes a mating surface <NUM>, similar to mating surface <NUM>, described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for connection with mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of arms <NUM>, <NUM>. Mating surface <NUM> includes a projection <NUM>, similar to projection <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, that is configured to be received by openings <NUM>, <NUM> of mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>.

An exterior surface of leg <NUM> defines a longitudinal groove <NUM>, similar to longitudinal groove <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for slidable engagement with interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> and/or interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> to form a dovetail connection. In some embodiments, longitudinal groove <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis CC, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset.

End <NUM> is angled and includes a capturing element <NUM>, similar to capturing element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Capturing element <NUM> is configured for engagement with a bone fastener fixed with vertebral tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a ring <NUM> for engagement with the bone fastener fixed with the vertebral tissue.

Rack <NUM> via arms <NUM>, <NUM> is connected with leg <NUM> to allow for distraction and/or compression of vertebrae V that is fixed with one or more bone fasteners. Capturing element <NUM> engages with a bone fastener during distraction and/or compression.

In one embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, surgical system <NUM>, similar to the systems described herein with regard to <FIG>, includes engaging surfaces, for example, a leg <NUM>, similar to leg <NUM>. Leg <NUM> is connectable and/or interchangeable with arms <NUM>, <NUM>, as described herein, and configured to engage with a spinal implant, for example, a bone fastener (not shown) that is connected to vertebral tissue. Leg <NUM> includes an end <NUM>, an end <NUM> and a longitudinal axis DD disposed therebetween. End <NUM> includes a mating surface <NUM>, similar to mating surface <NUM>, described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for connection with mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of arms <NUM>, <NUM>. Mating surface <NUM> includes a projection <NUM>, similar to projection <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, that is configured to be received by openings <NUM>, <NUM> of mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>.

An exterior surface of leg <NUM> defines a longitudinal groove <NUM>, similar to longitudinal groove <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for slidable engagement with interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> and/or interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> to form a dovetail connection. In some examples, longitudinal groove <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis DD, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset.

End <NUM> includes a capturing element <NUM>, similar to capturing element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Capturing element <NUM> is configured for engagement with a bone fastener fixed with vertebral tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a hook <NUM> for engagement with the bone fastener fixed with the vertebral tissue.

In one embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, surgical system <NUM>, similar to the systems described herein with regard to <FIG>, includes engaging surfaces, for example, a leg <NUM> similar to leg <NUM>. Leg <NUM> is connectable and/or interchangeable with arms <NUM>, <NUM>, as described herein, and configured to engage with a spinal implant, for example, a bone fastener (not shown) that is connected to vertebral tissue. Leg <NUM> includes an end <NUM>, an end <NUM> and a longitudinal axis EE disposed therebetween. End <NUM> includes a mating surface <NUM>, similar to mating surface <NUM>, described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for connection with mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of arms <NUM>, <NUM>. Mating surface <NUM> includes a projection <NUM>, similar to projection <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, that is configured to be received by openings <NUM>, <NUM> of mating surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>.

An exterior surface of leg <NUM> defines a longitudinal groove <NUM>, similar to longitudinal groove <NUM> described herein with regard to <FIG>, configured for slidable engagement with interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> and/or interior rail <NUM> of arm <NUM> to form a dovetail connection. In some embodiments, longitudinal groove <NUM> may be variously oriented relative to axis EE, for example, parallel, perpendicular, angular and/or offset.

End <NUM> includes a capturing element <NUM>, similar to capturing element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Capturing element <NUM> is configured for engagement with a bone fastener fixed with vertebral tissue. Capturing element <NUM> includes a connector <NUM> configured for engagement with the bone fastener fixed with the vertebral tissue.

Claim 1:
A surgical system (<NUM>) comprising:
a longitudinal element including a distractor rack (<NUM>), wherein the distractor rack (<NUM>) extends between a first end (<NUM>) and a second end (<NUM>) and defines a longitudinal axis (XX);
a plurality of alternate engaging surfaces including a first leg (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a second leg (<NUM>);
a first tubular arm (<NUM>) interchangeably connectable with the first leg (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a second tubular arm (<NUM>) interchangeably connectable with the second leg (<NUM>), wherein the second end (<NUM>) of the distractor rack (<NUM>) is configured for connection with the second tubular arm (<NUM>);
wherein the distractor rack (<NUM>) includes a ratchet configuration including an outer surface (<NUM>) that defines a plurality of teeth engageable with a portion of the first tubular arm (<NUM>) such that the first tubular arm (<NUM>) is translatable relative to the longitudinal axis (XX) in a bi-directional and/or two-way ratchet configuration;
wherein the surgical system (<NUM>) further comprises a mount (<NUM>) including a surface that defines an opening (<NUM>) configured for disposal of the outer surface (<NUM>) of the distractor rack (<NUM>) for mounting the first tubular arm (<NUM>) with the distractor rack (<NUM>);
the first tubular arm (<NUM>) and the second tubular arm (<NUM>) being relatively movable to distract and/or compress vertebral tissue;
wherein the first end (<NUM>) of the distractor rack (<NUM>) includes a ball (<NUM>) that is spring loaded; and
wherein the mount (<NUM>) is configured to contact the ball (<NUM>) when the mount (<NUM>) is translated in the direction of the first end (<NUM>) and prevents the mount (<NUM>) from disengaging from the distractor rack (<NUM>) during translation.