Patent ID: 8721647

Claim:
A method for forming a channel in one or more segments of a bone, bony structure or adjacent vertebrae of a spine, said method comprising the steps of: positioning a frame assembly proximal a treatment or surgical site, securing the frame assembly to adjacent segments of the bone or bony structure or adjacent vertebrae; providing a pivot arm that rotates in fixed relation to the frame assembly, the pivot arm being removably coupled to the frame assembly; operably coupling a drill bit to the pivot arm so the drill bit follows a predetermined path in fixed relation with respect to the frame assembly as the pivot arm is rotated; rotating the drill bit in fixed relation to the frame assembly to form a first channel in a surface or sub-surface of the bone, bony structure or vertebrae, detaching the pivot arm from the frame assembly; reattaching the pivot arm to the frame assembly; and forming a second channel adjacent to and connecting with the first channel.