Methods and apparatus for artificial disc replacement (ADR) insertion and other surgical procedures
Improved methods and apparatus render ADR insertion safer and more precise. Certain surgical instruments according to the invention include a level enabling a user to align the instrument for proper placement of a surgical implant. A different surgical instrument includes two or more scopes mounted relative to the instrument permitting a user to simultaneously view more than one side of the instrument. A device for use with a surgical instrument having a long shaft includes a holder that surrounds at least a portion of the shaft allowing a user to control the instrument with both hands. A further surgical instrument comprises a set of retractors and one or more guards placed over the retractors for protecting the great vessels, nerves or other delicate structures during a surgical procedure. Surgical apparatus according to the invention comprises a platform mountable to an operating room table over a patient undergoing a surgical procedure, enabling a user to place their hands or attach an instrument while operating. Different surgical instruments include an indicator showing angular displacement or a wedge-shaped portion used for disc distraction. Also disclosed are blades designed for use with a power tool featuring a cutting edge configured such that rapid oscillation of the cutting tool reduces the pressure a user must apply the tool.
1 . A surgical instrument, comprising:
a level enabling a user to orient the instrument in space for proper placement of a surgical implant.
2 . The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the implant is an artificial disc replacement (ADR).
3 . The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the implant forms parts of a total joint replacement.
4 . A surgical instrument, comprising:
two or more viewing scopes mounted relative to the instrument permitting a user to simultaneously view more than one side of the instrument.
5 . The surgical instrument of claim 4 , wherein the instrument comprises a set of retractors.
6 . A device for use with a surgical instrument having a long shaft, comprising:
a holder that surrounds at least a portion of the shaft allowing a user to control the instrument with both hands.
7 . A surgical instrument, comprising:
a set of retractors; and
one or more guards placed over the retractors for protecting the great vessels, nerves or other delicate structures during a surgical procedure.
8 . The surgical instrument of claim 7 , including differently shaped guards for different spinal levels.
9 . Surgical apparatus, comprising:
a platform mountable to an operating room table over a patient undergoing a surgical procedure, enabling a user to place their hands or attach an instrument while operating.
10 . The surgical apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the instrument is a retractor.
11 . The surgical apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the instrument is a guide to control the movement of a tool.
12 . A surgical instrument, comprising:
an indicator showing angular displacement.
13 . A surgical instrument, comprising:
a wedge-shaped portion used for disc distraction.
14 . A blade designed for use with a power tool, comprising:
a cutting edge configured such that rapid oscillation of the cutting tool reduces the pressure a user must apply the tool.