System for use in spinal surgery

Abstract

A spinal surgery system having receivers and / or receiver caps for receiving rods. The caps have a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposed anti-splaying flanges extending radially from the body. The receivers have arms each having an inner proximal protrusion at or adjacent a proximal end and an inner sloped splaying surface distal the proximal protrusion. Each cap flange has a proximally facing cap anti-splaying surface and a distally facing cap pop-on surface. Each receiver proximal protrusion has a proximally facing sloped receiver pop-on surface and a distally facing sloped receiver anti-splaying surface. The receiver pop-on surfaces are spaced so that each cap pop-on surface contacts a corresponding receiver pop-on surface in operation. Each splaying revision surface extends distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis and into a cylindrical plane defined by an inner diameter of the cap. The cap inner diameter is greater than the rod width.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to implants for use in spinal surgery, and more specifically to spinal systems comprising a pop-out cap implant and a corresponding receptacle, wherein the cap and receptacle are configured such that (i) the cap can be popped out by intentionally opening the receptacle arm, (ii) the cap engages with the receptacle after popping out to resist opening of the receptacle arm, and (iii) the cap can be easily removed from the receptacle by intentionally opening the receptacle arm for use in subsequent revision procedures. Background Technology

[0002] Spinal pathologies and conditions, such as scoliosis, kyphosis and other curvature abnormalities, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, osteoporosis, spondylolisthesis, stenosis, tumors, and fractures, can be caused by factors including trauma, disease, and degenerative conditions resulting from injury and aging. Spinal conditions typically lead to symptoms including deformities, pain, nerve damage, and partial or complete loss of mobility.

[0003] Non-surgical treatments (such as medication, rehabilitation, and exercise) may be effective, but may not relieve the symptoms associated with these diseases.

[0004] Surgical treatments for these spinal conditions include correction, fusion, fixation, discectomy, laminectomy, and implantable prostheses.

[0005] Surgical rods are commonly used to correct spinal abnormalities. Pedicle screw assemblies are typically used to facilitate fixation of one or more spinal rods relative to the spine. A pedicle screw assembly includes bone screws attached to a receiver on a receiver that holds the spinal rod. The bone screws are attached to the patient's vertebrae, and the receiver holds a portion of the spinal rod.

[0006] Retractors typically have opposing arms extending from a distal base to a proximal base, thus forming a cavity between them for the retracting rod. During the locking of the retractor to the rod, the arms typically and undesirably spread apart. Various existing methods have been used to prevent or limit this spreading.

[0007] Another requirement involves the occasional need to overhaul previously implanted structures. Removing the retaining screws to release or adjust these prongs can be difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The systems and methods disclosed herein generally relate to implants for spinal surgery, and more specifically, to systems having cap implants configured to (i) pop out by fully distal movement onto a corresponding rod receptacle, (ii) prevent the receptacle arm from opening during installation, and (ii) be easily removed from the receptacle in possible refurbishment procedures.

[0009] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system for spinal surgery. The system includes a cap having a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposing anti-opening flanges extending radially from the body. The system also includes a receiver having opposing arms equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the receiver, each arm extending from a common distal base to a corresponding proximal end, each arm having an inner proximal protrusion at or near the proximal end, and each arm having an inwardly inclined opening surface distal to the proximal protrusion. Each cap flange has a proximal-facing cap anti-opening surface inclined radially outward and a distal-facing cap ejection surface. Each receiver proximal protrusion has (i) a distally-facing, radially-inwardly inclined receiver ejection surface extending towards the longitudinal axis, and (ii) a distally-facing, radially-inwardly inclined receiver anti-opening surface extending towards the longitudinal axis. The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface among the retractor pop-out surfaces. Each opening overhaul surface extends distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis and into a cylindrical plane defined by the inner diameter of the cover. The inner diameter of the cover is larger than the width of the spinal correction rod that the retractor is configured to hold during use of the system.

[0010] In various embodiments, the inner diameter of the cap is between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 2.0 mm larger than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

[0011] In some cases, each open surface extends radially inward into the cylindrical plane by a radial distance between approximately 0.5 mm and approximately 2.0 mm shorter than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

[0012] Each tilted opening surface may extend at an angle between approximately 35 degrees and approximately 55 degrees relative to a horizontal reference frame.

[0013] In various embodiments, each cap anti-opening surface extends at a cap anti-opening angle between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 75 degrees relative to a horizontal reference system. Similarly, each retractor anti-opening surface extends at a retractor anti-opening angle between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 75 degrees relative to the horizontal reference system. Each cap anti-opening angle may be between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 45 degrees, and each retractor anti-opening angle may be between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 45 degrees.

[0014] In some cases, each retractor pop-out surface extends with a retractor pop-out angle between approximately 50 and approximately 80 degrees relative to a horizontal reference frame. The opposing flanges extend radially from the body along a first radial line. The cover has a set of opposing wings extending radially from the body along a second radial line generally orthogonal to the first radial line. The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover is moved distally about its longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface, wherein the cover wings are aligned between the retractor arms. In various embodiments, each retractor arm extends between opposing lateral edges, and the lateral edge of each arm in the set of arms is spaced apart from the adjacent lateral edges of the other arms in the set of arms by an inter-arm distance. Furthermore, the width of each cover wing is approximately equal to but slightly less than the distance between the arms, allowing the cover wing to slide distally between the receiver arms and to contact the edges of two adjacent lateral arms when the wing is positioned between the arms, thus applying torque to the cover.

[0015] In some cases, each receiver arm has an inner surface extending from a distal portion to a proximal portion adjacent to the proximal end of the arm. The proximal portion of each inner surface defines a protruding cavity for receiving the cover flange when the cover is ejected onto the receiver.

[0016] In various embodiments, the cover further includes opposing anti-rotation wings that extend from the body generally orthogonal to the flange along a line extending from the body.

[0017] In another aspect, this disclosure provides a system for spinal surgery, the system including a cover for ejecting onto a rod receptacle, the cover having a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposing flanges extending radially from the body. The retractor has opposing arms equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the retractor, each arm extending from a common distal base to a corresponding proximal end, each arm having an inner proximal protrusion at or near the proximal end, each arm having an inwardly inclined opening surface distal to the proximal protrusion, each retractor proximal protrusion having (i) a distally inclined retractor pop-out surface facing the proximal axis and (ii) a distally inclined retractor anti-opening surface facing the distal axis and extending radially inward towards the longitudinal axis; the retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface of the retractor pop-out surfaces, and each opening overlay surface extends distally and radially inward towards the longitudinal axis and enters a cylindrical plane defined by the inner diameter of the cover. Each cover flange has a proximal cover anti-opening surface that is inclined radially outward and a distal cover ejection surface.

[0018] The system in this respect can have any of the features described above in conjunction with the first implementation scheme.

[0019] In another aspect, this disclosure provides a system for use in spinal surgery, the system comprising a receiver for receiving an ejector cap, the receiver having opposing arms equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the receiver, each arm extending from a common distal base to a respective proximal end, each arm having an inner proximal protrusion at or near the proximal end, and each arm having an inwardly inclined opening surface distal to the proximal protrusion. The cap has a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposing flanges and a distally facing cap ejector surface, the set of opposing flanges extending radially from the body, each cap flange having a proximally facing cap anti-opening surface, inclined proximally and radially outward. Each receiver proximal protrusion has (i) a distally and radially inwardly inclined receiver ejector surface extending towards the longitudinal axis, and (ii) a distally and radially inwardly inclined receiver anti-opening surface extending towards the longitudinal axis. The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface among the retractor pop-out surfaces. Furthermore, each opening and repair surface extends distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis and into a cylindrical plane defined by the inner diameter of the cover.

[0020] The system in this respect can have any of the features described above in conjunction with the first implementation scheme.

[0021] Details of various aspects of this disclosure will be set forth in the following drawings and description. Other features, objectives, and advantages of the present technology will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a lid and receptacle system according to a first embodiment of the present technology; Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The side cross-section of the system, taken by line 2-2, shows the cover lowered onto the receiver; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of manipulation; Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the cover contacting the receiver before it pops out; Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The side cross-section cut by line 5-5; Figure 6 This shows a side cross-section of the lid popping out, with the lid forcing the receiver arm to open slightly to allow the lid to move to the locking position in the receiver to the distal side; Figure 7 It is along Figure 8 Line 7-7 shows a side cross-section, illustrating the lid popping onto the receiver; Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A side view of the state shown; Figure 9 It is a top-down plan view of its state.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a side cross-section of the cover and the receiver according to the second embodiment of the present technology; Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the lid and the receiver according to a third embodiment of the present technology; Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The side cross-section of the system of the third embodiment, taken by line 12, has a fixing screw screwed into the cover; Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A top view of the layout; Figure 14 yes Figure 12 and Figure 13 A perspective view of the layout; Figure 15This is a perspective view of the cover and the receiver before the cover is popped onto the receiver, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 It is based on Figure 15 A side cross-section of the fourth embodiment of the system, taken by separate line 16-16, wherein the cover has popped onto the receiver; and Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A perspective view of the implementation plan and status. Detailed Implementation

[0024] This specification presents three main embodiments, each with relevant features and including various sub-implementations. Each embodiment relates to systems including surgical caps configured to (i) pop out onto a lever retractor, (ii) lock into the retractor against the opening of the retractor arm, and (ii) be selectively removed from the retractor by the user applying relatively low torque or force, and relates to corresponding retractors configured to facilitate the same operations. Instruments for achieving these manipulations are also described in the embodiments.

[0025] Now turn to the accompanying drawings, and more specifically, the first drawing. Figure 1 A perspective view of a first embodiment of the lid and retractor system is shown, generally indicated by reference numeral 100 in the appendix.

[0026] System 100 includes a receiver implant 110 and a corresponding cap implant 150. The receiver 110 may be referred to by various terms, such as tulip-shaped or screw-head. The receiver 110 and cap 150 have corresponding geometries for engaging by ejecting the cap 150 onto the receiver 110. The cap ejects onto the receiver 110 by a fully distal directional movement of the cap 150 downward along the longitudinal (proximal to distal) axis 30 of the receiver onto the receiver 110.

[0027] The receiver 110 has opposing arms 130 extending proximally from a distal base 120. The base 120 is configured to receive or connect to a bone screw (not shown) for anchoring the system 100 to a patient's vertebra. The opposing receiver arms 130 define a cavity for receiving a rod between them. The rod 10 is shown positioned within the cavity. The rod 10 can be considered part of, or used with, the system 100.

[0028] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The side cross-section of system 100 taken by line 2-2 shows the cover 150 lowered onto the receiver 110.

[0029] The cover 150 has internal threads 152 for receiving a retaining screw during operation of the system 100. The retaining screw can be loaded before or after the cover 150 springs into the receiver 110. Example retaining screw 20 is shown in... Figures 12 to 14 The diagram illustrates related but different embodiments of the present technology. In each embodiment, such as rod 10, fixing screw 20 may be part of system 100 or simply used with it. Any of the components described—cap, receptacle, rod, fixing screw, bone screw (not shown), cap removal tool or instrument (not shown), etc.—may be manufactured, sold, distributed, stored or otherwise provided together, such as in a surgical kit or set.

[0030] In various embodiments, each storage arm 130 has a proximal flange or protrusion 132 and a distal protrusion or shelf 133 extending radially inward from the main wall 131. The protrusions 132, 133 define a compartment or cavity 136 for storing the cover between them.

[0031] The proximal protrusion 132 has opposing inclined receptacle pop-out surfaces 134. In various embodiments, each receptacle pop-out surface 134 is the proximal surface of the protrusion 132 extending radially inward and distally. In any part thereof, including one or both of the distal and proximal edges of the surface 134 and in the middle of the edges, each receptacle pop-out surface 134 may be circular, curved, beveled, or otherwise not perfectly straight.

[0032] The cover 150 has opposing anti-pop / opening wings or flanges 160. Each flange 160 extends from the main wall 161 of the cover 150 along a common radial line. In various embodiments, each flange 160 is located at the distal end of the cover 150.

[0033] Each flange 160 has a pop-out surface 162, which in various embodiments is the radial and distal extreme portions of the flange 160.

[0034] Further reference Figure 2 In various embodiments, each cap pop-out surface 162 is angled or inclined. At any point, including at one or both edges (the distal edge and the proximal edge) and in the middle of the edges, the cap pop-out surface 162 may be circular, curved, beveled, or otherwise not perfectly straight.

[0035] The size and shape of the cover 150 and the receiver 110 are set such that when the cover 150 is axially 30 centered on the receiver 110 and moves distally to contact the receiver, the cover anti-rotation flange or wing 170 is aligned in the arm gap, and the cover pop-out surface 162 contacts the corresponding receiver pop-out surface 134.

[0036] In various embodiments, flange 160 and wing 170 are typically coplanar. The advantage of having them on the same plane or close to each other on a plane includes the ability to maintain a low height. Smaller profile caps require less material, are lighter, and can possess these qualities without compromising the strength of the stated function.

[0037] The retractor and cap ejection surfaces 134, 162 are angled or inclined such that after the cap 150 contacts the retractor 110 at surfaces 134, 162, and the cap is forced further distally, each cap ejection surface 162 slides distally along its corresponding retractor ejection surface 134. The radially outward-facing cap ejection surfaces 162 push the inward-facing retractor ejection surfaces 134, forcing the arms 130 slightly away from or open from each other. This allows the cap flange 160 to pass over the proximal retractor protrusion 132 as the cap moves further distally to lock into the retractor 110.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, each retractor pop-out surface 134 extends at an angle 115, and each corresponding cover pop-out surface 162 extends at an angle 163 relative to the horizontal reference system.

[0039] In various embodiments, each cap pops out surface 162 at an angle 163 between approximately 45 degrees and approximately 85 degrees. In some cases, the range is smaller, such as between approximately 50 degrees and approximately 80 degrees. These are merely examples, and the cap 150 may be designed such that the angle 163 has any value or range within or outside these ranges. In various embodiments, the angle 163 is at least between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0040] In the intended implementation, the pop-out surface 162 is the far and near extreme corners of the cover.

[0041] For embodiments in which the cover 150 has an angled, inclined, rounded, or beveled pop-out surface 162, the advantage of the cover pop-out surface 162 having these angles or associated rounded or beveled shapes and a sufficiently corresponding angle to the receiver pop-out surface 134 includes that when the surface 162 is pushed against the receiver pop-out surface 134 with sufficient force, the surface 162 is able to open the receiver arm 130 to push the receiver pop-out surface 134 and thus the receiver arm 130 by a sufficient amount to allow the cover flange 160 to move distally over the receiver proximal protrusion 132.

[0042] In various implementations, each retractor pops out surface 134 to extend at an angle 115 between approximately 45 degrees and approximately 85 degrees. In some cases, the range is smaller, such as between approximately 50 degrees and approximately 80 degrees. These are merely examples, and the retractor 110 may be designed such that the angle 115 has any value or range within or beyond these ranges. Angle 115 is between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0043] The benefits of having such an angle 115 on the pop-out surface 134 include that the surface 134 is configured such that when the lid pop-out surface 162 is pushed distally against the pop-out surface 134, the pop-out arm 130 opens sufficiently to allow the lid flange 160 to move distally over the proximal protrusion 132 of the pop-out. The angle 115 is chosen to facilitate operation in response to a predetermined distal force on the lid 150 that is less than an undesirable force. The system 100 is designed to make it relatively easy for a user to pop the lid 150 into the pop-out container 110.

[0044] System characteristics that facilitate pop-out manipulation may also include the thickness and material of part or all of the retractor arm 130, and in some cases, the size, shape, and material of the retractor base 120, such as the proximal portion of the base 120. The size, shape, and material of the retractor 110 may also allow the arm to spring back to its original position after the cover flange 160 moves distally past the proximal retractor protrusion 132.

[0045] In various embodiments, the cover 150 and the receiver 110 are configured such that the angles 165, 115 of the respective pop-out surfaces 162, 134 are generally the same as each other, or within a predetermined angle or angle percentage. The surfaces may be configured such that the correspondence provides robust or maximized surface-to-surface contact, such that the force applied to the receiver pop-out surface 132 through the cover pop-out surface 162 is distributed rather than a point force.

[0046] Figure 2 Each flange 160 is also shown to have a proximal-facing cover lock or anti-opening surface 164. The receiver 110 has a corresponding distal-facing receiver lock or anti-opening surface 138. The function of these surfaces is further described below, including their combination... Figure 7 .

[0047] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The perspective view of the operation shows the cover 150 lowering onto the receiver 110 along the longitudinal axis 30 of the receiver. This view shows the cover anti-rotation flange or wing 170, which extends radially outward in a direction generally perpendicular to the radial outward extension of the cover ejection flange 160. As mentioned above, the cover wing 170 is aligned in the arm gap 130 for ejection operation.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the pop-out cover 150 moving further distally to contact the receiver 110. As shown, when the cover 150 moves to contact the receiver 110, opposing anti-rotation wings 170 of the pop-out cover 150 are positioned between adjacent arms 130 of the receiver 110.

[0049] As the cover 150 is pushed further distally relative to the receiver 110, the force from the cover ejector surface 162 of the cover flange 160 abuts against the receiver ejector surface 134, pushing the receiver ejector surface 134, and thus the receiver arms 130 open and move radially away from each other, or laterally away from the longitudinal axis 30.

[0050] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The side cross-section is taken from line 5-5. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram illustrates, via opposing radial arrows, that the forced arm 130 begins to open when the cover pop-out surface 162 presses against the receiver pop-out surface 134.

[0051] Figure 6 This is a side cross-section showing the pop-out cover 150, which has been pushed further distally relative to the retractor 110. The opposing retractor arm 130 is shown slightly open, pushed open by a radially outward force generated at the retractor pop-out surface 134 from the distal side of the cover pop-out surface 164.

[0052] Figure 7 It is along Figure 8 The side cross-section taken by line 7-7 shows the view relative to the receiver 110 from... Figure 6 The pop-out cover 150 is forced further distally. After the pop-out cover flange 160 moves distally beyond the proximal receiver protrusion 132, the aforementioned cover-receiver pop-out force stops, and thus the receiver arm 130 springs back toward its original position. That is, the forced opening is released. The receiver arm 130 moves rearward radially inward, in Figure 7 The opposite arrow line is used to represent this.

[0053] After the pop-out cover flange 160 passes the proximal storage protrusion 132, the storage arm 130 is allowed to move back and is no longer held apart by the cover flange 160, which then becomes disposed within the cavity 136 of the storage cover of the storage unit 110.

[0054] This manipulation also positions each of the opposing, proximal-facing anti-opening surfaces 164 of the cover to be adjacent to and facing the corresponding anti-opening surface 138 of the receiver. The two surfaces are configured (sized, shaped, positioned, oriented, etc.) to engage or interlock. The interlocking prevents the receiver arms 117 from undesirably moving away from or opening from each other after engagement. In some embodiments, the cover 150 and the receiver 110 are configured such that surfaces 164, 138 ultimately remain flush with each other, or at least flush along one or more portions of surfaces 164, 138.

[0055] In various embodiments, each retractor's anti-opening surface 138 extends relative to a horizontal reference at an angle 117 between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 75 degrees. In some cases, the range is smaller, such as between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 45 degrees. These are merely examples, and the retractor 110 may be designed such that the angle 117 has any value or range within or beyond these ranges. The angle 117 is at least between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0056] The benefits of having these angles on the retractor anti-opening surface 138 and a sufficiently corresponding angle on the cap anti-opening surface 164 include that surface 138 has a sufficiently large angle to create a strong connection with the cap anti-opening surface 164 for resisting retractor arm opening, or partially locking the arm 130 to prevent undesirable arm opening, such as when tightening the retaining screws on the retractor 110 and the rod 10, but is also small enough to make it relatively easy to remove the cap 150 by intentionally opening the retractor arm 130 in possible revision procedures after the initial surgery of the implantation system 100 (e.g., several years later), and to have sufficient force to separate the arm 130.

[0057] Variables used to facilitate a secure connection and / or relatively easy release may also include the length and width of surfaces 164, 138 of the cover flange 160 and the receptacle protrusion 132, as well as the material of surfaces 164, 138.

[0058] In various embodiments, each cover's anti-opening surface 164 extends at an angle 165 between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 75 degrees relative to a horizontal reference frame. In some cases, the range is smaller, such as between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 45 degrees. These are merely examples, and the cover 150 may be designed such that the angle 165 has any value or range within or beyond these ranges. The angle 165 is at least between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0059] The benefits of the cap anti-opening surface 164 having these angles and the correspondingly large angles of the cap anti-opening surface 138 again include that surface 164 has a sufficiently large angle to create a secure connection with the anti-opening surface 138 of the retractor 110 for locking the retractor arm 130 to prevent undesirable opening, such as when tightening the retaining screws onto the retractor 110 and the rod 10, but small enough for removing the cap 150 by intentionally opening the retractor arm 130 to relatively easily separate the arm 130 with sufficient force.

[0060] In various embodiments, the cover 150 and the receiver 110 are configured such that the angles 165, 117 of the respective anti-opening surfaces 164, 138 are generally the same as each other, or within a predetermined angle or angle percentage. In some embodiments, when system 100 is in Figures 7 to 9 When locked in the position shown, the entire or part of the surface eventually becomes flush with each other.

[0061] Although the tensile strength of the surface 138, 164 is... Figure 7 While shown as contact, in various embodiments, this contact is not automatically facilitated simply by the cover flange 160 passing over the proximal receiver protrusion 132 and entering the cavity 136 of the receiver cover. The receiver arm 130, including the cavity 136 of the receiver cover partially defined thereby, is, as mentioned, sized and shaped to allow the cover flange 160 to be positioned within the cavity 136 as it passes over the proximal receiver protrusion 132. For embodiments in which the receiver 110 includes a distal protrusion 133, the distal protrusion 133 of the receiver 110 must be sufficiently spaced from the proximal protrusion 132 to allow for clearance for disposal. In anticipated embodiments, the receiver 110 does not include the distal protrusion or shelf 133, or is less prominent therein.

[0062] During the assembly of system 100, after the cover flange 160 of cover 130 passes the proximal receiver protrusion 132, the cover can be moved proximally by screwing a retaining screw into cover 150. This is done using a retaining screw driver (not shown). In another embodiment of this technology, Figure 12 An example retaining screw 20 is shown. The retaining screw is screwed distally through the threaded form 152 of the pop-out cover 150 until the distal end of the retaining screw contacts the rod 10 positioned between the arms 130 of the receiver 110. At this point, the relative position between the retaining screw and the rod is generally fixed. As the retaining screw is screwed further through the cover 150, the cover moves proximally by the continued screwing action because the retaining screw generally does not move further distally relative to the rod 10.

[0063] The pop-out cover 150 moves proximally in such a manner that the cover flange 160 firmly contacts the proximal receiver protrusion 132. The corresponding anti-opening surfaces 138, 164 thus engage and remain in contact. The component of the force exerted by the proximal anti-opening surface 164 of the cover 150 on the distal anti-opening surface 138 of the receiver 110 is radially inward, preventing the receiver locking surfaces 138 from moving away from each other, thereby preventing the arm 130 from opening.

[0064] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The view shows a side view of the system configuration as shown in the cross-section. This view illustrates the anti-rotation wings 170 of the pop-up cover 150 positioned between the respective arms 130 of the receiver 110. The wings 170 prevent the pop-up cover 150 from rotating in either direction, such as when the user screws the retaining screws into / out of the cover 150.

[0065] More specifically, see reference Figure 9 In a plan view, when the retaining screws are turned in the installed cover 150, the cover 150 remains non-rotating by the edges 900 (e.g., four) of the two anti-rotation wings 170 that contact the adjacent edges 910 (e.g., four) of the receiver wall 130.

[0066] Following the initial surgery for the implantation system 100 (e.g., several years later), during a revision procedure requiring the removal or adjustment of the lever 10, the user may need to remove the pop-out cap 150. A cap removal instrument or tool (not shown) may be used. In various embodiments, the instrument has one or more distal ends sized and shaped to fit within a gap 135 defined between the proximal end of the receptacle 110 and the proximal end of the cap 150, and to achieve intentional receptacle opening by forcing the arm 130 laterally outward when positioned within the gap 135. The gap 135 is in... Figures 7 to 9 The bid was successful. Alternatively, the instrument can apply a lateral force by applying force to the inner wall of the receiver arm 130.

[0067] The proximal end of the retractor 110 includes a proximal inner surface, which is adjacent to and, in some cases, defines a gap 135. This surface facilitates retraction opening. For example, the proximal inner surface may be beveled, such that the opening instrument slides along the proximal inner surface when pushed distally against the surface, thereby forcing the proximal inner surface, and thus the arm 130, radially outward. In a contemplated embodiment, the proximal inner surface of the retractor arm 130 has a notch, slot, or other element to which the instrument can be secured or attached, to facilitate a firm contact between the instrument and the surface, and to force the proximal inner retractor surface radially outward. In another contemplated embodiment, the inner surface is not beveled, or only slightly beveled, and the arm 130 is forced apart by applying a radially outward force on the wall when the instrument is placed in the gap 135, with little or no relative sliding between the instrument and the proximal inner retractor surface.

[0068] When the arm 130 opens, the anti-opening interfaces 136, 164 are pushed open; that is, the anti-opening surface 136 of the receptacle is forced to move radially outward along the anti-opening surface 164 of the cover, and then away. The cover 150 then disengages from the receptacle 110 and can be removed from the receptacle 110 in a proximal direction. In various embodiments, the instrument has a capturing design for gripping, engaging, or otherwise removing the cover 150 proximally from the receptacle 110 when the arm 130 is opened by the instrument. Alternatively, a separate cover removal instrument, such as an instrument that can be fitted inside, around, or beside the opening instrument, can push the cover 150 proximally out of the receptacle 110. Such a removal feature or instrument may have, for example, external threads for engaging with the internal threads of the cover 150.

[0069] Continue to refer to the three main implementation schemes of this disclosure, Figure 10 A system 1000 according to a second main implementation scheme is shown. Figure 10 A side cross-section of an alternative pop-out cover 1050 and a receiver 1010 according to this embodiment is shown.

[0070] The pop-out cover 1050 and the retractor 1010 of this implementation are similar in many respects to Figures 1 to 9 The first primary embodiment includes a cover and retractor 150, 110. A key difference is that the pop-out cover 1050 of this embodiment is designed to have a larger inner diameter (ID) 1052 (and in most cases, a larger outer diameter (OD)) than the cover 150 of the first embodiment. In some cases, the cover 150 of the first embodiment is sized to accommodate standard fixing screws. In various embodiments, Figure 10 The 1050 cap is designed to accommodate unique fixing screws with a larger outer diameter or thread diameter than the standard.

[0071] As another important distinction, due to the larger cover 1050 in this embodiment, the receiver 1010 is also larger to accommodate the cover 1050. For example, the arms 1030 of the system 1000 of this embodiment are more widely spaced than the spacing between the arms 130 of the receiver 110 of the system 100 of the first embodiment.

[0072] Figure 10 System 1000 and Figures 1 to 9 Another key difference between the systems 100 is that the receiver 1010 of this embodiment has distinctly inward and downward sloping or inclined walls 1040. For example... Figure 10 As shown, wall 1040 extends radially inward beyond ID 152 of pop-out cover 1050. That is, each of the walls 1040 extends distally and radially into the cylindrical plane defined by ID of cover 1050.

[0073] In various embodiments, the cover ID 1052 is between approximately 7.0 mm and approximately 8.0 mm. In various embodiments, each beveled wall 1040 extends radially inward to a protrusion distance 1042 between approximately 5.0 and approximately 6.0 mm within the cylindrical plane of the cover OD 1052.

[0074] The inclined wall 1040 extends at an angle 1044 relative to a horizontal reference frame. In various embodiments, the wall 1040 is oriented at an angle 1044 between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. In some cases, the range is smaller, such as between about 35 degrees and about 55 degrees, or between 40 degrees and 50 degrees. These are merely examples, and the cover 150 may be designed such that the angle 163 has any value within or beyond these ranges, such as about 45 degrees or a range thereof. The angle 1044 is between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0075] In order to remove the cover 1050 of this embodiment, such as in a refurbishment procedure, the dimensions of the cover ID 1052 are set such that, and the dimensions of the inclined wall 1040 are set, oriented and positioned such that an opening instrument or tool (not shown) extends distally through the central cavity of the cover 1050 and contacts the inclined wall 1040.

[0076] For the revision procedure, the surgeon can remove the internal fixation screws 20 and then use a cover-loading opening instrument to access the internal conical portion 1040 so that the wall can be opened to remove the cover 1050.

[0077] When the instrument is used while the lever 10 is still positioned within the receiver 110, the instrument may have a hollow structure sized to accommodate the lever 10. In this way, the lever 10 will not obstruct the function of the opening instrument in fully contacting and pressing the inclined surface 1040. Alternatively, the opening instrument may have two or more arms or forks extending distally from the tool body, such that the lever 10 will not obstruct the instrument from contacting and pressing against the receiver opening surface 1040.

[0078] After the distal end of the opening instrument contacts the opening surface 1040 of the receiver, the instrument is pushed further distally, thereby applying more force to the surface 1040. These ends slide along the surface 1040 because the radially outward component of the force applied to the surface 1040 by these ends causes the surface 1040 and thus the receiver arms 1030 to move away from each other or open.

[0079] When the arm 1030 opens, the anti-opening interfaces 1036, 1064 are pushed open, and the cover locking surface 1064 and the cover flange where the locking surface is located disengage from the receiver arm locking surface 1038 and thus from the receiver proximal protrusion where the arm locking surface is located. This degree of freedom allows the cover 1050 to be removed from the receiver 1050 in a proximal direction. In various embodiments, the instrument has a capture design for gripping, engaging, or otherwise removing the cover 1050 proximally from the receiver 1010 when the arm 1030 is opened by the instrument. Alternatively, a separate cover removal instrument or tool, such as an instrument that can be fitted inside, around, or beside the opening instrument, can be used.

[0080] Any other features of system 1010 in this implementation scheme can be combined with Figures 1 to 9 The corresponding features of the system 100 are similar or the same.

[0081] Shift to the third major relevant implementation plan, Figures 11 to 14 The system 1100 is shown again, featuring a pop-out cover 1150 and a retractor 1110. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the system 1100 after the cover 1150 has popped onto the receiver 1110.

[0082] To initially secure the cover 1150 to the receiver 1110, the cover 1150 is lowered toward the receiver 1110 along the system axis 40. The cover 1150 is oriented for actuation, wherein opposing anti-rotation / anti-spin wing 1152 is aligned or positioned above the cavity 1134 of the receiver wing of the receiver 1110. The cover 1150 is thus engaged with the above. Figures 2 to 7 The pop-out operation described in the embodiment is similar to that described above, popping out onto the receiver 1110. The cover 1150 and the receiver 1110 are further configured (e.g., their size and shape are set) such that the opening of the receiver arm 1130 is resisted, in a manner similar to that in the combined... Figures 1 to 9 and Figure 10 The implementation plan describes how to prevent the storage unit 110 from opening after the cover 150 is installed.

[0083] Figure 12 The storage unit and lid have anti-opening or locking surfaces 1138 and 1164, similar to... Figures 1 to 9 and Figure 10 Those of the embodiments. These engage when the cover 1150 pops out, and in some cases only after the retaining screws are also fully screwed into the cover 1150, as described above regarding other embodiments.

[0084] The anti-rotation / expansion wing or protrusion 1152 of the cover is configured to prevent the cover 1050 from rotating in one direction and resist rotation in another direction after the cover 1150 has been ejected onto the receiver 1110 and when torque is applied to the cover 1050. That is, for example, the wing 1152 is configured (e.g., its size and shape are set to) prevent the cover 1150 from rotating relative to the receiver 1110 in a first direction—in Figure 11 In the example, the rotation is clockwise. And in various embodiments, the wing 1152 is configured to resist the cover 1150 from rotating in the opposite direction—in Figure 12 The example shows a counter-clockwise rotation.

[0085] The proximal end of the receiver arm 1130 has a shape corresponding to the wing 1152 to achieve the functions of prevention and resistance. The proximal end of each arm 1130 includes a cavity 1134 for receiving the wing, the size and shape of which are set to receive the cover wing 1152.

[0086] For the anti-rotation function, the anti-rotation surface 1155 of the cover 1152 contacts the corresponding anti-rotation surface 1132 of the receiver 1110 at the proximal end, preventing rotation of the cover 1150 relative to the receiver 1110. In various embodiments, the anti-rotation surface 1155 of the cover extends radially from the cylindrical body 1157 of the cover 1150. Anti-opening is further enhanced by an anti-opening function similar to the anti-opening arm 1130 in the two main embodiments.

[0087] Each of the anti-rotation surfaces 1132, 1155 of the receiver and lid may extend substantially orthogonally to the tangent 1159 of the cylindrical body 1157. In other embodiments, either or both may form an angle greater than or less than 90 degrees with respect to the tangent, such as in the range of about 75 degrees to about 90 degrees.

[0088] Further regarding the resistance function, while the cover wing 1152 and cavity 1134 are configured such that rotation in the first direction (e.g., clockwise) is completely prevented, rotation in the second direction (counterclockwise) is resisted only. That is, rotation of the cover in the receptacle is impeded, but is possible in response to sufficient torque applied to the cover in the second direction.

[0089] The anti-rotation surface 1132 of the holder may extend at approximately the same or similar angle as the anti-rotation surface 1155 of the lid. For example, when the lid 1150 pops onto the holder 1110, surfaces 1155 and 1132 may be approximately or nearly flush with each other.

[0090] In various implementations, the opposing anti-rotation / anti-spin wing 1152 has a shape that can be described as teardrop-shaped, such as Figure 11 As shown, or similar descriptive terms, because the wing profile can typically be semi-teardrop shaped, as illustrated in the figures. Various embodiments include a first cover anti-rotation surface 1156 extending from the body 1157 of the cover 1150 at a smaller angle 1158 than the angle (e.g., 90 degrees) at which the second cover anti-rotation surface 1155 extends from the cover body 1157. The receiver anti-rotation surface 1136 may be angled to the same or similar counterpart, thereby promoting strong contact between surfaces 1156, 1136, at least when torque is applied to the mounting cover 1150 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise).

[0091] The anti-rotation surface 1156 of the cover may extend, for example, at an angle 1158 between about 10 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the tangent 1159 of the cover body. Angle 1158, which may be greater than or less than this range, is configured (e.g., sized, shaped, and oriented) such that when torque is applied along a second direction (e.g., ...), Figure 12 When the cover 1150 is locked counterclockwise (on the distal side), the anti-rotation surface 1156 of the receiver engages with the corresponding wall 1136 of the receiver gap 1134. When torque is applied, the mating of surfaces 1156, 1136 resists rotation of the cover 1150 relative to the receiver 1110 in the second direction, but does not completely resist rotation of the cover 1150 relative to the receiver 1110 in the second direction.

[0092] Torque can be applied to the cover 1150 in any of a variety of ways to force the arm 1130 to open intentionally. System 1100 may include, or be used with, an instrument or tool (not shown) configured at its distal end as, for example, the proximal portion of engaging wing 1152, and apply torque to the cover 1150 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) at least the predetermined amount, sufficient to overcome friction between the anti-rotation surfaces 1156, 1136. The cover surface 1156 is thus slidable relative to the receiver surface 1136, as described, allowing the cover 1150 to rotate relative to the receiver 1110, thereby opening the arm 1130 for cover removal. Figure 11 and Figure 14 As can be seen, the proximal surface of wing 1152 may extend higher (more proximal) than the adjacent side surface of receiver arm 1130. The exposed proximal portion of cover wing 1152 provides space for an instrument to dock with in order to apply torque to cover 1150 in a second direction. For example, the instrument may apply torque against a portion of the anti-rotation surface 1155 of wing 1152 extending above arm 1130.

[0093] Surfaces 1156 and 1136 are configured such that when a torque of at least a predetermined amount is applied to cover 1150 in the second direction, cover 1150 rotates relative to receiver 1110 in the second direction, wherein anti-rotation surface 1156 of cover 1150 slides along anti-rotation surface 1136 of receiver 1110.

[0094] The component of the force that the anti-rotation surface 1156 of the cover is applied to the anti-rotation surface 1136 of the receiver so that the receiver slides along the anti-rotation surface 1136 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) is a radial force. As the radial force is applied to the anti-rotation surface 1136 of the receiver, it is applied to the receiver arm 1130, which is intentionally opened.

[0095] When the receiver arm 1130 of this embodiment is intentionally opened, the anti-opening interfaces 1138, 1164 are pushed aside, i.e., the receiver anti-opening surface 1138 is forced to move radially outward along the cover anti-opening surface 1164 and then away. The cover 1150 then disengages from the receiver 1110 and can be removed from the receiver 1110 in a proximal direction. In various embodiments, the opening instrument has a capturing design for gripping, engaging, or otherwise removing the cover 1150 proximally from the receiver 1110 when the arm 1130 is opened by the instrument. Alternatively, a separate cover removal instrument, such as an instrument that can be fitted inside, around, or beside the opening instrument, can push the cover 1150 proximally out of the receiver 1110 when the arm 1130 is opened. Such a removal feature or instrument may have, for example, external threads for engaging with the internal threads of the cover 1150.

[0096] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11The view shows the cross-section of line 12. This view shows the system 1110 after the fixing screw 20 has been screwed into the cover 1150, the rod 10 has been locked into the retractor 1110, and the cover locking surface 1164 has been locked onto the retractor locking surface 1138, thereby preventing the retractor from opening unintentionally.

[0097] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The top view of the layout shows that the 20 fixing screws are intact. And... Figure 14 yes Figure 12 and Figure 13 A perspective view of the layout.

[0098] Shift to the fourth major related implementation plan, Figures 15 to 17 A system 1500 is shown again, featuring a pop-out lid 1550 and a retractor 1510. The fourth embodiment is similar to the third embodiment in many respects. One of the main differences is that the interface features of the lid and the anti-rotation and anti-rotation retractor for the lid are configured differently from those of the third embodiment.

[0099] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the cover 1550 and the receiver 1510 before the cover is ejected onto the receiver, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] To initially secure the cover 1550 to the receiver 1510, the cover 1550 is lowered toward the receiver 1510 along the system axis 50, as indicated by the arrow. The cover 1550 is oriented for actuation, wherein the anti-rotation / anti-rotation wing 1552 is aligned or positioned in the space or gap 1534 of the receiver 1510's receiving wing, and / or the distal pop-out / anti-opening flange 1560 is aligned in the space 1534. The cover 1550 is thus engaged with the above. Figures 2 to 7 The pop-up operation described in the implementation scheme is similar to that described above, popping onto the receiver 1510.

[0101] The cover 1550 and the retractor 1510 are further configured (e.g., their size and shape are set) such that the opening of the retractor arm 1530 is resisted, in a manner similar to that in the assembly Figures 1 to 9 and Figure 10 The implementation plan describes how to prevent the storage unit 110 from opening after the cover 150 is installed.

[0102] In various implementations, the anti-rotation / rotation-preventing cover 1552 has a generally rectangular outline, such as... Figure 15As shown. For example, the shape may include a lateral surface 1553 and opposing lateral surfaces 1554. One of each set of lateral surfaces 1554 is an anti-rotation surface 1555. The anti-rotation surface 1555 of the cover is adjacent to the anti-rotation surface 1532 of the receiver, thereby preventing the cover from rotating in a first direction, for example, clockwise from the distal side. However, in various embodiments, the end surfaces 1555 and additional surfaces of the wings 1552 serve to prevent rotation. For example, the lateral surface 1553 of each wing 1552 may contact the opposing surface 1539 of the receiver, which further prevents the cover from rotating in the receiver. In some cases, a large portion or generally the entire length of the lateral surface 1553 may contact the opposing surface 1539 of the receiver, which further prevents rotation. In various embodiments, the portion of the lateral surface 1553 adjacent to or closest to the interface with the end surface 1555 and the adjacent portion of the receiver surface 1539 concentrates most of the anti-rotation force therein.

[0103] Each cover wing 1552 may also include a tilted or angled distal surface 1551. In various embodiments, the surface 1551 extends at an angle between about 40 degrees and about 50 degrees relative to the outer side wall 1561 of the cover body. For example, the angle may be approximately 45 degrees.

[0104] In some cases, this angle corresponds (e.g., by the same or substantially the same) angle of the proximal pop-out surface 1531 of the receiver relative to the outer side wall 1537 of the receiver 1510. The corresponding angle allows the angled distal surface 1551 of the cover 1550 to be more firmly positioned against the angled proximal surface 1531, such as flush or substantially flush, which provides a more secure position of the wing 1552 and therefore the cover 1550 against the proximal receiver surface 1531 and therefore against the receiver 1510. If the lower outer edge of the wing is square or more square, the angled distal wing surface 1551 also allows the cover 1550 to descend further into the receiver 1510 than the cover can move distally.

[0105] Each cover's distal pop-out / anti-opening flange 1560 and corresponding retractor features can Figures 1 to 14 The implementation scheme constructs the pop-out / anti-opening flange and the corresponding receptacle feature in any of the following ways: Figures 1 to 9 The cover flange 160. Each flange 1560 may have an angled, proximal-facing anti-opening surface 1564 corresponding to a distal-facing receptacle anti-opening surface 1538 for mating with that surface. Similarly, the flange 160 has a proximal-facing surface 164 corresponding to the mating with the receptacle. Figure 2 The described tensile-resistant surface 138 is a butt joint facing the far side.

[0106] The receptacle 1510 may further have a flange stop base plate or surface 1533 facing the proximal side. When the cover 1550 pops onto the receptacle 1510, the distal surface of the cover flange 1560 abuts the stop surface 1533, thereby preventing the cover 1550 from moving further distally within the receptacle 1510. Surface 1433 may be in any manner similar to a joint. Figure 2 The implementation plan describes surface 133, and vice versa.

[0107] In various embodiments, the receiver 1510 has a cover body receiving cavity 1535. The cavity 1535 allows the cover 1550 to move further distally within the receiver 1510 because if the pop-out surface 1531 is continuous and there is no cut in the cavity 1535, the sidewall 1561 of the cover 1550 will contact the (hypothetical) continuous surface 1531, thereby preventing the cover from moving further distally within the receiver 1510.

[0108] The storage container 1510 also includes a cavity 1536 for a storage cover-flange. The cavity 1536 can be joined in any manner similar to... Figure 2 Cavity 136 is described in the implementation plan.

[0109] As the cover pops out surface 1565 contacts and is then pushed further afield against the receiver pops out surface 1531, the cover surface 1565 slides distally along the receiver surface 1531. In this situation, the receiver arm 1530 is forced slightly open, enough to allow the cover flange 1560 to pass over the ramp 1531. As the flange passes over the ramp 1531, the contact between the flange 1560 and the ramp 1531 is released, and the flange 1560 enters the receiver housing cover cavity 1536 as the receiver arm 1530 returns from the open state by its natural springback.

[0110] Figure 16 It is along Figure 15 A side cross-section of the fourth embodiment of the system 1550 is taken by separate lines 16-16. This view shows the cover 1550 that has popped onto the receiver 1510. For Figure 15 and Figure 16 The pop-out view between the views occurs as the lid 1550 lowers to contact the retractor. The lid pop-out surface 1565, such as the distal / lateral edge or surface, pushes against the retractor pop-out surface 1531 and then pushes further distally relative to the retractor. The lid pop-out surface 1565 can be in any manner similar to the combination described above. Figure 2 The described lid pop-out surface 162 includes an angle (angle 165) of surface 1565. Similarly, the retractor pop-out surface 1531 can be in any manner similar to the above combination. Figure 2 The implementation of the storage device describes a pop-out surface 134, including an angle (angle 115) of surface 132.

[0111] When the cover 1550 pops out into the receiver 1510, as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the cover cannot rotate in the first direction, for example, in Figure 17 Clockwise when viewed from below. Rotation in the first direction is prevented by the interface between the cover's anti-rotation surface 1555 and the receiver's anti-rotation surface 1532. For example, as shown, when the cover 1550 is installed and the user screws the fixing screws into the cover 1550 in the first direction, the interface between the anti-rotation surfaces 1555 and 1532 is abutted to prevent the cover 1550 from rotating in the same direction relative to the receiver 1510. This facilitates the installation of the fixing screws. Figures 15 to 17 The fixing screws for this implementation are not shown in the image, but are again mentioned in... Figures 12 to 14 The example is shown in the figure with reference number 20.

[0112] When the cover 1550 pops out into the receiver 1510, as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the anti-opening surfaces 1564 and 1538 of the lid and receiver prevent opening when insufficient opening force is applied to the receiver arm 1530. Sufficient opening force is applied by rotating the lid in a second direction, for example, counterclockwise to the distal side.

[0113] Each of the anti-rotation surfaces 1555 and 1532 of the receiver and lid extends approximately orthogonally to the tangent 1559 of the approximately cylindrical body 1557 of the lid 1550.

[0114] The cover wing 1552 and proximal arm 1530, including the space 1532 for receiving the wing, are configured (e.g., sized, shaped, and oriented) such that when a torque of at least a predetermined amount is applied to the cover 1550 in a second direction, the cover 1550 rotates relative to the receiver 1510 in a second direction. During this rotation, an anti-rotation portion 1556 of the cover 1550 slides along an anti-rotation surface 1136 of the receiver 1510. The anti-rotation portion 1556 includes an anti-rotation surface in the region indicated by reference numeral 1556 toward the end of the lateral surface 1553 of the wing 1552.

[0115] Torque can be applied to the cover 1550 in any of a variety of ways to force the arm 1530 to open intentionally. System 1500 may include or be used with an instrument or tool (not shown) configured at its distal end, for example, as a proximal portion of an engaging wing 1552, and configured to apply at least the predetermined amount of torque to the cover 1550 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), a force sufficient to overcome friction between the anti-rotation surfaces 1556, 1539. The cover surface 1556 is thus slidable relative to the receiver surface 1539, as described, allowing the cover 1550 to rotate relative to the receiver 1510, thereby opening the arm 1530 for cover removal.

[0116] As in Figure 16 and Figure 17 As can be seen, the proximal surface of wing 1552 may extend higher (more proximal) than the adjacent side surface of receiver arm 1530. The exposed proximal portion of cover wing 1552 provides space for an instrument to dock with in order to apply torque to cover 1550 in a second direction. For example, the instrument may apply torque against a portion of the anti-rotation surface 1555 of wing 1552 extending above arm 1530.

[0117] The component of the force applied to the anti-rotation surface or portion 1556 of the cover to the adjacent anti-rotation surface 1539 of the receiver, thereby causing it to slide along the anti-rotation surface 1539 of the receiver in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), is a radial force. As the radial force is applied to the anti-rotation surface 1539 of the receiver, it is thus applied to the receiver arm 1530, which is intentionally opened.

[0118] When the receiver arm 1530 of this embodiment is intentionally opened, the anti-opening interfaces 1538, 1564 are pushed open, i.e., the receiver anti-opening surface 1538 is forced to move radially outward along the cover anti-opening surface 1564 and then away. The cover 1550 then disengages from the receiver 1510 and can be removed from the receiver 1510 in a proximal direction. In various embodiments, the opening instrument has a capturing design for gripping, engaging, or otherwise removing the cover 1550 proximally from the receiver 1510 when the arm 1530 is opened by the instrument. Alternatively, a separate cover removal instrument, such as an instrument that can be fitted inside, around, or beside the opening instrument, can push the cover 1550 proximally out of the receiver 1510 when the arm 1530 is opened. Such a removal feature or instrument may have, for example, external threads for engaging with the internal threads of the cover 1550.

[0119] It should be understood that the various aspects disclosed herein can be combined in combinations other than those specifically presented in the detailed description and accompanying drawings. It should also be understood that, by way of example, certain actions or events of any of the processes or methods described herein may be performed in a different order, added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., not all described actions or events are necessary for implementing the technology).

[0120] Furthermore, although for clarity certain aspects of this disclosure are described as being performed by a single module or unit, it should be understood that the technology of this disclosure can be performed by a combination of units or modules associated with, for example, a medical device.

[0121] Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms shall be interpreted as broadly as possible, including the meaning implied in the specification and the meaning understood by those skilled in the art and / or the meaning as defined in dictionaries, papers, etc. It must also be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used in the specification and appended claims include plural references, and the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0122] It should be understood that various modifications can be made to the embodiments disclosed in this invention. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but rather as illustrative of various embodiments only. Those skilled in the art will be able to conceive of other modifications within the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for use in spinal surgery, the system comprising: A cover having a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposing anti-opening flanges extending radially from the body; as well as A receiver having opposing arms equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the receiver, each arm extending from a common distal base to a corresponding proximal end, each arm having an inner proximal protrusion at or near the proximal end, and each arm having an inwardly inclined opening surface distal to the proximal protrusion. in: Each cover flange has a cover anti-opening surface facing the proximal side and radially outwardly inclined, and a cover ejection surface facing the distal side. Each retractor protrusion has (i) a proximal-facing tilted retractor pop-out surface extending distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis, and (ii) a distal-facing tilted retractor anti-opening surface extending distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis. The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface among the retractor pop-out surfaces, and Each open overhaul surface extends distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis and into a cylindrical plane defined by the inner diameter of the cover. in: The opposing flanges extend radially from the body along a first radial line of the body; The cover includes a set of opposing wings that extend radially from the body along a second radial line that is generally orthogonal to the first radial line, and The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface, wherein the flaps of the cover are aligned between the retractor arms. in: Each storage arm extends between opposite lateral edges; The lateral edge of each arm in the set of arms is spaced apart from the adjacent lateral edges of the other arms in the set by the arm-to-arm distance; and Each cover wing is approximately equal to, but slightly less than, the distance between the arms to allow the cover wing to slide distally between the receiver arms and to contact the edges of two adjacent lateral arms when the wing is positioned between the arms, and to apply torque to the cover.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the cover is greater than the width of the spinal correction rod that the receiver is configured to hold during use of the system.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the inner diameter of the cover is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm larger than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein each opening surface extends radially inward into the cylindrical plane by a radial distance between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm shorter than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein each tilted opening surface extends at an angle between 35 degrees and 55 degrees relative to a horizontal reference frame.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each cover anti-opening surface extends relative to a horizontal reference frame at an anti-opening angle between 5 degrees and 75 degrees; and Each storage unit's anti-opening surface extends relative to the horizontal reference system at an anti-opening angle between 5 and 75 degrees.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein: Each cap has an opening angle between 10 degrees and 45 degrees; and Each storage unit has an anti-opening angle between 10 degrees and 45 degrees.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein each retractor pop-out surface extends relative to a horizontal reference at a retractor pop-out angle between 50 and 80 degrees.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each storage arm has an inner surface extending from a distal portion to a proximal portion adjacent to the proximal end of the arm; and The proximal portion of each inner surface defines a protruding cavity for receiving the cover flange when the cover pops onto the receiver.

10. A system for use in spinal surgery, the system comprising: A cover, for ejecting onto a rod holder, the cover having a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposing flanges extending radially from the body; and The receiver has opposing arms equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the receiver, each arm extending from a common distal base to a corresponding proximal end, each arm having an inner proximal protrusion at or near the proximal end, each arm having an inner inclined opening surface distal to the proximal protrusion, each receiver proximal protrusion having (i) a distal and radially inward inclined receiver pop-out surface facing the longitudinal axis, and (ii) a distal and radially inward inclined receiver anti-opening surface facing the longitudinal axis; The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface among the retractor pop-out surfaces, and each opening overturning surface extends distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis and into a cylindrical plane defined by the inner diameter of the cover. Each cover flange has a proximal cover anti-opening surface that is inclined radially outward and a distal cover ejection surface. in: The opposing flanges extend radially from the body along a first radial line of the body; The cover includes a set of opposing wings that extend radially from the body along a second radial line that is generally orthogonal to the first radial line, and The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface, wherein the flaps of the cover are aligned between the retractor arms. in: Each storage arm extends between opposite lateral edges; The lateral edge of each arm in the set of arms is spaced apart from the adjacent lateral edges of the other arms in the set by the arm-to-arm distance; and Each cover wing is approximately equal to, but slightly less than, the distance between the arms to allow the cover wing to slide distally between the receiver arms and to contact the edges of two adjacent lateral arms when the wing is positioned between the arms, and to apply torque to the cover.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the inner diameter of the cover is greater than the width of the spinal correction rod that the receiver is configured to hold during use of the system.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the inner diameter of the cover is between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm larger than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

13. The system of claim 10, wherein each opening surface extends radially inward into the cylindrical plane by a radial distance between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm shorter than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

14. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface among the retractor pop-out surfaces, wherein the cover wings are aligned between the retractor arms.

15. A system for use in spinal surgery, the system comprising: A receiver for receiving a pop-out cover, the receiver having opposing arms equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the receiver, each arm extending from a common distal base to a corresponding proximal end, each arm having an inner proximal protrusion at or near the proximal end, and each arm having an inwardly inclined opening surface distal to the proximal protrusion. The cover has a generally cylindrical body and a set of opposing flanges and a cover pop-out surface facing the distal side, the set of opposing flanges extending radially from the body, each cover flange having a cover anti-opening surface facing the proximal side, inclined proximally and radially outward; in: Each retractor protrusion has (i) a proximal-facing tilted retractor pop-out surface extending distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis, and (ii) a distal-facing tilted retractor anti-opening surface extending distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis. The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface among the retractor pop-out surfaces, and Each open overhaul surface extends distally and radially inward toward the longitudinal axis and into a cylindrical plane defined by the inner diameter of the cover. in: The opposing flanges extend radially from the body along a first radial line of the body; The cover includes a set of opposing wings that extend radially from the body along a second radial line that is generally orthogonal to the first radial line, and The retractor pop-out surfaces are spaced apart from each other such that when the cover moves distally about the longitudinal axis to contact the retractor, each cover pop-out surface contacts a corresponding retractor pop-out surface, wherein the flaps of the cover are aligned between the retractor arms. in: Each storage arm extends between opposite lateral edges; The lateral edge of each arm in the set of arms is spaced apart from the adjacent lateral edges of the other arms in the set by the arm-to-arm distance; and Each cover wing is approximately equal to, but slightly less than, the distance between the arms to allow the cover wing to slide distally between the receiver arms and to contact the edges of two adjacent lateral arms when the wing is positioned between the arms, and to apply torque to the cover.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein: Each opening surface has a radially far end and a distal end; and The size and orientation of each opening surface are set such that the distal end contacts the receiver configured to hold the spinal correction bar during use of the system.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein each opening surface extends radially inward into the cylindrical plane by a radial distance between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm shorter than the outer diameter of the spinal correction rod.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein each tilted opening surface extends at an angle between 35 degrees and 55 degrees relative to a horizontal reference frame.

Images