| abstract |
An access device for accessing an intervertebral disc having an external shield comprising an access protector of a larger diameter (~16-30 mm) which extends from the skin up to the facet line, with internal protection of a second smaller diameter (~5-12 mm) extending further than the access protection and down to the disc level. This system combines the advantages of minimally invasive / microsurgical approaches under direct visual control and "ultra-MIS" percutaneous techniques. |