Multiple set screw insertion instrument and methods

Abstract

This disclosure relates generally to surgical instruments used to deliver locking or set screws to secure a rod or spinal fixation element relative to an implanted bone anchor or other spinal fixation construct during spine surgery. In one embodiment, the inserter instrument can include an inner driver shaft, a ratcheted outer sleeve, and a handle configured to receive the shafts therein. The inner driver shaft can receive a plurality of set screws on a distal end thereof. A side latch, pawl, or button can engage with the ratcheted outer sleeve to facilitate step-wise advancement of the sleeve relative to the driver shaft for set screw delivery. Step-wise advancement can be controlled using another button that causes movement of the side latch.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.