Multi-Shield Spinal Access System

A surgical multi-tool instrument, comprising:

• a main body;
• a navigation array coupled to the main body;
• a handle selectively attachable to the main body;
• and
• one or more instrument shafts interchangeably insertable through the main body, the one or more instrument shafts comprising:
• a sharp-tipped needle;
• and
• a blunt-tipped mandrin.

A method of accessing a surgical site in a patient, comprising:

• making an incision in a skin of the patient;
• percutaneously inserting through the incision a multi-tool having a main body;
• navigating insertion of the multi-tool using a navigation array coupled to the main body of the multi-tool;
• inserting one or more dilators over the main body of the multi-tool to dilate the incision;
• inserting an access device percutaneously through the dilated incision to position a distal end of the access device at the surgical site;
• and
• removing the one or more dilators and the main body from a working channel of the access device.