Rod introduction apparatus

A multiple action insertion apparatus for engaging a longitudinal member and an implant, comprising:

• means for attaching to an implant;
• means for lateral approximation of a longitudinal member laterally offset from the implant, said means for lateral approximation interconnected with said means for attaching;
• and
• means for vertical reduction of the longitudinal member vertically offset from the implant, said means for vertical reduction interconnected with said means for attaching, wherein said means for lateral approximation laterally aligns the longitudinal member over the implant and said means for vertical reduction vertically aligns the longitudinal member with the implant.

An implant holder for gripping an implant, comprising:

• a shaft having a gripping end with a portion, said gripping end defining a first clamping branch and a cooperable second clamping branch, said first and second clamping branches tending to assume an insertion position defining a first distance between said first and second clamping branches, and said first and second clamping branches compressible into a clamping position defining a second distance between said first and second clamping branches, said first distance greater than said second distance;
• and
• a sleeve defining an interior channel, said shaft slidably received within said interior channel, said shaft moveable between a first position with said portion extending from said sleeve and a second position with said portion drawn into said sleeve;
• wherein movement of said shaft within said tubular sleeve from said first position to said second position controls said first and second clamping branches from said insertion position to said clamping position.

An implant holder having a rod reduction mechanism for vertically aligning a longitudinal member and an implant, comprising:

• means for gripping the implant;
• a sleeve having an axis and a distal end adapted to engage the longitudinal member, said sleeve having an axial bore sized to receive said means for gripping, said means for gripping slidably received within said axial bore;
• and
• means for axially displacing said sleeve with respect to said means for gripping, whereby a vertical offset longitudinal member is urged into alignment with the implant.

A method for interconnecting a longitudinal member and an implant adapted to engage the longitudinal member, comprising the steps of:

• providing an introduction apparatus having an attachment mechanism with a cannula and a vertical reduction mechanism;
• attaching the introduction apparatus to the implant;
• operating the vertical reduction mechanism to force the longitudinal member into alignment with the implant;
• inserting a fastener through the cannula;
• interconnecting the fastener and the implant, wherein the longitudinal member is securely attached to the implant;
• and
• removing the introduction apparatus.

A method for interconnecting a longitudinal member and an implant adapted to engage the longitudinal member, comprising the steps of:

• providing an introduction apparatus having an attachment mechanism, a lateral approximation lever, and a vertical reduction mechanism;
• attaching the introduction apparatus to the implant;
• engaging a laterally offset longitudinal member with one end of the lateral approximator lever;
• rotating the lever to urge the longitudinal member into lateral alignment with the implant;
• operating the vertical reduction mechanism to force the longitudinal member into vertical alignment with the implant;
• and
• interconnecting the longitudinal member and the implant.