Rod reducer

Abstract

A rod reducer is adapted for inserting a rod into position within an orthopedic device. The rod reducer is configured for use with one hand and does not obstruct the surgeon's view of the surgical field during use.

1 . A surgical instrument for reducing a rod toward a bone fastener, comprising:
 an engaging member extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a distal portion of the engaging member adapted to receive a portion of the rod therein and further adapted to engage a coupling element coupled to the bone fastener;   a reducing member movably disposed about the engaging member, the reducing member having a distal end;   an actuator assembly mechanically coupled to both the engaging member and to the reducing member, wherein the actuator assembly actuates to move the reducing member distally with respect to the engaging member such that the distal end of the reducing member contacts the rod to move the rod toward the bone fastener; and   a handle adapted to actuate the actuator assembly, wherein the engaging member and the reducing member extend along a longitudinal axis and wherein the entire handle is offset from the longitudinal axis.   
     
     
         2 . An instrument as in  claim 1 , wherein the entire handle is offset to one side of the longitudinal axis. 
     
     
         3 . An instrument as in  claim 1 , wherein the handle comprises a first trigger element and a second trigger element that are pivotally coupled to the engaging member and pivotally coupled to the reducing member. 
     
     
         4 . An instrument as in  claim 1 , wherein the engaging member defines an internal shaft that extends along the longitudinal axis, the internal shaft sized to receive a portion of a pedicle screw assembly. 
     
     
         5 . An instrument as in  claim 1 , wherein the handle includes a ratchet mechanism adapted to fix the position of the engaging member relative to the reducing member. 
     
     
         6 . An instrument as in  claim 1 , wherein the actuator assembly is pivotally coupled to the engaging member and pivotally coupled to the reducing member.