Surgical instrument with integrated compression and distraction mechanisms

Abstract

Embodiments disclosed herein provide compression/distraction methods and tools useful for fitting a spinal stabilization system in a patient through minimally invasive surgery. The spinal stabilization system may comprise screws anchored in vertebrae. The vertebrae may need to be compressed or distracted. One embodiment of an instrument disclosed herein may comprise a shaft for engaging one of the screws through an extender sleeve. A driver may engage another screw through an opening of the instrument. Through this engagement, a surgeon may use the rack and pinion of the instrument to compress or distract one or more levels of the vertebrae in a parallel motion, which can be advantageous clinically in certain situations.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A surgical device, comprising:
 a first member having a lumen therethrough, configured for receiving a driver;   a first connection mechanism;   a bar connectable to said first member via said first connection mechanism at a first angle, wherein a portion of said bar comprises an engaging element;   a shaft;   a pivot locking knob configured to connect with said shaft; and   an elongated body having an opening constructed for accommodating said bar, a gear mechanism for engaging said engaging element of said bar inside said elongated body, and a shaft connection mechanism for joining said shaft, said pivot locking knob, and said elongated body, wherein said shaft is movable about a pivot, wherein said shaft is lockable at a second angle relative to said elongated body utilizing said pivot locking knob, wherein said second angle is adjustable, wherein turning said gear mechanism which is engaged with said engaging element of said bar changes a linear distance between said shaft and said first member, wherein said bar is continuously movable under tension via the engagement with the gear mechanism.