Abstract: This invention relates to devices, such as cannulas or needles, which are used for inserting expandable structures, such as medical balloons, into interior regions of a human or animal body, as well as methods for their use. In various embodiments, insertion devices described herein are capable of flaring at their tip to ease insertion and removal of expandable structures and reduce the risk of damaging such expandable structures during their insertion, inflation and removal. In other embodiments, insertion devices described herein are capable of directionally guiding and/or inhibiting expansion of an expandable structure within an interior region of an animal or human body to create optimally placed cavities for repair, augmentation and/or treatment of fractured and/or diseased bone.

Abstract: A combination broacher-reamer includes a generally longitudinally symmetrical cutting tool which is provided with a plurality of longitudinal broaching cutting teeth as well as a plurality of axial reaming cutting teeth. According to a presently preferred embodiment, the broacher-reamer is generally cylindrical with a smooth blunt distal tip and a tapered distal cutting portion. The proximal end of the tool is provided with a handle and one or more witness marks are provided on the shank of the tool. If the handle is removable the shank may be coupled to a motor or impacting tool. An exemplary broacher-reamer according to the invention is approximately 6.78 inches long with an overall maximum diameter of approximately 0.843 inches. The proximal end of the tool has a diametrical throughbore which is dimensioned to receive the handle which is approximately 3.94 inches long. The cutting portion of the tool begins approximately 3.0 inches distal of the proximal end and terminates approximately 1.