Abstract: A persuader instrument for advancing a fixation rod into a vertebral implant includes a housing and at least one arm. The at least one arm can include detents for detachable connection to the vertebral implant. The persuader instrument can also include a shaft coupled to an anchor. The anchor can include a fixation rod engagement surface. The shaft can be axially displaceable through the housing to axially displace the anchor and a rod engaged by the anchor. The persuader instrument can further include an auto-locking ratchet assembly in releasable engagement with the shaft. The auto-locking ratchet assembly can control axial displacement of the shaft through the longitudinal passage of the housing.

Abstract: A persuader instrument for advancing a fixation rod into a vertebral implant includes a housing and at least one arm. The at least one arm can include detents for detachable connection to the vertebral implant. The persuader instrument can also include a shaft coupled to an anchor. The anchor can include a fixation rod engagement surface. The shaft can be axially displaceable through the housing to axially displace the anchor and a rod engaged by the anchor. The persuader instrument can further include an auto-locking ratchet assembly in releasable engagement with the shaft. The auto-locking ratchet assembly can control axial displacement of the shaft through the longitudinal passage of the housing.

Abstract: A tissue retractor system includes first and second arms extending from a support assembly, and third and fourth arms extending from a support mechanism. Each arm includes a proximal span, a distal span, and a blade support between the proximal span and distal span. The retractor system features retractor units that can be used independently or in a nested arrangement. The system also includes instruments for inserting a spinal rod. A method for implanting a spinal rod through an incision includes the steps of inserting the spinal rod through a dividable tube, turning the rod subcutaneously toward a rod receiving anchor and advancing the rod subcutaneously toward the rod receiving anchor.

Abstract: A tissue retractor system includes first and second arms extending from a support assembly, and third and fourth arms extending from a support mechanism. Each arm includes a proximal span, a distal span, and a blade support between the proximal span and distal span. The retractor system features retractor units that can be used independently or in a nested arrangement. The system also includes instruments for inserting a spinal rod. A method for implanting a spinal rod through an incision includes the steps of inserting the spinal rod through a dividable tube, turning the rod subcutaneously toward a rod receiving anchor and advancing the rod subcutaneously toward the rod receiving anchor.