Importance

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Abstract

Instrumentation for determining the integrity of a natural or synthetic implant includes a component that is at least temporarily attached to or constrained by a bone or tissue, and a handle coupled to the component including a force-measurement gauge. Operation of the device permits a user to push or pull on the handle and determine the integrity of the component by referring to the force-measurement gauge. The handle may be modularly attachable to a plurality of different components or the same component at different sizes for different uses. One preferred embodiment resides in a disc pressure gauge that helps in determining the risk of extrusion of intradiscal devices. Although described in terms of spinal applications, the invention is not limited in this regard, and may be used in any medical, dental, surgical/orthopaedic, or veterinarian application through appropriate extension.

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First Claim