Systems and methods for tissue retraction

[0014] To promote an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments shown in the drawings and specific expressions are used to describe these embodiments. It should be understood, however, that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any such alterations and further modifications of the devices described herein and the methods described, and consideration of such further applications of the principles of the invention described herein will be within the ordinary skill of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

[0015] Provides instruments and methods for performing percutaneous procedures, including spine procedures, including procedures such as laminotomy, laminectomy, foramenotomy, facetectomy, discectomy One or more techniques of spinal surgery, interbody fusion, nucleus and disc replacement, and implant insertion including, for example, plates, rods, and bone-engaging fixtures. Such