#$%^&*AU2014274626B220191212.pdf#####ABSTRACT: Devices for retracting tissue during a minimally-invasive, posterior spinal fusion procedure are disclosed. The device includes a blade 56 positionable along a passageway device 31 connected to a connecting element 30 implanted in a vertebra of the spine, such that the blade 56 covers at least a portion of a longitudinal opening of the passageway device 31. The blade 56 may be coupled to the passageway device 31 by receiving the passageway device 31 with a receiving portion. Systems for displacing the vertebrae of the spine include first and second extenders are also disclosed. The distal ends of each of the extenders are configured to engage the connecting elements. Each extender may include a shaft configured to be securely engaged within a cage of the respective connecting element. The devices and systems can be used in connection with an interbody fusion technique performed through an opening extending between the passageway devices. FIG 1 FOR PUBLICATION1/14 CO CD CN CD U') LO co co "T co co CN CO CO CN 'IT co co co LO CN at. "T CN CN CN co 'IT CD co 00 co co co co co co CN CN CN CN co CN CO I-.- CD U) CM0 co co co v CN co co "it CN IT--
