Paragraph Number

261

In one embodiment, the coupler 942 may be deployed by a fabricator of the coupler 942. Thus, initially the proximal end 902 and the distal end 904 may be joined by the coupler 942 and the navigation guide 900 ready for use by a user or surgeon. Advantageously, the coupler 942 is configured to be operated to separate the proximal end 902 from the distal end 904. In the illustrated embodiment, this may be accomplished by engaging the drive feature 972 and rotating the shaft 970 in a direction opposite a direction in which the threads have been engaged with each other. Once the shaft 970 is backed out of the shaft opening 966, the proximal end 902 and/or distal end 904 can be separated. If the proximal end 902 and/or distal end 904 are separated after deployment of the set of proximal guide pins 928 and the set of distal guide pins 930, separation of the proximal end 902 and/or distal end 904 can permit removal of the proximal end 902 and/or distal end 904 without removing the set of proximal guide pins 928 and/or the set of distal guide pins 930. Of course, those of skill in the art will appreciate that rather than use a coupler 942, the navigation guide 900 may be removed by removing one or the other or both of the set of proximal guide pins 928 and/or the set of distal guide pins 930.

Added by DJM Jan 2024