An apparatus for cutting bone includes a shaft member having a central axis and extending between a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion has a first surface adapted to receive repetitive impacts. The distal end portion includes a cutting blade extending in a first plane between a shield section and a guide portion. The shield section and the guide section project axially beyond the cutting blade to recess the cutting blade in the distal end portion. The shield section includes an inwardly facing shield surface which extends in a second plane that is transverse to the first plane of the cutting blade. The apparatus is a form of an osteotome that is particularly useful for certain spine-related surgical procedures. SAW
Inteum