Universal bone screw screwdriver

Abstract

The instant invention is directed to a universal bone screw screwdriver and in particular to a universal screwdriver that permits the removal of screws from bone plates that are manufactured by different manufacturers having distinct characteristics. The universal bone screw screwdriver is adapted to removeably receive an elongated tool bit. The elongated tool bits correspond to the screw heads of different manufacturers and comprises a torque limiting and locking spring assembly to secure the elongated tool bit to the driver shaft and inhibit over-tightening of the bone screw into the bone or bone plate as the case may be.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An orthopedic universal screwdriver comprising:
 a handle adapted to receive an elongated tool bit;   a recess disposed in said handle; and   a torque limiting and locking spring removeably attachable to the handle via said recess for engaging the elongated tool bit with said handle, wherein the torque limiting and locking spring further comprises at least two arms, wherein the first arm has a flat inner surface constructed and arranged to interface with the elongated tool bit when engaged therewith and a second arm that has at least two U-shaped surfaces constructed and arranged to interface with the handle when engaged therewith.   
     
     
         2 . The orthopedic universal screwdriver of  claim 1 , wherein the torque limiting and locking spring is capable of preventing over tightening of the bone screw. 
     
     
         3 . The orthopedic universal screwdriver of  claim 1 , further comprising;
 a flat surface on the elongated tool bit and configured to align with the recess when said elongated tool bit is inserted into said handle and   said torque limiting and locking spring being constructed to engage the flat surface on the elongated tool bit.