Board Thread:Questions and Answers/@comment-5693502-20140409230628/@comment-8986886-20140410012942

The Sternritter were able to utilize the Bankai they stole from the captains, despite them having no Zanpakuto, by sealing the Bankai within their medallions. I believe Ginjo uses his Shinigami Combat Pass in a similar fashion. Before stabbing Ichigo, and stealing his Fullbring and other techniques, Ginjo attached his Combat Pass to his sword. I'm not sure that's what actually happened, though, it just makes sense to me is all.

Also, Ichigo was able to create, and utilize, Zangetsu, even though he had no Asauchi to work with, so there are ways around that obstacle. ^^