Abstract: An apparatus for the automated and facilitated handling and operation of a biopsy needle system, having a first needle component and a second needle component. The first and second needles are provided with first and second handles, respectively, which are fitted into first and second yokes of the apparatus. The apparatus is configured to maintain the first and second needles in a first position, during insertion of the biopsy needle point into the tissue being sampled. The apparatus is further configured to forwardly move the first and second needles into subsequent positions, respectively, in rapid, automated succession so as to segment and enclose a tissue sample, which may be tested after removal of the biopsy needle system from the tissue.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 23, 1994
Date of Patent:
April 16, 1996
Assignee:
M3 Systems, Inc., d/b/a/ Manan Medical Products, Inc.
Inventors:
John B. Schramm, Manfred Mittermeier, Alan Hable