Patents Examined by Benjamin V. Koo
  • Patent number: 5779716
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a surgical instrument used in minimally invasive procedures performed under either direct, endoscopic, fluoroscopic, or other visualization. The present invention is also directed to a method of removing foreign objects from the body with the instrument. The surgical instrument includes a wire linkage and wire frame which can be retracted and extended to form a loop. A mouth of a sack is attached to the loop, said sack being used to encircle and capture foreign objects in body canals, cavities and organs. The wire frame is formed of a shape-memory-effect alloy wire, the alloy in a super elastic state and previously trained to form the loop, the loop forming when the said wire frame is extended beyond the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Metamorphic Surgical Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald G. Cano, Robert W. Doebler