Patents Examined by Bisma Mehta
  • Patent number: 8273060
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides methods and devices for removing fluid from a surgical instrument. Surgical access devices and seal systems are generally provided having one or more valves or seal assemblies to create a closed system between the outside environment and the environment in which the surgical access device is being inserted. In one embodiment, a seal assembly is provided and can include a seal having an opening configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough and a fluid remover in the form of an absorbent element, a scraper element, a wicking element, or any combination thereof can be associated with the seal and configured to remove fluid from the opening and/or a surgical instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Cesar E. Moreno, Jr., Patrick J. Minnelli, Thomas A. Gilker, Daniel J. Mumaw, Rebecca J. Mollere, Randall Tanguay