Patents Examined by Michael Buz
  • Patent number: 6083241
    Abstract: A method for using a circular stapling instrument for the removal of hemorrhoids is disclosed. The circular stapling instrument has a stapling end effector having a stapling head assembly and an anvil assembly movable from an open position spaced away from the stapling head to a closed position adjacent to the stapling head. A first inner chamber and a second inner chamber communicate within the stapling head assembly wherein the second inner chamber has an open distal end when the anvil is in an open position. A substantially unobstructed passageway extends from an exterior casing surface of the stapling head assembly through the first inner chamber, through the second inner chamber, and through the open distal end of the second inner chamber. A suture is placed into the hemorrhoid of a patient and the open stapling end effector is placed into the anus of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Antonio Longo, John R. Bittner, Randall L. Hacker