Patents by Inventor Luis M. Fernandez

Luis M. Fernandez has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Apparatus and method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic procedures
    Patent number: 6168608
    Abstract: An improved laparoscopic apparatus for tunneling to a desired anatomical location and developing a surgical space is disclosed, including a tunneling member adapted to receive a laparoscope therein and an inflatable balloon secured on the tunneling member. The tunneling member has a passage extending between its open proximal and distal ends. A lip is integrally formed on the distal end to retain a laparoscope inserted into the passage, the lip having a substantially rounded and blunt distal edge. The lip defines a recessed or open center area in the distal opening, enhancing the field of view of the laparoscope therethrough. The balloon is formed from flexible, transparent material, and is rolled and secured to the tunneling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan M. Echeverry, Luis M. Fernandez, James E. Jervis, Janine C. Robinson, Shigeru Tanaka, Laveille K. Voss
  • Apparatus and method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic procedures
    Patent number: 6015421
    Abstract: An improved laparoscopic apparatus for tunneling to a desired anatomical location and developing a surgical space is disclosed, including a tunneling member adapted to receive a laparoscope therein and an inflatable balloon secured on the tunneling member. The tunneling member has a passage extending between its open proximal and distal ends. A lip is integrally formed on the distal end to retain a laparoscope inserted into the passage, the lip having a substantially rounded and blunt distal edge. The lip defines a recessed or open center area in the distal opening, enhancing the field of view of the laparoscope therethrough. The balloon is formed from flexible, transparent material, and is rolled and secured to the tunneling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan M. Echeverry, Luis M. Fernandez, James E. Jervis, Janine C. Robinson, Shigeru Tanaka, Laveille K. Voss