Having Tool Moving Or Stopping Means Patents (Class 600/106)
  • Patent number: 7860556
    Abstract: Tissue imaging and extraction systems are described herein. Such a system may include a deployment catheter and an attached imaging hood deployable into an expanded configuration. In use, the imaging hood is placed against or adjacent to a region of tissue to be imaged in a body lumen that is normally filled with an opaque bodily fluid such as blood. A translucent or transparent fluid, such as saline, can be pumped into the imaging hood until the fluid displaces any blood, thereby leaving a clear region of tissue to be imaged via an imaging element in the deployment catheter. Additionally, the extraction system can include features or instruments for procedures such as clearing blood clots, emboli, and other debris which may be present in a body lumen. Other variations may also be used for facilitating trans-septal access across tissue regions as well as for balancing body fluids during a procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Voyage Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Vahid Saadat
  • Patent number: 7846087
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for positioning a tool. In one embodiment, an endoscopic rotation device is provided having a rotatable collet, a flexible elongate translating mechanism, and an actuating mechanism. The rotatable collet can be configured to receive and engage a tool disposed therethrough, and the translating mechanism can be coupled to the collet. The actuating mechanism can be operatively associated with the translating mechanism and can be effective to cause the translating mechanism to apply a rotational force to the collet to rotate the tool disposed therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: David Stefanchik, James T. Spivey
  • Publication number: 20100305401
    Abstract: Endoscopic systems utilize self-retaining sutures to approximate tissue in a cavity of a subject. An endoscopic instrument is provided containing the self-retaining suture. The endoscopic instrument may be provided in combination with an endoscope and/or an endoscopic manipulator. The endoscopic instrument is passed through a cavity wall into a cavity of a patient. The self-retaining suture is deployed, using the endoscopic instrument, into a first tissue portion and a second tissue portion within the cavity. The self-retaining suture may be deployed endoscopically in patterns which include, purse string stitch, alpha stitch, linear stitching, curvilinear stitching, continuous helical stitch, and continuous sinusoidal stitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Leung, Matthew A. Megaro, Gregory Ruff, Andrew Kaplan
  • Publication number: 20100298638
    Abstract: An endoscopic instrument includes a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, a clevis at the distal end of the tubular member, and an end effector assembly mounted on the clevis. A control member extends through the tubular member and includes a cam-pin coupled to the distal end thereof. The end effectors are controlled with a cam-pin and cam-slot arrangement, with the end effectors including the cam-slot and such cam-slot having a proximal end slot bilaterally widened to permit the cam-pin additional movement therein. When the cam-pin is retracted to move the end effectors into a closed positions and then further retracted into the bilaterally widened area, the end effectors can rotate together in the same direction to facilitate movement through a rigid bend in an endoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: Charles R. Slater
  • Publication number: 20100298639
    Abstract: Endoscopic methods utilize self-retaining sutures to approximate tissue in a cavity of a subject. An endoscopic instrument is provided containing the self-retaining suture. The endoscopic instrument may be provided in combination with an endoscope and/or an endoscopic manipulator. The endoscopic instrument is passed through a cavity wall into a cavity of a patient. The self-retaining suture is deployed, using the endoscopic instrument, into a first tissue portion and a second tissue portion within the cavity. The self-retaining suture may be deployed endoscopically in patterns which include, purse string stitch, alpha stitch, linear stitching, curvilinear stitching, continuous helical stitch, and continuous sinusoidal stitch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Leung, Matthew A. Megaro, Gregory Ruff, Andrew Kaplan
  • Publication number: 20100298634
    Abstract: A medical instrument for an endoscope according to the invention is the medical instrument to be used in the endoscope by being inserted therein, and the medical instrument includes: a flexible elongated sheath having a first lumen and a second lumen; a conductive wire which is inserted into the first lumen and of which a portion of a distal side is exposed to the outside of the sheath as an instrument unit; and a balloon which is attached to the sheath and is expandable with the supply of fluid from the second lumen. The balloon is configured such that an axial dimension thereof is larger than a radial dimension upon expansion and a distal end of the balloon upon expansion is located closer to a proximal side than the treatment unit exposed from the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventor: Yutaka YANUMA
  • Patent number: 7828720
    Abstract: A surgical system is provided that includes a device body that has a working channel providing a pathway for an instrument, an extension adjuster engaged with the device body, the extension adjuster also including a stop. The stop is disposed a predetermined distance from the working channel such that the stop and the distal end of the working channel cooperate to define an effective working channel length. The instrument may be inserted through the working channel and protrude outwardly from the distal end of the working channel. The extent of the protrusion is limited by the effective working channel length whereby the stop prevents further insertion of the instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Nico Corporation
    Inventors: Michael E. Miller, Joseph L. Mark
  • Patent number: 7824376
    Abstract: An injection needle apparatus in which an operation for relatively moving an outer tube 4 and an inner tube 5 is performed to project and retract a needle body 12 from and into a distal end of the outer tube 4, and to carry out a movement of rotation of the needle body 12 at a predetermined angle by relative forward and backward movements of the outer tube 4 and inner tube 5 in their longitudinal directions every time the forward and backward movement operations is repeated, thereby enabling changing a direction of a needlepoint 14 of the needle body 12 at each angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Ken Fujisaki, Kiyotaka Matsuno
  • Patent number: 7819799
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling force applied to and for manipulation of a surgical instrument. Movement and/or forces applied to the surgical instrument are preferably sensed within the apparatus. An actuator is preferably used to apply force to the surgical instrument for control and manipulation of the instrument. The apparatus applies variable force feedback to apply force to the surgical instrument in one or more degrees of freedom to provide an enhanced haptic experience to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Immersion Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory L. Merril, Richard L. Cunningham, J. Michael Brown, Robert F. Cohen, Philip G. Feldman
  • Patent number: 7815565
    Abstract: A guide system for use with an endoscope, and a method of use is disclosed. The guide system can include a track, in the form of a rail, and a mating member for engaging the rail. The guide system can also include an accessory, such as an accessory guide tube through which a medical instrument can be carried external of the endoscope. An end cap can be provided to support the track relative to the distal end of the endoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: David Stefanchik, Duane Linenkugel, Gregory J. Bakos, Omar J. Vakharia, James A. Craft, Kurt R. Bally
  • Patent number: 7815564
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a medical device for accessing a patient's body portion and used for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Embodiments of the invention may include a particular endoscopic positioning mechanism for placing an endoscope and an additional treatment device within desired body portions in order to assist in diagnosis and treatment of anatomical diseases and disorders. In particular, a medical device according to an embodiment of the invention includes a positioning mechanism configured for movement through at least two degrees of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Geitz, Brian Tinkham
  • Patent number: 7811225
    Abstract: An optical obturator which includes a sleeve having a longitudinal bore between a proximal end and a distal end is disclosed. The longitudinal bore of the sleeve is configured to receive at least a portion of an endoscope or like image transferring system. An image passing member, such as an optical window is positioned at the distal end of the sleeve and is provided to permit optical images to pass into the longitudinal bore of the sleeve and to permit illumination light to pass to the surgical site. An automatically retracting blade is positioned distal to the image passing member to facilitate penetration of body tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Jude S. Sauer, Michael G. Oravecz, Roger J. Greenwald, Alexander I. Kobilansky
  • Patent number: 7803107
    Abstract: A locking device for a maintaining an elongated member at a selected place within a body lumen includes a substantially rigid body including an attachment portion adapted to be coupled to a proximal portion of a medical instrument. When in an operative position, the distal portion of the medical instrument is received within the body lumen and a head coupled to the substantially rigid body. The head is configured to overlie an access port of the medical device when the attachment portion is coupled to the proximal portion of the medical device in a predetermined configuration. A plurality of locking features extends from the head to immobilize a section of the elongated member relative to the medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Oscar Carrillo
  • Patent number: 7794389
    Abstract: An endoscopic elevator apparatus cooperable with an insertion tube extending to a distal tip and having enhanced grasping and reduced scraping of an elongate medical device is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an elevator movably attached to the distal tip. The elevator has an inner side formed thereon defining a grasping slot for engagement with the endoscope. The elevator has a surface projection disposed thereon for inhibiting damage to the elongate medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Wilson-Cook Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew P. Carter
  • Publication number: 20100228086
    Abstract: A side viewing endoscope system is discloses that a mother endoscope of a side viewing type provided an endoscopic observation means is disposed on a side surface of a rigid distal end portion, a instrument rising chamber installed of a instrument riser member for rising up or sinking down of a treatment instrument in the rigid distal end portion, a biopsy channel provided through an axial direction of the insertion section being communicated with said instrument rising chamber, a daughter endoscope having a slender insertion section being inserted into the biopsy channel and having a viewing field in a forward direction of the distal end of the slender insertion section, a perforation window formed at the rigid distal end portion and having a viewing field of the forward direction of the biopsy channel, and the distal end portion being introduced through the biopsy channel at a position not to be protruded from the outer surface of the rigid distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: Tomohiro OHKI, Shozo IYAMA
  • Publication number: 20100228084
    Abstract: A puncture needle device detachably attached to an ultrasonic endoscope via a pipe sleeve including a non-circular collar, including a cylindrical connecting body into which the pipe sleeve is inserted, the cylindrical connecting body including an insertion limit portion which contacts the pipe sleeve to prevent it from being further inserted, and a non-circular collar receiving hole engaged with the collar and irrotatable relative thereto when the pipe sleeve is inserted; a sheath projecting from the cylindrical connecting body and inserted into an internal conduit of the ultrasonic endoscope; a puncture needle inserted into the sheath; and a lock member supported by the cylindrical connecting body and movable between an unlocked position allowing the pipe sleeve to insert and remove from the cylindrical connecting body, and a locked position wherein the lock member contacts the collar of the pipe sleeve to prevent it from removing from the cylindrical connecting body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: HOYA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masayasu SATO, Yasunobu FUJITA, Tetsuya TARUMOTO
  • Publication number: 20100228085
    Abstract: A slotted cannula for endoscopic surgical procedures is disclosed. The slotted cannula has a tubular body having a distal end, a proximate end, an open slot extending longitudinally from the beginning of the proximate end to the proximity of the distal end, and a pair of wings integrally formed on the proximate end. The tubular body is made from a transparent material and has an inner diameter large enough to accommodate an endoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: A.M. Surgical, Inc.
    Inventors: Ather MIRZA, Romi Mirza
  • Publication number: 20100228083
    Abstract: A slotted cannula for endoscopic surgical procedures is disclosed. The slotted cannula has a tubular body having a distal end, a proximate end, an open slot extending longitudinally from the beginning of the proximate end to the proximity of the distal end, and a pair of wings integrally formed on the proximate end. The tubular body is made from a transparent material and has an inner diameter large enough to accommodate an endoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: A.M. Surgical, Inc.
    Inventors: Ather Mirza, Romi Mirza
  • Patent number: 7789822
    Abstract: An endoscopic therapeutic instrument has a therapeutic section, a flexible transmission member which transmits operating driving forces to the therapeutic section by moving forwardly and reversely, and a sheath section in which the transmission member can move forwardly and reversely. A proximal side of this transmission member is connected to an operating tube section, and the therapeutic section is driven by forward and backward movements of the operating tube section. An endoscope having a channel into which the endoscopic therapeutic instrument is insertable, contains a mechanism for driving the sheath section and a mechanism for driving the operating tube section. The endoscope controls these mechanisms to cooperate with each other in controlling the endoscopic therapeutic instrument operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventor: Keita Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7780650
    Abstract: A camera assembly for positioning within a bodily passageway, including a camera, a catheter adapted to retain the camera, and a rotary coupling interconnecting the catheter and the camera. The catheter is provided with helically-wound threads thereon. The rotary coupling permits the catheter to rotate and thereby move axially while the camera remains rotationally stationary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Spirus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Frassica, Robert E. Ailinger
  • Patent number: 7780691
    Abstract: Devices and methods useful for manipulating tools at a surgical site are disclosed. The disclosed devices and methods can be useful, for example, for orbiting the distal end of one tool around the distal end of another tool, such as in an endoscopic resection procedure, and/or for rotating a tool or an end effector. In one exemplary embodiment, an endoscopic device is provided and can include an elongate shaft having a first lumen and a second lumen formed therein, each of the first and the second lumens adapted to receive a tool therethrough. A rotatable element can be disposed at a distal end of the elongate shaft, the rotatable element having a lumen formed therein that is associated with the first lumen of the elongate shaft and also having a tool guide that is adapted to receive a tool and that is associated with the second lumen of the elongate shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: David Stefanchik
  • Patent number: 7775970
    Abstract: A harvesting device for an endoscope includes a harvesting member inserted through an outer tube member, including a harvesting portion arranged at the distal end portion of the outer tube member and to perform a harvesting, and configured to move so that the harvesting member moves and positions the harvesting portion at a harvesting position and a standby position, a wipe member inserted through the outer tube member, including a wipe portion arranged at the distal end portion of the outer tube member, and configured to move so that the wipe member moves the wipe portion to wipe a distal end portion of the endoscope, and a conversion mechanism to convert the movement of the harvesting member into that of the wipe member to interlock the wiping of the wipe portion with the positioning of the harvesting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventors: Seiji Maeda, Akihito Kano
  • Patent number: 7775969
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an endoscope, in particular an ureterorenoscope. The endoscope comprises a lumen for insertion of a light and energy transmitting fiber. According to the invention during insertion of the fiber into a working channel of the endoscope the sharp edges of the fiber are protected by a flexible sleeve in order to avoid damages of a wall limiting the working channel. Prior to using the fiber for transmitting energy emitted by a laser the flexible sleeve is completely removed from the working channel in order to free a lumen that might be used for additional instruments or delivery of a fluid. Furthermore the stiffness of the endoscope is reduced by removing the flexible sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: LISA Laser Products OHG Fuhrberg & Teichmann
    Inventor: Heinrich-Otto Teichmann
  • Patent number: 7771416
    Abstract: Control devices and methods are provided for controlling tension applied to a tensioning element extending through a flexible shaft, such as on an endoscopic device. In one exemplary embodiment, the methods and devices are configured to allow free movement and optionally provide slack to a control mechanism on an endoscopic device during insertion to allow free flexion of the shaft of the device, and to tension the control mechanism when desired to actuate, articulate, or otherwise control the working end or other portion of the device disposed within a patient's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: James T. Spivey, Omar J. Vakharia
  • Patent number: 7771349
    Abstract: An endoscope comprises: an insertion portion that is to be inserted into a coelom; a treatment instrument elevation support, pivotally provided at a distal end of the insertion portion, that is used to guide a treatment instrument introduced at the distal end; and an observation section that obtains an image observed at the distal end, wherein, when the treatment instrument elevation support is reclined, part of the treatment instrument elevation support is included in the image obtained by the observation section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventor: Shinichi Kohno
  • Publication number: 20100191052
    Abstract: The present embodiments provide apparatus and methods for facilitating cauterization of tissue. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a proximal barrel and a distal barrel, which are coupled together and moveable with respect to one another. At least a portion of the proximal barrel may be coupled to an endoscope to secure the apparatus to the endoscope. At least one electrocautery member is disposed within a lumen of the distal barrel and configured to cauterize at least a segment of tissue pulled into a lumen of the proximal barrel and/or the lumen of the distal barrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: Wilson-Cook Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Vihar C. Surti, Field F. Willingham
  • Publication number: 20100179383
    Abstract: A selective cannulation method for a lumenal tissue's branch section includes: a first step for guiding an endoscope having a channel to an aperture section of the lumenal tissue; a second step for inserting a distal end of an endoscopic treatment instrument through the channel into the aperture section of the lumenal tissue; a third step for having the distal end of the endoscopic treatment instrument make contact with a pipe wall extending from the aperture section of the lumenal tissue to the branch section at two opposed points on the pipe wall by deforming the distal end of the endoscopic treatment instrument; a fourth step for sliding and moving the distal end of the endoscopic treatment instrument to the branch section while having the distal end of the endoscopic treatment instrument make contact with the pipe wall; and a fifth step for inserting the distal end of the endoscopic treatment instrument into a predetermined branch lumen divided from the branch section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Kosuke Motai, Ayano Ishioka
  • Publication number: 20100174140
    Abstract: An integrated endoscope and accessory treatment device is provided. The device employs a medical treatment device at its distal end that is combined with the endoscope as a complete system. The treatment device is controlled by integrated elements at the proximal end of the endoscope. The treatment devices may include tissue apposition devices, tissue cutting devices, forceps and others.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: Harold M. Aznoian, Richard L. Costa, John E. Dimitriou, Richard A. Gambale, Peter J. Lukin, Edward C. Page, Sean J. Silva, David T. Zelonis
  • Publication number: 20100174139
    Abstract: An insertion tool for use in inserting a guide wire into a guide wire lumen of a catheter for use in a lumen of an endoscope. The insertion tool includes a main body having a main lumen and a funnel-shaped extension connected to and disposed atop the main body. The funnel-shaped extension having a funnel lumen. The funnel lumen has a top opening and a bottom opening. The funnel lumen tapering from the top opening to the bottom opening. The bottom opening positioned and sized to communicate with the guide wire lumen of the catheter such that, when the catheter is disposed in the main lumen, the guide wire may be easily inserted into the top opening of the funnel lumen and into the guide wire lumen of the catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: James E. Windheuser, James Yearick, Oscar Carrillo, JR., Robert C. Allman, Fernando Alvarez de Toledo, Stephen C. Evans, Norman C. May
  • Patent number: 7749156
    Abstract: A retractable treatment instrument for an endoscope is provided. The retractable treatment instrument includes a flexible sheath configured such that at least a tip portion thereof is formed of a flexible tube, an operation wire inserted in the flexible sheath so as to be movable along an axial direction of the operation wire in the flexible sheath, and a front-end treatment member attached to a tip of the operation wire. In this structure, the front-end treatment member is movable back and forth along the axial direction with respect to a tip of the flexible sheath. The front-end treatment member has a wide part elongated in a radial direction of the flexible tube to press and broaden the flexible tube from an inside of the flexible tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventor: Teruo Ouchi
  • Publication number: 20100168514
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an endoscopic assembly having an endoscope, particularly a flexible hysteroscope and an outer sheath disposed about a length of the shaft of the hysteroscope which has an expandable member such as an inflatable balloon for sealing the assembly within a body lumen or cavity. Specifically, the endoscope assembly is configured for delivery of an occlusive contraceptive member to the patient's fallopian tube. The invention is also directed to an endoscope having a driving member for movement of a medical device within the working lumen of an endoscope. In one embodiment the driving member is a friction wheel which engages an elongated medical device disposed within the working channel of the endoscope to effect longitudinal movement of the medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Callister, William S. Tremulis, Laura Kemp, Paul M. Stull
  • Publication number: 20100168612
    Abstract: Multi-luminal endoscopic systems for sterilely delivering deployable devices or obtaining bodily tissues. The system comprise an outer catheter comprising a wall that encloses an outer lumen; an inner catheter movably disposed within the outer lumen and having an inner lumen; a balloon-tipped catheter movably disposed within the inner lumen and having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end of the balloon-tipped catheter comprises a balloon tip that can be expanded to contact the wall of the outer catheter to provide a seal to prevent bodily fluids from entering the outer lumen; and a push catheter having a lumen and is located within the outer lumen. The delivery systems can comprise concentric catheters. Systems used for tissue collecting can comprise catheters with different common center.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: RICHARD W. DUCHARME, Tyler Evans McLawhorn
  • Publication number: 20100168513
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for delivering a neurostimulator to a target tissue are provided which may include any number of features. One feature is a delivery tool comprising a handle portion, an elongate shaft comprising a contoured distal portion, a visualization system embedded in the elongate shaft, and an insertion groove on the elongate shaft configured to deploy the neurostimulator. The contoured distal portion can be shaped and configured to maintain contact with a posterior maxilla and elevate a periosteum off of the posterior maxilla to avoid soft tissue dissection. In some embodiments, the neurostimulator is implanted in close proximity to or touching the sphenopalatine ganglion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Benjamin David Pless, Carl Lance Boling, Anthony Caparso
  • Publication number: 20100160727
    Abstract: A treatment tool for an endoscope which is transendoscopically inserted into a body cavity for use, and which includes: a sheath at least partially composed of mixed material in which thermoplastic resin and a crosslinking promoter are mixed; a manipulation wire inserted through the aforementioned sheath so as to be capable of advancing and retracting; a treatment part attached to a first end of the aforementioned manipulation wire; and a manipulation part attached to a second end of the aforementioned manipulation wire; wherein said sheath has a crosslinked part where said thermoplastic resin is crosslinked by irradiating said mixed material with ionizing radiation, and a non-crosslinked region where said thermoplastic resin is not crosslinked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Rei Matsunaga, Masahiro Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 7740579
    Abstract: An otoscope 800 includes a lens 802 and an eyepiece 801 by which a doctor can examine the external ear cavity of a patient. The otoscope includes a handle 803 within which there is situated a printer to provide an instantaneous permanent record of an image viewed by the doctor. Upon activation of a trigger 817, a permanent graphic image is printed onto a sheet 816 that passes out of the handle 803 via slot 804.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Kia Silverbrook, Janette Faye Lee
  • Publication number: 20100137681
    Abstract: Endoscopic instrument management systems are described herein which allow one or more operators to manage multiple different instruments utilized in endoscopic procedures. In one aspect, responsibility for instrumentation management between one or more operators may be configured such that a first set of instruments is controlled by a primary operator and a second set of instruments is controlled by a secondary operator. The division of instrumentation may be facilitated by the use of separated instrumentation platforms or a single platform which separates each instrument for use by the primary operator. Such platforms may be configured as trays, instrument support arms, multi-instrument channels, as well as rigidized portions of instruments to facilitate its handling, among others. In another aspect, one or more plastically deformable instrument manifolds are provided to guide flexible endoscopic instruments into and through an endoscopic access device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: USGI Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard C. Ewers, Christopher James Earley, Barton P. Bandy, Haio Fauser
  • Patent number: 7727144
    Abstract: An endoscopic surgical instrument has an insertion portion to be inserted in a channel of an endoscope, a treatment portion provided at a tip of the insertion portion for treating an objective part and a manipulation portion provided close to a proximal end of the insertion portion. The operator can move the insertion portion forward and backward at least relative to the channel by operating the manipulation portion in a state the endoscopic surgical instrument is inserted in the channel of the endoscope. In this manner, by the manipulation portion, the endoscopic surgical instrument can be operated to move forward and backward relative to the channel. Therefore in case the manipulation portion is located close to a channel entrance (forceps port) of the endoscope, the operator of the endoscope is able to manipulate the endoscopic surgical instrument without assistance from others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventor: Keita Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20100130817
    Abstract: Devices are provided for manipulating tissue during a surgical procedure. In certain embodiments, an end effector is operably coupled to the end of an elongate shaft. The end effector has at least one tissue support linkage movably coupled thereto such that upon application of a first actuation force thereto, the tissue support linkage moves laterally outward from within the end effector to enable the surgeon to manipulate/support adjacent tissue therewith. Upon application of another actuation force to the tissue support linkage, the tissue support linkage is caused to move substantially completely within the outer perimeter of the end effector to enable the end effector to be inserted through a lumen/opening or passageway. In various embodiments, the end effector may be selectively articulateable relative to the elongate shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Sean P. Conlon
  • Publication number: 20100125165
    Abstract: In an endoscope system, a nasal endoscope for entry in a first external nostril of a patient includes a first elongated tube, a first distal portion thereof, an imaging window, an instrument channel, a handle section, and a steering section. An assist device for entry in a second nostril includes a second elongated tube, a second distal portion thereof, and a working channel with a greater inner diameter than the instrument channel. A retaining device retains the second distal portion on the first distal portion removably and equidirectionally, to cause a second distal end surface to contact a lower peripheral part outside a first distal end surface lower than a horizontal line passing a center point of the imaging window when the first distal end surface is viewed in a state of orienting an upper side of steering of the steering section in an upward direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Yuichi TORII, Haruhiko Arai, Takehiko Koga, Toshiyuki Ikeda, Masaya Inoue, Masahiro Seki, Tomoharu Nishino, Shozo Iyama
  • Publication number: 20100121141
    Abstract: An endoscope for visualizing and operating upon a surgical site within a human body employs an elongated tubular body adapted to be inserted through bodily passages so that the distal end is adjacent the surgical site. The body has a flexible section, at least proximal to the distal end, and manually adjustable bending controls at the proximal end may be manipulated to impose bending forces on the distal end to steer the distal end to the surgical site. A fluid turbine supported for rotation adjacent the distal end is powered by fluids pumped through a passage so as to rotate the turbine. The various cutters and debriding tools may be attached to the distal ends so that they are rotated by the turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Rontal
  • Publication number: 20100113873
    Abstract: A suturing device for suturing tissues by using a suturing unit having an anchor mounted to an end portion of a suturing thread is provided, the suturing device including: a pair of first and second jaws which are opened or closed so as to grip the tissue; a hollow needle tube which receives the anchor in an inner cavity thereof; and a pusher which is inserted through the needle tube in a freely advancing and retracting manner and is capable of pushing the anchor received in the needle tube toward a distal end of the needle tube, in which the needle tube is disposed so as to intersect the first jaw and to allow the distal end thereof to face the second jaw, and in which, when the tissue is gripped by the first and second jaws, the needle tube is inserted into the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Takayuki Suzuki, Tetsuya Yamamoto, Shinji Takahashi, Satoko Suzuki, Takahiro Kogasaka
  • Patent number: 7708685
    Abstract: An endoscope operating instrument system which includes a back-and-forth movement mechanism for providing a back-and-forth movement drive force required to operate a forceps located at a distal end of the operating instrument and an insertion/withdrawal mechanism designed to insert and withdraw the insert section via an endoscope channel. A winding unit for winding the insert section of the operating instrument is provided and the insertion/withdrawal mechanism is adapted to insert and withdraw the insert section by rotating the winding unit together with the back-and-forth movement mechanism. Thus, a compact system structure is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventor: Tsutomu Okada
  • Patent number: 7699836
    Abstract: A treatment tool for an endoscope, having a flexible sheath being made of electrically insulating material to be inserted through an instrument channel of the endoscope, an operation wire, which is adapted to be advanced and retracted in an axial direction of the sheath inside the sheath, a treatment instrument, which is arranged at a distal portion of the treatment tool and is adapted to be protruded and retracted from a distal end of the sheath, and a fluid channel with an opening, through which fluid is ejected toward the treatment instrument, is provided. The operation wire and the fluid channel are arranged inside the sheath in parallel with an axis of the sheath. The treatment instrument is connected to the operation wire in a laterally displaced position with respect to the operation wire, and is arranged in front of the opening of the fluid channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventors: Noriyuki Sugita, Satoshi Kidooka
  • Publication number: 20100094083
    Abstract: An endoscopic stitching device is provided including a handle assembly supporting a manually operated suture needle loading assembly; a tool assembly operatively supported on and connected to the handle assembly; a suture needle operatively associated with the tool assembly, wherein the tool assembly includes a pair of juxtaposed jaws pivotally associated with one another; and an actuation cable extending between the handle assembly and the tool assembly, wherein axial displacement of the actuation shaft results in opening and closing of the jaws and rotation of the actuation cable results in selective retention of the suture needle in the jaws. A proximal end of the actuation cable is connected to the suture needle loading assembly such that actuation of the suture needle loading assembly imparts rotation to the actuation cable to selectively engage the suture needle in one of the jaws.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventors: Eric J. Taylor, Peter Hathaway, Kevin Sniffin, Kenneth W. Horton
  • Patent number: 7691055
    Abstract: A grasping apparatus for use with an elevator of an endoscope having enhanced grasping features for grasping an elongate medical device is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a body comprising a grasping surface and an opening formed through the grasping surface to receive the elevator. The opening of the body is configured to be disposed about the elevator of the endoscope. The grasping surface is configured to be disposed on the elevator for grasping of the elongate medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Wilson-Cook Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew P. Carter, Gregory J. Skerven
  • Patent number: 7691054
    Abstract: An endoscope system comprises an endoscope, a treatment instrument cartridge, an advancing and retracting device, a controlling device, and an operation instructing device. The endoscope includes a treatment instrument channel in an inserting portion. The treatment instrument cartridge includes a treatment instrument and a storage case. The treatment instrument includes a treatment instrument inserting portion having an elasticity which is inserted through the treatment instrument channel, a treatment section at the tip end thereof, and an operating portion at the base end thereof. The storage case includes an inserting portion storing section into which the treatment instrument inserting portion is wound, an extension port from which the tip end of the wound treatment instrument inserting portion is extended, and a holding section for holding the base end of the treatment instrument inserting portion or the operating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Kazushi Murakami, Takaaki Komiya, Hiroaki Ichikawa, Yoshio Onuki, Yasuhito Kura, Takehiro Nishiie, Kazuki Honda
  • Publication number: 20100069710
    Abstract: A treatment method for a tissue in a body cavity of a patient includes the steps of endoscopically introducing treatment tools into the body cavity of the patient from a natural opening of the patient, and setting the posture of the patient to a prone position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: Ken Yamatani, Takayasu Mikkaichi, Kazushi Murakami, Kosuke Motai, Ayano Ishioka, Kunihide Kaji
  • Publication number: 20100063354
    Abstract: A manipulation mechanism of the present invention includes an oscillating body which is disposed on a first imaginary plane, where first and second imaginary planes are parallel to each other with respect to a manipulation reference plane; and a holding body which is disposed on the second imaginary plane so as to regulate an oscillating locus of the oscillating body, wherein the oscillating body is provided with first and second convex portions which are spaced from each other and protrude toward the holding body, wherein the holding body is provided with first and second groove portions which respectively guide the first and second convex portions, and wherein the first and second groove portions are formed to be closer to each other in a direction away from the manipulation reference plane on one side of the manipulation reference plane from a point on the manipulation reference plane as a start point
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Tatsutoshi HASHIMOTO, Takumi DEJIMA
  • Publication number: 20100063353
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a surgical equipment, having a proximal portion and a distal portion at least reversibly or temporarily interconnected along a main longitudinal axis (shaft P:D); said proximal portion is insertable into a body cavity, and having at least one manoeuvrable effecter; said effecter is adapted to be either manoeuvred linearly along said axis (linear effecter) or to be manoeuvred rotationally around said axis (rotational effecter); said distal portion comprising a handset located outside the body; said handset is adapted to manoeuvre said effecter with either a linear motion along said axis (linear handset) or a rotational motion around said axis (rotational handset); said effecter comprising a proximal effecting means and a distal converter; said converter translates either linear motion to rotational motion or rotational motion to linear motion; so as said rotational effecter is adaptable to a linear handset, and vice versa, a linear effecter is adaptable to a rotational handset.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: ROEI MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Eliahu Eliachar, Nir Lilach
  • Publication number: 20100063345
    Abstract: An endoscopic medical tool is endoscopically inserted into a body cavity in order to eject a member into the body cavity, and includes: a flexible sheath having an inner cavity; an elastically deformable stopper which is provided projecting out toward the inner cavity in a distal end portion of the sheath, and prevents the member which has been loaded inside the sheath from falling out of the sheath; and a pusher which is inserted into the sheath in a freely advancing and retracting manner, and which pushes out and ejects the member from the sheath. In the endoscopic medical tool, the stopper is formed in only a partial region of the inner cavity so that the stopper does not continuously formed over the entire circumference of the inner cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Masaru YUASA