Abstract: A surgical access device including a cannula body, a fixation mechanism, and an illumination mechanism is disclosed. The fixation mechanism includes a collar, a sleeve, an expandable member, and a distal ring. The illumination mechanism includes at least one light disposed on the expandable member, and a switch. Distal translation of the collar relative to an elongated portion of the cannula body causes the expandable member to move from a first position defining a first gap between a mid-portion of the expandable member and the elongated portion of the cannula body, to a second position defining a second gap between the mid-portion of the expandable member and the elongated portion of the cannula body, the second gap being greater than the first gap.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an antimicrobial protection device using antibacterial and virucidal electromagnetic energy to provide protection. Electromagnetic energy may be supplied by light source(s) such as LED(s). Lighting apparatus may be configured to project electromagnetic energy in an energy barrier over an individual or portion thereof, such as the individual's airways and eyes. Light source(s) may be constructed or configured to emit electromagnetic energy in wavelengths at about 405 nm and/or between about 200 nm to about 220 nm. Lighting apparatus may be configured in a ring and may be mounted above the user's head such that the lighting apparatus projects a bactericidal and/or virucidal curtain of light around the user's head, killing or inactivating microbes before reaching the user's eyes, nose, or mouth. Apparatus of the present disclosure may be useful for medically fragile children (including those in wheelchairs), medically fragile people, and medical personnel in high-risk infectious areas.

Abstract: Disclosed is a laryngoscope blade and a laryngoscope. In order to solve the problem that the small-sized catheter is not in place, the present disclosure is provided with an elastic mechanism at the distal end of the guide groove of the laryngoscope blade, and the elastic mechanism can be elastically deformed. On one aspect, the top of small-sized catheter can be pressed against the spatula, and on the other aspect, the elastic mechanism is pushed away from the spatula by the large-sized one, so that the laryngoscope blade and the laryngoscope equipped with the laryngoscope blade can be adapted to fit different sizes of catheters, and the scope of application is wider With better effect.

Abstract: An applicator for positioning a sleeve accessory on a medical speculum, and a method for using the applicator, is provided. The applicator has a flat, oblong shape with a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end being broader than the distal end. The distal end of the applicator includes a first prong and a second prong. At least a portion of the distal end of the applicator is configured to slide into a lumen of a sleeve accessory to facilitate positioning of the sleeve accessory on a medical speculum.

Abstract: A support apparatus for a medical device includes a first sleeve, a second sleeve, and a flexible contact member. The first sleeve is configured to be coupled to a first tool member of an end effector assembly that includes the first tool member, a second tool member, and a clevis, in which the first and second tool members are each rotatably coupled to the clevis such that second tool member can be moved relative to the first tool member between a first and a second orientation. The second sleeve is configured to be coupled to the second tool member. The flexible contact member is coupled to the first sleeve and the second sleeve, and is configured be moved between a collapsed configuration when the second tool member is in the first orientation and an expanded configuration when the second tool member is in the second orientation.

Abstract: Guide tools for installation of fixation devices. At least one example embodiment includes: a delivery tube, the delivery tube defines a slot that runs from the distal end to the proximal end; a guide tube coupled to the delivery tube; and a handle coupled to the proximal end of the delivery tube and coupled to the proximal end of the guide tube. The handle may include a first channel into an interior of the delivery tube through the slot, and a receptacle in operational relationship to the delivery tube and the first channel.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a reversibly removable self-adjusting, perforating and/or guiding port configured to automatically retract a perforating blade or guiding rod upon entering a body cavity, while providing a substantially hermetic seal across the body cavity's wall.

Abstract: A laparoscopic tissue manipulator device includes a handle assembly, an elongate body, and a tool assembly. The tool assembly is supported on the distal portion of the elongate body and includes fingers. Each of the fingers includes a body having an elongate U-shaped configuration with a blunt distal end and an open interior and is secured to a distal portion of the elongate body about a first pivot member. The fingers are pivotable from a contracted position in which the fingers are aligned with each other and with the second longitudinal axis and an expanded position in which the fingers are splayed outwardly from the first pivot member at different angular positions in relation to the second longitudinal axis. A cover is supported on the each of the fingers to cover the open interior of the body of the fingers.

Abstract: A flexible surgical sheath and multi-part insertion cannula for inserting the flexible sheath in a cranial surgical tunnel for gaining access to a ventricle or other surgical target. An obturator or other elongated insertion member drives a sheath assembly into a surgical recess, typically a hole drilled through the skull and brain of the surgical patient. The inserted sheath assembly includes two or more rigid sheath portions disposed around the obturator. The obturator has a tapered or angled tip for guiding the sheath assembly through the surgical tunnel to a target region such as a ventricle or other brain structure for which surgical intervention is sought. Following insertion, the obturator is withdrawn and a flexible sheath inserted in an insertion tunnel defined by the rigid sheath portions.

Abstract: Embodiments include systems and methods for closure of a hole or other defect, for example in context of a laparoscopic surgical procedure. For example, a suturing device and method of use involve inserting the device into a hole, positioning material around the hole into a notch of the device, passing a needle through a cavity in the device and the material positioned in the notch, passing a suture through the eye of the needle, and removing the needle from the material with the suture. The suture can be removed and the process can be repeated with another end of the suture at another location through the material, around the hole. When the suture is passed through the second point of penetration, the suture can now extend both into and out of the material at different points around the hole and can be tied, thereby closing the hole.

Abstract: A speculum includes an upper blade, a lower blade, a link member, a handle portion, a curved portion, and a light source. The link member connects the upper blade and the lower blade to allow the upper blade and the lower blade to move between an open state and a close state. The curved portion connects the lower blade and the handle portion. The light source is disposed on the curved portion.

Abstract: A surgical device, an outer tube, an endoscope, and a treatment tool that have a simple configuration and excellent operability are provided. The outer tube includes a slider in an outer tube body. When the endoscope and the treatment tool are inserted into the outer tube, the endoscope and treatment tool are held by an endoscope holding part and a treatment tool holding part each being provided in the slider so as to be integrated. When the treatment tool is moved in the axial direction, the endoscope is moved in the axial direction in interlock with the movement. In the outer tube, the opening type hermetic valve part for the endoscope in a valve member has the inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the elastic member for causing the endoscope holding part to hold the endoscope.

Abstract: The invention comprises an apparatus (10) for covering an exposed end of a severed sternum, comprising a strip (12) operative to cover the exposed end and pliable portions (14) which are able to be manually deformed over sides of the exposed end so as to retain the strip (12) against the exposed end to stop or at least reduce flow of blood from the exposed end.

Abstract: A surgical access device includes a seal assembly having a seal housing and a gimbal mount disposed within the seal housing, the seal housing defining a central longitudinal axis and having a longitudinal passage for receiving at least one surgical object therethrough and the gimbal mount adapted for angular movement relative to the central longitudinal axis. The seal assembly also includes a bellows configured to engage at least a portion of the gimbal mount, the bellows dimensioned and adapted to establish a biasing relationship with the gimbal mount, such that the bellows biases the gimbal mount to align with the central longitudinal axis of the seal housing. The bellows is configured to be attached to a proximal wall of the seal housing.

Abstract: A suspension system for supporting surgical devices inside a patient's body cavity comprising an external frame, a plurality of elongated members extending from the external frame and through the patient's skin into the body cavity, and an internal platform located inside the body cavity. The internal platform includes a plurality of links reconfigurable from a first elongated position wherein the links are substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis for insertion to a second position wherein the links are angled with respect to one another to form a non-linear configuration. A first support of the external frame is movable with respect to the second support to thereby move the internal platform.

Abstract: Devices and methods for retracting tissue, such as bowels and organs, within the body of a patient are generally disclosed. In particular, the present disclosure describes surgical retractors having a series of intersecting strands defining openings there between, wherein the openings are enlargeable by slidable passage of the strands relative to one another. The present disclosure also teaches surgical retractors having a frame that defines a central opening and a supporting structure extending across the central opening and defining a plurality of openings, wherein the frame extends through the openings. In some embodiments, a surgical retractor comprises a monolithic polymeric structure extending across the central opening defined by a frame. Other embodiments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: Devices and methods for retracting tissue, such as bowels and organs, within the body of a patient are generally disclosed. In particular, the present disclosure describes surgical retractors having a series of intersecting strands defining openings there between, wherein the openings are enlargeable by slidable passage of the strands relative to one another. The present disclosure also teaches surgical retractors having a frame that defines a central opening and a supporting structure extending across the central opening and defining a plurality of openings, wherein the frame extends through the openings. In some embodiments, a surgical retractor comprises a monolithic polymeric structure extending across the central opening defined by a frame. Other embodiments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a laparoscopic trocar assembly are disclosed. The port assemblies include inserted parts that protect the patient's tissues at the point of deployment. The port assemblies include seals for maintaining pneumoperitoneum both when instrument are being used and when instruments are not inserted.

Abstract: A surgical access assembly includes an access port, a seal anchor and a sealing adapter. The access port includes proximal and distal rings and a sleeve defining a passage therethrough. The sleeve extends between the proximal and distal rings. The seal anchor is adapted to be at least partially disposed in the access port. The sealing adapter includes proximal and distal end portions. The distal end portion is configured and dimensioned to engage the seal anchor in a sealing relation therewith. The proximal end portion is configured and dimensioned to engage a least a portion of the distal ring of the access port in a sealing relation therewith, wherein the sealing adapter is transitionable between a first state in which the sealing adapter has a first diameter and a second state in which the sealing adapter has a second diameter. The second diameter is larger than the first diameter.

Abstract: A surgical access device for insertion into an opening in tissue includes an adjustable member at a proximal end which is transitionable between an un-deployed configuration where the adjustable member is rolled up proximally and a deployed configuration where the adjustable member is unrolled distally to allow for the use of the surgical access device in an opening having a larger size than the surgical access device. The surgical access device includes an elongate member which is adapted for insertion into an opening in tissue and including a lumen extending therethrough for the reception of a surgical instrument. An adjustable member extends from a proximal portion of the elongate member and is variable between the un-deployed configuration and the deployed configuration where the adjustable member extends distally from the proximal portion of the elongate member when in the deployed configuration to at least partially surround the elongate member.

Abstract: A composite anoscope for ano-rectal diagnostic and surgery, wherein the anoscope (2) also comprises an internal component (1), to be inserted therein, and a suitably shorter external component (3), ending with a conic frustum mantle (18), wherein the anoscope (2) is to be inserted. The three components (1, 2, 3) are all conic frustum shaped hollow bodies having circular cross-section. The internal component (1), when inserted in the anoscope (2), forms therewith a single body having a compact and smooth external surface and an ogival tip. The external component (3) is provided close to its mouth with slotted wings (19, 20), to be fixed to the perianal skin for securing the whole composite anoscope during the diagnostic and surgical operations.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for inserting prosthesis implants into a patient cavity. The apparatus includes a guide member, prosthesis manipulation pouch and a retractor. The apparatus prevents infection; prevents tears of the incision; eases insertion and placement; and provides a true no-touch operation. In use, the retractor anchors the guide member to the patient while allowing the manipulation pouch to be manipulated to force the prosthesis into a surgical cavity of a patient.

Abstract: A soft tissue retractor includes a retractor body and a proximal projection extends generally perpendicular to the proximal end of the retractor body. An illumination waveguide engages a slot in the retractor blade to provide illumination to a surgical site while maintaining total internal reflection in the waveguide. An illumination input is formed into the proximal end of the illumination waveguide for conducting light from a source to the illumination waveguide. The proximal projection is configured for application of counter traction without the need for squeezing the retractor body. The proximal projection may be weighted to balance the soft tissue retractor as well as enabling the retractor to provide counter traction by itself. The configuration of the proximal projection further enables self-retraction by including a flat foot to prevent rolling and sliding of the retractor when it is providing self-retraction.

Abstract: Described are various embodiments of surgical procedure systems, devices, tools, and methods, useful for treating pelvic conditions such as vaginal prolapse and other conditions caused by muscle and ligament weakness, the devices and tools being useful for accessing a posterior region of pelvic anatomy, and related methods. Such devices can include retractors, introducers, and other devices for accessing desired areas of a patient's anatomy.

Abstract: Various devices and methods are provided with respect to inserting multiple surgical instruments through a single surgical access device. A medical device including a flexible tissue retractor a releasable insert having multiple instrument openings, and a member such as a sleeve is disclosed. The insert can be in the form of an insert assembly including multiple components. The sleeve can support the insert with respect to the retractor such that the insert and sleeve can be removed together with the retractor remaining in the incision. A method of using the insert is also described.

Abstract: A surgical access assembly for positioning within an opening in tissue including an outer frame positionable outside a patient and defining an opening therein dimensioned to receive a surgical instrument therethrough. The outer frame includes a first portion, a second portion and a locking portion. An inner member is positionable within a patient and a flexible member extends between the inner member and outer frame and is spreadable by actuation of the outer frame.

Abstract: Presented is a device for use in a surgical procedure on an eye. The device includes an elongated member that includes a first elongated portion, a second elongated portion, and hook portion. The first elongated portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The second elongated portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the second elongated portion is coupled to the distal end of the first elongated portion. The second elongated portion extends from the first elongated portion at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the first elongated portion. The hook portion includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the hook portion is coupled to the distal end of the second elongated member.

Abstract: Apparatus, system, and methods are provided for reducing infectious agents at a sterile site by preventing infectious agents from coming into contact with the sterile site. A barrier is produced for infectious agents that may come in proximity or otherwise communicate with the site. The apparatus is configured to create a void-free barrier in which infectious agents are reduced with minimal exposure of potentially harmful effects of the barrier to the sterile site, objects, or users of the apparatus.

Abstract: A device for preventing the spread of bio-matter contagions when used in conjunction with a tongue depressor. The device includes a shield for intercepting the bio-matter contagions. The shield adjustably and removably secures along the tongue depressor. The device also includes a grip manipulator that extends from the shield. The grip manipulator adjustably engages the tongue depressor. The device also includes a window that provides viewing access through the shield.

Abstract: The protective tissue cover includes a sleeve configured to slide onto the working portion of a surgical retractor. At least the contact side of the protective tissue cover is constructed from smooth antimicrobial material that minimizes contact irritation with tissue. Alternative embodiments include various multiple-ply constructions that incorporate an antimicrobial layer, an absorbent layer, and other medical layers to assist in surgical procedures.

Abstract: A protective tissue cover having a sleeve configuration to slide onto the working portion of a surgical instrument, such as a retractor. At least the contact side of the protective tissue cover is constructed from smooth antimicrobial material that minimizes contact irritation with tissue. Alternative embodiments include various multiple-ply constructions that incorporate an antimicrobial layer, an absorbent layer, and other medical layers to assist in surgical procedures.

Abstract: A wound retractor (320) comprises a distal ring (3) for insertion through a wound opening (6), a proximal ring (4) for location externally of the wound opening (6), a valve (10) mounted to the proximal ring (4), and a sleeve (2) for retracting laterally the sides of the wound opening (6). The wound retractor (320) also comprises a flexible release member (81) for releasing the distal ring (3) from a retracting configuration for removal of the distal ring (3) from the wound opening (6). A first end (301) of the release member (81) is attached to the valve housing (102), the release member (81) loops around the distal ring (3), and a second end (302) of the release member (81) is movable relative to the proximal ring (4) to release the distal ring (3) from the retracting configuration.

Abstract: Various universal ports for installation into a colon are disclosed. Some embodiments include means for permitting an anvil of a surgical stapler to pass through a port in a first direction and means for permitting a portion of the patient's colon to pass through the port in a second direction. Some embodiments also employ a flexible sleeve that may extend from the port out through the anus to provide a passageway for passing surgical instruments into and out of the rectum and also for removing severed specimens therefrom.

Abstract: A surgical access assembly includes a sleeve and a port. The sleeve is adapted for insertion within tissue to access an underlying tissue site. The sleeve defines a first passage therethrough. The first passage has a first diameter. The port defines one or more second passages extending therethrough. The port is adapted for insertion within the first passage of the sleeve in a substantially sealed relationship therewith. The one or more second passages are adapted for a substantially sealed reception of a surgical object therethrough. The one or more second passages have one or more second diameters. The port is selectively removably positionable within the first passage of the sleeve. The first diameter is greater than the one or more second diameters.

Abstract: A stoma dilator having a base dilator and a plurality of dilators coaxially disposed over the base dilator. The base dilator has a hub and an opening therethrough. Each of the plurality of dilators has a tapered distal end, a proximal end, and a tubular body, and are held in separated, telescoping position by a dilator positioner such that part of each distal end is exposed from beneath another dilator and is graspable for movement such that a smaller dilator does not become inaccessible inside of a larger dilator. The stoma dilator includes a hollow sheath positioned over an outermost dilator to hold open a tissue opening created by the plurality of dilators. The base dilator and the plurality of dilators may be removed while the sheath remains in a tissue opening. Another device may be inserted through the sheath, and the sheath may be peeled away therefrom.

Abstract: A guard and guide apparatus and method is used with a speculum having jaws in a vagina to define a passage toward a cervix at an end of the vagina. The guard and guide apparatus has a guard body movable into the passage, the guard body having sides, a top and a bottom defining a tunnel toward the cervix for preventing contact between a probe and walls of the vagina. Flexible cervix panels are at the inner end of the guard body and extend toward the fornix of the cervix for covering the fornix to protect it from contact by the probe. A support fulcrum is provided in the guard body tunnel at a location between inner and outer ends of the guard body for supporting the probe handle to help a practitioner hold the probe handle steady and aim the probe accurately to a selected location on the cervix.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in surgery comprises a sleeve (1) having an entry opening (4) at an outer end and an exit opening (5) at an inner end to access a patient's body. Exit sealing means (10) are provided for sealing the exit opening (5) to a body. Entry sealing means (20) are provided for sealing the outer entry against an arm passing therethrough to create a controlled environment within the sleeve. A valve (101) comprises an outer ring (105,106) and a sealing sleeve (107) of flexible material mounted to the ring (105,106) and extending into the opening defined by the ring to terminate in a substantially centrally disposed inlet opening (108).

Abstract: A disposable multi-planar speculum including a perforated flexible membrane adapted for examination and biopsy.

Abstract: A wound retractor device comprises a distal member for insertion into a wound opening, a proximal member for location externally of the wound opening, a connecting member extending at least between the distal member and the proximal member. At least part of the connecting member is movable relative to the proximal member to shorten the length of the connecting member located between the distal member and the proximal member and thereby retract laterally the sides of the wound opening. At least part of the connecting member is movable relative to the proximal member by a guide slot through which the connecting member changes its direction to substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the wound retractor device.

Abstract: A surgical access assembly and method of use is disclosed, including an access member, a tissue engaging member, a sleeve extending from a portion of the membrane, and a fastening member to couple the access member and the sleeve. The access member includes proximal and distal ends, at least one lumen disposed therethrough, and defines a longitudinal axis. The tissue engaging member includes a membrane having proximal and distal ends with opposing openings, and a passage therethrough for receiving the access member. A length of the tissue engaging member may be selectively adjustable by a user so as to provide a retraction force. The sleeve extends proximally from a portion of the membrane. The sleeve has a proximal end and a distal end with opposing openings, the distal end of the sleeve defined by a portion of the membrane. A fastening member couples the access member and the sleeve.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to minimally-invasive devices, methods and systems used through small access portals to minimize trauma to structures adjacent the treatment site. The access device includes a guide frame and a cannula support washer movebly coupled to the guide frame. The washer has a cannula port aperture extending therethrough and a surface geometry complementary to the surface geometry of the guide frame. The complementary surface geometries limit movement of the cannula port aperture to arcuate movement along a surface segment of a sphere.

Abstract: A dilator delivered nerve shield assembly is presented. The dilator delivered nerve shield assembly has an elongate dilator shaft with a distal end and a proximal end. The dilator delivered nerve shield assembly also has an elongate nerve shield that is configured for simultaneous insertion with the elongate dilator shaft.

Abstract: A surgical access assembly and method of use is disclosed, including an access member, a tissue engaging member, a sleeve extending from a portion of the membrane, and a fastening member to couple the access member and the sleeve. The access member includes proximal and distal ends, at least one lumen disposed therethrough, and defines a longitudinal axis. The tissue engaging member includes a membrane having proximal and distal ends with opposing openings, and a passage therethrough for receiving the access member. A length of the tissue engaging member may be selectively adjustable by a user so as to provide a retraction force. The sleeve extends proximally from a portion of the membrane. The sleeve has a proximal end and a distal end with opposing openings, the distal end of the sleeve defined by a portion of the membrane. A fastening member couples the access member and the sleeve.

Abstract: A retractor includes a base. A blade is connected to the base and extends between a first end and a second end. The blade includes at least one cavity configured to facilitate movement of the second end relative to the blade. A first member is disposed with the first end and connected to the second end. The first member is engageable to dispose the second end between a first linear orientation and a second non-linear orientation. Systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A retractor cover apparatus and associated methods is disclosed. The retractor cover apparatus includes a first sheet having a fluid absorbent material. A second sheet has a medical instrument deflection material. A fastening element is positioned substantially along a periphery of the first sheet and the second sheet, wherein at least a portion of the second sheet is affixed to at least a portion of the first sheet by the fastening element. An unfastened peripheral section of the first sheet and the second sheet form a pocket sized to receive at least a portion of a retractor blade between the first sheet and the second sheet.

Abstract: A retractor including an excluding portion having an obtuse distal end, an introduction portion extending from the excluding portion, and a handle portion provided at a proximal end of the introduction portion. The excluding portion and the introduction portion each have an outer diameter that allows insertion into a treatment instrument channel of an endoscope. The excluding portion is configured by a movable wire and a plurality of fixed wires, the movable wire extends through the introduction portion, proximal ends of the fixed wires are fixed to a distal end of the introduction portion, and a distal end of the movable wire and distal ends of the fixed wires are joined to each other. A proximal end of the movable wire is pulled with the handle portion toward the handle portion so the excluding portion develops a cocoon shape. The retractor is useful in minimally-invasive surgery.

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.

Abstract: A surgical wound retractor is adapted to dilate a wound stretchable to a desired diameter through body cavities of varying thicknesses. The retractor includes a first ring having a diameter greater than that desired for the wound and being adapted for disposition interiorly of the wound, a second ring having a diameter greater than that desired for the wound and is adapted for disposition exteriorly of the wound, and a sheath disposed between the two rings. Optionally, the second ring may be detachably attached to the sheath to adapt the retractor to body cavities of varying thickness. Additional rings may be disposed along the sheath to provide for adjustment of the distance between the first and second rings. The retractor may also include an expandable foam annulus that can adjust the distance between the first and second rings.

Abstract: The Surgical Visual Field Enhancer is used to improve the visual field under a limited skin incision. It includes various parts to make the surgeon's work easier, such as the removable handle, the tunnel opening guide, the tunnel dilator, the lighting tool and the lighting transmitter. Initially, the user holds the surgical tool body of the surgical visual field enhancer and uses the tunnel opening end to create a tunnel through the soft tissue. The tunnel opening end is composed of the tunnel opening tip and the enlargement scalpel for tunnel enlargement. The distance marker and guard are used for depth estimation, in some cases, the tunnel opening guide can be inserted in the soft tissue to guide the tunnel creation. The tunnel dilator will follow the tunnel opening guide to create the tunnel to the operative site. When the tunnel has been created, the visual enhancer end is inserted to enhance the surgical visual field.

Abstract: A speculum is provided, comprising two or more blades moveable between an open and a closed position. A tubular sheath is attached to at least one of the blades, the sheath being arranged to retain the lateral walls of the body cavity when the blades are in the open position. Sheath attachment means provided on one of the speculum blades facilitate attachment of the sheath to the blade, the attachment means comprising at least one patch or strip of adhesive material extending in a longitudinal direction of the blade.