Inflatable Patents (Class 600/207)
  • Patent number: 6620181
    Abstract: A fluid operated retractor for use in surgery. The retractor has a portion that is expandable upon the introduction of fluid under pressure. The expandable portion, is made of a material strong enough, and is inflated to enough pressure, to spread adjoining tissues within the body. The retractor is especially useful in fiber optic surgery because it can be inserted percutaneously through a small opening then expanded to a much larger dimension when in the desired location, to retract tissue from within. The retractor may be used to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a shoulder joint, or may be used to separate tissue planes generally, to improve visualization and create a working space for the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6605037
    Abstract: An inflatable retraction apparatus is provided for retracing an organ inside a body to gain access to an adjacent tissue. The apparatus includes an able chamber formed from a single thin envelope, and capable of being collapsed for insertion through an incision and being expanded to a predetermined shape for retracing the organ. An inflation mechanism is adapted to selectively inflate the chamber to the predetermined shape. The inflation mechanism includes at least one inflation tube attached to the inflatable chamber in fluid communication theretween, and an inflatable maintaining lattice operatively enveloping the inflatable chamber and in operative association with the inflation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Frederic H. Moll, Charles Gresl, Jr., Albert K. Chin, Philip K. Hopper
  • Patent number: 6592602
    Abstract: Apparatus for creating an anatomic space in tissue in a body including an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A blunt tip is secured to the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided. The balloon assembly is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a deflated collapsed balloon. A sheath encloses the balloon and is carried by the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a weakened region extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed to release the balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Peartree, Thomas J. Palermo, Shigeru Tanaka, Ferolyn T. Powell
  • Patent number: 6578577
    Abstract: A hand access device for use in hand assisted laparoscopic surgery comprises a substantially tubular inflatable sleeve of pliable gas tight material having a twisted inner sleeve section and an outer sleeve section. The device has an inner O-ring for insertion through a wound opening in the abdominal wall and an outer O-ring for location outside of the wound opening. On insertion of a surgeon's arm the sleeve everts while monitoring a reduced lumen seal to the arm and a seal to the wound openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Atropos Limited
    Inventors: Frank Bonadio, Ronan Bernard McManus, Derek William Young, Alan Reid, Alfred Cushieri
  • Patent number: 6565562
    Abstract: For creating a hole in body tissue and then enlarging the hole, a guidewire has a continuous diameter guidewire body having a proximal end and a distal end, a distal portion including an electrically conductive exposed tip for creating a perforation when RF current is applied and for preventing the creation of a perforation when RF current is not applied. For expanding the hole, a dilator region is provided between the distal end of the guidewire body and the distal portion for expanding the hole, and has a tapered profile. Also for expanding the hole, an inflatable balloon is located circumferentially on the guidewire body, and a catheter located on the guidewire body and in communication with the balloon for delivery of fluid to the balloon for its inflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Baylis Medical Company Inc.
    Inventors: Krishan Shah, Frank Baylis
  • Patent number: 6565590
    Abstract: Laparoscopic apparatus and method for insertion into a space or potential space in a body comprising an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is provided and is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A tunneling member is mounted on the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided which is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a balloon wrapped about said tunneling shaft. A sheath is provided which encloses the balloon on the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a slit extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed whereby the balloon can be released and inflated. A tubular member is provided which has a balloon inflation lumen thereon and is coupled to the balloon for inflating said balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Patent number: 6562056
    Abstract: A balloon device useful for dissecting tissue or retracting tissue for the purpose of providing space for laproscopic surgery includes a balloon having at least two protuberances in its distal region. The present device is particularly useful in bladder neck suspension and hernia repair procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Jervis
  • Publication number: 20030078473
    Abstract: A catheter system is provided that permits easy cannulation and radiological examination of the biliary and pancreatic ducts during an Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatograhy (ERCP) procedure. The system of biliary catheters provides for a method of gaining access to the biliary tree, particularly when the contralateral wall or septum of the biliary tree interferes with access to the biliary tree. This anatomical interference is remedied using a pulling biliary catheter that withdraws the papilla of Vater away from the contralateral wall or septum by pulling proximally upon a chute expanded within the papilla of Vater. The enlarged opening then permits additional medical devices to be advanced through the pulling biliary catheter into the desired duct requiring the ERCP procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin Richardson
  • Publication number: 20030069476
    Abstract: An unrolling inflatable speculum comprising an insertion device, wherein said insertion device comprises a mandrel having a shaft portion and a head portion, a baffled bladder, wherein said baffled bladder comprises an open cell structure and an at least one such that access is permitted through the surface of said bladder through said opening, and an inflation mechanism, wherein said inflation mechanism is comprised of a handheld bulb-pump and an inflation line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Richard J. Deslauriers, Robert T. Potash, Lewis W. Chappel
  • Patent number: 6540764
    Abstract: An expansible tunneling apparatus and assosiated methods for creating an anatomic working space for a surgical procedure such as a hernia repair. Various embodiments of one and two piece apparatus that permit laparoscopic observation both during tunneling and during subsequent balloon dissection are disclosed. In a disclosed one piece embodiment, a tubular member has a bore extending therethrough and an open distal end. A lip is formed in the distal end of the tubular member to capture the distal tip of a laparoscope that is inserted into the tubular member to permit observation of the procedure both during tunneling to a desired location and during subsequent balloon inflation. An elongated neck of the balloon is secured to the tunneling member. The elongated neck permits the tubular member to be withdrawn slightly from the balloon after inflation to facilitate observation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Jan M. Echeverry, Thomas A. Howell, James E. Jervis, Helmut Kayan, Janine C. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6514272
    Abstract: Laparoscopic apparatus and method for insertion into a space or potential space in a body including an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is provided and is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A tunneling member is mounted on the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided which is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a balloon wrapped about said tunneling shaft. A sheath is provided which encloses the balloon on the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a slit extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed whereby the balloon can be released and inflated. A tubular member is provided which has a balloon inflation lumen thereon and is coupled to the balloon for inflating said balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Publication number: 20030014076
    Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable balloon in the shape of a dumbbell, where the balloon may be stored within a cannula for easy placement in an incision and inflated to deploy the balloon inside the body, and a portion of the balloon expands inside the cannula, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a laparoscopic workspace while the balloon is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short surgical instruments during laparoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Publication number: 20030009187
    Abstract: The present invention provides balloon dissection apparatus and methods of use in which an elongate balloon is utilized to dissect along a region that follows a naturally existing path alongside a vessel or structure, such as au artery, a vein, a lymphatic vessel, the trachea, the esophagus, or even a nerve bundle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas J. Fogarty, George D. Hermann, Jan M. Echeverry, Kenneth H. Mollenauer
  • Patent number: 6503265
    Abstract: A minimally invasive device for performing direct cardiac massage including an inflatable bladder mounted on a rigid inflation tube. The rigid inflation tube is used to push the bladder into the sternocostal space through an incision in the upper abdomen just below the xiphoid process. After insertion into the sternocostal space, the bladder is repeatedly inflated and deflated to massage the heart and provide blood flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Revivant Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Fogarty, Timothy James Ryan
  • Publication number: 20020183594
    Abstract: A device for retracting edges of an incision in a surface to form an opening including: a flexible, tubular skirt having an upper end, a lower end, and a channel therebetween; a ring connected to the lower end of the skirt for maintaining the lower end in an open configuration and defining an exit opening to the channel; and an inflatable collar connected to the skirt and surrounding the upper end. The ring is designed to fit through the incision and remain under the surface when it is oriented parallel to surface. The collar, when inflated, maintains the upper end in an open configuration and defines an entry opening to the channel. During use, the ring is inserted through the incision and the collar is inflated while remaining outside of the incision, thereby drawing the skirt against he edges of the incision and retracting the edges of the incision to form the opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: University of Massachuetts, a Massachusetts corporation
    Inventors: Richard Beane, Steve Ek, Allison C. Niemann, Maureen E. Carroll, Randall J. Hasslinger, Edward I. Stamm, Javier Verdura
  • Patent number: 6451042
    Abstract: A retractor for use in arthroscopic surgery. The retractor has a mechanical expanding portion for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor also has a fluid-operated expanding portion, which may be independently controllable, for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor is inserted through a small percutaneous opening, expanded in sub-surface tissues without significantly damaging the tissue, then collapsed after use for removal. The retractor can be manipulated to allow the surgeon to push or pull or lever on tissue. The retractor can be hollow like a cannula to permit the passage of one or more surgical devices through the retractor, with a side portal into the center of the retractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6447529
    Abstract: The present invention provides balloon dissection apparatus and methods of use in which an elongate balloon is utilized to dissect along a region that follows a naturally existing path alongside a vessel or structure, such as an artery, a vein, a lymphatic vessel, the trachea, the esophagus, or even a nerve bundle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Fogarty, George D. Hermann, Jan M. Echeverry, Kenneth H. Mollenauer
  • Patent number: 6447489
    Abstract: A laparoscopic access apparatus enabling the removal of tissue or other debris from a surgical site. A catheter having a longitudinal access is provided with a flexible internal sleeve having distal and proximal ends. The sleeve forms an inner channel through which laparoscopic surgical instruments may be passed. The sleeve is mounted with axial tautness along one side of the catheter, it is provided with a loose, baggy portion elsewhere in the catheter defining an inflatable cavity between the catheter and sleeve. A gas port is positioned to enable gas under pressure from a body cavity to enter the inflatable cavity adjacent the distal end thereof to thereby collapse the sleeve and seal the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgey, Inc.
    Inventor: Francis C. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6440063
    Abstract: A device for retracting edges of an incision in a surface to form an opening including: a flexible, tubular skirt having an upper end, a lower end, and a channel therebetween; a ring connected to the lower end of the skirt for maintaining the lower end in an open configuration and defining an exit opening to the channel; and an inflatable collar connected to the skirt and surrounding the upper end. The ring is designed to fit through the incision and remain under the surface when it is oriented parallel to surface. The collar, when inflated, maintains the upper end in an open configuration and defines an entry opening to the channel. During use, the ring is inserted through the incision and the collar is inflated while remaining outside of the incision, thereby drawing the skirt against the edges of the incision and retracting the edges of the incision to form the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: University of Massachusetts
    Inventors: Richard Beane, Steve Ek, Allison C. Niemann, Maureen E. Carroll, Randall J. Hasslinger, Edward I. Stamm, Jr., Javier Verdura
  • Publication number: 20020107539
    Abstract: Laparoscopic apparatus and method for insertion into a space or potential space in a body comprising an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is provided and is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A tunneling member is mounted on the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided which is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a balloon wrapped about said tunneling shaft. A sheath is provided which encloses the balloon on the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a slit extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed whereby the balloon can be released and inflated. A tubular member is provided which has a balloon inflation lumen thereon and is coupled to the balloon for inflating said balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Applicant: General Surgical Innovations
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Patent number: 6422997
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for improved administration of brachytherapy in the treatment of prostate disease. More particularly, a prostate visualization device is provided comprising a disk-shaped bladder neck balloon that sealing engages and defines an enclosed space within a proximal region of a patient's bladder. The device is preferably coupled to a catheter for injection of echo-contrast agent into the enclosed space to facilitate imaging of the patient's bladder/prostate junction with an ultrasound system. The device may alternatively be radiopaque. Apparatus for selectively stiffening the catheter is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Neoseed Technology LLC
    Inventors: Thomas C. Green, Michael J. Horzewski
  • Publication number: 20020091405
    Abstract: Laparoscopic apparatus and method for insertion into a space or potential space in a body comprising an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is provided and is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A tunneling member is mounted on the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided which is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a balloon wrapped about said tunneling shaft. A sheath is provided which encloses the balloon on the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a slit extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed whereby the balloon can be released and inflated. A tubular member is provided which has a balloon inflation lumen thereon and is coupled to the balloon for inflating said balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Applicant: General Surqical Innovations
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Patent number: 6390093
    Abstract: An artificial airway device used to facilitate lung ventilation in an unconscious patient, and methods for using and inserting an artificial airway device. The device includes a curved but flexible airway tube and a mask portion. A mask opening portion is shaped so as to fit closely adjacent and closely over the patient's laryngeal opening. A seating tip includes a series of thin, flexible fins or gills which project from a finger portion extending from the mask opening portion. The fins or gills seat against the pharyngeal side of the cricoid, just above the esophagus. The mask portion can be anchored against a relatively hard surface without causing damage to delicate tissue in the esophagus. The seating tip provides a reference for the person inserting the artificial airway device which ensures that the mask portion is properly in place and adequately anchored. The artificial airway also includes an inflatable cuff used to anchor the artificial airway in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Vital Signs, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas R. Mongeon
  • Patent number: 6371910
    Abstract: An inflatable manipulator for organ manipulation during surgery is disclosed. The system typically includes an inflatable balloon connected to an infusion source where the balloon is either coupled to a relatively rigid platform or fitted with a positioning structure such as a pocket. In open heart surgery, the platform is used to position and stabilize the balloon under the heart. In minimally invasive surgery, the balloon fitted with the pocket and can be rolled into a narrow configuration and inserted through a small incision using an insertion device. The insertion device can then be removed once the manipulator is in position. In use, the balloon of the manipulator is inflated by the infusion source thereby elevating and tilting the organ to the desired position for surgical access. Systems including multiple chamber manipulators each with a separate infusion source are also disclosed, as are combined methods for cooling organs during surgery and for using the manipulators to separate adhesions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans J. Zwart, Lawrence R. Tyler, Thomas J. Palermo, Kevin Van Bladel, Roderick A. Young, James E. Jervis
  • Patent number: 6368337
    Abstract: Apparatus for creating an anatomic spade in tissue in a body comprising an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A blunt tip is secured to the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided. The balloon assembly is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a deflated collapsed balloon. A sheath encloses the balloon and is carried by the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a weakened region extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed to release the balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort, Helmut L. Kayan
  • Patent number: 6364892
    Abstract: An expansible tunneling apparatus and associated methods for creating an anatomic working space for a surgical procedure. Various embodiments of one and two piece apparatus that permit laparoscopic observation both during tunneling and during subsequent balloon dissection are disclosed. In a disclosed one piece embodiment, a tubular member has a bore extending therethrough and an open distal end. A lip is formed in the distal end of the tubular member to capture the distal tip of a laparoscope that is inserted into the tubular member to permit observation of the procedure both during tunneling to a desired location and during subsequent balloon inflation. An elongated neck of the balloon is secured to the tunneling member. The elongated neck permits the tubular member to be withdrawn slightly from the balloon after inflation to facilitate observation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Jervis
  • Patent number: 6361543
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for separating a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue. An inflatable balloon is mounted to a delivery device. The inflatable balloon has a first, inwardly-displaced portion which everts when the balloon is inflated. The balloon is inserted into a patient between the first and second tissue layers when the balloon is in the deflated state. The balloon is then inflated so that the first portion is everted thereby minimizing trauma to the tissue layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: Albert K. Chin, Jeffrey A. Smith, John P. Lunsford, Frederic H. Moll
  • Patent number: 6360750
    Abstract: Devices are currently implanted in patients to treat pain and other conditions including incontinence by delivering stimulants to the nervous system. Surgical methods are improved for implanting the devices. The soft tissues of the body are dilated above the site of device implantation, for example, above the sacrum, to create an annulus of dilated soft tissues. The tissues are dilated by introducing into the soft tissue sequentially larger cannulated dilating devices. A tubular retractor is then passed over the largest introduced dilating device and at least a number of the dilating devices are retracted. This establishes a tubular device insertion corridor through the dilated soft tissues to the site of implantation, for example, the foramen of the sacrum. The device to be implanted, such as an electrical lead, is then inserted through the corridor. The device is tested in situ. Finally, such other method steps are performed, including closing the corridor, as implantation requires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Theodore Gerber, Michael C. Sherman
  • Patent number: 6358266
    Abstract: An active cannula or sleeve which does more than merely maintain a channel or passage is usable to create and/or enlarge a channel or passage, to position a scope or instrument, to move or locate tissue, etc. The cannula can vary in size or shape as needed, intraoperatively. Because a cannula of the present invention is expandable, the surgeon can make a small relatively small incision, stretch the tissue with the expandable cannula, contract the cannula and remove it, allowing the skin to come back to its unstretched condition. Thus, a smaller incision can be made to fit the same size instrument. This results in less trauma and scarring and an easier operation. The cannulas are or can assume such a non-circular shape, to fit into a natural skin opening and cause less trauma. The devices can be used to seal off a space; to expand an existing space or a potential space for working or visualization; to move tissue (for example, to stretch an incision) or to protect it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Publication number: 20020032456
    Abstract: A balloon device useful for dissecting tissue or retracting tissue for the purpose of providing space for laproscopic surgery comprising a balloon having at least two protuberances in its distal region. The present device is particularly useful in bladder neck suspension and hernia repair procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: James E. Jervis
  • Publication number: 20020022770
    Abstract: The present invention provides a contact surface between the blade of a surgical retractor and an underlying tissue that directly reduces the injury of the tissue caused by the application of pressure during the retraction process. The embodiments of the present invention all use at least one inflatable chamber to form the contact surface, and the contact surface is then placed on the upper face of an otherwise plain surgical retractor blade. If a single inflatable chamber or interconnected group of inflatable chambers forms the retractor assembly's contact surface, it/they will be inflated and deflated in a cyclic manner to intermittently relieve the pressure applied to the underlying tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Mark K. Borsody
  • Patent number: 6312442
    Abstract: Method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic hernia repair comprising separating a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue for creating an anatomic operating space for the performance of a surgical procedure by making an incision through the first layer of tissue. A non-elastomeric deflated balloon is introduced into the incision. The balloon is inflated to cause separation of the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue to thereby produce an anatomic operating space. The balloon is then deflated and removed from the incision. The anatomic operating space is inflated with insufflation gas. A surgical procedure in then performed in the anatomic operating space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Publication number: 20010029388
    Abstract: A laparoscopic apparatus for tunneling dissection including a hollow tunneling member and an inflatable balloon disposed at the distal end of the tunneling member to form together a blunt tipped obturator. The tunneling member has a bore sized allow the insertion of a conventional laparoscope therein to provide observation during surgical procedures. The laparoscope provides direct observation of dissection through the open distal end of the tunneling member. Observation is provided both when the device is used to tunnel between tissue layers to a region of interest within the body of a patient, and during subsequent balloon inflation when the tissue layers are dissected to cause separation of the tissue layers and the creation of an anatomical working space. After the anatomic space has been created, the device and laparoscope are withdraw through the incision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Helmut Kayan, Jan M. Echeverry, Thomas A. Howell, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, James E. Jervis
  • Patent number: 6296654
    Abstract: A method for subdiaphragm hemorrhage control in a patient or for non-invasively enhancing cerebral and myocardial perfusion in a patient includes positioning a moveable surface through the esophagus adjacent the patient's esophageal-gastric junction and displacing the moveable surface thereby applying a force posteriorly in the direction of the patient's descending aorta sufficient to partially or substantially completely occlude the descending aorta. The moveable surface may be positionable in a lower portion of the esophagus where the esophagus and the aorta pass through the diaphragm or may be positioned in a portion of the patient's stomach juxtaposed with the patient's descending aorta.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: The Ohio State University Research Foundation
    Inventor: Kevin R Ward
  • Patent number: 6283940
    Abstract: A catheter for insertion into a cavity, duct, or vessel to permit injection or withdrawal of fluids or to establish patency of a passageway comprises an elongated tubular catheter body having a distal end and a proximal end and an outer diameter, a drainage lumen extending through the catheter body from the distal end to the proximal end, the drainage lumen communicating with an opening in the catheter body at the distal end of the catheter body, an inflation lumen formed in the catheter body, and one or more of the following: a) inflatable tube sections disposed on the catheter body at the distal end of the catheter body for securing the distal end of the catheter body in a desired location when the tube sections are inflated, b) a valve connected to the inflation lumen for permitting backflow of the inflation fluid from the inflation lumen through the valve when a pre-set pressure value is reached, and c) a hollow reservoir for holding a pre-determined volume of inflation fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: S. Grant Mulholland
  • Patent number: 6277136
    Abstract: A fluid operated retractor for use in surgery. The retractor has a portion which is expandable upon the introduction of fluid under pressure. The expandable portion is made of a material strong enough, and is inflated to enough pressure, to spread adjoining tissues within the body. The retractor is especially useful in fiber optic surgery because it can be inserted percutaneously through a small opening then expanded to a much larger dimension when in the desired location, to retract tissue from within. The retractor may be used to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a shoulder joint, or may be used to separate tissue planes generally, to improve visualization and create a working space for the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6264604
    Abstract: A laparoscopic apparatus for tunneling dissection including a hollow tunneling member and an inflatable balloon disposed at the distal end of the tunneling member to form together a blunt tipped obturator. The tunneling member has a bore sized allow the insertion of a conventional laparoscope therein to provide observation during surgical procedures. The laparoscope provides direct observation of dissection through the open distal end of the tunneling member. Observation is provided both when the device is used to tunnel between tissue layers to a region of interest within the body of a patient, and during subsequent balloon inflation when the tissue layers are dissected to cause separation of the tissue layers and the creation of an anatomical working space. After the anatomic space has been created, the device and laparoscope are withdraw through the incision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Helmut Kayan, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Jan Maurice Echeverry, George D. Hermann, Thomas A. Howell, Michelle Y. Monfort, Shigeru Tanaka, James E. Jervis
  • Patent number: 6228022
    Abstract: Surgical techniques and instruments are provided for preparing a disc space for implantation of a vertebral fusion device or implant. In accordance with one embodiment of the technique, a surgical instrument assembly is provided having an outer sleeve with distraction fingers at one end to maintain distraction of a disc space. A switching sleeve having a pair of rotatable distractors is coupled within the outer sleeve, and the sleeves are placed over a dilator until the distractor heads are placed within the disc space. The dilator is withdrawn and the disc space distracted by rotating the distractors of the switching sleeve. The switching sleeve is uncoupled from the outer sleeve and the fingers of the outer sleeve are then inserted into the disc space. The switching sleeve and dilator are then removed and the outer sleeve defines a channel therethrough that allows insertion of implants at bilateral locations within the disc space without movement or manipulation of the outer sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: SDGI Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Tai Friesem, Mingyan Liu, Loic Josse
  • Patent number: 6187023
    Abstract: A fluid operated retractor for use in surgery. The retractor has a portion which is expandable upon the introduction of fluid under pressure. The expandable portion is made of a material strong enough, and is inflated to enough pressure, to spread adjoining tissues within the body. The retractor is especially useful in fiber optic surgery because it can be inserted percutaneously through a small opening then expanded to a much larger dimension when in the desired location, to retract tissue from within. The retractor may be used to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a shoulder joint, or may be used to separate tissue planes generally, to improve visualization and create a working space for the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6171236
    Abstract: A fluid operated retractor for use in surgery. The retractor has a portion that is expandable upon the introduction of fluid under pressure. The expandable portion is made of a material strong enough, and is inflated to enough pressure, to spread adjoining tissues within the body. The retractor is especially useful in fiber optic surgery because it can be inserted percutaneously through a small opening then expanded to a much larger dimension when in the desired location, to retract tissue from within. The retractor may be used to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a shoulder joint, or may be used to separate tissue planes generally, to improve visualization and create a working space for the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Mark Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6142936
    Abstract: A device for retracting edges of an incision in a surface to form an opening including: a flexible, tubular skirt having an upper end, a lower end, and a channel therebetween; a ring connected to the lower end of the skirt for maintaining the lower end in an open configuration and defining an exit opening to the channel; and an inflatable collar connected to the skirt and surrounding the upper end. The ring is designed to fit through the incision and remain under the surface when it is oriented parallel to surface. The collar, when inflated, maintains the upper end in an open configuration and defines an entry opening to the channel. During use, the ring is inserted through the incision and the collar is inflated while remaining outside of the incision, thereby drawing the skirt against the edges of the incision and retracting the edges of the incision to form the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: University of Massachusetts
    Inventors: Richard Beane, Steve Ek, Allison C. Niemann, Maureen E. Carroll, Randall J. Hasslinger, Edward I. Stamm, Jr., Javier Verdura
  • Patent number: 6102928
    Abstract: A fluid operated retractor for use in surgery. The retractor has a portion that is expandable upon the introduction of fluid under pressure. The expandable portion is made of a material strong enough, and is inflated to enough pressure, to spread adjoining tissues within the body. The retractor is especially useful in fiber optic surgery because it can be inserted percutaneously through a small opening then expanded to a much larger dimension when in the desired location, to retract tissue from within. The retractor may be used to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a shoulder joint, or may be used to separate tissue planes generally to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a should joint or may be used to separate tissue planes generally, to improve visualization and create a working space for the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6083155
    Abstract: An eyelid speculum is disclosed in the form of an annular bladder constructed of a resilient material. The annular bladder defines an interior chamber and the bladder is dimensioned to fit in between the upper and lower eyelids of an eye. An inflator is fluidly connected to the bladder chamber to selectively inflate the bladder. Thus, with the bladder positioned in between the upper and lower eyelid and then inflated, the bladder maintains the eyelids in an open position thus exposing the eye and maintaining a stable eye position for medical examination and/or treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Nuvue Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Michael T. Trese
  • Patent number: 6042596
    Abstract: A retractor for use in arthroscopic surgery. The retractor has a mechanical expanding portion for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor also has a fluid-operated expanding portion, which may be independently controllable, for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor is inserted through a small percutaneous opening, expanded in sub-surface tissues without significantly damaging the tissue, then collapsed after use for removal. The retractor can be manipulated to allow the surgeon to push or pull or lever on tissue. The retractor can be hollow like a cannula to permit the passage of one or more surgical devices through the retractor, with a side portal into the center of the retractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6036640
    Abstract: A device for repositioning an organ, such as the heart, during minimally invasive surgical procedures includes a pod having a plurality of inflatable/deflatable pillows on at least an upper surface thereof, each pillow forming a separately sealed chamber. Each chamber may include a separate lumen or supply line in direct communication therewith. Each lumen is in turn connected to a fluid source through either a manually or electrically actuatable valve. The valve associated with each supply line permits fluid to be selectively introduced into or withdrawn from any number of chambers by manipulating the valves to thereby selectively inflate or deflate the selected chambers. Preferably, a pressure sensor is used to monitor the pressure in one or more chambers and means are incorporated to selectively inflate or deflate the chambers in response to the detected pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell A. Corace, Curtis D. Kinghorn
  • Patent number: 6033426
    Abstract: The access device according to the present invention is an access device for connecting an interior of a living body to the exterior thereof and for inserting an object into the living body in a sealed state, the device comprising a communication body to be set in tight contact with an incised part of a wall of the living body, for pushing open the incised part, thereby to allow an interior of the living body to communicate with the exterior of the living body, a first valve attached and sealed to communication body, and a second valve attached and sealed to the communication body and adapted to be placed inside or outside the living body, the second valve being located closer to the living body than the first valve while placed outside the living body, wherein the first valve has a valve main body made of an elastic material and an insertion part provided on the valve main body, capable of elastically deforming when the object is inserted into the insertion part, thereby to allow the object to be inserted in
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kunihide Kaji
  • Patent number: 6017305
    Abstract: A fluid operated retractor for use in surgery. The retractor has a portion which is expandable upon the introduction of fluid under pressure. The expandable portion is made of a material strong enough, and is inflated to enough pressure, to spread adjoining tissues within the body. The retractor is especially useful in fiber optic surgery because it can be inserted percutaneously through a small opening then expanded to a much larger dimension when in the desired location, to retract tissue from within. The retractor may be used to spread a joint such as a knee joint or a shoulder joint, or may be used to separate tissue planes generally, to improve visualization and create a working space for the surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Mark Bonutti
  • Patent number: 6015382
    Abstract: An inflatable manipulator for organ manipulation during surgery is disclosed. The system typically includes an inflatable balloon connected to an infusion source where the balloon is either coupled to a relatively rigid platform or fitted with a positioning structure such as a pocket. In open heart surgery, the platform is used to position and stabilize the balloon under the heart. In minimally invasive surgery, the balloon fitted with the pocket and can be rolled into a narrow configuration and inserted through a small incision using an insertion device. The insertion device can then be removed once the manipulator is in position. In use, the balloon of the manipulator is inflated by the infusion source thereby elevating and tilting the organ to the desired position for surgical access. Systems including multiple chamber manipulators each with a separate infusion source are also disclosed, as are combined methods for cooling organs during surgery and for using the manipulators to separate adhesions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans J. Zwart, Lawrence R. Tyler, Thomas J. Palermo, Kevin Van Bladel, Roderick A. Young, James E. Jervis
  • Patent number: 6013090
    Abstract: The present invention provides balloon dissection apparatus and methods of use in which an elongate balloon is utilized to dissect along a region that follows a naturally existing path alongside a vessel or structure, such as an artery, a vein, a lymphatic vessel, the trachea, the esophagus, or even a nerve bundle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Fogarty, George D. Hermann, Jan M. Echeverry, Kenneth H. Mollenauer
  • Patent number: 6004337
    Abstract: Apparatus for creating an anatomic space in tissue in a body of a patient using a cannula with proximal and distal extremities and a bore extending therethrough to provide an open end. A balloon having an inflated space is provided. The balloon is capable of assuming collapsed and inflated conditions. A retainer is carried by the balloon for forming the balloon when in a collapsed condition into a generally cylindrical roll to aid in inserting the balloon into the tissue. An obturator shaft having a rounded distal end is sized so that it extends through the cannula and into the roll. A laparoscope can be introduced into the obturator shaft to permit viewing through the obturator shaft and the balloon. An inflation tube is provided for inflating the balloon after it is disposed in the tissue to cause the balloon to progressively expand to create separation forces in the tissue to create the anatomic space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej K. Kieturakis, Helmut Kayan, Jan M. Echeverry, Thomas A. Howell, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, James E. Jervis