Duck-billed Specula (e.g., Vagina) Patents (Class 600/220)
  • Patent number: 11925342
    Abstract: A minimally invasive dilation device includes a plurality of rigid arms radially arrayed about a center and a dilating member positioned between the arms. A stylus may occupy the center. An outer flexible sleeve may be circumferentially secured to the arms, lying within or without the plurality of arms. An inner mesh may surround the stylus and dilating member. The device may be introduced into tissue toward a targeted area, while in a closed configuration. The dilating member may be a balloon, wherein upon inflation of the balloon, the arms are pushed radially outward, expanding the device and dilating the surrounding tissue. The dilating member may be a tube, wherein upon insertion of the tube, the arms are pushed radially outward. A cannula may be inserted inside the plurality of arms to keep the arms in an open configuration, and the dilating member may be withdrawn, providing an open passageway through the device to the targeted area. The device may be used with a neural monitoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: HOWMEDICA OSTEONICS CORP.
    Inventors: Corbett W. Stone, Ephraim Akyuz, Stuart M. Goble, Bryan Patrick Howard, Daniel J. Triplett, Andrew R. Fauth, Douglas M. Lorang
  • Patent number: 11759193
    Abstract: A retractor member is configured for insertion through a channel of an access member and for moving soft tissue at a treatment site that is accessible through the channel. The retractor includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end and spaced from each other along a longitudinal direction. The distal end defines a retractor blade and the body defines a first surface and a second surface opposite each other along a transverse direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The retractor includes an attachment device configured to selectively attach the body to a portion of the access member such that the body is extendable through the working channel while the body is attached to the portion of the access member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Inventors: Eric Buehlmann, Clara Cheung, Thomas Gamache, Roman Lomeli, Paul S. Maguire, James Paiva, Joern Richter, Daniel Thommen, John C. Voellmicke
  • Patent number: 11439379
    Abstract: A surgical retractor, comprising a blade having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a handle extending at an angle from a proximal end of the blade, wherein the blade and the handle are molded from a glass-fiber reinforced polymer having a flexural strength of at least 300 Mpa, and wherein the blade, being molded from the glass-fiber reinforced polymer, deforms less than 10 mm under 15 lbs of force applied thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: OBP SURGICAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ralph Swift
  • Patent number: 11166707
    Abstract: A retractor assembly includes a base, a first side assembly, a second side assembly, and a medial arm assembly. The first side assembly is coupled to a first side of the base and translates relative to the base along a first direction. The second side assembly is coupled to a second side of the base and configured to translate relative to the base along the first direction. The medial arm assembly is coupled to the base and can extend in an extension direction and retract in a retraction direction. The extension direction is opposite the retraction direction. The extension direction and the retraction direction are perpendicular to the first direction. The medial arm assembly includes a body, and a blade assembly. The blade assembly includes a receiving portion and a medial blade. The receiving portion and the medial blade are rotatably interfaced via a ball and a socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: LIFE SPINE, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Christopher Zakelj, Daniel Predick, Michael S. Butler
  • Patent number: 10980525
    Abstract: A surgical access system comprising a tissue dilation assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: James Coleman Lee, Benjamin Verhage, Michael Serra, Troy B. Woolley, Brian Snider, Matthew Schwartz
  • Patent number: 10973547
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a retractor for use in repairing vaginal tears following birth. The retractor is formed as a sheet of soft rubber, plastic or silicone and is rolled or folded for vaginal insertion; the retractor is resilient so as to provide a spring force which urges the vaginal canal open to a degree that facilities visualization and obstetric repair while avoiding unnecessary strain on the tissues being repaired. An optional flange structure can be provided so as to provide a structure for the surgeon/OB to reposition the retractor in-situ, and also to serve as a stop or retainer to hold the retractor in place. The disclosed retractor is self-retaining, such that both of a surgeon's hands can be freed for other tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Birch Concepts LLC
    Inventors: Catherine Ann Buerchner, Michael Josef Buerchner
  • Patent number: 10842371
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum and side wall retractor allows clinicians to visualize the cervix and upper vagina by retracting vaginal walls simultaneously. This device is comprised of a handle, a mobile introducer allowing the device to comfortably be inserted vaginally, and a lower blade capable of stabilizing the cervix and a body containing the side wall retractor. This retractor is comprised of a rolled-up sheet of transparent plastic which can be opened through a rotating shaft countersunk in the body of the base. A friction or sprocket gear allows the rotating shaft to open and close the plastic side wall retractor as well as completely unwinding the transparent plastic sheet so that the device can be removed while leaving surgical instruments in the vagina. The rotating shaft serves as a light guide and brings light from the knob, which contains an LED, into the rolled-up sheet during examinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Inventors: Maurice Andre Recanati, Katherine Kramer, Mohammad Ali Ozbeki, Jacob Carney, Avik Chakravarty, Amanda Nowicki, Alexander Von Mach, Steven Dudick, Maik Huettemann, Jay Berman, Robert Alan Welch, Rita Semrick
  • Patent number: 10492667
    Abstract: In an optical fiber scanning apparatus, an optical fiber to which a permanent magnet is disposed and which is configured to emit illumination light from a distal end portion is arranged in a hollow portion where a magnetic field generation unit is disposed of a frame body, the frame body for which a cross section of the hollow portion is a square includes a first frame body for which planar coils are disposed respectively on a first surface and a second surface that are orthogonal to each other, and a second frame body for which planar coils are disposed respectively on a third surface and a fourth surface that are orthogonal to each other, and which is bonded with the first frame body, and the first surface to the fourth surface configure inner surfaces of the hollow portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazuhisa Karaki, Mamoru Hasegawa, Hiroya Fukuyama
  • Patent number: 10496293
    Abstract: A technique for operating a data storage system includes accessing respective absolute expiration times for valid pages in one or more candidate storage blocks. Garbage collection is performed on ones of the candidate storage blocks that include a first predetermined number of the valid pages that do not expire, as indicated by the absolute expiration times, prior to a first predetermined time period. Garbage collection is deferred on ones of the candidate storage blocks that include a second predetermined number of the valid pages that expire, as indicated by the absolute expiration times, prior to a second predetermined time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Itzhack Goldberg, Frank Krick, Heiko H. Schloesser, Neil Sondhi
  • Patent number: 10390813
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Alexander, John R. Frigstad, Carrie L. Herman, Justin H. Huelman, Karl A. Jagger, Chaouki A. Khamis, Michael A. Knipfer, Jeffrey M. O'Hern
  • Patent number: 9861349
    Abstract: This application presents structurally-adjustable vaginal specula, which provides visualization and access to the vagina and the cervix. The specula may be lightweight and compact, and may also be configured and dimensioned to minimize slippage during use. The specula may comprise built-in light sources. The specula may comprise a fluid handler, for example, to remove fluids from the vagina during medical interventions. The specula may retract the labia as well as the vaginal walls. The speculum may also be used as a retractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: PROA MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Afshin Nadershahi, Sudeep Deshpande, Krishna Mohith Jetti
  • Patent number: 9326671
    Abstract: It is described a surgical instrument such as a speculum comprising longitudinally extending cups-shaped pivotably mounted blades manufactured from a moldable material, such as plastic or metal. Each blade has an inwardly curved circumferential edge with an edge face which is provided with a parting line resulting from molding the blades. Negative effects such as possible injuries associated with parting lines or steps can be mitigated by inwardly relocating these lines on an edge face of the inwardly curved circumferential edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Bridea Hong Kong Ltd.
    Inventor: Bob Roeloffs
  • Patent number: 9295879
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed which may include a training board including a plank made of wood (or other material such as metal, rubber or plastic) and deformable or non-deformable structures coupled to a bottom thereof, thereby enabling the board to rotate about as many as three rotational axes upon having force applied thereto by a user. The training board may enable a user to use to the board for training purposes or recreational activities using structures having a range of properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventors: Richard Palmer, John Pertessis
  • Patent number: 9149251
    Abstract: A reusable needle guide suitable for an ultrasonic probe to be use for an endocavity examination of a patient is disclosed. The needle guide basically comprises at least a first and second guide members and a mounting (e.g., clamp) assembly. The clamp assembly serves to releasably mount the needle guide on the probe. The first guide member has a first passageway-forming surface. The second guide member has a second passageway-forming surface. The guide members are connected together to enable them to be pivoted from a closed orientation to an open orientation and vice versa. The first and second passageway-forming surfaces form an elongated passageway to guide a needle therethrough when in the closed orientation. The first and second passageway-forming surfaces are disposed at an angle to each other when they are in the open orientation, whereupon the first and second passageway-forming surfaces can be readily cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: CIVCO MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS CO., INC.
    Inventor: John Michael Steffen
  • Patent number: 9095322
    Abstract: A speculum is provided herein which includes first and second arms, connected by a hinge, each having a channel formed thereon adapted to the shape of an eyelid. First and second elements are respectively located on the first and second arms configured to cooperatively retain the first and second arms in select rotational positions. A slot is defined in the second arm to partially separate first and second portions of the second arm with the first portion being displaceable away from the second portion. The second element is located on the first portion. Advantageously, with this arrangement, the first portion acts as a spring-loaded hinge which applies not only biasing force to the second element for retention, but also permits the second element to be separable from the first element. The subject invention provides a mechanical feature beyond the inherent memory of the material for operation of the speculum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Beaver-Visitec International (US), Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick M. Terry, Dana Cote
  • Patent number: 9044184
    Abstract: The invention relates to a spreadable medical instrument for endoscopic interventions having a base body, a handle positioned on the base body, and at least two spatula blades that are connected with the handle and can be displaced between a closed starting position and at least one working position parallel and/or at an angle to one another by means of an adjustment device, in such a way that the adjustment mechanism is positioned on the handle so that it is possible simultaneously to grip the handle and activate the adjustment mechanism with the same hand. To create a spreadable medical instrument that has the widest possible range of applications and is easy and safe to operate, it is proposed with the invention that the adjustment mechanism is configured as a continuous, adjustable screw-in mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: KARL STORZ GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Efinger, Rainer Hermle
  • Patent number: 8876711
    Abstract: A vaginal dilator having side blades or having upper and lower blades including accessorial blades is described. The vaginal dilator includes an upper blade, a pressing member, a lower blade and a handle. The upper and lower blades are connected by a pin. The pressing member is engaged with the handle by a first dilating fixation device. The vaginal dilator having side blades includes an arc-shaped movable locating sleeve rotationally connected with the upper blade. Each end of the sleeve is provided with a mounting base. The mounting base is provided with a joint cavity for receiving a side blade which can be retracted between the upper and lower blades. The back portion of the side blade is provided with a second dilating fixation device engaged with the back end of the upper blade or a locating buckle of the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Shanghai Linjing Medical Equipment Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jing Lin, Xingxing Zhang, Qianqian Wu
  • Patent number: 8858431
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum is provided that has an upper arm with a handle and jaw. A cross-sectional shape of a longitudinally extending portion may be constant along its entire longitudinal length so that the height of the portion is likewise constant along its length. Right and left side flanges may extend downward from the longitudinally extending portion and a tip of the jaw. The distance between the outer surfaces of the right and left side flanges in the lateral direction may be constant along their entire lengths in the longitudinal direction. A lower arm with a jaw and handle may be included and arranged with the upper arm so that their relative position to one another can be modified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Michelle Davis Smith
  • Patent number: 8814789
    Abstract: A vaginal manipulator includes a shaft and a head. The head includes a central plate having a distal end connected to the shaft, an expansion plate coupled to and configured to move radially away from the central plate, and a door having a constrained end and a free end. The constrained end of the door is hinged to the central plate and the free end of the door is configured to move away from the central plate. When the vaginal manipulator is inserted into a vagina, the expansion plate is movable relative to the central plate to displace an anterior wall of the vagina and the door is movable relative to the central plate to displace a posterior wall of the vagina into a trans-abdominal line of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Sarah J. Deitch, Allen Gaynor, Manish Patel, Michael M. Witzmann
  • Patent number: 8808175
    Abstract: A vaginal manipulator includes a shaft, a handle connected to a first end of the shaft, and a head connected to a second end of the shaft. The head includes a rigid anterior surface that moves independently from a rigid posterior surface of the head. When the vaginal manipulator is inserted into a vagina, the rigid anterior surface is movable to displace an anterior wall of the vagina and the rigid posterior surface is movable to displace a posterior wall of the vagina. A light source is provided on the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Sarah J. Deitch, Allen Gaynor, Joseph Haydn Hofmeister, Manish Patel, Michael M. Witzmann
  • Publication number: 20140171747
    Abstract: It is described a surgical instrument such as a speculum comprising longitudinally extending cups-shaped pivotably mounted blades manufactured from a mouldable material, such as plastic or metal. Each blade has an inwardly curved circumferential edge with an edge face which is provided with a parting line resulting from moulding the blades. Negative effects such as possible injuries associated with parting lines or steps can be mitigated by inwardly relocating these lines on an edge face of the inwardly curved circumferential edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Bob Roeloffs
  • Patent number: 8747308
    Abstract: An attachment which can be used with a vaginal speculum. The attachment can be used with a vaginal speculum. The attachment has a pair of arms on one end which will engage the fornix lateral to the cervix of a women's vagina, and a U-shaped curved portion on the other end which will allow a doctor to engage the attachment with a vaginal speculum in order to spread a patient's lateral, as well as vertical, walls at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Rashida Muzzammel
  • Patent number: 8734337
    Abstract: A surgical device includes a rigid shaft connected between a handle and a head. The head of the surgical device is sized for insertion into an organ such as a vagina, a uterus, a rectum, or an esophagus. The head includes an expansion plate and a door coupled to a central plate. The central plate has a distal end connected to the rigid shaft, an anterior surface, and a recess formed in a posterior side of the central plate that provides a posterior surface opposite the anterior surface. The expansion plate is coupled to and movable relative to the anterior surface of the central plate. The door is coupled disposed within the recess of the central plate and movable relative to the posterior surface of the central plate. The expansion plate is movable independently of the door to allow the head to expand and move the organ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Sarah J. Deitch, Allen Gaynor, Michael M. Witzmann
  • Patent number: 8512261
    Abstract: A Perineal elasticity meter having a circular central stem marked with millimeter markings and a sleeve portion surrounding the circular stem. Hinges connect the sleeve to expanders that extend from the circular stem. The perineal elasticity meter is configured to be inserted into the vagina of a patient in order to measure the elasticity of the perineal area. The sleeve includes an opening that shows a circumferential measurement achieved by the expansion of the expanders, as the sleeve moves along the central stem. Another perineal elasticity meter includes two stems connected via a hinge at a proximal portion of the stems. The proximal portions of the stems are configured to be inserted into the vagina of a patient and a measurement is taken of a distance between the expanded distal portion of the stems, thereby measuring the elasticity of the perineal area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventors: Miriam R. Diniz Zanetti, Mary Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8403842
    Abstract: A transvaginal ultrasound probe speculum is designed for use with a generally cylindrical elongated ultrasound probe. The speculum has an elongated blade having a proximal end and a distal end, and a connector, such as a collar. The speculum has a lever that cooperates with the collar and the elongated blade for pivoting the blade relative to the ultrasound probe so that the blade and the ultrasound probe serve as the blades of the speculum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Eastern Virgina Medical School
    Inventor: Khaled Sakhel
  • Patent number: 8403840
    Abstract: A medical instrument serves for creating an access for a minimally invasive intervention and has a body having a longitudinal axis. The body is assembled of at least two parts, each of said parts having edges extending along a direction of said axis. Each of said parts having edges extending along a direction of said axis. Each part has a distal section merging into a proximal section standing outwardly from said longitudinal axis. In a first position, the distal end section of the parts are joined along said edges to form a distal body with the proximal section standing away. In a second position, the proximal sections of said parts are joined along said edges to form a hollow proximal body with said distal end section spreaded outwardly. The edges are provided with interacting features which are designed to block a lateral sliding of said joined parts transversely to said edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Sebastian Wagner, Felix Teufel
  • Patent number: 8376942
    Abstract: An articulation mechanism for a vaginal speculum enables selective relative movement between an upper blade member and a lower blade member to affect vertical and angular spacing. The mechanism selectively enables quiet or clicking articulation according to at least one version.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Welch Allyn, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan I. Krauter, Dale C. Saddlemire, Michael T. McMahon, Robert L. Vivenzio
  • Patent number: 8267860
    Abstract: A speculum for internal examination of a body cavity such as a vagina, comprising at least two spoons, each comprising a spoon blade that can be inserted in the body cavity, which spoons are attached to one another via a hinge pin and are hingeable between a closed position in which the spoon blades are essentially in contact with one another and a spread position in which the spoon blades are some distance apart, and at least one operating handle which is located outside the body cavity during use, a body rest being provided which, in conjunction with the operating handle, effects spreading of the spoon blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Comfortpat B.V.
    Inventors: Bernhard Wilhelm Gaziena Nicolaas Klaassen, Rita-Helene Holseng Klaassen
  • Publication number: 20120232352
    Abstract: A vaginal dilator having side blades or having upper and lower blades comprising accessorial blades includes an upper blade (1), a press handle (3), a lower blade (2) and a handle (4). The upper blade (1) is connected with the lower blade (2) by a pin (5). The press handle (3) is engaged with the handle (4) by a first dilating fixation device. The vaginal dilator having side blades also includes a circular-arc movable locating sleeve (8) rotationally connected with the upper blade (1). Each end of the sleeve (8) is provided with a mounting base (11). The mounting base (11) is provided with a joint cavity for receiving a side blade (12) which can be retracted between the upper and lower blades (1, 2). The back portion of the side blade (12) is provided with a second dilating fixation device engaged with the back end of the upper blade (1) or a locating buckle (15) of the mounting base (11). A channel (18), a channel cover and a slot for inserting the channel cover are provided in the side blade (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: SHANGHAI LINJING MEDICAL EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jing Lin, Xingxing Zhang, Qianqian Wu
  • Patent number: 8262571
    Abstract: A guide is provided for insertion into a surgical incision to create interior access along a preferred plane to an interior surgical site. After inserting the guide into an incision, a retractor or other tool may be inserted though the guide to the interior surgical site. The guide serves as a pathway for the retractor to the interior surgical site of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen Ritland
  • Publication number: 20120078060
    Abstract: A speculum includes upper and lower members and a linear support member. The upper member includes an upper blade. The lower member includes a lower blade and a handle portion. The lower blade includes a support structure at a proximal end thereof which extends vertically on the right or left side of the lower blade, and a handle portion extending downwardly from the lower blade and defining a vertical track. The linear support member has a proximal end pivotally connected to the upper blade, a distal end, and an elongated body between the proximal and distal ends. The elongated body slidably engages the vertical track of the handle portion. The linear support member is formed with a hidden slot which slidably receives the support structure of the lower blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: OBP CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ralph Swift
  • Patent number: 8096945
    Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein relate to disposable speculums, and more particularly to disposable vaginal speculums having single-sided support and operating mechanisms. In an embodiment, a speculum includes an upper member having an upper blade and a hinge assembly; a lower member having a handle and a lower blade, wherein a combined smoke channel light guide directs light from a light source in the handle to a distal end of the lower blade for smoke removal; and a linear support member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an elongated body therebetween, the linear support member vertically moveable within a track positioned in the lower member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: OBP Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron J. Buchok, Jeffrey R. Swift
  • Patent number: 8083673
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an examination apparatus that includes a manually movable structure having a first movement from a free state to a compressed state and a second reversing movement from the compressed state to the free state. Also included is a plurality of fingers that are disposed adjacent to the structure. The fingers having a stowed state and an open state, the stowed state having a nested relationship between the fingers to reduce a silhouette profile size. In moving from the stowed state to the open state of the plurality of fingers requires a selected sequential movement of each the fingers to proceed from the nested relationship to the open state that is accommodated by an assemblage for moving the fingers sequentially utilizing the manually operated structure, wherein the fingers are moved from the stowed state to the open state and reversed manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Howard Steven Rosen
  • Patent number: 7988625
    Abstract: A retractor having interchangeable or replaceable blades facilitates the expansion of a surgical site below an incision in the skin, and establishes a work-through surgical space. The retractor includes a frame connected to two collar arms, a pair of blades connected to the collar arms, a sheath for encompassing the blades and providing a circumscribed working space, and a device for rotating the collar arms, thereby displacing the blades and any tissue surrounding them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Stryker Spine
    Inventors: Mahmoud F. Abdelgany, Gregory Martin
  • Patent number: 7896806
    Abstract: A speculum cover that is adapted to sheath the blades of a speculum, and to support lateral vaginal walls to facilitate vaginal/cervical examination during gynecological exams and surgery. The speculum cover includes top and bottom pockets for the respective blades of the speculum, and side portions having openings therein for sampling of tissue at the vaginal locus. In a specific implementation, the speculum cover is of a four-ply construction, formed by impulse welding or other polymeric film joining technique, and the two inner plies of the cover include rearwardly extending flaps to which are adhesively secured donning guide members for facilitating installation of the cover on the speculum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Polyzen, Inc.
    Inventors: Tilak M. Shah, Dezso K. Levius
  • Patent number: 7749162
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vaginal speculum embodying an applicator for the uniform delivery of a standardized dose of a liquid diagnostic marker onto the woman's lower genital tract. The applicator can comprises of a marker container and a mechanism for transferring a desirable quantity of its content to an injection probe for dispensing the marker onto the tissue surface. The cross section of the injection probe is substantially smaller than the rear opening of the speculum, so that the monitoring of the optical effects provoked to the tissue by the marker and the insertion of treatment tools is not obstructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Forth Photonics Ltd.
    Inventor: Constantinos Balas
  • Publication number: 20100076344
    Abstract: The present invention provides a speculum comprising a body (100), an opening (20), a first blade (2) pivotably secured to the body and a second blade (3) that is integral with the body. The blades are located at opposed sides of the opening. The first blade is pivotally secured with respect to the body by means of pivot pins. The first blade is movable between a first retracted position in which it lies adjacent to the second blade and a second extended position in which it is spaced apart from the second blade. A mechanism (5, 41) is also provided that is configured to move the first blade (2) from the first position to the second position. When the first blade is in the extended position, there is an inspection channel (20) formed that extends through the opening and between the blades. The mechanism for moving the first blade is preferably located substantially outside the periphery of the opening when the first blade is in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Maja Kecman
  • Patent number: 7658712
    Abstract: A speculum (1) for internal examination of a body cavity such as a vagina (25), comprising at least two spoons (3,4), each comprising a spoon blade that can be inserted in the body cavity (25), which spoons (3,4) attached to one another via a hinge pin (7) and are hingeable between a closed position in which the spoon blades (3,4) are essentially in contact with one another and a spread position in which the spoon blades (3,4) are some distance apart, and at least one operating handle (5) which is located outside the body cavity (25) during use, a body rest being provided which, in conjunction with the operating handle (5), effects spreading of the spoon blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Comfortpat B.V.
    Inventors: Bernhard Wilhelm Geziena Nicolaas Klaassen, Rita-Helene Holseng Klaassen
  • Patent number: 7654953
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum having a handle portion and a set of blade pairs some of which can be removably attached to the distal end of the handle and others can be slidingly inserted through the proximal end of the handle. Both pairs of the blades have snapping engagement with one and the same locking mechanism of the handle. The handle may constitute a permanent part, and the blades may be replaceable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventors: German Borodulin, Ananias Diokno, Alexander Shkolnik
  • Publication number: 20090312610
    Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein relate to disposable speculums, and more particularly to disposable vaginal speculums having single-sided support and operating mechanisms. In an embodiment, a speculum includes an upper member having an upper blade and a hinge assembly; a lower member having a handle and a lower blade, wherein a combined smoke channel light guide directs light from a light source in the handle to a distal end of the lower blade for smoke removal; and a linear support member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an elongated body therebetween, the linear support member vertically moveable within a track positioned in the lower member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Aaron J. Buchok, Jeffrey R. Swift
  • Publication number: 20090203968
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum includes a pair of opposed blades. One of the opposed blades is movably mounted for controllable movement towards and away from the other of the pair of opposed blades. Each blade includes an elongate arcuate paddle defining an interior compartment between the paddles. A solid rounded lip defines the terminal end of each side and the distal end of the blades. The lips may comprise a unitary structure which may be integrally formed with the paddle or separately formed and attached to each paddle such as by welding or mechanical attachment. The solid rounded lips protrude laterally from the first and second sides and the distal end of the blade to provide a smooth brim configured to urge tissue away from the blade. The solid rounded lip is preferably flush with the interior compartment defined by each elongate arcuate paddle. The solid rounded lip has a major radius of at least 2 mm and preferably 2 mm to 5 mm and approximately ½ to 1/20 times the blade radius.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Kevin Winslow
  • Publication number: 20090198108
    Abstract: This invention relates to a cervix examination device capable of containing and separating a light module. The cervix examination device comprises a first blade having a first open part and a first holding part; a second blade, which is pivoted to the first blade, comprising a second open part and a second holding part; an adjuster installed between the first and the second blades for adjusting the relative angle between the first and the second open parts; and a container installed inside the first open part, the container comprising an open portion and a closed portion, the light module can be contained in the closed portion via the open portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Tien-Sheng Chen, Hui-Bih Yuan
  • Publication number: 20090177044
    Abstract: A disposable plastic vaginal speculum constructed for heavy duty use and/or for long duration gynecological procedures including intrauterine device insertion and vaginal surgical procedures. The hinge region of the speculum, as well as other regions, are reinforced so that the speculum can bear forces of a magnitude normally bearable only by metal vaginal specula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2007
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Yoram Cohen, Gadi Porat, Joel Stern, Tamir Berman
  • Publication number: 20090043169
    Abstract: A childbirth instrument and method of use. The instrument may have guide and/or guard portions with concave posterior sides, and may have one or more grips. The guide may have first, second, and third elongated reference slots for performing episiotomy cuts therethrough, with the reference slots locating the angle and position of the episiotomy cuts, and the guard provides protection for the unborn infant. Another embodiment has one or more apertures through which a hypodermic needle may deliver a local anesthetic prior to making episiotomy cuts. The instrument may have one or more grips, which may be removable, and may have a movable stop and/or guide aperture. The angle of the episiotomy cut may be adjusted with one embodiment. The guide and guard portions may separate. Finger-receiving portions may be provided on the guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: IMS Launch LLC
    Inventors: Hai H. Trieu, David Lee Grant, William L. Waltersdorff, Charles Tyson Dunn, Christopher Edward Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080312508
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum assembly (100) including first and second speculum jaws (101, 103) to engage a vaginal aperture (402) and to provide a desired opening of the vaginal aperture (402), wherein at least one of the first and second jaws (101, 103) is associated with a mounting configuration (110) to support an inspection device (112) at a desired position relative to a vaginal cavity (404) associated with the vaginal aperture (402).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Adrian Shulman
  • Patent number: 7452329
    Abstract: The invention describes a disposable device for operations on the arteria haemorroidalis, which comprises a retractor tube (1), closed and rounded on the end (101) which is inserted in the anal cavity, and open and diverging on the external end (201) to which is connected a griping handle (M) which removable houses a luminous source (F). In the connection zone of the handle to the external mouth of the retractor there is provided a channel (C) which contains a parabola (5) which reflects the light supplied from said luminous source (F) and which sends the reflected light inside of the same retractor, to illuminate a lateral window (8) through which appears the rectal mucosa upon which the operation must be made for the ligature of the arteria haemorroidalis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: THD S.p.A.
    Inventors: Filippo Bastia, Carlo Tagariello, Pier Paolo Dal Monte
  • Publication number: 20080146886
    Abstract: The opening area of the vagina contains most of its nerve endings; this area is generally much more sensitive to pressure than the inner two-thirds of the vagina. This portion of the vagina is also more constricted than the inner two-third of the vaginal area. When dilated, such as during a vaginal examination, pressure on and near the vaginal opening may increase pressure upon the adjacent urethral opening and the pubic bone, causing increased discomfort without providing additional expansion of the area. The middle area of the vagina is more dilatable, has fewer nerve endings, and more readily deforms when pressure is applied. The disclosed speculum is intended to place little pressure on the somewhat constricted vaginal opening and allow for increased expansion through the middle area, resulting in less discomfort to the patient during examination and maximized viewing area. A speculum and method of use are disclosed. Embodiments of speculum include upper and lower speculum blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: David Brian Lucas
  • Patent number: 7384393
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum having a universal connection between the handle and each of a plurality of blades, for selectively detaching and attaching one or more of the blades at any one of a plurality of angles between the handle axis and the blade axis. Preferably, the vaginal speculum is part of a kit having a plurality of elongated blades adapted to penetrate and fully enter a vagina while providing surgical access, each being interchangeably connectable to the handle, thereby providing a variety of options for blade length, blade width, or blade contour to better fit the vaginal structure of a particular patient. Each blade is made of a rigid or semi-rigid plastic, that is disposable after each use. The handle is preferably made of heavy metal, with a permanent plastic sheath or coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventor: William P. Guinan
  • Publication number: 20080114210
    Abstract: A speculum cover that is adapted to sheath the blades of a speculum, and to support lateral vaginal walls to facilitate vaginal/cervical examination during gynecological exams and surgery. The speculum cover includes top and bottom pockets for the respective blades of the speculum, and side portions having openings therein for sampling of tissue at the vaginal locus. In a specific implementation, the speculum cover is of a four-ply construction, formed by impulse welding or other polymeric film joining technique, and the two inner plies of the cover include rearwardly extending flaps to which are adhesively secured donning guide members for facilitating installation of the cover on the speculum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: POLYZEN, INC.
    Inventors: Tilak M. Shah, Dezso K. Levius
  • Patent number: RE46403
    Abstract: Methods and devices for performing percutaneous surgery in a patient are provided. A retractor includes a working channel formed by a first portion coupled to a second portion. The first and second portions are movable relative to one another from an unexpanded configuration to an expanded configuration to increase the size of the working channel along the length of the working channel while minimizing trauma to skin and tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Maurice M. Smith, Kevin T. Foley, Roy Lim, Thomas E. Roehm, Richard G. Fessler