Suction Wands Patents (Class 604/902)
  • Patent number: 5197968
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for retrieval, dissection and removal of small organs and tissue from a patient's body. The instrument includes a collapsible basket defining a basket cavity. An anvil is attached to the distal end of the basket to form an impacting surface. A cutting cannula defining a cutting cavity is positioned to be reciprocatingly movable to pass through the basket cavity and impact the anvil. The cutting cannula is manually and reciprocatingly driven to pass into and through the basket cavity, cutting any tissue contained in the basket cavity. The cut tissue is then suctioned from the body for analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Mectra Labs, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas P. Clement
  • Patent number: 5196003
    Abstract: A surgical instrument, in particular for endoscopic surgery, wherein the instrument comprises a tube provided at its proximal end with a flexible suction cup and at its distal end with a bulb such that the volume of the bulb is in communication with the suction cup via the tube in order to enable the suction cup to be applied against and to adhere to tissues or organs for displacment under the control of pressure and/or suction from the bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Bilweis
  • Patent number: 5195952
    Abstract: The present invention is a noise reducing aspirator which is used to carry away air, water, saliva, dental debris from the mouth of a patient or surgical debris. The present invention comprises an open-ended large solid tubular housing having one end adapted to be connected to a source of suction and the other end adapted to be connected to an aspirator tip which will collect air, water, saliva and dental debris. The housing has a sufficient internal ejecting tubular passageway between the ends to accommodate rapid flow of air, water, saliva and dental debris therethrough. The housing includes chamfered pressure venting tubes of equal diameter circularly distributed around, and connecting to, a main suction tube via slanted pathways. The pressure venting tubes reduce and harmonize the noise level of the aspirator and avoid discomforting suction to the patient's tissue. The ends of the housing are designed to secure an aspirator tip or to a source of suction and are designed for easy removal and replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Inventors: Albert Solnit, Robert Goldstein, Martin Brouillette
  • Patent number: 5190518
    Abstract: A surgical device for hyper hidrosis featuring a pipe-portion having a suction opening on its upper surface, with a suction path inside of the pipe. The opening has a convex scraping portion at its front edge. A handle, in which the pipe portion is detachably installed, has a vibration generator for propagating ultrasonic vibrations to the pipe portion, and has a passage which connect to a suction pipe, and is connected to an ultrasonic generator which generates electrical energy which is changed to ultrasonic vibrations by the vibration generator in the handle. A suction portion, which has a vacuum pump is connected to the suction path through the suction pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Katsuya Takasu
  • Patent number: 5181907
    Abstract: A method for removing fatty tissue from a patient includes the steps of inserting an aspirating cannula into the fatty tissue of the body, removing the fatty tissue in the vicinity of an internal layer of the patient's skin and traumatizing the skin adjacent to the area from which fatty tissue is removed. The method is generally carried out by means of an improved aspirating cannula which includes a longitudinally extending tubular member, an opening at one end thereof and a plurality of integrally formed projecting members surrounding the openings. The projecting members are relatively narrow and thin and extend radially outwardly and longitudinally. An annular member which is angularly disposed with respect to the longitudinally projecting member and of similar width and thickness connects the longitudinal members and is effective in breaking down fat tissue without cutting blood vessels or nerves during reciprocal movements of the cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Inventor: Hilton Becker
  • Patent number: 5181916
    Abstract: The invention comprises a handpiece for use in a surgical procedure which involves directing a surgical agent to a target area of a person's body which procedure produces an unwanted smoke plume. The handpiece includes both a probe for directing a surgical agent, such as a CO.sub.2 laser beam, and a smoke eliminator for removing with suction the smoke created by the surgical procedure. The probe has no functional components for creating the laser beam, and is thus economical enough to be disposable after one use. The smoke eliminator includes a nozzle and/or an offset suction port so configured as to create a votrex flow in the smoke in the target area upstream in the fluid flow pathway of smoke through the hand piece from the distal tip of the hand piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Assignee: Sorenson Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Valdon G. Reynolds, James L. Sorenson, Gordon S. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 5165891
    Abstract: A saliva ejector for dental use comprises a tube (16) having an open end with a slanted edge (32) and a tip valve comprising a disc (22) and a pivot attachments (24) mounted adjacent the tip. The valve enables the tube to be closed without having to touch any non-sterilizable parts, thereby avoiding cross-contamination of patients with microorganisms. The pivot attachments are integral with the wall of the tube, but can be pivoted in pivot holes (36) therein. A pair of operating arms (28) are attached normal to the disc so that the valve can be closed from the open end of the tube by pulling the arm down with a finger; the arms also provide the valves with an inherent screen-filter. A notch (12) in the open end of the tube receives and holds the arm when the valve is closed. The tip of the tube can have a spacing fin (72) attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Inventors: Rily Young, James Shen
  • Patent number: 5163926
    Abstract: A suction metering and mixing device is disclosed for collecting body fluids such as blood and simultaneously mixing an anticoagulant therewith. The device includes a suction passage having an inlet end and an opposite end for connection to a vacuum supply. A chamber is provided for controlling the flow of anticoagulant and includes a movable passage for conveying anticoagulant into the chamber and a diaphragm dividing the chamber into first and second portions wherein the movable passage may be moved from a position spaced from the diaphragm to a use position in contact with the diaphragm to prevent flow of anticoagulant into the first chamber portion. A fluid connection is provided between the suction passage and the second chamber portion whereby a vacuum may be supplied to the second chamber portion from the suciton passage and the diaphragm is drawn away from the movable passage to allow anticoagulant to flow into the first chamber portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Assignee: Vernay Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Bailey, Gordon E. Atkinson
  • Patent number: 5156618
    Abstract: A laser mist evacuator attachment comprising a stubby U-shaped vacuum nozzle having a substantially inverted V-shaped tube with extremities connected to the extremities of the stubby U-shaped nozzle together with a plurality of holes in confronting relationship in the tube for drawing in a vacuum mist. The tube is preferably provided with a flexible backing sheet which is curved to fit the body of the patient and the rear of which is coated with adhesive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Inventors: Nello Fiore, Fred Fiore
  • Patent number: 5151084
    Abstract: A baffle with holes formed therein is mounted in a sleeve which surrounds the needle of an ultrasonic handpiece so as to reduce bubbles in the irrigation fluid supplied to the handpiece and thus improve the visibility at the operating site. As irrigation fluid is supplied to the handpiece, it contacts the ultrasonic motor which tends to cause bubbles and by providing the baffle with openings, the bubbles are restricted from passing the baffle and obstructing the vision of the surgeon using the ultrasonic handpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Fibra-Sonics, Inc.
    Inventor: Sokhuom Khek
  • Patent number: 5151083
    Abstract: In an ultrasonic handpiece with irrigation an aspiration passages, an opening is made between the aspirating passage and the irrigating passage so as to remove bubbles from the operating site so that the surgeon's vision will not be obstructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Fibra-Sonics, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Pichler
  • Patent number: 5151094
    Abstract: A disposable suction swab formed from an elongated stem shaped at one end for connecting to a suction source and having at the opposite end an enlarged, resilient tip. A transverse aperture is formed in the tip is registration with a hole in the stem, the aperture being larger in cross section than the hole. Means is provided for controlling suction within the stem to thereby control the amount of suction in the aperture in the tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Sage Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul H. Hanifl
  • Patent number: 5149331
    Abstract: A method of treating a wound site wherein a porous, adhesive backed dressing is utilized. A vacuum and/or heat is applied to the wound site through the dressing so as to draw the tissue adjacent the wound site to the dressing so as to minimize trauma to the wound and increase the adherence of the adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Ariel Ferdman
    Inventors: Ariel Ferdman, Jing-wen Kuo, David Miller, Vladimir Pinsky, William D. Richards, David Swann
  • Patent number: 5147292
    Abstract: A handpiece for a surgical irrigator and suction device includes a drip-free valve arrangement in which the portion of the flexible irrigation conduit is kinked in a V-shape. The extent to which the flexible irrigation conduit is kinked is controlled by a trigger, adapted for one-hand operation and in which the trigger can be controlled to be locked, selectively, in a full flow, no flow or manually controllable variable flow mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Karen E. Kullas, Bruce E. Newcomb
  • Patent number: 5123840
    Abstract: A suction device is disclosed comprising a molded plastic handle having a suction bore therethrough and a spigot for connection to the hospital suction source. The device further comprises a probe having a suction passage therethrough and terminating in a suction tip. At its proximal end the probe is formed with a male thread which threadedly engages in internal threads provided at an enlarged entrance portion of the handle. The proximal end of the probe terminates in an end member which fits within a reception bore located between the front bore and the suction bore of the handle. The dimensions of the end member are such that there is an annular space between the reception bore and the end member and this space connects through an opening through the suction bore. The handle has a controllable suction port whereby the suction at the tip can be controlled. This port opens into the annular space downstream of the connection between the opening and the suction bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: Colin Nates
  • Patent number: 5123403
    Abstract: There is disclosed according to the invention a suction retractor for retraction of a nerve root during surgery, comprising a suction tube having an interior and exterior diameter, and a suction end and a base end, a retractor member having a tubular portion slidably positioned over the suction tube, said tubular portion having an interior diameter slightly larger than the exterior diameter of the suction tube such that the tubular portion is axially and rotatably slidable on the suction tube by manual pressure and yet sufficiently tight that it frictionally engages the suction tube and does not move except by said manual pressure, the retractor member having a spatula portion extending from said tubular portion axially toward and radially away from the suction end of the suction tube, the spatula portion adapted to permit the retraction of a nerve root during surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: Michael H. Lavyne
  • Patent number: 5123903
    Abstract: A disposable aspiration sleeve for use with an ultrasonic handpiece, which ultrasonic handpiece includes an ultrasonic horn wherein the cylindrical aspiration sleeve, which is provided with a vacuum tube coupling nipple, is removably mounted at its base to the handpiece and is provided with a supporting mount or mounts on its interior surface positioned in such a manner that the supportive mount or mounts each touches the horn at a vibratory node, thereby acoustically isolating the interior wall portion of the cylindrical sleeve from the ultrasonic horn or tip member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Medical Products Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel K. Quaid, Peter LeVay
  • Patent number: 5112302
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for mechanically-assisted liposuction treatment. The apparatus includes a hand-holdable housing, a cannula, and a reciprocation mechanism. The hand-holdable housing has a cavity adaptable for receipt of a portion of the cannula. The cannula has a distal end and a proximal end and at least one suction aperture about the distal end. The cannula also has a base portion which is operably associated with the proximal end and insertable within the cavity so that the cannula is free to reciprocate relative to the housing. The reciprocation mechanism is disposed within the housing and is operably associated with the cannula so that the cannula can be selectively caused to reciprocate relative to the housing. The cannula is releasably detachable from the hand-holdable housing to facilitate cleaning and sterilization of the cannula and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Inventor: Robert L. Cucin
  • Patent number: 5098416
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and system for withdrawing and collecting body fluids is disclosed. The system includes an adapter which is arranged to cooperate with a handheld aspirator apparatus and a syringe assembly having an open end portion. The adapter includes a sealing asembly which engages the interior of the syringe assembly and a barrier which is insertable into the syringe assembly to prevent clogging, but permit body fluid aspiration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Assignee: Nestle, S.A.
    Inventor: Maurice M. Imonti
  • Patent number: 5076787
    Abstract: A variable suction aspirator head for an end fitting of a suction hose consisting simply of an inner valve tube having wall holes and a slideable outer barrel, permitting variations in suction, the trapping of solid material by the valve tube wall holes and easy disassembly for cleaning and sterilization of the parts after each use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventor: Thad J. Overmyer
  • Patent number: 5061180
    Abstract: A dental instrument has first stationary and second rotatable tube sections with the rotatable tube section being press fit in the stationary tube section to provide a rotatable and releasable connection between the two tube sections. Stationary and rotatable conduits extend along the sides of the stationary and rotatable tube sections repsectively and are positioned concentric to their respective tube sections at the point of connection between the tubes to provide a rotatable and releasable connection between the stationary and rotatable conduits. A first manually operated valve varies the suction force through the stationary and rotatable tube sections. A second manually operated valve selectively supplies fluid under pressure from first and second fluid supply ducts through the stationary and rotatable conduits to produce a cleaning spray from the rotatable conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Gary B. Wiele
  • Patent number: 5035708
    Abstract: The invention is an endothelial cell procurement and deposition kit for collecting fat from a patient, processing said fat to produce an endothelial cell deposition product, and depositing said product on the surface of a graft, all under sterile conditions established and maintained within the components of said kit comprised of: fat collection means for collecting subcutaneous fat from a patient; digestion means connectable to said fat collection means to maintain sterility during reception of said fat and for retaining said fat under sterile conditions during rinsing and digestion to produce a digested product; endothelial cell isolation means connectable to said digestion means for maintaining sterile conditions during reception of said digested product and for separating and isolating microvessel endothelial cells from said digested product to produce an endothelial cell product; cell deposition means connectable to said isolation means for maintaining sterile conditions during reception of said endothel
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1991
    Assignees: Thomas Jefferson University, Becton
    Inventors: Paul G. Alchas, Frank A. Augello, Christopher J. Brooks, Tony A. Cutshall, Joseph A. DiPisa, Jr., Stuart K. Williams, Jonathan B. Gabel, Paul J. Mulhauser, Wes Prais, Bruce E. Jarrell, Deborah G. Rose
  • Patent number: 5024615
    Abstract: Surgical aspiration device for use in surgical operations, whereby the aspiration device is intended for use in atraumatic aspiration, tissue aspiration and disection. The surgical aspiration device comprises a handle with an inner tube and an outer tube which extend from the handle and which are arranged concentrically, with an interstice formed between them. Adjacent to the handle is an inlet opening which allows air into said interstice. When a vacuum is applied to the inner tube for aspiration, air passes into the interstice and into the inner tube, whereby the aspirated liquid column is broken and atraumatic aspiration can take place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1991
    Assignee: Astra Meditec Aktiebocag
    Inventor: Udo P. Buchel
  • Patent number: 5013300
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing subcutaneous fatty tissue having a suction source connectable to a surgical instrument by means of a tube, the instrument having a cannula with a through passage, one end of the cannula having a configured end closure portion provided with a plurality of openings and a mounting sleeve at the other end of the cannula. A handle having a through bore receiving at one end the mounting sleeve and at the other the tube connecting to the suction source. The connection between the handle and the tube has a swivel connection for manipulation of the surgical instrument over a wide range of positions relative to said plurality of openings during withdrawal of the fatty tissue under suction forces applied subcutaneously through a skin surface incision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Inventor: James D. Williams
  • Patent number: 5000191
    Abstract: In combination with a surgical hand instrument applied by a pushing action to place the instrument against human tissue, followed by a pulling action along the tissue, the improvement consisting of an adapter apparatus to limit the pushing action of the instrument against the tissue to a predetermined force, the adapter being inoperative during the pulling action of the instrument. The adapter may advantageously include a biasing spring, which may be adjustable to set the level of the maximum force to be applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventors: Serge Reiss, Joseph M. Brandes
  • Patent number: 4990153
    Abstract: A surgical suturing system having a probe assembly for positioning tissue to be sutured and a stapling system for suturing tissue. The stapling system includes a stapler having a housing with a staple ejection slot, a magazine of preformed staples received within the housing and a driver for driving the leading staple in the magazine through the ejection slot. The probe assembly includes a holding probe in close proximity to the staple ejection slot, the probe assembly being adapted to connect with a vacuum source. A working end of the holding probe is configured to selectively hold onto and position the edges of the tissue to be sutured in juxtapositional coplanar alignment while the tissue is being sutured by a staple ejected from the stapler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Assignee: Ophthalmic Ventures Limited Partnership
    Inventor: William D. Richards
  • Patent number: 4966584
    Abstract: The present invention is generally related to a suction aspirator for suctioning out liquids during surgical interventions. The subject suction uses a built-in interrupting valve as a means to control simultaneously the vacuum suction flow and the vacuum suction noise. The suction noise is a disturbing noise generated when a vacuum suction flow passes through the suction device. The said valve mechanism is simply constructed and easily operated by one finger of the same hand that is holding the suction device. The said valve assembly is so incorporated that it is unbiased to any working position with the suction device. The said suction device is so constructed that it can be sterilized and can be used with sterile technique required for surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Inventor: Long P. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 4964849
    Abstract: A self-contained two-way suction device for use in surgical operations provides a suction nozzle and a two-way valve selectively determining communication between the nozzle and two parallel exhaust tubes for selectively providing return suction of shed blood to a heart-lung machine or other blood saver device and discard suction of saline solution or the like to a discharge location or cell washing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Inventor: Francis Robicsek
  • Patent number: 4941872
    Abstract: A handpiece for a surgical irrigator and suction device includes a drip-free valve arrangement in which the portion of the flexible irrigation conduit is kinked in a V-shape. The handpiece carries a suction wand and an irrigation wand. The wands are easily detachable from the handpiece and can be substituted for wands having other configurations. A retainer clip is provided to prevent inadvertent separation of the wands. The irrigation wand may be used with a debridement nozzle which emits a plurality of distinct irrigation streams in a plane which provides an approved degree of manipulative control for the irrigation procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Augustus Felix, John Uhoch
  • Patent number: 4938743
    Abstract: A cannula is provided with a guide bar, a rear end of which is formed with a mounting sleeve through which the cannula handle is clamped to the guide bar. The forward end of the guide bar carries a height adjustment bar having a pair of guide wheels rotatably mounted to a lower surface thereof between the guide bar and cannula tip. The height adjustment bar is provided with an elongate slot through which two screws pass for threaded connection to the forward end. Loosening of the screws permits the height adjustment bar to slide to vary the spacing between the guide wheels and cannula tip. The peripheral surface of each guide wheel is formed with an inner beveled edge that stretches the skin between the guide wheels during the suction lipectomy procedure enabling the cannula tip to travel at constant depth through the fatty tissue as the cannula is manually directed by the surgeon in reciprocating strokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Inventor: Hans Lee
  • Patent number: 4932935
    Abstract: An improved lipectomy device, or cannula, is disclosed having inner and outer tubes. The outer tube has an elongated aspiration aperture, and the inner tube has a spiral slot. A mechanism inside the handle of the device causes the inner tube to rotate, creating a traveling hole effect along the aspiration aperture. Alternatively, the inner tube may oscillate rather than comoplete full rotations. This obviates the necessity of the surgeon repeatedly pushing the cannula in and out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Inventor: Barry Swartz
  • Patent number: 4927428
    Abstract: A surgical suturing system having a probe assembly for positioning tissue to be sutured and a stapling system for suturing tissue. The stapling system includes a stapler having a housing with a staple ejection slot, a magazine of preformed staples received within the housing and a driver for driving the leading staple in the magazine through the ejection slot. The probe assembly includes a holding probe in close proximity to the staple ejection slot, the probe assembly being adapted to connect with a vacuum source. A working end of the holding probe is configured to selectively hold onto and position the edges of the tissue to be sutured in juxtapositional coplanar alignment while the tissue is being sutured by a staple ejected from the stapler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1990
    Assignee: Ophthalmic Ventures Limited Partnership
    Inventor: William D. Richards
  • Patent number: 4925450
    Abstract: A surgical aspirator cannula including an elongated body member having a longitudinal aspiration conduit, and a valve assembly supported by the body member and operable to close off the aspiration conduit. The valve assembly includes a thumb switch pad and a plunger having a bore laterally therethrough. When the switch pad is depressed the bore is aligned with the aspiration conduit and suction pressure communicates with the cannula. By sliding it forward, the switch pad can be locked into this open position. When released the plunger is biased upward by a coil spring so that the bore is no longer aligned with the conduit and thereby closing it. A securing assembly removably secures the desired cannula to the forward end of the elongated body member. A generally tubular hub of the securing assembly is pressed fitted into the forward bore of the elongated body member. A ring lock encircles the hub and is rotatable with respect thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: The Cooper Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Maurice M. Imonti, Charles E. Beuchat
  • Patent number: 4915691
    Abstract: A self-contained hand held medical aspirating device having a piston-grip type handle for holding in one hand with a standard connector for connecting to a catheter and a vacuum line for connecting to a vacuum source and a removable specimen container for receiving body fluids and a fluid barrier means to prevent body fluids from getting into the suction source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Assignee: Gesco International, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Jones, George E. Sinko
  • Patent number: 4886492
    Abstract: A surgical suction tip comprises a tubular body portion with a hollow tip portion at one end communicating into the body portion, and a cap portion releasably closing the other end, a tubular connecting portion mounted externally on the cap portion communicating through the cap portion into the body portion. A hollow filter member within the body portion defines an annular chamber between the filter member and the body portion and communicating with the tubular connecting portion through the cap portion, a plurality of apertures in the filter member connecting the interior of the filter member with the annular chamber. The body portion has locating means thereon locating one end of the filter member within the body portion, while the other end of the filter member is closed. Waste material flows from the tip portion into the hollow interior of the filter member and then to the annular chamber and to the tubular connecting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Inventor: Gerard M. Brooke
  • Patent number: 4886491
    Abstract: A method of removing human body fatty tissue includes inserting an ultrasonic aspirating probe into the body in the area of the fatty tissue between the flesh, including blood vessels and arteries, and the muscle. The probe is ultrasonically vibrated at high frequencies and low amplitudes creating localized tissue separation and frictional heat. This heat causes the fatty tissue surrounding the probe to melt. The probe is specially adapted to provide a localized flow of irrigating fluid. This fluid serves to emulsify the melted and separated fat. The emulsified fat is then aspirated through specially designed orifices from the body using suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Inventors: Tulio Parisi, Richard K. Massengill
  • Patent number: 4878900
    Abstract: A probe and suction device for use during surgery is disclosed. The device includes an elongated tubular handle adapted for connection to a source of suction and a separable elongated tubular probe and suction member. It includes a suction regulating orifice in the handle and is characterized by a positive snap-on rotatable connection between the handle and the probe and suction member. The digital end of the probe and suction member is blunted to avoid tissue damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Inventor: Thoralf M. Sundt
  • Patent number: 4872837
    Abstract: This invention relates to a surgical or dental instrument capable of illuminating, washing with liquid, washing with sprayed liquid, drying with air, and aspirating. The instrument incorporates a hollow body comprising means for connecting it to a suction tube, means for fitting thereto a removable cannula, means for supplying fluids which will be conveyed to the end of the cannula, and a supply of electrical current for illuminating a bulb. The hollow body contains a sleeve traversed by an axial bore whose diameter is equal to the inner diameter of the cannula. The sleeve includes, a housing in which is placed a bulb which emits light in the direction of the cannula. The cannula is shaped and positioned for the light generated by the bulb to be conveyed in the sleeve then in the cannula, whose wall performs the role of light conductor. The cannula further includes conduits for conveying fluids. The cannula and the hollow body are shaped so that the cannula may pivot on itself in the hollow body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Inventors: Robert Issalene, Jean-Francois Lantrua
  • Patent number: 4867747
    Abstract: A cylindrical sleeve, having one closed end, to be releasably positioned about the tip portion of a surgical aspirator to aid in preventing clogging. The sleeve is formed of resiliently deformable material that defines plural spaced orifices and ribs on both interior and exterior surfaces to allow entry of fluid and small debris to the aspirator therein but aid in preventing the entry of tissue or larger debris that causes clogging or plugging. The ribs and additional fenstrae maintain aspirator action and prevent its discontinuance by non-dissected tissue's blocking of sleeve orifices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Inventor: Richard J. Yarger
  • Patent number: 4863439
    Abstract: A cosmetic surgical cannula includes lightweight and less cumbersome handle means which also loosen for cleaning, but which lock securely through bonded and tight fitting engagement, as well as circumferential gripping to the surgical cannula, as disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1989
    Assignee: S. Robert Kovac
    Inventor: Terry L. Sanderson
  • Patent number: 4857047
    Abstract: A novel finger-actuated bypass holder apparatus for ocular cortex fluid aspiration and refluxing and the like, in which the vacuum or suction is normally bypassed through an aperture in the holder which the surgeon may, at will, occlude or open with the finger to enable instantaneous application or removal of vacuum and fine control of aspiration, and with a forward proximal squeezable reflux chamber also finger-actuable at the operating site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1989
    Inventor: Selig P. Amoils
  • Patent number: 4815462
    Abstract: The lipectomy device includes a generally hollow tubular housing to the open front end of which are releasably sealingly connected an elongated hollow tubular suction conduit, with a rounded closed front end bearing at least one opening, and a cutting blade with the shaft and cutting tip thereof wholly disposed in the conduit and spaced inwardly therefrom. The cutting blade is releasably connected to an electrical motor in the housing for rotation of the blade, and a suction line also runs into the front end of the housing to remove severed tissue sucked through the blade and/or conduit. The device may include an electrocoagulation component which includes the blade tip in the form of electrically resistive metal, and an electrical circuit between a housing switch, the blade tip and an external electrical power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Inventor: Vickie J. Clark
  • Patent number: 4813926
    Abstract: A fine tip hand-held medical suction device is provided having a vent orifice in the sidewall of the tip remote from the suction orifice of the tip and the hand holding portion of the device to regulate the negative pressure at the suction orifice. A fluid flow restriction orifice in the flow passage is disposed close to the vent orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1989
    Assignee: Sherwood Medical Company
    Inventor: Michael J. Kerwin
  • Patent number: 4795428
    Abstract: A therapeutic suction device includes an operating vacuum chamber connected to a motor operated pump to create a vacuum pressure therein and a pressure controlling means to maintain a predetermined pressure in the vacuum chamber. The vacuum pressure in the operating vacuum chamber can be pre-arranged so as to provide a suction force by a pressure difference even when there is a shortage of electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1989
    Inventor: Shyh-Chyi Hwang
  • Patent number: 4792327
    Abstract: An improved lipectomy device, or cannula, is disclosed having inner and outer tubes. The outer tube has an elongated aspiration aperture, and the inner tube has a spiral slot. A mechanism inside the handle of the device causes the inner tube to rotate, creating a traveling hole effect along the aspiration aperture. This obviates the necessity of the surgeon repeatedly pushing the cannula in and out. A valve system is also disclosed which allows the surgeon to maintain negative pressure in the vacuum line leading to the cannula while still allowing the cannula itself to be vented to ambient pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1988
    Inventor: Barry Swartz
  • Patent number: 4787599
    Abstract: An improved manually operated slide valve, particularly adept for use with a dental aspirator assembly, which valve is characterized by being formed from a number of components removably associated with one another to permit the valve to be disassembled for cleaning purposes. The improved value is also characterized by including means for preventing the slide member to move from an open to a closed position due to variations in pressure within the interior of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Inventor: Robert P. Nyboer
  • Patent number: 4775365
    Abstract: An improved lipectomy device, or cannula, is disclosed having inner and outer tubes. The outer tube has an elongated aspiration aperture, and the inner tube has a spiral slot. A mechanism inside the handle of the device causes the inner tube to rotate, creating a traveling hole effect along the aspiration aperture. This obviates the necessity of the surgeon repeatedly pushing the cannula in and out. A valve system is also disclosed which allows the surgeon to maintain negative pressure in the vacuum line leading to the cannula while still allowing the cannula itself to be vented to ambient pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Inventor: Barry Swartz
  • Patent number: 4767404
    Abstract: A perforate suction tip for removal of surgical debris with reduced clogging and with minimum trauma to tissue is disclosed. Suction ports are arranged on the tip so that suction ports which remain unblocked when surgical debris lodges in other suction ports operate as a vacuum modulator facilitating the removal of the blockage. Further, the likelihood of blocking every suction port, thereby aspirating and damaging tissue, is greatly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1988
    Assignee: R & S Associates Co.
    Inventor: Derric Renton
  • Patent number: 4759349
    Abstract: A surgical instrument and support unit for enabling a user using one hand to probe an incision and illuminate, irrigate, and aspirate the incision. The surgical instrument has a probe with illumination, irrigation, and aspiration ports on the end. The probe is coupled to a handle having controls for the irrigation and aspiration functions. Light from a high intensity lamp in the handle is transmitted through an optical fiber to the illumination port. A heat sink enclosing the lamp draws heat away from the lamp and transfers the heat to the aspirated fluid passing through the heat sink. The support unit is controlled by a microcomputer and provides an electrical supply for the lamp and a pressurized fluid supply for irrigation. The sources of the irrigation fluid is a standard hospital flexible bag. A bladder inflated by an air pump pressurizes the flexible bag. The pump is also utilized to deflate the bladder to allow rapid changing of the flexible bag during a surgical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Assignee: Vitalmetrics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bard B. Betz, Daniel J. Conley, Larry Blankenship, Stephen J. Krienick, Bradley J. Denny, Charles T. Bovey, Jeffrey P. Castleberry
  • Patent number: 4737148
    Abstract: A fluid T-coupling comprising a through fluid flow path, and an intersecting vent path, wherein the vent path is integrally molded within the filtered bayonet connector to be used with an aspirator to control the level of vacuum communicated to an irrigation/aspiration handpiece during eye surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: Allergan Surgical
    Inventor: Larry W. Blake