Cutting, Puncturing Or Piercing Patents (Class 606/167)
Cutter drive reversed to clean material therefrom (Class 606/168)
Cutter having vibratory drive means (Class 606/169)
Cutter carried on elongated probe-like member (Class 606/170)
Means to limit cutter penetration depth (e.g., dura guard) (Class 606/172)
Shear type (e.g., scissors, etc.) (Class 606/174)
Saw type (Class 606/176)
Rotary cutter (Class 606/180)
Lancet (Class 606/181)
Punch (Class 606/184)
Puncturing or piercing (Class 606/185)
  • TRANSAPICAL VALVE REPLACEMENT
    Publication number: 20120303048
    Abstract: Techniques for reaching the interior of the heart, such as for aortic valve replacement, can combine elements of percutaneous implantation methods and elements of surgical implantation methods. In some instances, aortic valve replacement may include a dual transapical approach in which a transfemoral approach is used to reach the apex of the patient's heart from inside the left ventricle while a minimally invasive surgical procedure provides access to the exterior of the apex via an intercostal approach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: Sorin Biomedica Cardio S.r.I.
    Inventor: Eric Manasse
  • SURGICAL INSTRUMENT
    Publication number: 20120303049
    Abstract: The invention is to offer a surgical instrument, where the pressure-opposing force and bending characteristics of the spring parts can be easily adjusted and the manipulability is improved. This surgical instrument comprises functional parts 11 that perform nipping or cutting of the object, operating parts 13 that operate the functional parts 11 by a user adding force, and spring parts 14 composed of a pair of elastic strip-shaped parts that impel the operating part 13 in the direction of opening the functional parts 11, wherein multiple grooves 14A are formed in the strip-shaped members of the spring parts 14, thereby to cause changes in pressure-opposing force and in bending characteristics of the spring parts 14, and allowing adjustment of manipulability of the functional parts 11.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicants: ACP JAPAN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shoichi Nakamura
  • Tissue puncture assemblies and methods for puncturing tissue
    Patent number: 8317810
    Abstract: A tissue puncture assembly includes an elongate tubular member having a lumen, a distal portion having a side wall, a side port opening extending through the side wall and, and a guiding surface having a distal end that extends adjacent to a distal edge of the side port opening. The tissue puncture assembly further includes a flexible puncture member insertable through the lumen of the elongate tubular member. The flexible puncture member deflects upon contacting the guiding surface to exit the elongate tubular member through the side port in a lateral direction relative to a longitudinal direction of the elongate tubular member. The tissue puncture member is capable of puncturing tissue at an oblique angle. The tissue puncture member may further adopt a pre-formed shape at its distal end to prevent inadvertent puncture of tissue and to maintain access to the puncture site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Raymond Stangenes, Saurav Paul
  • Fluid jet device
    Patent number: 8308745
    Abstract: A fluid jet device being provided with a fluid jet aperture section and producing a jet of fluid from the fluid jet aperture section includes: a pulsation generation section including a fluid chamber whose capacity can be changed, an inlet fluid path linked through the fluid chamber with a volume smaller than that of the fluid chamber, and an outlet fluid path linked through the fluid chamber and the fluid jet aperture section with an inertance set smaller than that of the inlet fluid path; and a pressure generation section that supplies the fluid to the inlet fluid path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshl Seto, Kazuyoshi Takayama
  • Systems and methods for automatically inserting a needle into a living subject
    Patent number: 8308741
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to systems and methods for automatically inserting a needle into an insertion-target region of a living subject in response to a machine-vision system locating the insertion-target region. In an embodiment, a needle insertion system includes a moveable needle configured to be inserted into a living subject, a machine-vision system configured to locate an insertion-target region of the living subject, control electrical circuitry, and an actuator coupled to the control electrical circuitry. The control electrical circuitry may be coupled to the machine-vision system to receive location information therefrom about the insertion-target region, and configured to output needle targeting instructions. The actuator may be coupled to the control electrical circuitry to receive the needle targeting instructions therefrom and coupled to the moveable needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: The Invention Science Fund I, LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A. Smith, Leif T. Stordal, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • QUADRICEPS TENDON STRIPPER
    Publication number: 20120283793
    Abstract: A cutting implement includes a V-shaped blade portion that defines an aperture through which a quadriceps tendon may pass as a doctor harvests the tendon through a minimally invasive procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Leach Burroughs, III
  • SURGICAL HANDPIECE
    Publication number: 20120283740
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a surgical handpiece for driving a surgical tool, with a housing, in which there are arranged a drive in the form of a compressed air motor and at least one bearing or gear part cooperating with the drive on the output side, further comprising at least one lubricant spray connection for coupling to a lubricant spray source, and which is in fluidic connection with at least one of the at least one bearing or gear part and the compressed air motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Roland-Alois Hoegerle, Uwe Mattes, Edgar Blust, Ralf Pfister
  • Bloodless catheter and needle shielding catheter insertion apparatus
    Patent number: 8303543
    Abstract: An insertion apparatus, including an object for insertion into a patient; an insertion structure including an annular mounting structure having a mounting structure interior, the mounting structure containing a resilient membrane barrier extending across the mounting structure interior with a resiliently closing membrane opening for passing the object; so that the object can be inserted forwardly through the membrane opening and into a patient and subsequently withdrawn from the patient and rearwardly from the membrane opening, the membrane opening resiliently closes as the object exits the membrane opening and thereby preventing patient bodily fluid from flowing rearwardly out of the insertion structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Ramzi Abulhaj
  • METHODS AND DEVICES FOR REMOVING OMENTAL TISSUE
    Publication number: 20120277742
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of treating obesity, insulin resistance and co-morbidities of these conditions by removing tissue from the abdomen. More specifically, it relates to a method of removing abdominal fat and omentum to which the fat is attached, in order to improve health.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: Michael D. LAUFER
  • Safety Scalpel
    Publication number: 20120271333
    Abstract: A scalpel enabling both safe blade engagement or disengagement and safe passing among personnel during surgical procedures. The blade arm assembly of the scalpel is positionable in three positions, including a retracted position, an operational extended position and a fully extended position for engagement and disengagement of the blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: Canica Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Maxwell
  • Reusable metal blade handle
    Patent number: 8291601
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a reusable metal blade handle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a reusable metal blade scalpel handle with safety features provided therein which are also usable across a wide range of blades. In particular, the present invention has application for reusable metal surgical scalpels, providing the facility of a uniform handle type across a variety of blade types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventors: Pankaj Kehr, Klaus Ruettgers
  • Adapter for powered surgical devices
    Patent number: 8292150
    Abstract: An adapter assembly for selectively interconnecting a surgical end effector including at least one axially translatable drive member and a powered actuator device including at least one rotatable drive shaft is provided. The adapter assembly includes an actuation shaft configured to convert rotation of a first drive shaft of the powered actuator device into an axial translation of a first drive member of the surgical end effector. The adapter assembly further includes an elongate tube configured to convert rotation of a second drive shaft of the powered actuator device into an axial translation of a second drive member of the surgical end effector. The actuation shaft is disposed within the elongate tube, and the actuation shaft and the elongate tube translate axially independent of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Teddy R. Bryant
  • Disposable automated tissue excision and collection device
    Patent number: 8287465
    Abstract: An biopsy apparatus includes a pressure and vacuum generator including a first cylinder and a first piston movably disposed within the cylinder. The cylinder has a pressure generating region and a vacuum generating region. The biopsy apparatus also includes an outer cannula and an inner cannula having a lumen. The inner cannula is movably disposed within the outer cannula, and the vacuum generating region is in one-way fluid communication with the inner cannula lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Suros Surgical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry D. Hardin, Brian Dougherty
  • SAFETY SUTURE CUTTING DEVICE HAVING A PLURALITY OF CUTTING SLOTS AND RELATED METHODS
    Publication number: 20120259352
    Abstract: A sheath for use with a scalpel cutting device including a sheath body configured to cover a scalpel blade at a distal end of a scalpel cutting device. The sheath advantageously may include a plurality of slots formed therein. Providing two or more slots provides additional functionality and/or ease of manufacturing. A single sheath configuration including a plurality of slots (e.g., two) may be manufactured so as to be used with scalpels including somewhat different blade configurations (e.g., which may require a slightly different slot location). Such a universal sheath allows a single sheath design to be used with multiple scalpels, easing manufacture and reducing costs. In addition, depending on the particular location of the slots and the configuration of the scalpel blade, the different slots may each intersect the scalpel blade and provide different characteristics for cutting a suture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventor: Branden D. Rosenhan
  • Medical Product with Biodegradable Portion
    Publication number: 20120259295
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a medical product with a biodegradable portion. The biodegradable portion is made of a biodegradable material and the biodegradable portion degrades faster than the remaining portion of the medical product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Surgical blade
    Patent number: 8281494
    Abstract: A surgical blade adapted to be typically used in medical procedures is disclosed. The blade is provided with markings located near the cutting edge. The markings are configured to be indicative of the depth of the blade and/or of the cutting edge during the incision of an organic tissue. The markings are configured to substantially follow the shape of the cutting edge such as to indicate the depth of the blade substantially independently of the orientation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Katya Archambault
  • Multi-blade curette tool
    Patent number: 8282661
    Abstract: A multi-blade curette tool for use in spinal surgery. The curette tool includes an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A handle is disposed at the first end. A curette head is disposed at the second end. The curette head is generally tapered toward the first end and the second end. The curette head includes a convexly-shaped and generally tapered nose portion, a base portion, and a plurality of blades. Each blade extends between the base portion and the nose portion, and each of the plurality of blades is provided with at least one cutting element. A drive stem connects the handle and the curette head. At least one cutting element of each blade is adapted to remove spinal disk material upon rotation of the curette tool in at least one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Concept Matrix, LLC
    Inventor: Walter W. Eckman
  • Charging station for battery powered biopsy apparatus
    Patent number: 8283890
    Abstract: A charging station for a battery powered biopsy apparatus includes a charging dock having a housing and a charging unit contained in the housing. The charging unit has a set of electrical contacts. The housing is received in a first cavity of a driver assembly with the electrical contacts being coupled in electrical communication with the driver assembly when the driver assembly is mounted on the charging dock for charging. The charging unit provides a signal to the driver assembly to reset the driver assembly to an initialized state when the driver assembly is mounted to the charging station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Bard Peripheral Vascular, Inc.
    Inventor: Karsten Videbaek
  • Medical sheath for scalpel handle with retractable blade guard
    Patent number: 8282662
    Abstract: A scalpel device has a metal shank having a blade carrier configured holding a scalpel blade. A sheath is configured for receiving the scalpel shank. The shank is rigidly coupled to the sheath. A retractable blade guard is movably coupled to the sheath. The blade guard is movable between retracted and extended positions wherein the scalpel blade is selectively covered or exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Ansell Sandell Medical Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Brian K. Reaux
  • Dental instrument for cutting soft tissue
    Patent number: 8277217
    Abstract: Disclosed is a dental instrument for cutting soft tissue. The dental instrument for cutting soft tissue according to the present invention includes: a main body having an inlet portion for inserting soft tissue to be cut into the main body; a cutter blade arranged in the main body such that at least a part of the cutter blade is exposed outwardly through the inlet portion; and a lid for covering the upper portion of the main body. The cutter blade includes a first cutter blade having a first cut depth, and a second cutter blade arranged in the vicinity of the first cutter blade, and which has a second cut depth shallower than the first cut depth. The dental instrument of the present invention makes it possible to cut the soft tissue in the deep part of a mouth in an easy and simple process, thereby improving the convenience of soft tissue implantation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Megagen Implant Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwang Bum Park, Kyoung Ho Ryoo
  • RETRACTABLE AND REMOVABLE BLADE UNIT FOR A SCALPEL
    Publication number: 20120245610
    Abstract: A detachable blade cartridge for a scalpel is provided. The cartridge includes a body configured for attachment to a scalpel handle, a scalpel blade and a blade cover engaged to the body for travel along the body between a closed position covering the blade and a retracted position to expose said blade for use. The cartridge includes a releasable catch for selectively retaining the cover in the open position or the closed position. The cartridge also includes a one-way catch comprising a detent in one of the cover or the body and a recess in the other of the cover or body to restrict movement of the cover relative to the body in a distal direction past a limit position while permitting movement in an opposed proximal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: Southmedic Inc.
    Inventors: Julius Hajgato, Lee McDonald
  • Powered surgical tissue cutting instrument having an irrigation system
    Patent number: 8273097
    Abstract: A surgical tissue cutting instrument having an irrigation system comprises an elongate tubular outer member having a proximal end, a distal end and an opening at the distal end, an elongate inner member rotatably disposed within the outer member and having a proximal end, a distal end and a cutting element at the distal end exposed from the opening, a handpiece mounted to the proximal ends of the outer and inner members, and an irrigation system comprising an irrigation channel composed of a first irrigation passage within the handpiece and a second irrigation passage within the thickness of the annular wall of the outer member, and a sleeve having a rearward end disposed over a front end of the handpiece and a forward end disposed over the outer member adjacent an outlet opening of the second irrigation passage near the distal end of the outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic Xomed, Inc.
    Inventors: Aayush Malla, Charles Stanislaus, Joshua David Rubin, William C. Brunnett
  • SURGICAL INSTRUMENT
    Publication number: 20120239056
    Abstract: Surgical instrument and method for the removal of tension in a continuous portion of tissue. In order to prevent the further tear of tissue under tension when making an initial incision, it is proposed that the initial incision is made not at the edge of the tissue portion but at a point further along the tissue portion, preferably at the end point of the intended separation. From that point, the separation is made towards the edge of the tissue portion. The initial separation can be performed by way of incision, perforation and the like. To this end, a surgical instrument is proposed that, for example, can be provided with a cutting blade that is inclined at an angle in such a manner that when the blade is moved towards the opposing support member between which the tissue is held, the tissue is cut from the free end of the blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: GYNAECOLOGIQ B.V.
    Inventors: Coen Dirk-Jan Dijkman, Johannes Franciscus Marinus Remmerswaal, Sebastiaan Veersema
  • DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING COMPRESSION OF TISSUE
    Publication number: 20120239067
    Abstract: A method and device for controlling the compression of tissue include clamping tissue between a first clamping member and a second clamping member by driving at least one of the clamping members with an electric motor toward a predetermined tissue gap between the clamping members and, during the clamping, monitoring a parameter of the electric motor indicative of a clamping force exerted to the tissue by the clamping members. The method and device include, during the clamping, controlling the electric motor, based on the monitored parameter, to limit the clamping force to a predetermined maximum limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Michael P. Whitman, Donald Malinouskas, David A. Zeichner
  • FLUID EJECTION DEVICE
    Publication number: 20120232341
    Abstract: A fluid ejection device includes a fluid chamber configured to store fluid, a nozzle configured to eject the fluid stored in the fluid chamber, a fluid supply channel connected to the fluid chamber and configured to supply the fluid to the fluid chamber, an air bubbles generating member configured to generate air bubbles in the fluid chamber, and a partitioning wall portion configured to separate the fluid chamber and the fluid supply channel, support the air bubbles generating member. The partitioning wall portion include at least one hole, communicating the fluid chamber and the fluid supply channel. The hole is configured to inhibit backflow during ejection of a jet pulse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takeshi SETO, Takayama Kazuyoshi, Nakagawa Atsuhiro, Toru Nakano, Hiroaki Yamamoto
  • Methods and Systems for Performing Submucosal Medical Procedures
    Publication number: 20120226300
    Abstract: Instruments, systems and methods are provided for performing submucosal medical procedures in a desired area of the digestive tract using endoscopy. Instruments include a safe access needle injection instrument, a submucosal tunneling instrument, a submucosal dissection instrument, a mucosal resection device. Systems include a combination of one or more of such instruments with or without injectable agents. Embodiments of various methods for performing the procedures are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Vladimir Mitelberg, Donald K. Jones, Brett E. Naglreiter, Christopher J. Gostout, Pankaj J. Pasricha
  • Channeled wire guide for a scalpel
    Publication number: 20120226299
    Abstract: A scalpel guide system for a bladed surgical instrument. A pair of wire guides attach to a scalpel, for controlled travel of the scalpel along the wire. The wire guides of the scalpel guide system are especially useful as an enhancement to the “Seldinger technique,” or any surgical procedure employed for the percutaneous placement of elongated, tubular devices, with the aid of a guidewire or filament wire. The scalpel can be any knifelike surgical device, conventionally including a blade attached to a handle. The scalpel guiding system preferably includes a pair of wire guides, each extending from the scalpel, which can be disposable, as can the blade, independent of the scalpel. The pair of wire guides each have generally open funnel-shapes, with their wider portion facing the gap formed between the two guides. The user places this medal gap on the wire and rotates the scalpel to engage the wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: J. Scott Heppler
  • Device, a kit and a method for treatment of disorders in the heart rhythm regulation system
    Patent number: 8257376
    Abstract: A tissue lesion creating device is structured and arranged to be inserted through the vascular system into a body vessel adjacent the heart and to be subsequently subjected to a change of shape in order to penetrate into the heart tissue. The tissue lesion creating device may thus be used for treating disorders to the heart rhythm regulation system. A kit of devices provides a plurality of devices for creating a lesion pattern for treating such disorders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Syntach AG
    Inventor: Jan Otto Solem
  • Guarded surgical knife handle
    Patent number: 8256330
    Abstract: A guarded surgical knife handle includes a lower handle portion, an upper handle postion, and a button. The lower handle portion includes a blade holder, a proximal pair of lateral shelves, and a distal pair of lateral shelves. The upper handle portion includes a guard portion, a proximal post between the proximal pair of shelves with a first widened post portion wider than the lateral spacing between the shelves, and a distal post between the distal pair of shelves with a second widened post portion wider than the lateral spacing between the shelves. The button has a button waist narrower than the second lateral spacing and a widened button portion below the button waist wider than the second lateral spacing. A bias member connected to the button and at least one of the handle portions provides an upward force on the button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gregory Allen Auchter, Randal Lee Berardi, Edwin Warren Blatt, Jeffrey Kirk Landis, David Robert Schiff, Seth McCue GaleWyrick
  • Guarded surgical knife handle
    Patent number: 8256331
    Abstract: A guarded surgical knife handle includes a handle portion with a blade holder, a chamber within the handle portion, and a slot. The guarded surgical knife handle also includes a guard having an open distal end slidably mounted within the handle portion that can slide longitudinally between an unguarded position and a guarded position. The guard is sized to surround the blade in the guarded position. The guarded surgical knife handle also includes a latch that latches the guard when the guard is slid into the guarded position and a first button that disengages the latch. The guarded surgical knife handle includes a bias member that forces the guard in a proximal direction to an unguarded position when the latch is disengaged along with a second button extending through the slot used to slide the guard in a distal direction into the guarded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gregory Allen Auchter, Randal Lee Berardi, David Robert Schiff, Seth McCue GaleWyrick
  • Control for a Powered Surgical Instrument
    Publication number: 20120221028
    Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided for cutting bone and other tissue. The instrument includes a housing. A plurality of sensors is located in the housing in a spaced apart orientation from each other. A collar is moveably mounted to the housing into a plurality of different collar orientations on the housing. A lever comprising an actuator is moveably coupled to the collar and, with the collar located in any one of the plurality of different collar orientations, the lever is operable to move the actuator relative to one of the plurality of sensors in order to vary a signal produced by that sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: Medtronix Xomed, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis M. Shadeck, Vikram Mullick, Manfred Luedi
  • SURGICAL INSTRUMENT
    Publication number: 20120221027
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes: a fluid chamber to which fluid is supplied; a pulsation generator which produces pulsed flow by pressurizing the fluid supplied to the fluid chamber; an outlet channel which communicates with the fluid chamber through which the pulsed flow is transmitted; a fluid ejection opening which communicates with the outlet channel through which pulse flow is ejected toward an ejection target; a suction opening provided in the vicinity of the fluid ejection opening; and a fluid suctioning unit which suctions the fluid through the suction opening, wherein the opening area at an outlet opening end of the fluid ejection opening on the side near the ejection target is larger than the opening area at an inlet opening end of the fluid ejection opening on the side near the outlet channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideki Kojima, Takeshi Seto, Atsuya Hirabayashi
  • Minimally invasive technique for performing plantar fasciotomies and surgical instrument for use in such a technique
    Patent number: 8252011
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a clamp having a handle with a pair of substantially parallel prongs or tines extending from the handle, all formed as a unitary body or article of manufacture. The handle and prongs define a channel to receive a knife. The knife includes a handle, a scalpel, and an extension arm coupling the scalpel to the handle. The clamp defines a minor image about a central axis. In this way, the surgeon need not concern himself with whether the knife is oriented properly within the channel. Also, the extension arm of the knife includes graduations to assist the surgeon in predetermining precisely the distance of cut in using the instrument. The upper prong of the clamp includes a downwardly extending capture pad having a bottom surface substantially parallel to the inner surface of the lower prong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: OsteoMed LLC
    Inventors: Perry C. Forrester, Larry Weatherford, Fred D. Youngswick, Daniel F. Alberts
  • Vapor assisted fluid cutting device and method
    Patent number: 8251974
    Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for cutting tissue using a high pressure fluid jet. In one exemplary embodiment, a high pressure fluid jet delivery device is provided having a nozzle adapted to direct fluid to a tissue site. A heating element is disposed on the nozzle and is adapted to heat fluid surrounding a high pressure fluid jet flowing from the nozzle to form at least one vapor bubble. The vapor bubble can reduce the interaction between the high pressure fluid jet and the fluid surrounding the high pressure fluid jet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: DePuy Mitek, Inc.
    Inventor: Mehmet Z. Sengun
  • Surgical instruments for creating a pneumostoma and treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
    Patent number: 8252003
    Abstract: Surgical instruments and techniques are provided for creating a pneumostoma through the chest wall into the lung of a patient. The pneumostomy instruments and techniques may be used to create a pneumostoma which allows gases to escape from the lung through the chest wall and thereby treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Portaero, Inc.
    Inventors: Don Tanaka, Joshua P. Wiesman, David C. Plough, Jeffrey C. Cerier, Gary L. Boseck, Richard S. Wisdom
  • Low Profile Cutting Assembly with a Return Spring
    Publication number: 20120215242
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a forceps that includes a housing, a cutting assembly, and an actuator. The housing has a shaft attached thereto that extends therefrom and is configured to support a pair of jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable to grasp tissue therebetween. The cutting assembly includes a spring element that has proximal and distal ends. The proximal end of the spring element is fixed to a boss disposed within the housing and the distal end of the spring element includes a cutting edge. The spring element is coiled at a proximal end thereof to create a spring bias against the boss. The actuator is operably coupled to the spring element and is configured to selectively advance the cutting edge of the spring element into the jaw members against the spring bias to sever tissue disposed therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: TYCO HEALTHCARE GROUP LP
    Inventors: Arlen J. Reschke, Daniel A. Joseph, Paul R. Romero
  • MEDICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT FOR SEVERING MUSCLES AND TENDONS
    Publication number: 20120215240
    Abstract: A medical cutting instrument for cutting muscles and tendons, with an instrument body that includes a handle on its proximal end and at least one cutting knife in the area of its distal end. To provide a medical cutting instrument that guarantees ease of handling and simple structure along with secure cutting of the muscle/tendon tissue, the instrument body should be of grooved configuration in the area of its cutting knife in such a way that the instrument body includes a hollow space extending in the longitudinal direction of the instrument body to receive and guide the muscle/tendon tissue that is to be cut, such that the instrument body includes an opening extending in the longitudinal direction of the instrument body and the cutting knife constitutes a side of the instrument body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Christian Fink, Daniel Weinmann, Sascha Berberich
  • MICRO SURGICAL KNIFE WITH SAFETY FEATURE
    Publication number: 20120215241
    Abstract: A surgical knife safety handle device comprises a handle body being essentially solid. A movable guard engages with the body for longitudinal movement between an extended position and a retracted position. The guard encloses a knife blade. The operation is an intuitive push/pull to extend or retract guard. The guard is formed of a clear material with a low profile that does not interfere with vision in use. The guard includes a leaf spring. The spring has a hemispherical protrusion on its underside that engages with a slot on the handle for positive engagement and an audible “click” when it seats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: OASIS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Nick Quinton Trees, Norman Craig Delgado, Michael Hitoshi Ekinaka
  • Medical devices and methods for producing the same
    Patent number: 8246974
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include coated medical devices that can elute one or more bioactive agents within the body, and methods for producing the same. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of forming a coated medical device including depositing a coated composition onto a medical device having a roughened segment and a smooth segment. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of forming a coated implantable medical device including depositing a coated composition onto a medical device having a body segment and a piercing segment. In an embodiment, the invention includes a medical device, a coated composition provided on the substrate surface, the composition including a bioactive agent and a polymer. The medical device includes an uncoated component wherein the edge of the coated composition is within 0.5 mm of the uncoated component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: SurModics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph A. Chappa
  • DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR RESHAPING A HEART VALVE ANNULUS, INCLUDING THE USE OF MAGNETIC TOOLS
    Publication number: 20120209377
    Abstract: Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: MVRx, INC.
    Inventors: TIMOTHY R. MACHOLD, ROBERT T. CHANG, JOHN A. MACOVIAK, DAVID A. RAHDERT
  • Method of and apparatus for positioning and maintaining the position of endoscopic instruments
    Patent number: 8231621
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for, and a method of, accurate positioning of endoscopic instruments. Accurate positioning of the instruments is accomplished through the inclusion of a steering ability within the device. After the endoscopic instrument is properly positioned, the present invention may use rapid exchange technology, soft locks, and mechanical locks to maintain the position of the endoscopic instrument. Rapid exchange technology is used to minimize displacement forces present on the guidewire or catheters. Soft locks and mechanical locks resist movements caused by displacement forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Hutchins, Mark L. Adams, Mark Mallaby, Scott E. Swaffar, Martin G. Donofrio, Oscar R. Carrillo, Tracy Gandolfi, Mike Mangano, Bob Reynolds, Russell F. Durgin
  • Device for preparing tissue discs, in particular cartilaginous discs
    Patent number: 8230769
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preparing tissue discs, in particular cartilaginous discs. A device for preparing tissue discs that is of simple structure and ensures safe handling includes, in addition to a clamping device for securing a tissue block by clamping, at least one cutting device for treating the tissue block held in the clamping device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Peter Eisenkolb
  • Modulated pulsed ultrasonic power delivery system and method
    Patent number: 8231564
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering energy during a surgical procedure such as phacoemulsification is provided. The method and apparatus include applying energy during at least one pulsed energy on period, typically sufficient or intended to rapidly induce and beneficially employ transient cavitation. Applying energy during the pulsed energy on period comprises applying energy during a first high energy period, and applying energy during a second nonzero lower energy period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Kadziauskas, Paul W. Rockley
  • Surgical Knife Handle and Knife
    Publication number: 20120191114
    Abstract: A surgical knife handle comprising a handle body (102) and a blade receiving portion (104) defined at a first end of the handle body, which blade receiving portion comprises a blade receiving bore and a blade support (118) extending to a first side of the blade receiving bore. A surgical knife comprising a handle, a blade defined at a first end of the handle and a blade support extending to a first side of the blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicants: e-Medix Limited, Core Surgical Limited
    Inventors: Richard Packard, Simon Checkley, Ian Hutchinson
  • Biopsy needle assemblies
    Patent number: 8226575
    Abstract: This document provides needle biopsy systems and methods for obtaining tissue biopsies. In various embodiments, the systems and methods provided can inhibit needle contamination by unwanted tissue or cells and/or regulate a negative pressure to assist sampling of target tissue or cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Michael J. Levy
  • Trocar-tipped drill bit
    Patent number: 8226654
    Abstract: A drill bit comprising a trocar tip on an end of a fluted portion is disclosed. The trocar tip may configured to cut through relatively hard bone. The drill bit may also have a fluted portion for cutting through softer bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Aeton Medical LLC
    Inventors: Roger S. Ranck, Robert S. Kramer, Anatoli Krivoruk
  • Debulking catheters and methods
    Patent number: 8226674
    Abstract: A method of removing material from a blood flow lumen includes providing a device having a cutting element and an opening, the cutting element being movable relative to the opening. The method then includes advancing the device through a patient's vascular system to the blood flow lumen. Finally, the method involves moving the cutting element and the opening relative to the blood flow lumen so that a continuous piece of material is severed by the cutting element and directed into the opening as the cutting element and opening move through the blood flow lumen, the continuous piece of severed material being directed into the device for removal from the patient. The method may include providing a device having a rotatable cutter that, in some embodiments, is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device, is movable, has retracted and deployed positions, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: John B. Simpson, Himanshu Patel, Greg Stine, Brett Follmer, Michael H. Rosenthal, Mehrdad Farhangnia
  • Device and method for sectioning a vertebral lamina
    Patent number: 8221422
    Abstract: A device for sectioning a vertebral lamina, which can comprise a base for positioning the device and protecting the medullar canal when sectioning the lamina, sectioning means slide-mounted in the base along a first axis, a first piston slide-mounted in a sleeve of the sectioning means along a second axis secant to the first sliding axis of the sectioning means, a second piston made integral with the first piston and slide-mounted in the base along a third axis, the sectioning means being provided with a cutting element oriented in opposite direction to the second piston with respect to the sleeve, and the sliding of the second piston along the third axis causing the sliding of the sectioning means along the first axis via the first piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: LDR Medical
    Inventor: Paolo Mangione
  • Surgical instrument
    Patent number: 8221450
    Abstract: The surgical instrument includes a distal tool, a rigid or flexible elongated shaft that supports the distal tool, and a proximal handle or control member, where the tool and the handle are coupled to the respective distal and proximal ends of the elongated shaft via distal and proximal bendable motion members. Actuation means extends between said distal and proximal members whereby any deflection of said control handle with respect to said elongated instrument shaft causes a corresponding bending of said distal motion member for control of said working member. A manually rotatable member is arranged adjacent to the control handle for manually rotating the instrument shaft and working member relative to the control handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Cambridge Endoscopic Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Woojin Lee, Andres Chamorro
  • Surgical stapling instrument having a medical substance dispenser
    Patent number: 8215531
    Abstract: In various embodiments, an assembly of a surgical instrument is disclosed. The assembly includes a housing, a cutting member relatively movable with respect to the housing, and an agent cartridge connected to the housing. The agent cartridge houses a medical agent. The assembly is configured to deliver the medical agent proximate a cutting surface of the cutting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Leslie M. Fugikawa