Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for positioning medical devices onto (or close to) a desired portion of the interior wall of an internal channel, such as for scan imaging, for photodynamic therapy and/or for optical temperature measurement. In one embodiment, a catheter assembly has a distal portion that can be changed from a configuration suitable for traversing the internal channel to another configuration suitable for scan at least a spiral section of the interior wall of an internal channel, such as an artery. In one example, the distal portion spirals into gentle contact with (or close to) a spiral section of the artery wall for Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scanning. The spiral radius may be changed through the use of a guidewire, a tendon, a spiral balloon, a tube, or other ways.

Abstract: Reciprocating rasps for the surgical preparation of the bone prior to the implantation of a glenoid or acetabular component with complex geometry are disclosed. Surgical methods for the use of such reciprocating rasps are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for removing tissue from a site in a hollow organ, where the device has a low crossing profile and is capable of removing tissue at a high rate of speed. The device includes an elongate outer tube with a side opening and an inner tube moveably coaxially positioned within the outer tube. Tissue drawn into the side opening can be severed by moving the inner tube across the opening. Tissue may be removed through the device at a rate of at least about 1.4 cc per minute, through a lumen having a cross-sectional area of no greater than about 12.02 mm. Cutting may be accomplished by rotating the inner tube at a speed of at least about 4000 rpm, and axially reciprocating the inner tube at a rate of at least about 1.5 cycles per second. The window may have a rho value of no more than about 1, and the outside diameter of the device may be no more than about 3 mm.

Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members.

Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a movable member having a proximal portion, the movable member defining an opening at the proximal portion. The instrument includes a stationary member defining an aperture. The stationary member is arranged relative to the movable member with a close fit between the stationary member and the movable member such that aspiration occurs through the movable member substantially only during a portion of a repetitive motion of the movable member. The instrument includes a surgical handpiece coupled to the movable member and the stationary member to provide suction and motion to the movable member.

Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for removing material within a body lumen that includes a catheter including a proximal end, a distal end for introduction into a body lumen, and an aspiration lumen extending therebetween; a guide member extending from the distal end and terminating in a distal tip, the guide member comprising a track adjacent a track lumen extending from the distal tip into the aspiration lumen; and an obstruction clearing device deployable from the guide member and retractable along the track. In addition or alternatively, the apparatus includes a cutting head reciprocable within the aspiration lumen adjacent the distal end for macerating material being aspirated into the aspiration lumen.

Abstract: A surgical cutting blade for cutting bone material when the blade is coupled to a hand-held surgical saw includes a distal portion comprising a plurality of cutting teeth, a shank portion adjacent the distal portion, and a proximal portion adjacent the shank portion. The proximal portion may include a longitudinally extending slot having a proximal opening. The slot may be shaped to receive a portion of the surgical saw through the proximal opening. The proximal portion may have a plurality of deflectable fingers respectively separated from a plurality of main body portions by respective gaps. The plurality of deflectable fingers may extend adjacent the longitudinally extending slot, and may deflect into the gaps to increase and decrease a width of a portion of the slot.

Abstract: A morcellator includes a housing, an elongated tube extending distally from the housing, and first and second electrodes. A distal end of the elongated tube is configured to cut tissue. The first electrode extends from the housing to the distal end of the elongated tube and is disposed around at least a portion of the distal end of the elongated tube. The second electrode extends distally beyond the first electrode. Another morcellator includes a housing, an elongated tube extending distally from the housing, and an oscillating mechanism. A distal end of the elongated tube includes opposing blade sections and at least one blunt section. The opposing blade sections are configured to cut tissue. The oscillating mechanism is configured to drive oscillation of the elongated tube to cut tissue with the blade sections.

Abstract: A cutting tool includes an outer tubular member having a first magnet and an inner tubular member having a second magnet wherein the inner tubular member is slidably disposed within the outer tubular member. A force, such as an attractive or opposing force, is created between the first magnet and the second magnet. The attractive or opposing force creates a preload force between the inner tubular member and the outer tubular member or a hand piece that is engaged with the inner tubular member. A method of creating a force between an inner and outer tubular member is also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for cutting and removing tissue from a body. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical device is provided having a suction shaft and a cutting assembly. The suction shaft can have an inner passageway configured to receive tissue. The cutting assembly can include an outer shaft having at least one opening formed in a sidewall thereof configured to receive tissue. The cutting assembly can be configured to mate with the suction shaft, and it can include a cutting element configured to move relative to the opening to cut tissue disposed through the opening. Suction can be applied to cause the cut tissue to flow proximally through the suction shaft and away from the cutting assembly.

Abstract: A cutting tool includes an outer tubular member having a first magnet and an inner tubular member having a second magnet wherein the inner tubular member is slidably disposed within the outer tubular member. A force, such as an attractive force, is created between the first magnet and the second magnet. The attractive force creates a preload force between the inner tubular member and the outer tubular member. A method of creating a force between an inner and outer tubular member is also disclosed.

Abstract: An atherectomy catheter having an inner drive shaft which rotates a distal rotary tissue borer with a helical cutting surface which enables the catheter to cut through and cross a CTO. Additionally, the atherectomy catheter has a distal cutting element rotated by an outer drive shaft configured to cut material from the wall of a vessel at a treatment site as the catheter is pushed distally through the treatment site. The atherectomy catheter includes a collection chamber positioned proximally of the cutting element and rotary tissue borer. The atherectomy catheter may include means to direct material cut from the treatment site into the collection chamber, means to break down larger portions of material that may block or clog the collection chamber and means of transporting the material collected from the treatment site to a proximal opening in the atherectomy catheter.

Abstract: Unitary endoscopic vessel harvesting devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, such devices may comprise an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end. A conical tip may be disposed at the distal end of the elongated body. In addition, the surgical instrument may include one or more surgical instruments moveable in a longitudinal direction along an axis substantially parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the cannula from a retracted position proximally of a distal end of the tip to an advanced position toward the distal end of the tip to seal and cut a blood vessel.

Abstract: Phase end point determination is provided to automatically halt the application of energy to tissue. Prior to the application of energy, the phase end point determination is identified by measuring the product of permittivity and conductivity of the tissue to be treated. An electrosurgical system can include an electrosurgical generator, a feedback circuit or controller, and an electrosurgical tool. The feedback circuit can provide an electrosurgery endpoint by determining the phase end point of a tissue to be treated. The electrosurgical system can include more than one electrosurgical tool for different electrosurgical operations and can include a variety of user interface features and audio/visual performance indicators. The electrosurgical system can also power conventional bipolar electrosurgical tools and direct current surgical appliances.

Abstract: This invention relates to device, systems, kits and methods that enable selective dissection of lung tissue to remove diseased tissue from healthy tissue without damaging blood vessels or airways. The invention and methods enable minimally invasive lung surgery procedures by providing a device and method to perform automated dissection that discriminates against traumatizing critical lung tissue.

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.

Abstract: Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.

Abstract: A body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site includes a single drive force generator. A plurality of penetrating members are operatively coupled to the force generator. The force generator moves each of the members along a path out of a housing with a penetrating member exit, into the tissue site, stops in the tissue site, and withdraws out of the tissue site. A flexible support member couples the penetrating members to define a linear array. The support member is movable and configured to move each of the penetrating members to a launch position associated with the force generator.

Abstract: A method for treating a brain tumor includes providing a surgical instrument having an inner member and an outer member. The outer member has a distal region forming a cutting window and an optional distal elevator tip. The inner member is rotatably received within the outer member, and has a cutting tip that is exposed at the window. The cutting tip and the distal region of the outer member combine to define a cutting implement. An opening is created through the patient's skull to provide access to a brain tumor target site. The cutting implement is delivered through the opening to the target site. The elevator tip is inserted partially between the tumor and tissue of the target site, and the cutting tip is placed into contact with the tumor and operated to cut the tumor. The target site is selectively aspirated to remove cut tumor tissue.

Abstract: Articulating, safe and efficient cutting heads for removing a target tissue from a subject during a surgical procedure are provided, the cutting heads composing a part of systems that address several problems, including clogging of state-of-the-art systems during removal of such tissue, for example. The target tissue can include any tissue that is accessible through a small surgical opening, for example, a joint tissue such as a meniscus or an intervertebral tissue, such as a nucleus pulposus. The devices can be referred to as orthopedic tissue removal devices having cutting heads associated with vacuum systems, making the systems useful in several procedures, including X-LIF (lateral approach to an intervertebral fusions) procedures, T-LIF (transforaminal approach to intervertebral fusions) procedures, P-LIF (posterior approach to intervertebral fusions), and a percutaneous, transforaminal approach (Kambin triangle access).

Abstract: A dermatological skin treatment device is provided. The device comprises a handpiece and a cutting tool, wherein the tool is inserted through the conduit and percutaneously inserted into a tissue disposed within a recessed area of the handpiece. The device and method cut the fibrous structures under the skin that cause cellulite at an angle substantially parallel to the surface of the skin and replace these structures with a non-cellulite forming structure by deploying a highly fibrous mesh through a single needle hole to create a highly fibrous layer directly or through wound healing processes.

Abstract: A dermatological skin treatment device is provided. The device comprises a handpiece and a cutting tool, wherein the tool is inserted through the conduit and percutaneously inserted into a tissue disposed within a recessed area of the handpiece. The device and method cut the fibrous structures under the skin that cause cellulite at an angle substantially parallel to the surface of the skin and replace these structures with a non-cellulite forming structure by deploying a highly fibrous mesh through a single needle hole to create a highly fibrous layer directly or through wound healing processes.

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.

Abstract: A tissue cutting device is disclosed and described. The device includes a handpiece disposed along a first central longitudinal axis and an outer cannula in which a reciprocating inner cannula is disposed. The inner and outer cannulas are disposed along a second longitudinal axis that is axially spaced from the first central longitudinal axis. The device may also include an inner cannula stop position control for selectively controlling the position of the inner cannula when it is at rest.

Abstract: Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.

Abstract: A dual bladed surgical saw and method of use. Two blade assemblies are attached to a saw body. Each blade assembly includes an oscillator driving a blade, and teeth on each blade. The blades are disposed at a pre-determined blade angle relative to each other, thus allowing two cuts to be made simultaneously and independently at the blade angle relative to each other. The blade assemblies may be rotatable relative to each other, which allows the pre-set blade angle to be varied appropriate to the procedure contemplated. One embodiment uses a slotted protractor bearing protractor indicia, and a threaded fastener to set the blade angle. Another embodiment uses shims between blade assembly arms to quickly and accurately set the blade angle. Method steps include pre-setting the blade angle, and making two cuts simultaneously at an angle relative to each other equal to the blade angle.

Abstract: Various medical devices and methods for cutting, evacuating and/or performing work on tissue are provided. The devices and methods may utilize a reciprocating mechanism or motor powered by suction from a vacuum source. The medical devices and methods may be used on tissue in various regions of a patient's body and for treating various conditions, e.g., for performing a polypectomy.

Abstract: A blade coupling mechanism for a hand-held surgical cutting instrument includes a first coupling member including a first blade-contacting surface and a first outer perimeter sidewall adjacent the first blade contacting surface. It also includes a second coupling member including a second blade-contacting surface facing the first blade-contacting surface of the first coupling member. The second coupling member includes a second outer perimeter sidewall adjacent the second blade contacting surface. The second blade-contacting surface and the second outer perimeter sidewall meet to define an outer edge. The second coupling member including a bore through the second blade contacting surface. The bore and the second blade contacting surface meeting to define an inner edge. Blade-engaging protrusions project from at least one of the first and second blade-contacting surfaces. The protrusions are spaced closer to the outer edge than the inner edge.

Abstract: Electric vitrectomy handpieces are provided. The handpiece includes a motor, a clutch mechanism, an oscillating drive mechanism, a cutting tip and a handle. The motor is attached to the clutch, and the clutch is attached to the oscillating drive mechanism. When the motor is operational, the clutch expands to engage the oscillating drive mechanism and the oscillating drive mechanism converts the rotational motion of the clutch to the reciprocating motion of the cutting tip. When the motor is at rest, the clutch retracts to allow aspiration.

Abstract: Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.

Abstract: Vitrectomy probes and system related thereto are disclosed herein. The disclosure describes various example vitrectomy probes having an adjustable cutting port size. Various example features are described for adjusting the size of the cutting port. Further, the disclosure provides examples for adjusting the size of the cutter port while the vitrectomy probe is in operation.

Abstract: Various medical devices and methods for cutting and/or evacuating tissue are provided. The devices and methods may utilize a reciprocating mechanism or motor powered by suction from a vacuum source. The medical devices and methods may be used on tissue in various regions of a patient's body and for treating various conditions, e.g., for performing a polypectomy or discectomy.

Abstract: A dermatological skin treatment device is provided. The device comprises a handpiece and a cutting tool, wherein the tool is inserted through the conduit and percutaneously inserted into a tissue disposed within a recessed area of the handpiece. The device and method cut the fibrous structures under the skin that cause cellulite at an angle substantially parallel to the surface of the skin and replace these structures with a non-cellulite forming structure by deploying a highly fibrous mesh through a single needle hole to create a highly fibrous layer directly or through wound healing processes.

Abstract: A dermatological skin treatment device is provided. The device comprises a handpiece and a cutting tool, wherein the tool is inserted through the conduit and percutaneously inserted into a tissue disposed within a recessed area of the handpiece. The device and method cut the fibrous structures under the skin that cause cellulite at an angle substantially parallel to the surface of the skin and replace these structures with a non-cellulite forming structure by deploying a highly fibrous mesh through a single needle hole to create a highly fibrous layer directly or through wound healing processes.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for medical treating prostatic tissues are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes removing prostatic tissues adjacent the urethra and enlarging the lumen of the urethra, whereby the treatment conserves a natural wall of the urethra.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for creating a bore in bone. The devices and methods described involve driving a rotating bit in an axial direction such that both rotation and linear movement are controlled and measurable. The instrument is useful for a surgeon to control and simultaneously measure the travel of the tool into the bone and prevent injury to surrounding structures.

Abstract: A surgical probe, e.g. a vitrectomy probe, and methods of making the same are disclosed. An exemplary surgical probe may include a tubular body and a cutting tool that is received within the body. The tubular body may define a cutting aperture that is adjacent a first end of the body and a fluid passage that extends through the body from the cutting aperture to a second end of the body. The cutting tool may be received within the body and disposed within the fluid passage. The cutting tool is generally configured to allow fluid flow through the cutting tool. The cutting tool may include a body portion and a blade portion that is configured to cut material entering the cutting aperture. The body portion may extend only partially about an inner circumference of the tubular body.

Abstract: Tissue severing devices and methods are provided operable to be inserted through small surgical openings and advanced to tissue to be severed. The tissue severing device includes a cutting element that extends from a tube member during use. A slidable support ribbon is operable to support the cutting element at an angle to an axis of the tube member.

Abstract: The present application relates to a tubular shaft instrument for separating tissue. The invention relates to a tubular shaft instrument that results in a more reliable, cleaner separation of tissue. To achieve this, in contrast to conventional cutting devices, the blade is not displaced through the fixed tissue, but glides over the latter until a complete separation is ascertained.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for cutting and removing tissue from a body. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical device is provided having a suction shaft and a cutting assembly. The suction shaft can have an inner passageway configured to receive tissue. The cutting assembly can include an outer shaft having at least one opening formed in a sidewall thereof configured to receive tissue. The cutting assembly can be configured to mate with the suction shaft, and it can include a cutting element configured to move relative to the opening to cut tissue disposed through the opening. Suction can be applied to cause the cut tissue to flow proximally through the suction shaft and away from the cutting assembly.

Abstract: A vitreotomy device comprises a body extended by a cannula. The cannula has a closed distal end; it includes a window in its side wall close to said distal end. It houses a needle driven with reciprocating motion and capable of periodically closing said window. The device further comprises suction means connected to the needle, and a double-acting cylinder provided with a moving piston for controlling the movement of said needle. In said device, the needle is driven with reciprocating motion in translation in said cannula; said piston of the double-acting cylinder is secured directly to said needle; as a result, its movements enable the needle to be moved into a first position in which said needle closes said window, and a second position in which the needle leaves said window open. The device makes it possible to control very accurately the lengths of time for which the end of the cannula is open and closed.

Abstract: A tissue repair device. The tissue repair device includes a tubular shaft having a longitudinal bore for delivering biological material to a soft tissue defect, and an awl having a distal end configured for microfracturing bone underlying the defect. The tubular shaft and the awl are movable relative to one another such that the awl is at least partially positioned within the longitudinal bore of the tubular shaft.

Abstract: A phacoemulsification needle having a hollow passageway terminates in a straight needle tip formed off-axis from the passageway, allowing the needle tip to move eccentrically when the needle is subjected to torsional or longitudinal vibratory motion. The tip may be flared or may be coextensive with the needle body. The aspiration passageway formed through the needle body may be formed off-axis from the needle body axis. The tip may also be angled with respect to the needle body. The inner and outer surfaces of the needle tip are roughened, as by sandblasting, to enhance the cutting effect of the tip when used with a non-longitudinal handpiece. The lip of each needle tip is polished to a high degree of smoothness and the edges of the tip are rounded to lessen the incidence of snags or cuts.

Abstract: A flexible thread-like cutting element achieves a smooth and sharp cutting action by utilizing a power tool or manual tool capable of developing a reciprocating motion that alternatively reciprocates the ends of the cutting element. The tool may include a mechanism for converting rotational motion into reciprocating motion. The reciprocating motion is transferred to the cutting element to develop the cutting action of the device. In another aspect, the power tool or manual can be encased in a disposable, sterile protective bag to simplify sterilization.

Abstract: A vitrectomy probe includes a hand-graspable body and an external tube extending from the hand-graspable body and sized to penetrate an eye of a patient during an ocular surgery. In an aspect, the external tube includes a closed end and a plurality of ports sized to receive vitreous material. In another aspect, an internal tube has a first cutting edge facing in a proximal direction and a second cutting edge facing in a distal direction. The first cutting edge oscillates across the port of the external tube to cut tissue in the port with the first cutting edge when the internal tube moves in the proximal direction and to cut tissue in the port with the second cutting edge when the internal tube moves in the distal direction.

Abstract: Device for treatments of endoscopic resection/removal of tissues including: a handpiece; an outer tubular element extending along a longitudinal axis including a proximal end, a distal end and a cutting opening at the distal end; an inner tubular element rotatably accommodated in the outer tubular element; the inner tubular element extending along a longitudinal axis and including a proximal end, a distal end and a cutting tip at its distal end; a guide for rotating/oscillating the inner/outer tubular elements with respect to one another; the guide including an electric motor and power-supply; a first clutch keyed on the inner tubular element substantially at the proximal end of the inner tubular element; a second clutch keyed on the distal end of the motor output shaft to axially slide on the motor output shaft; and at least one elastic element to push the second clutch to couple with the first clutch.

Abstract: A vitrectomy surgical system includes a vitrectomy probe having a cutting portion comprising an inner tube, an outer tube, and an aspiration port. The inner tube may be movable relative to the outer tube to cut vitreous fibers. The system also includes a controller associated with the vitrectomy probe and configured to control movement of the inner tube by generating control signals corresponding to a cutting scheme including a plurality of series of cuts with each cut being evenly spaced in time, the plurality of series of cuts separated by a recovery period.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a tissue cutting device are described, such as a device with an elongate tube having a proximal end and a distal end and a central axis extending from the proximal end to the distal end; a first annular element at the distal end of the elongate tube, the first annular element having a flat portion at its distal end perpendicular to the central axis; and a second annular element at the distal end of the elongate tube and concentric with the first annular element, the second annular element having a flat portion at its distal end perpendicular to the central axis, at least one of the first or second annular elements rotatable about the central axis, the rotation causing the first annular element and the second annular element to pass each other to shear tissue.