Jaw Structure Patents (Class 606/207)
  • Publication number: 20140379018
    Abstract: Medical systems, devices and methods are provided for engaging tissue, e.g. for clipping tissue, closing a perforation or performing hemostasis. Generally, the medical system including a housing, first and second jaws rotatable relative to the housing, a driver, and an elongate drive wire. The elongate drive wire may be disconnected from the driver, first and second jaws, and the housing, which are left in vivo engaged with the tissue. The medical device of the system may include a biasing strip engaged with the jaws, and/or a gripping strip attached to at least one of the jaws to improve the engagement of the tissue between the jaws.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Michelle D. Martinez, Vihar C. Surti, Tyler Evans McLawhorn
  • Publication number: 20140378971
    Abstract: A treatment device includes a first grip member having an elongated shape, and a second grip member which is displaced with respect to the first grip member to grip the biological tissue between the first grip member and the second grip member. The second grip member includes a grip section that comes into contact with a biological tissue as a gripping target. I/A2 of the grip section is maximum at the proximal end, and/or Z/A3/2 of the grip section is maximum at the proximal end, where I is a second moment of area, Z is a section modulus, and A is a cross-sectional area calculated based on an axis perpendicular to a straight line passing through a center of gravity of the first grip member and a center of gravity of the second grip member in a cross section perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the grip section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Masashi YAMADA, Norihiro YAMADA, Shinya MASUDA
  • Publication number: 20140374463
    Abstract: A surgical device includes a first jaw and a second jaw moveable relative to the first jaw between a first position, in which the first and second jaws are aligned within a plane, and a second position, in which the second jaw is in non-parallel correspondence to the plane. The surgical device may include a surgical member, e.g., a cutting and/or stapling element, disposed within the first law, and a second driver configured to cause relative movement of the surgical member in a direction parallel to the plane. The first and second jaws may include a camming arrangement that is configured to move the second jaw between the first and second positions. The camming arrangement may include a channel disposed along at least a portion of one or both of the first and second jaws, and a ball bearing disposed within the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Michael P. Whitman, Peter Datcuk
  • Patent number: 8915939
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tubular medical instrument having a hollow shaft, a handle positioned on the proximal end of the shaft, and at least one tool actuation element that is positioned in the hollow shaft and has on its distal end a tool, wherein the tool actuation element can be coupled with at least one actuation mechanism of the handle to actuate the tool and wherein the tool actuation element and the hollow shaft can be detachably connected to one another by a coupling mechanism. To create a coupling mechanism that is essentially free of any play and is simple to operate, it is proposed with the invention that the stopping of the coupling mechanism between the tool actuation element and the hollow shaft should be dependent on the position of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Uwe Renger, Martin Blocher, Uwe Bacher
  • Publication number: 20140371785
    Abstract: A number of improvements to laparoscopic devices are described herein, primarily to improve the ergonomic functionality of the devices. For example, an articulating rod system is described, a gripping mechanism is described, and an end effector is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: M. Susan Hallbeck, Jakeb Riggle, Adam de Laveaga, Jake Kaufman
  • Patent number: 8906018
    Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members moveable with respect to one another between an open position and a closed position. A knife channel having a body and a base is defined within each jaw member. A knife assembly includes a knife having a bifurcated distal end. The bifurcated end includes first and second cutting members each defining an opposed cutting surface and having a tab at a free end thereof for translation through the base of a knife channel. The knife is translatable into the channels when the jaw members are in the closed position such that the cutting members are approximated when translated through the channels. The knife is also translatable into the channels when the jaw members are in the open position such that the cutting members are flexed apart when translated through the jaw members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Kathy E. Rooks, Glenn A. Horner, Duane E. Kerr, Jeffrey R. Townsend, William H. Nau, Jr., David M. Garrison, Edward M. Chojin
  • Patent number: 8888809
    Abstract: A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue may comprise a handle, a trigger, an electrical input, and a shaft extending from the handle. The surgical instrument may comprise an end effector. The end effector may comprise a cammed compression surface. The end effector may comprise an electrode comprising a tapered tissue contacting surface. Some surgical instruments may comprise an overload member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Davison, Chad P. Boudreaux, Scott B. Killinger, Jonathan T. Batross, Gregory A. Trees, Kevin D. Felder, Bingshi Wang, Nathaniel F. Barbera
  • Publication number: 20140330308
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector assembly, first and second handles, and a drive assembly. The handles are pivotable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position. The drive assembly includes a drive bar and a biasing member. The drive bar is coupled to the end effector assembly such that translation of the drive bar effects movement of the end effector assembly between first and second positions. First and second ends of the biasing member are coupled to the respective first and second handles. An intermediate portion of the biasing member is coupled to the drive bar such that movement of the handles from the spaced-apart to the approximated position displaces the intermediate portion and urges the drive bar to translate relative to the end effector assembly to effect movement of the end effector assembly between the first and second positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: KEIR HART, MARK J. HUSEMAN
  • Patent number: 8876857
    Abstract: End effectors with redundant closing mechanisms, and related tools and methods are disclosed. The disclosed end effectors may be particularly beneficial when used for minimally invasive surgery. An example surgical tool comprises an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a tool body disposed at the distal end of the shaft, a jaw movable relative to the tool body between a clamped configuration and an open configuration, a first actuation mechanism coupled with the jaw and operable to vary the position of the jaw relative to the tool body between the clamped configuration and the open configuration, and a second actuation mechanism coupled with the jaw. The second actuation mechanism has a first configuration where the jaw is held in the clamped configuration and a second configuration where the position of the jaw relative to the tool body is unconstrained by the second actuation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: William A. Burbank
  • Patent number: 8876805
    Abstract: A transmission adapter for a medical instrument having a shaft, a transmission element that can move within the shaft and an operating device with a first part, which can be mechanically rigidly coupled with a proximal end of the shaft, and a second part, which can move with respect to the first part, includes a first coupling for releasable mechanical coupling with the second part of the operating device and a second coupling for releasable mechanical coupling with a proximal end of the transmission element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Daniel Kaercher, Jochen Stefan
  • Publication number: 20140309683
    Abstract: A device for gripping tissue that is inside of a patient for use in delivering therapy is provided. The device may include a first gear that rotates and that engages the tissue. A second gear that also rotates may be included and may likewise engage the tissue. A spacing mechanism may be included in the device that adjusts the spacing between the first and second gears such that the first and second gears are moved closer to one another and moved farther from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Actuated Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger B Bagwell, Brian Matthew Park, Casey A. Scruggs, Kevin A. Snook
  • Patent number: 8858431
    Abstract: A vaginal speculum is provided that has an upper arm with a handle and jaw. A cross-sectional shape of a longitudinally extending portion may be constant along its entire longitudinal length so that the height of the portion is likewise constant along its length. Right and left side flanges may extend downward from the longitudinally extending portion and a tip of the jaw. The distance between the outer surfaces of the right and left side flanges in the lateral direction may be constant along their entire lengths in the longitudinal direction. A lower arm with a jaw and handle may be included and arranged with the upper arm so that their relative position to one another can be modified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Michelle Davis Smith
  • Publication number: 20140303668
    Abstract: A surgical device includes a jaw assembly, an articulating assembly and a drive shaft. The jaw assembly includes first and second jaws. The articulating assembly is removably coupled to a proximal end of the jaw assembly and includes a distal joint member, a proximal joint member, and a pivot pin. The pivot pin is fixedly coupled to the distal joint member and is rotatably coupled to the proximal joint member. The jaw assembly and the distal joint member together define a first longitudinal axis. The proximal joint member defines a second longitudinal axis. The drive shaft includes a gear element that is meshingly engaged with a pivoting gear element that is fixedly coupled to the pivot pin. Longitudinal movement of the first drive shaft pivots the jaw assembly relative to the proximal joint member about a pivot axis defined by the pivot pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Covidien LP
    Inventors: David A. Nicholas, Paul A. Scirica, Justin Williams, Kevin Slisz
  • Patent number: 8852228
    Abstract: A forceps is provided. The forceps includes a housing having a shaft that extends therefrom. The bipolar forceps also includes a hydraulic mechanism that includes a fluid line and a plunger operatively coupled to the fluid line. The plunger is translatable within at least a portion of the shaft from a proximal position to a distal position. An end effector assembly is operatively connected to a distal end of the shaft and includes a pair of first and second jaw members biased in an open configuration. Each of the first and second jaw members configured to receive at least a portion of the plunger when a fluid is caused to flow within the fluid line such that the first and second jaw members move from an open position for positioning to a closed position for grasping tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: William H. Nau, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140277110
    Abstract: A membrane removing forceps may include a first forceps jaw having a first forceps jaw distal end and a first forceps jaw proximal end and a second forceps jaw having a second forceps jaw distal end and a second forceps jaw proximal end. The membrane removing forceps may include one or more abrasive surfaces configured to raise a portion of a membrane. A surgeon may raise a portion of a membrane by grazing the portion of the membrane with one or more abrasive surfaces of a membrane removing forceps. The surgeon may grasp the raised portion of the membrane with the first forceps jaw distal end and the second forceps jaw distal end. The surgeon may then remove the membrane by peeling the membrane apart from an underlying tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: KATALYST SURGICAL, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg D. Scheller, David R. Chow
  • Publication number: 20140257370
    Abstract: A surgical grasping instrument is provided which includes a body portion having an elongate tubular member extending from the body portion and a jaw assembly movably mounted on a distal end of the elongate tubular member. The jaw assembly includes first and second jaws having arcuate grasping portions for securely grasping a circular surgical stapler anvil shaft. The jaw assembly is mounted on a movable head portion which is movable relative to a longitudinal axis of the elongate tubular member to rotate and articulate the jaw assembly relative to the longitudinal axis to manipulate the anvil within the body of a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Eric Taylor, Lou Gonzalez, Lee Olson, Thomas R. Hessler
  • Patent number: 8827996
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a replaceable electrosurgical end effector cartridge is provided to couple to a mechanical wrist of a surgical instrument for a robotic surgical system. The replaceable electrosurgical end effector cartridge includes two pluggable end effectors and a pair of spring latches. The two end effectors are moveable end effectors having a jaw portion, an off-center portion, and a base portion in one embodiment. The replaceable electrosurgical end effector cartridge may further include a fastener to rotatably couple the end effectors together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Manzo E. Scott, Lisa W. Heaton
  • Patent number: 8795327
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical instrument is provided that may comprise an end effector for performing a surgical procedure on tissue, for example. The end effector may comprise a pair of jaws, a closure beam, and a cutting member. The closure beam and the cutting member may be releasably coupled together by an interlocking member such that movement of the cutting member may cause the closure beam to also move relative to the jaws and cause the jaws to close and grip tissue, for example. The interlocking member may then unlock, allowing the cutting member to move through the gripped tissue and relative to the closure beam. Additionally, the cutting member and closure beam may be operated by a single trigger, which may be configured to provide haptic feedback to a user at various stages. Further, the jaws may be electrically energized to deliver energy and/or seal the gripped tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy G. Dietz, Mary E. Mootoo, David A. Witt, Zhifan F. Huang
  • Patent number: 8784418
    Abstract: An end effector assembly for an endoscopic surgical instrument includes a pair of jaw members disposed in opposing relation relative to one another. One or both of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member defines an arcuate configuration and includes a proximal segment and a distal segment coupled to the proximal segment. The distal segment is moveable with respect to the proximal segment between a use position, wherein the proximal segment and the distal segment cooperate to define the arcuate configuration of the jaw member, and an insertion position, wherein the distal segment is offset relative to the proximal segment to interrupt the arcuate configuration of the jaw member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Paul R. Romero
  • Publication number: 20140188159
    Abstract: A surgical tool for minimally invasive surgery. In one embodiment, the surgical tool includes a proximal joint and a distal joint at opposite ends of a tube that constrain pivoting of adjacent parts to be about two perpendicular, intersecting axes. Three articulation control cable lengths engage and operatively couple the joints to control the two degrees of freedom of the distal joint. A manipulator and an end effector may be operatively coupled, with one cable controlling the opening and closing of jaws. In another embodiment, a surgical tool includes two flexible articulation elements mounted to opposite ends of a tube assembly. The tube assembly includes a proximal tube element and a distal tube element, with their ends rotatably mounted to each other. The mode of operation the tool may be changed between motion-following and motion-mirroring by rotating the distal tube element relative to the proximal tube element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: AGILE ENDOSURGERY, INC.
    Inventor: Adam T. C. Steege
  • Patent number: 8764749
    Abstract: A jaw angle detection system for an end effector assembly includes a first electrical contact that connects to a first jaw member and connects to a generator. A sensor connects to a second jaw member (or an actuator) and connects to the generator, and configured to move relative to the first electrical contact upon movement of the second jaw member (or the actuator) when the first and second jaw members are moved to close about tissue disposed therebetween. Information relating to the position of the sensor relative to the first electrical contact is relayed back to the generator to determine an angle between the first and second jaw members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien
    Inventors: Nicole McKenna, Robert H. Wham
  • Patent number: 8758392
    Abstract: A closing assembly for a clamping device having first and second jaw members includes a closing mechanism connected between the first and second jaw members, the jaws extending distally from the closing mechanism; and a member for applying a separating force to the first and second jaw members proximally of the closing mechanism, whereby the first and second jaw members can be maintained substantially parallel during closing. The clamp has a very strong clamping force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Design Standards Corporation
    Inventor: Lawrence Crainich
  • Patent number: 8758393
    Abstract: A device for performing minimally invasive repair of mitral valve leaflets in a beating heart through the delivery and implantation of artificial chordae tendinae includes a handle for positioning the device into a chest cavity of the patient, a capture assembly adapted to capture a valve leaflet between distal an proximal tip portions, a needle adapted to penetrate the valve leaflet, and a capture confirmation system for verifying capture of the valve leaflet between the distal and proximal tip portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: NeoChord, Inc.
    Inventor: John Zentgraf
  • Publication number: 20140172010
    Abstract: Membrane forceps for performing an ILM or ERM peel procedure include a handle, a tube extending from the handle, and forceps jaws extending from the tube. The forceps jaws may be configured to grasp an ILM or ERM, and may include an outer surface having a roughened surface. The roughened surface may be structurally configured to aid in gaining an edge of the ILM or ERM.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: ALCON RESEARCH, LTD.
    Inventor: Guido Vezzu
  • Patent number: 8747404
    Abstract: A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise an end effector comprising a first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member is movable relative to the other of the first jaw member and the second jaw member to clamp tissue intermediate the first jaw member and the second jaw member. The instrument can further comprise an electrode configured to generate heat when electrical energy is supplied to the electrode, and, in addition, a tissue-grasping portion comprising a plurality of teeth, wherein the tissue-grasping portion is comprised of an electrically non-conductive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad P. Boudreaux, Jonathan T. Batross
  • Patent number: 8740933
    Abstract: A surgical clamp for occluding a body conduit includes first and second jaws movable relative to each other in a generally parallel relationship. A handle assembly is operable to move the jaws relative to each other between a space position and proximate position. The first jaw has an elongate configuration characterized by a length and a width. First portions of the first jaw have in cross section a first shape which remains generally constant in area along the first jaw, while second portions have in cross section a second shape which varies in area along the length of the first jaw. The resulting clamp has a low profile jaw design which dimensional-shaped cross section which provide increased stiffness and reduced flexibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Applied Medical Resources Corporation
    Inventor: Steven R Anderson
  • Publication number: 20140128909
    Abstract: An atraumatic microsurgical forceps may include an actuation structure, an actuation sleeve having an actuation sleeve distal end and an actuation sleeve proximal end, a surgical blank, and atraumatic forceps jaws of the surgical blank having atraumatic forceps jaws distal ends and atraumatic forceps jaws proximal ends. The surgical blank may be disposed within the actuation sleeve wherein at least a portion of the atraumatic forceps jaws extends from the actuation sleeve distal end. A compression of the actuation structure may be configured to gradually extend the actuation sleeve over the atraumatic forceps jaws proximal ends. An extension of the actuation sleeve over the atraumatic forceps jaws proximal ends may be configured to gradually close the atraumatic forceps jaws wherein the atraumatic forceps jaws initially contact at the atraumatic forceps jaws distal ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: Katalyst Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg D. Scheller, Carl C. Awh
  • Patent number: 8715166
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a hollow member having a sidewall provided with a window and a closure member movably connected to the hollow member for alternately covering and uncovering the window. The hollow member has a first clamping surface along an edge of the window, while the closure member has a second clamping surface opposing the first clamping surface and disposable substantially adjacent thereto in a clamping or closure configuration of the instrument. The instrument additionally comprises a tissue occlusion component mounted to at least one of the hollow member and the closure member for acting on tissues gripped between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface, to couple the tissues to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Macroplata Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Piskun
  • Publication number: 20140121508
    Abstract: Surgical devices and methods for utilizing optical coherence tomography (OCT) to monitor and control tissue sealing are disclosed. The surgical device includes an end effector assembly that includes first and second jaw members that are movable between a first, spaced-apart position and a second proximate position. An OCT system, at least a portion of which is incorporated into the end effector assembly, is configured to sense properties of the tissue, e.g., the structural density of the tissue, disposed between the first and second jaw members. A tissue-sealing energy source may be disposed within at least one of the jaw members and may provide tissue-sealing energy to tissue disposed between the jaw members. A controller, which is coupled to the OCT system and the tissue-sealing energy source, controls the tissue-sealing energy generated by the tissue-sealing energy source based on the properties of the tissue sensed by the OCT system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Cassandra LATIMER, William H. NAU, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140121697
    Abstract: An atraumatic microsurgical forceps may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, an outer hypodermic tube having an outer hypodermic tube distal end and an outer hypodermic tube proximal end, a surgical blank having a surgical blank distal end and a surgical blank proximal end, and a plurality of atraumatic forceps jaws of the surgical blank each atraumatic forceps jaw of the plurality of atraumatic forceps jaws having an atraumatic forceps jaw distal end and an atraumatic forceps jaw proximal end. A compression of the handle may be configured to gradually close the plurality of atraumatic forceps jaws wherein the plurality of atraumatic forceps jaws initially contact at the atraumatic forceps jaws distal ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Katalyst Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg D. Scheller, Carl C. Awh
  • Publication number: 20140121507
    Abstract: Surgical devices and methods for utilizing optical coherence tomography (OCT) to monitor and control tissue sealing are disclosed. The surgical device includes an end effector assembly that includes first and second jaw members that are movable between a first, spaced-apart position and a second proximate position. An OCT system, at least a portion of which is incorporated into the end effector assembly, is configured to sense properties of the tissue, e.g., the structural density of the tissue, disposed between the first and second jaw members. A tissue-sealing energy source may be disposed within at least one of the jaw members and may provide tissue-sealing energy to tissue disposed between the jaw members. A controller, which is coupled to the OCT system and the tissue-sealing energy source, controls the tissue-sealing energy generated by the tissue-sealing energy source based on the properties of the tissue sensed by the OCT system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventor: WILLIAM H. NAU, JR.
  • Patent number: 8709036
    Abstract: A forceps device is provided for performing a surgical procedure. The device comprises a closeable jaw comprising jaw members having one or more force sensors deployed in a manner to measure force applied to the jaws of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Joseph Ezhil Rajan Picha Muthu, Dinakar Golla, David Alan Vorp
  • Patent number: 8702748
    Abstract: A laparoscopic surgical instrument includes a shaft and a head having a distal end to which a variety of surgical instruments are attached. The laparoscopic surgical instrument also includes a flexible joint installed between the shaft and the head; a longitudinal-driving unit including a longitudinal-driving wire connected with both longitudinal ends of the head and a longitudinal-driving roller turning the longitudinal-driving wire and a transverse-driving unit including a transverse-driving wire connected with both transverse ends of the head and a transverse-driving roller turning the transverse-driving wire. The longitudinal-driving unit turns the flexible joint in the longitudinal direction, the transverse-driving unit turns the flexible joint in the transverse direction, and the shaft has a small diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: National Cancer Center
    Inventors: Dong Jun Kim, Jun Woo Park, Yung Ho Jo
  • Patent number: 8696665
    Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided that can comprise and end effector including two jaws and a cutting member configured to move between the jaws. In at least one embodiment, one or both of the jaws may be flexible, such that a jaw is configured to flex when gripping tissue. Further, at least one of the jaws may include a thin cross-sectional area such that the jaw flexes when gripping tissue. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, one or more compression elements may extend from the cutting member and may be configured to cause the jaws to close when the cutting member is advanced. The compression elements may comprise a roller and/or a low-friction material. Moreover, in at least one embodiment, one or both of the jaws may be precurved, away from the cutting member's longitudinal axis. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the overall force required to advance the cutting member and/or close the jaws may be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: John V. Hunt, Robert J. Laird, Omar J. Vakharia, Richard W. Timm, Gavin M. Monson, Suzanne E. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8696664
    Abstract: A bipolar cutter includes a bipolar cutting treatment portion having a pair of electrodes provided at a front-end portion of an insertion unit inserted in a body of a living thing, a guide portion having a lead passage which captures a living tissue of a cutting target and which leads the living tissue to the treatment portion, the guide portion configured to vary a width of the passage, and a manipulation portion which manipulates the guide portion to vary the passage width. Alternatively, a shape of the lead passage is enlarged from its inner end to its outer end and a lead passage width regulating member being movable between the inner end and the outer end of the lead passage is included. Alternatively, a plurality of lead passages having widths being different from each other is included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignees: Olympus Medical Systems Corp., Terumo Cardiovascular Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Ken Yamatani, Shingo Nogami
  • Publication number: 20140100601
    Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise an elongate tube including a camming rod and an actuation mechanism operably connected to the camming rod; a first jaw spine having a first cam slot; and a second jaw spine having a second cam slot, the second jaw spine pivotally connected to the first jaw spine at a common pivot pin connected to the elongate tube. A camming pin rides along first and second interior camming surfaces and closes the jaw spines when the camming rod moves proximally. When the camming rod moves distally, a camming projection rides on first and second exterior camming surfaces on proximal sides of the first and second jaw spines and opens the jaw spines. One camming surface on each jaw spine facilitates closing the jaw spines while the other camming surface on each jaw spine facilitates opening the jaw spines. These two camming surfaces can be widely separated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Applied Medical Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Russell E. Ahlberg, Scott V. Taylor, David T. Okihisa, Gregory I. Bak-Boychuk, Emil Karapetian, John Stout
  • Patent number: 8690909
    Abstract: An endoscopic instrument includes a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, a clevis at the distal end of the tubular member, and an end effector assembly mounted on the clevis. A control member extends through the tubular member and includes a cam-pin coupled to the distal end thereof. The end effectors are controlled with a cam-pin and cam-slot arrangement, with the end effectors including the cam-slot and such cam-slot having a proximal end slot bilaterally widened to permit the cam-pin additional movement therein. When the cam-pin is retracted to move the end effectors into a closed positions and then further retracted into the bilaterally widened area, the end effectors can rotate together in the same direction to facilitate movement through a rigid bend in an endoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Charles R. Slater
  • Patent number: 8685020
    Abstract: Various forms of surgical instruments are disclosed. In various embodiments, an end effector having operable and closable jaws is attached to a distal end of an elongate shaft such that portions of the jaws are axially offset from the elongate shaft. Other jaw embodiments are coupled to an actuation arrangement that permits portions of the jaws to be moved out of axial alignment with the elongate shaft. Other jaw embodiments are configured to facilitate tissue dissection. Electrosurgical instruments are also disclosed. One embodiment employs a flexible electrode that is conformable to tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick A. Weizman, Jeffrey L. Aldridge, Raymond M. Banks, Timothy G. Dietz, Jason L. Harris, Zhifan F. Huang, David K. Norvell, David A. Witt, Steve G. Bernath
  • Patent number: 8685009
    Abstract: An end effector assembly for use with an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The end effector assembly includes a pair of opposing jaw members configured to grasp tissue therebetween. The assembly also includes a thread-like member having a first end coupled to at least one jaw member and a drive member coupled to a second end of the thread-like member. The drive member is configured to position the thread-like member between a first position and a second position, wherein the thread-like member cuts tissue when positioned in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Igoris Misuchenko, Georgy Martsinovskiy, Mikhail Verbitsky, Nataliya Chernova
  • Patent number: 8685003
    Abstract: A surgical system is adapted and configured for use in a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The surgical system includes a surgical instrument that is operatively coupled to a seal anchor member for accessing an underlying body cavity and manipulating a target tissue within the body cavity. The surgical instrument includes a plurality of arms that are triangulatable with respect to each other and the target tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Jaroslaw T. Malkowski
  • Patent number: 8685056
    Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members. One or both of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One or both of the jaw members includes a jaw frame and a replaceable component engageable with the jaw frame. The replaceable component includes one or more engagement members configured to engage a corresponding engagement member(s) disposed on the jaw frame to secure the replaceable component to the jaw frame. The engagement member(s) is transitionable from a new state to a used state, wherein, in the used state, the engagement member(s) is incapable of reengaging the corresponding engagement member(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Allan J. Evans, Peter M. Mueller, Peter D. Gadsby
  • Publication number: 20140088639
    Abstract: A pair of surgical forceps which can be taken apart and which includes a handle, a pivot joint with a rotational axis and a jaw. It further includes two releasably coupled forceps parts, each of which has a pin-less pivot joint element. The first pivot joint element has a first guide rail and a first guide recess. The second pivot joint element has a second guide rail and a second guide recess. The guide rails, which engage in an undercut of the guide recesses on the pivot joint elements, form a sliding guide for the pivot joint. The first pivot joint element has a first thickening element and the second pivot joint element has a second surface element. In a safety position the first thickening element interacts with the second surface element by means of clamping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: DERU GmbH
    Inventors: Carolin Bartels, Klaus Dmuschewsky
  • Patent number: 8663270
    Abstract: A jaw movement mechanism for surgical tools has improved mechanical efficiency and other advantages. The jaw movement mechanism controls the orientation and position of a movable jaw relative to a fixed jaw through a range of movement of the movable jaw. The jaws maintain a parallel orientation throughout a portion of the range of movement of the movable jaw. The jaws maintain an angular relationship throughout a portion of the range of movement of the movable jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Conmed Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Donnigan, Eric Sugalski, Erik Holverson, Randall Koplin, Michael Gregor
  • Patent number: 8663269
    Abstract: A pivot tipped rod forceps instrument for surgical procedures is provided. The rod forceps has handle members attached at a pin. A pivoting jaw assembly having a pivoting tip is disposed at a distal end of each handle member. The pivoting jaw assembly is opened to receive a surgical rod or other object to be placed by the surgeon. The jaw assembly is then closed to engage the object. The pivoting tips are contoured to tightly engage the surgical rod. Once the rod is held by the tips, the whole pivoting jaw assembly can be rotated to a desired angle to aid the surgeon in manipulating the rod or other item as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Holmed Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Randall
  • Patent number: 8652137
    Abstract: Devices and methods for creating holes in the articular process of the vertebra are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises a drill head comprising a frame, punch arm with punch tip and opposing plate. Methods of using the resulting holes to anchor or stabilize facet joint prosthesis, and also altering the spacing and motion at the facet joints of the vertebral column, are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Spinal Elements, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Blain, Eric J. Kovach
  • Patent number: 8652135
    Abstract: A forceps includes a housing having a shaft attached thereto and an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end of the shaft. The end effector assembly includes first and second jaw members disposed in opposed relation relative to one another. At least one of the jaws is moveable with respect to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the jaw members. A cutting assembly is disposed within a cavity defined within the first jaw member. The cutting assembly includes a cutting member that is rotatably coupled to the first jaw member and configured to rotate with respect to the first jaw member about a longitudinal axis thereof to cut tissue disposed between the jaw members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: William H. Nau, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8647343
    Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly including a pair of jaw members disposed in opposing relation relative to one another. At least one jaw member is moveable relative to the other between a spaced apart position, a first approximated position, and a second approximated position. The jaw members are configured to apply a pre-determined pressure to tissue disposed therebetween in each of the first and second approximated positions. A sealing pressure is applied to tissue disposed between the jaw members when the jaw members are in the first approximated position. A cutting pressure is applied to tissue disposed between the jaw members when the jaw members are in the second approximated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Edward M. Chojin, David M. Garrison, Jennifer S. Harper, Glenn A. Horner, Duane E. Kerr, Jessica E. C. Olson, Kathy E. Rooks, Geneva Ladtkow
  • Patent number: 8647348
    Abstract: A circumcision clamp for aiding the removal of the foreskin of an adult, human, male penis. A top clamp and a bottom clamp for circumcision each has: 1) a curved interior brace, placed between the foreskin and the penis shaft; and 2) a curved exterior brace, which aligns over the interior brace and compresses the foreskin against the interior brace. The curved interior brace preferably has a greater depth than the exterior brace, which greater depth forms a distal overhang or shelf for protecting the penis shaft during operation. By simultaneously employing a top clamp and a bottom clamp during circumcision, an entire band or collar of foreskin along the desired path of incision and suturing can be securely held in place and clamped, thus helping the operator or surgeon trim and suture the foreskin quickly and precisely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Kwok Wai Chiu, Hongtao Qiu
  • Patent number: 8647342
    Abstract: A surgical apparatus for coagulating and cutting tissue includes a handle assembly having a housing. A tool cartridge is receivable in the housing. The tool cartridge includes a first jaw and a second jaw for grasping tissue therebetween. The first jaw is hingably movable between an open position and a closed position. A first jaw connection wire is operatively connected to the first jaw. A sheath encompasses at least part of the longitudinal portion of the jaw connection wire. A grip is disposed around at least part of the sheath. A piston is disposed within the sheath and operatively connected to the grip such that the grip and piston move in relation to one another. The jaw connection wire is operatively connected to the piston for moving the first jaw in response to movement of the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Bovie Medical Corporation
    Inventor: Steve Livneh
  • Patent number: 8647362
    Abstract: A deflecting method and deflecting apparatus allows the distal end of device, for example an endoscopic medical device, to be remotely and adjustably deflected from a straight configuration to a deflected configuration. Manipulating a proximal handle causes the deflection, controls actuation of an end effector assembly on the distal end, and straightens the deflecting apparatus back to its original configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Griego