Staple Fastener Patents (Class 606/219)
  • Patent number: 11957346
    Abstract: A wound closure device in the form of a force modulating deep skin staple. The deep skin staple includes a bridge portion extending along a longitudinal axis to support a first set of staple legs and an opposing second set of staple legs. Each staple leg coupled to the bridge portion via a spring arm. Each staple leg angled towards a middle section of the bridge portion. The staple legs designed to modulate forces with a wound down into the reticular dermis layer when applied to the wound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: KitoTech Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald J. Berenson, Cheuk Yin Paul Leung
  • Patent number: 11918210
    Abstract: A staple cartridge is disclosed. The staple cartridge can comprise a cartridge body comprising a deck and a bottom surface opposite the deck. The staple cartridge can comprise a plurality of staple cavities, wherein each staple cavity extends into the cartridge body from the deck to the bottom surface. Additionally, a plurality of wells can be defined into the staple cartridge from the deck to a lowermost surface of the well. A plurality of staples can be removably positioned in the staple cavities. The staple cartridge can comprise a tissue thickness compensator releasably secured to the cartridge body, wherein the tissue thickness compensator comprises a compensator body and a plurality of extensions extending from the compensator body into the wells, wherein at least one extension is compressed within one of the wells. Each well can surround at least one staple cavity and/or can extend between at least two staple cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Lauren S. Weaner, Jerome R. Morgan, Michael J. Vendely, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Chester O. Baxter, III, Mark S. Zeiner
  • Patent number: 11839352
    Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a staple cartridge, an anvil, and a cutting member having a cutting surface, wherein the cutting member is relatively movable with respect to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In at least one embodiment, one of the anvil and the staple cartridge defines a slot which is configured to receive at least a portion of the cutting member and guide the cutting member as it is moved relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In these embodiments, the slot can define a path having linear and/or curved portions. In various embodiments, the path can include a curved portion having a first portion that extends away from the shaft axis and a second portion that extends toward the axis. In one embodiment, the path can include a curved portion defined by an arc corresponding to an angle greater than 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Stephen J. Balek
  • Patent number: 11744579
    Abstract: A surgical circular stapler has a handle assembly, a shaft, a stapling assembly, and a firing assembly. The shaft extends distally from the handle assembly. The stapling assembly is secured to a distal end of the shaft. Longitudinal translation of the firing assembly causes the stapling assembly to drive a plurality of staples in a circular array to secure two lumens of tissue together. The stapling assembly may further drive a blade to sever any excess tissue interior of the circular array of staples. The stapler further includes a lockout assembly configured to control firing of the stapling assembly. The lockout assembly may include one or more switches, the actuation of which is configured to prevent or permit firing of the stapling assembly. The lockout assembly may additionally or alternatively include one or more mechanical lockout features configured to control firing of the stapling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Christopher C. Miller, Richard F. Schwemberger
  • Patent number: 11717277
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device (100) for treatment of anal fistula. The device comprises a hollow wire (110) comprising a first end (112) and a second end (114) opposite to the first end, the hollow wire is operable to be received by a fistula track with both first and second ends projecting out of the fistula track. The device also comprises an insert (120) operable to be partially inserted into the first end of the hollow wire and to project out of the first end. The device further comprises an applicator (130) operable to be removably arranged on the second end of the hollow wire when the hollow wire is placed in the fistula track. The applicator is operable to be held for enabling the projected out insert to be inserted into second end for detachably coupling the first and second ends to form a closed loop around the fistula track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: SUPER SETON B.V.
    Inventors: Tim Horeman, Willem Nerkens
  • Patent number: 11701218
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for fixating soft tissue to bone. In one embodiment, a repair device system for fixating soft tissue to bone includes a carrier member, multiple anchors, and a bone anchor. The carrier member includes multiple pad portions and a bone coupling portion. Each of the pad portions are aligned with an adjacent pad portion. The pad portions are configured to be positioned over a side of the soft tissue and the bone coupling portion is coupled to the multiple pad portions. Each anchor is sized and configured to extend through the at least one opening defined in one of the multiple pad portions and through the soft tissue. The bone anchor is configured to be coupled to the bone coupling portion and configured to be secured to the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: CoNextions, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Linder, Erik N. Kubiak, Scott D. Miles, Tyler J. Cole, Roy M. Taylor, Shawn P. Reese
  • Patent number: 11666335
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for promoting wound healing. In general, surgical staplers and stapler components are provided having a coating thereon that is configured to selectively control an interaction between at least one matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor and an outer surface of the stapler or stapler component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Thomas W. Huitema, Xintian Ming, Tamara S. Widenhouse, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 11660469
    Abstract: A surgical implant includes a biocompatible member configured for securement to an underlying target surgical site and a radiation source integrated into or onto the biocompatible member. The surgical implant may be one of a clip, pin, or coil and the radiation source includes at least one brachytherapy capsule, or other radioactive material incorporated therein or provided thereon. The radioactive material provides a dose of radiation to the target surgical site. The surgical implant may also be formed from titanium, stainless steel or polymers. A surgical applier is provided for allowing a surgeon to apply the implant to a patient's tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: David Racenet, Gerald N. Hodgkinson, Abhinav Kachru
  • Patent number: 11648007
    Abstract: Stapling assemblies are provided and can include a cartridge and a knitted adjunct configured to be releasably retained on the cartridge. The adjunct includes a first compression zone formed of at least first fibers and second fibers that are interconnected to the first fibers and are arranged in a generally first columnar configuration such that the first compression zone has a first compression strength, and a second compression zone formed of at least the first fibers and third fibers that are different than the second fibers, in which the third fibers are interconnected to the first fibers and arranged in a generally second columnar configuration such that the second compression zone has a second compression strength, in which the first compression strength is different than the second compression strength such that the adjunct has a variable compression strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Michael J. Vendely, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 11589868
    Abstract: A surgical staple driver configured for use with a surgical staple cartridge that operably interfaces with a surgical instrument camming member that is axially movable along a first cam axis. A driver body is slidably supportable within the surgical staple cartridge. A camming surface is provided on the driver body that is oriented for camming engagement with the camming member along the first cam axis. The driver further includes a staple supporting portion that is configured to operably support at least one surgical staple thereon relative to the camming surface such that when the camming member engages the camming surface, the camming member passes transversely under a portion of a staple crown of at least one surgical staple supported on the staple supporting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III, Lawrence Crainich
  • Patent number: 11559496
    Abstract: A tissue thickness compensator may generally comprise a compressible core comprising a plurality of movable particles, and a wrap surrounding the compressible core. The plurality of movable particles may comprise at least one medicament. A tissue thickness compensator may generally comprise a compressible core comprising a plurality of crushable particles, and a wrap surrounding the compressible core. The plurality of crushable particles may comprise at least one medicament. The compressible core may comprise a material selected from a group consisting of a biocompatible material. The wrap may comprise a material selected from a group consisting of a biocompatible material. Articles of manufacture comprising the tissue thickness compensator and methods of making and using the tissue thickness compensator are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Tamara Widenhouse, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gary W. Knight, Chester O. Baxter, III, Kreena R. Modi, Katherine J. Schmid
  • Patent number: 11484312
    Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied so as to apply various clamping forces and pressures to soft tissue captured within the staples. In at least one embodiment, the staples can include crowns formed thereon which can be utilized to adjust or control the clamping force and/or pressure applied by the staples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Christopher J. Hess, William B. Weisenburgh, II, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Patent number: 11446036
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft, a stapling head assembly, and an anvil. The body includes a motor, a first user input feature, and a second user input feature. The first user input feature is operable to activate the motor. The shaft extends distally from the body. The stapling head assembly is positioned at a distal end of the shaft. The stapling head assembly includes an anvil coupling feature, at least one annular array of staples, and a staple driver. The second user input feature is operable to drive the anvil coupling feature longitudinally. The staple driver is operable to drive the at least one annular array of staples. The motor is operable to drive the staple driver. The anvil is configured to couple with the anvil coupling feature. The anvil is further configured to deform the staples driven by the staple driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Brian F. DiNardo, Brian W. Bear, Charles J. Scheib, Christopher C. Miller, Craig S. Smith, Emily A. Schellin, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason E. Zerkle, Jeffrey C. Gagel, John P. Measamer, Johnny H. Alexander, III, Joseph T. Kluener, Kevin D. Sackett, Kevin L. Houser, Mark D. Overmyer, Matthew H. Bolton, Omar J. Vakharia, Richard F. Schwemberger, Richard L. Leimbach, Rodney V. Clingaman, Timothy E. Goode, William D. Fox, William R. Stager
  • Patent number: 11406378
    Abstract: A staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body, staples, and a compensator is disclosed. The cartridge body comprises staple cavities. The staples are removably positioned within the staple cavities. The staples are ejectable from the staple cavities. The compensator comprises an implantable body, a shell contained within the implantable body, and a plurality of resilient members positioned within the shell. The shell defines an inner space. At least a portion of a resilient member of the plurality of resilient members is connected to the shell. The inner space is compressible. The inner space has an unruptured volume when the shell is in an unruptured state. The staples are configured to rupture the shell when the staples are ejected from the staple cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Katherine J. Schmid
  • Patent number: 11406381
    Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a motor, and a shaft extending from the handle. The handle and/or the shaft can define a longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a fastener cartridge comprising a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein, an anvil configured to deform the fasteners, a closure drive configured to move the anvil toward and away from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis, and a firing drive configured to deploy the fasteners from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a transmission comprising a first operating configuration which connects the motor to the closure drive and a second operating configuration which connects the motor to the firing drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Shailendra K. Parihar, Robert L. Koch, Jr., Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 11376008
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge assembly, an anvil assembly operatively associated with the staple cartridge assembly, and a surgical buttress releasably coupled to the staple cartridge assembly or the anvil assembly. The staple cartridge assembly includes a tissue facing surface having staple retaining slots defined therein, each staple retaining slot housing a staple therein, and a circular knife disposed radially inwardly of the tissue facing surface. The anvil assembly includes an anvil member including a tissue facing surface and an anvil shaft extending from the anvil member. The surgical buttress has a circular configuration defining a central aperture therethrough. The surgical buttress includes an inner concentric portion having a therapeutic coating disposed thereon and an outer concentric portion free of the therapeutic coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Gerald N. Hodgkinson, Michael A. Soltz, Emily E. Jacobs, Sulaiman Hussaini, Daniel A. Schulz-Jander
  • Patent number: 11376000
    Abstract: An end effector for a surgical stapling apparatus includes a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly. The cartridge assembly supports staples. Each staple includes a backspan, a first leg, and a second leg. The first and second legs extend from the backspan. The anvil assembly is coupled to the cartridge assembly. The anvil assembly includes an anvil having opposed side surfaces. The anvil defines a knife slot and biased staple-forming pockets disposed between the opposed side surfaces of the anvil. Each biased staple-forming pocket is positioned to form the first and second legs of a respective staple on one side of the backspan of the respective staple. The one side of the backspan is positioned toward the knife slot of the anvil relative to the opposed side surfaces of the anvil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Whitfield, Roanit A. Fernandes, Anthony Gaddy
  • Patent number: 11350939
    Abstract: Adapter assemblies for connecting loading units to handle assemblies include a trocar assembly releasably securable within an elongate body by a retaining mechanism. The retaining mechanism includes first and second retention members pivotable between a locked position in which the first and second retention members are positioned to be received within respective first and second openings in a trocar housing of the trocar assembly when the trocar assembly is received within a distal portion of the elongate body, and a release position in which the first and second retention members are positioned to be spaced from the respective first and second openings in the trocar housing when the trocar assembly is received within the distal portion of the elongate body, wherein engagement of the first and second retention members with the seal member when in the locked position frictionally retains the first and second retention members in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Anthony Sgroi, Jr., Justin Williams
  • Patent number: 11350942
    Abstract: A flexible surgical stapler includes an adapter having a coupling assembly configured for securing the adapter assembly to a handle assembly, an elongate body extending from the coupling assembly, a first drive assembly extending through the elongate body, and a loading unit secured to a distal portion of the elongate body. The loading unit includes a firing assembly operably connected to the first drive assembly. The firing assembly includes a cycloid gear assembly for increasing an input torque from the first drive assembly to actuate the firing assembly. The flexible surgical stapler may include an introducer assembly to facilitate introduction of a stapling portion of the surgical stapler into a body cavity of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: David A. Nicholas
  • Patent number: 11344309
    Abstract: A surgical system includes an adapter assembly and a tip protector. The adapter assembly includes a tubular housing, and a trocar assembly selectively receivable in the tubular housing. The tip protector includes a housing defining a channel therethrough configured for receipt of the trocar member, a first locking member movably coupled to the housing and configured to selectively engage the trocar member to lock the tip protector to the trocar member, and a second locking member movably coupled to the housing and configured to selectively engage a distal end portion of the tubular housing to lock the tip protector to the tubular housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Anthony Sgroi, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11324497
    Abstract: Described herein are examples of illustrative orthopedic staples, systems and methods. In an illustrative orthopedic staple for fusion of a foot or ankle bone fracture, the staple includes a bridge, a first staple leg and a second staple legs. The bridge of the illustrative staple extends from a first end portion to a second end portion along a first direction. The bridge also includes a step down region located between the first end portion and the second end portion, the step down region having a height along the insertion axis of the staple. In some examples, the first staple leg has a first staple leg height extending from the bridge to the first distal tip and the second staple leg has a second staple leg height extending from the bridge to the second distal tip, and the first staple leg height is greater than the second staple leg height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Bryce A. Isch, Kelly Lackey, Brian K. Berelsman
  • Patent number: 11284888
    Abstract: A surgical circular stapler has a handle assembly, a shaft, a stapling assembly, and a firing assembly. The shaft extends distally from the handle assembly. The stapling assembly is secured to a distal end of the shaft. Longitudinal translation of the firing assembly causes the stapling assembly to drive a plurality of staples in a circular array to secure two lumens of tissue together. The stapling assembly may further drive a blade to sever any excess tissue interior of the circular array of staples. The stapler further includes a lockout assembly configured to control firing of the stapling assembly. The lockout assembly may include one or more switches, the actuation of which is configured to prevent or permit firing of the stapling assembly. The lockout assembly may additionally or alternatively include one or more mechanical lockout features configured to control firing of the stapling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Christopher C. Miller, Richard F. Schwemberger
  • Patent number: 11284887
    Abstract: An assembly used in osteosynthesis comprising a delivery instrument in combination with an implant wherein the delivery instrument releasably holds the implant in a first configuration prior to attachment of the implant to bone. The delivery instrument allows the implant to be affixed to bone before the implant is released from the instrument. And the instrument may comprise guide means for drills, depth gauges, screws, pins, pegs, blades and or drivers which are used or implanted when the implant is releasably attached to the instrument. After the implant is affixed to bone and released from the delivery instrument, the implant assumes at least a second configuration which provides compression and or distraction and or control of spatial orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Crossroads Extremity Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Vernon R. Hartdegen, Michael Chad Hollis, Glen Coleman, Daniel Sayger
  • Patent number: 11246652
    Abstract: Surgical tissue fusion instrument and support structure having two gripping structures which are movable relative to each other and which are designed to bring together biological tissue sections that are to be connected to each other, with heat-generating means which are assigned to the gripping structures and, during tissue fusion, cause heat to be introduced in the area of a connection site of the biological tissue sections, and also with a support structure which is held between the gripping structures and, during tissue fusion, is operatively connected to the tissue sections. The support structure has at least one additional physical functional structure for aiding or promoting the tissue fusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: AESCULAP AG
    Inventors: Rainer Bargon, Bernd Blender, Stefan Eick, Nikolaus Hafner, Patrick Heizmann, Eugen Herner, Christian Huber, Christof Merckle, Erich Odermatt, Christoph Rothweiler
  • Patent number: 11224440
    Abstract: Provided is a release device for medical tissue clips, including an outer tube provided with a release member, a control wire, and at least one tissue clip; wherein the release member is connected to the distal end of the control wire; the at least one tissue clip is movably connected to the release member and the control wire; the tissue clip includes a clip base and a clip piece which is movably disposed inside the clip base; the tissue clip is in a locked state when the clip piece is retreated to the proximal end, and in an opened state when the clip piece moves forwards to the distal end; the clip base includes an elastic member which is in a compressed state when being located in the outer tube and in an opened state upon detachment from the outer tube to abut against an end of the outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: MICRO-TECH (NANJING) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hongyan Jin, Derong Leng, Changqing Li, Weiqin Qiu, Ran Song
  • Patent number: 11213295
    Abstract: A surgical staple driver configured for use with a surgical staple cartridge that operably interfaces with a surgical instrument camming member that is axially movable along a first cam axis. A driver body is slidably supportable within the surgical staple cartridge. A camming surface is provided on the driver body that is oriented for camming engagement with the camming member along the first cam axis. The driver further includes a staple supporting portion that is configured to operably support at least one surgical staple thereon relative to the camming surface such that when the camming member engages the camming surface, the camming member passes transversely under a portion of a staple crown of at least one surgical staple supported on the staple supporting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 11191560
    Abstract: Various exemplary systems, devices, and methods are provided for resisting torque in articulating surgical tools. In general, a surgical tool can include an elongate shaft having at a distal end thereof an end effector configured to engage tissue. The end effector can be configured to articulate relative to the elongate shaft. The surgical tool can include a cutting element configured to translate longitudinally along the end effector to cut the engaged tissue. When the end effector is articulated, the longitudinal translation of the cutting element along the end effector exerts a torque force on the end effector that urges the end effector away from its current angled orientation. The surgical tool can be configured to have a corrective tension or force applied thereto that counteracts the torque force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: CILAG GMBH INTERNATIONAL
    Inventors: Mark D. Overmyer, Robert L. Koch, Jr., Jeffrey S. Swayze
  • Patent number: 11077227
    Abstract: The invention relates to compositions including magnesium-lithium alloys containing various alloying elements suitable for medical implant devices. The devices may be constructed of the compositions or have applied thereto a coating formed therefrom. Within the structure of the magnesium-lithium alloy, there is a co-existence of alpha and beta phases. The invention also relates to methods of preparing the magnesium-lithium alloys and articles, such as medical implant devices, for use in medical applications, such as but not limited to, orthopedic, dental, craniofacial and cardiovascular surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH—OF THE COMMONWEALTH SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION
    Inventors: Prashant N. Kumta, Jingyao Wu, Oleg Velikokhatnyi
  • Patent number: 11039834
    Abstract: An anvil for a surgical stapler. The anvil includes a staple-forming undersurface that has lines of staple-forming pockets that are configured to establish a flexible staple line. A plurality of anvil protrusions protrude from planar non-forming surface portions such that each anvil protrusion is adjacent to at least two staple-forming pockets to direct staples therein during a staple firing process and to engage the tissue that is being stapled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Cilag GmbH International
    Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Christopher J. Hess, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 11000410
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body and a pair of rigid legs extending from the body. The body includes an engagement feature configured to engage a deployment instrument. The legs are parallel with each other. Each leg has a sharp tip. The legs both extend along a plane. The body defines a guide opening. The guide opening is oriented transversely relative to the plane associated with the legs. The guide opening is sized to receive a cannula having a generally flat profile. The guide opening is configured to guide the cannula through a sclerotomy at a substantially tangential orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: GYROSCOPE THERAPEUTICS LIMITED
    Inventors: Brendan J. Oberkircher, Benjamin L. Ko, Robert H. Roth, Mark S. Ortiz, Thomas E. Meyer, Franklin S. Busch, Isaac J. Khan, Michael F. Keane, Anna R. Raymond, Jacob W. Schubert
  • Patent number: 10966713
    Abstract: Stapling assemblies for use with a surgical stapler and methods for manufacturing the same are provided. Three dimensional adjuncts for use with a surgical stapling assembly and methods for manufacturing the same are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Michael J. Vendely
  • Patent number: 10939911
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for promoting wound healing. In general, surgical staplers and stapler components are provided having a coating thereon that is configured to selectively control an interaction between at least one matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor and an outer surface of the stapler or stapler component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Thomas W. Huitema, Xintian Ming, Tamara S. Widenhouse, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 10898186
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a stapling assembly is disclosed. The stapling assembly comprises, among other things, an anvil configured to deform staples. The anvil comprises a tissue-engaging surface and a pair of forming pockets defined in the tissue-engaging surface and aligned along a longitudinal pocket axis, wherein the pair of forming pockets is configured to deform corresponding legs of a staple. The pair of forming pockets comprises a proximal forming pocket and a distal forming pocket. Each pocket comprises a pair of sidewalls extending between the forming surface and the tissue-engaging surface. Each sidewall comprises discrete sidewall portions oriented at different angles with respect to the tissue-engaging surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Gregory J. Bakos, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Zhifan F. Huang
  • Patent number: 10888318
    Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a motor, and a shaft extending from the handle. The handle and/or the shaft can define a longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a fastener cartridge comprising a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein, an anvil configured to deform the fasteners, a closure drive configured to move the anvil toward and away from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis, and a firing drive configured to deploy the fasteners from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a transmission comprising a first operating configuration which connects the motor to the closure drive and a second operating configuration which connects the motor to the firing drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Shailendra K. Parihar, Robert L. Koch, Jr., Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 10842484
    Abstract: A surgical staple has two movable arms connected by a transverse connection area. Each one of the arms has a pinching area and a fastening end and the transverse connection area is deformable to allow the movable arms to be moved together by bending around the axis of the transverse connection area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire de Chirurgle Mini-Invasive Guidee Par L'Image S/c IRCAD
    Inventors: Amilcar Alzaga, Peter Halvax, Lee L. Swanström
  • Patent number: 10806459
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge assembly, an anvil assembly operatively associated with the staple cartridge assembly, and a surgical buttress releasably coupled to the staple cartridge assembly or the anvil assembly. The staple cartridge assembly includes a tissue facing surface having staple retaining slots defined therein, each staple retaining slot housing a staple therein, and a circular knife disposed radially inwardly of the tissue facing surface. The anvil assembly includes an anvil member including a tissue facing surface and an anvil shaft extending from the anvil member. The surgical buttress has a circular configuration defining a central aperture therethrough. The surgical buttress includes an inner concentric portion having a therapeutic coating disposed thereon and an outer concentric portion free of the therapeutic coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Gerald Hodgkinson, Michael Soltz, Emily Jacobs, Sulaiman Hussaini, Daniel Schulz-Jander
  • Patent number: 10779823
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising a first jaw, a second jaw, and a firing member is disclosed. The firing member comprises one or more cams configured to position the first jaw relative to the second jaw. In various instances, one of the cams is oriented at a non-parallel angle relative to another cam in order to reduce strain within the cams. In certain instances, at least one of the cams comprises a leading projection and a trailing projection positioned behind the leading projection which are configured to engage the same jaw. The ends of the leading projection and the trailing projection are not attached to one another and can move relative to one another. In some instances, one or more of the cams has a plastically deformable or wearable feature configured to facilitate multiple uses of the surgical instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David B. Smith, Adam D. Hensel, Gregory J. Bakos, Jason L. Harris
  • Patent number: 10772626
    Abstract: A loading unit configured for engagement with a surgical instrument is disclosed. The loading unit comprises a proximal body portion and a tool assembly. The proximal body portion defines a longitudinal axis. The tool assembly is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the proximal body portion and includes a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly. At least one of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly is movable with respect to the other between an open position and an approximated position to engage tissue therebetween. The cartridge assembly is configured to house a plurality of fasteners therein. The diameter of the tool assembly is less than or equal to about 8 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Stanislaw Kostrzewski
  • Patent number: 10751043
    Abstract: The invention generally relates to devices and methods for suturing tissue. The invention provides methods and devices for suturing by pushing two ends of a suture through tissue from a proximal side of the tissue and fastening the two ends together on a distal side of the tissue through one operation of a trigger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Via Surgical LTD
    Inventors: Ofek Levin, Arie Levy, Lena Levin
  • Patent number: 10702260
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods to improve both the reliability of soft tissue repair procedures and the speed at which the procedures are completed are provided. The devices and systems include one or more tissue augmentation constructs, which include constructs that are configured to increase a footprint across which suture applied force to tissue when the suture is tied down onto the tissue. The tissue augmentation constructs can be quickly and easily associated with the repair suture, and can be useful in many different tissue repair procedures that are disclosed in the application. In one exemplary embodiment, one or more constructs are disposed on a suture threader, which can be used to associate the construct(s) with a repair suture(s) being used to repair the soft tissue. Tissue augmentation constructs can include various blocks and patches, among other formations. Exemplary methods for manufacturing the tissue augmentation constructs are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: MEDOS INTERNATIONAL SÀRL
    Inventors: Mehmet Ziya Sengun, Gregory R. Whittaker, Benjamin Cleveland, Stefano Berti, Tamim Diab, William R. Parrish, Reagan A. Theis
  • Patent number: 10702266
    Abstract: A surgical instrument system comprising a housing, a first drive, a second drive, a first stapling assembly, and a second stapling assembly is disclosed. The housing comprises an electric motor configured to output rotary motions. The first drive is configured to translate in response to the rotary motions. The second drive is configured to translate independently of the first drive in response to the rotary motions. The first stapling assembly is releasably attachable to the housing. The first stapling assembly is configured to perform a first surgical function in response to the translation of the first drive. The second stapling assembly is releasably attachable to the housing when the first stapling assembly is not attached to the housing. The second stapling assembly is configured to perform a second surgical function in response to the translation of the first drive. The second surgical function and the first surgical function are different.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Shailendra K. Parihar, Robert L. Koch, Jr., Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 10667823
    Abstract: System for fixation of leaflets of a heart valve including a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft, a proximal end portion and a distal end portion configured to be positioned proximate native leaflets of a heart valve from a remote vascular access point, the delivery catheter further includes a rotatable actuator rod having a threaded fastener at a distal end thereof, and a fixation device releasably coupled by a threaded connection to the threaded fastener of the actuator rod. The fixation device includes a first arm moveable between a closed position and an open position, a second arm moveable between a closed position and an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: EVALVE, INC.
    Inventors: Eric A. Goldfarb, Alfred H. Raschdorf, Jaime E. Sarabia, Sylvia Wen-Chin Erickson, Kent D. Dell, Jan Komtebedde, Ferolyn T. Powell
  • Patent number: 10667807
    Abstract: Shape memory tissue engagement elements (15) are created using shape memory alloys or shape memory (SM) composite sheets (33, 36) with one or more SM material sheets (20, 32). Arrays of the tissue engagement elements may then be inserted or molded into flexible base materials forming pads for tissue engagement. In certain embodiments, the composite sheets incorporate two SM material layers (20, 32) having differing transition temperatures to allow activation of one layer for tissue engagement and activation of the second layer for tissue release. In exemplary embodiments, insertion of interconnected tissue engagement elements (46) into a base layer (19) with slots (48) provides a completed pad array. In alternative exemplary embodiments, vacuum forming of composite sheets (51) with cutting of corrugated sides (53) to form tissue engagement elements allow production of complete arrays of tissue engagement elements. Overmolding the arrays with a flexible base material (19) provides a completed pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: MICOKOLL INC.
    Inventor: Steven Craig Anderson
  • Patent number: 10653473
    Abstract: An improved multifunction cable for use in an operating room avoids the usual tangle of wires and tubes can be a significant hazard. The cable comes pre-sterilized with a number of wires and tubes pre-installed in a protective housing making it easy to conduct myriad wires and tubes from one region of the operating room to another without any possibility of tangling or violation of sterility. At the sterile end of the cable a special terminus acts as a holder to keep the various operating instrument organized. The terminus is designed to accept a special smoke evacuating monopolar electrosurgery instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Inventors: Jonathan Rice, Erik C. Spayde
  • Patent number: 10631871
    Abstract: System for fixation of leaflets of a heart valve including a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft, a proximal end portion and a distal end portion configured to be positioned proximate native leaflets of a heart valve from a remote vascular access point, and a fixation device releasably coupled to the delivery catheter. The fixation device includes a first arm moveable between a closed position and an open position, and a second arm moveable between a closed position and an open position. The fixation device further includes a first gripping element movable relative to the first arm in the open position, the first gripping element biased toward the first arm to capture a first leaflet of the heart valve therebetween, and a second gripping element movable relative to the second arm in the open position, the second gripping element biased toward the second arm to capture a second leaflet of the heart valve therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: EVALVE, INC.
    Inventors: Eric A. Goldfarb, Alfred H. Raschdorf, Jaime E. Sarabia, Sylvia Wen-Chin Erickson, Kent D. Dell, Jan Komtebedde, Ferolyn T. Powell
  • Patent number: 10588633
    Abstract: A surgical instrument, comprising an articulatable end effector that is selectively articulatable about an articulation axis. The end effector comprises first and second jaws wherein the second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about a jaw pivot axis. The instrument includes an axially movably firing member that includes at least one jaw engagement feature that is configured to apply a closure motion to the second end effector jaw as the axially movable firing member is moved from a starting position to an end position within the first end effector jaw. Each jaw engagement feature is configured such that a portion thereof is positioned between the jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in the starting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gregory J. Bakos, Jason L. Harris
  • Patent number: 10524784
    Abstract: A surgical staple includes a body having a first leg, a second leg, and a backspan. The first and second legs each have a first end portion and a second end portion. The backspan has a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion of the backspan includes a looped member having a first end portion and a second end portion. The second portion of the backspan extends between the first end portion of the first leg and the first end portion of the looped member. The third portion of the backspan extends between the first end portion of the second leg and the second end portion of the looped member. The second portion of the backspan and the third portion of the backspan are in lateral contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Stanislaw Kostrzewski
  • Patent number: 10524797
    Abstract: An adapter assembly for connecting a loading unit to a handle assembly is provided. The adapter assembly includes a sleeve, a removable trocar assembly releasably securable with the sleeve, and a locking assembly configured to releasably secure the trocar assembly within the sleeve. The locking assembly includes first and second button members and corresponding first and second locking members for releasably securing the trocar assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Anthony Sgroi
  • Patent number: 10512467
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device comprises a handle assembly, a shaft assembly, and a stapling head assembly. The shaft assembly comprises a rotary drive shaft that translates between two longitudinal positions to alternate between a tissue clamping mode and a tissue cutting/stapling mode. The stapling head assembly includes a first set of rotary drive elements that convert rotary motion of the drive shaft into a tissue clamping action when the drive shaft is in a distal position. The stapling head assembly also includes a second set of rotary drive elements that convert rotary motion of the drive shaft into a tissue cutting/stapling action when the drive shaft is in a proximal position. The drive shaft may be driven manually or by a motor. The stapling head assembly may be provided in a cartridge form that is removable from the shaft assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 10507013
    Abstract: An anchor assembly configured to locate and anchor body tissue surrounding an opening in the body tissue. The anchor assembly can include a plurality of anchor elements. Each anchor element can include an elongate portion and an anchor portion extending from the elongate portion. The elongate portion can be configured to be manipulated by a user. The anchor portion can have a contracted configuration capable of passing through the opening in the body tissue and can have an expanded configuration capable of anchoring the body tissue surrounding the opening. The anchor portion and the elongate portion can be integrally formed from a single wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Laveille Kao Voss, Kelly A. Pike, David A. Mackiewicz, Andrew Switky, Gina L. Romero, Jonathan I. Kaplan, Anthony P. Patron