Endoscopic Patents (Class 606/46)
-
Patent number: 9504514Abstract: A forceps is provided and includes a housing having a shaft. An end effector assembly operatively connects to a distal end of the shaft and includes a pair of first and second jaw members. One or both of the first and second jaw members is movable relative to the other jaw member from a clamping position to an open position. A resilient member operably couples to at least one of the first and second jaw members. The resilient member is configured to bias the first and second jaw members in the clamping position and provide a closure force on tissue disposed therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2015Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventors: David M. Garrison, James D. Allen, IV, Jeffrey R. Unger, Duane E. Kerr, Sean T. ONeill, Peter M. Mueller, Kim. V. Brandt, James S. Cunningham, Keir Hart, Daniel A. Joseph, Jason T. Sanders, Robert M. Sharp
-
Patent number: 9486277Abstract: A resectoscope includes an electrode arrangement having at least one electrode and being connected to a contact at a proximal end region of the electrode arrangement; a retaining body mounted on the resectoscope that is movable in the direction of movement of the electrode arrangement and includes an electrode mounting for accommodating the end region of the electrode arrangement; and a cable with a plug body for fixing to the retaining body while making contact with the contacts. The retaining body has a plug receptacle for fixing the plug body by an insertion movement aligned at right angles to the direction of movement of the electrode arrangement. In the position which is reached at the end of the insertion movement, the plug body can be turned into an end position where it is blocked by the plug receptacle against a movement in the opposite direction to the insertion movement.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2013Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBHInventors: Nils Kapfermann, Christian Brockmann
-
Patent number: 9474881Abstract: In an embodiment a sheath allows one to simultaneously ablate tissue, using a catheter located in the sheath, and remove fluid from a patient's pericardial space, via the same sheath, all without withdrawing the ablation catheter from the sheath. Applying pressure (positive or negative) to fenestrations in the sheath may allow one to withdraw fluid from the space, navigate the sheath within the space, and/or adhere the sheath to tissue in the space. Other embodiments are described herein.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2011Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Inventor: Mehdi Razavi
-
Patent number: 9474438Abstract: Endoscopes having a hollow outer sheath configured for insertion into a patient's body are disclosed. A hollow inner sheath is receivable within the outer sheath, and is configured to slideably receive a first internal instrument. A working element can be configured to rotatably support at least the first internal instrument and a second internal instrument such that at least the first internal instrument and the second internal instrument are rotatable about a common axis of rotation being substantially coextensive with a longitudinal axis of the outer sheath. The working element can have at least one guide rail extending longitudinally of the axis of rotation and an actuator block can be slideably mountable to the at least one guiderail and so securable to at least one of the instruments as to be able to urge the at least one of the internal instruments longitudinally of the outer sheath.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2011Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: GYRUS ACMI, Inc.Inventor: Tailin Fan
-
Patent number: 9468487Abstract: An instrument for thermally-mediated therapies in targeted tissue volumes or for volumetric removal of tissue. In one embodiment, the instrument has an interior chamber that includes a diffuser structure for diffusing a biocompatible conductive fluid that is introduced under high pressure. The interior chamber further includes surfaces of opposing polarity electrodes for vaporizing the small cross-section diffused fluid flows created within a diffuser structure. In one embodiment, the diffuser structure includes a negative temperature coefficient of resistance material between the opposing polarity surfaces. The NTCR structure can self-adjust the lengths of current paths between the opposing polarities to insure complete vaporization of the volume of flow of conductive fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2013Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: Tsunami MedTech, LLCInventors: John H. Shadduck, Michael Hoey
-
Patent number: 9462936Abstract: A medical instrument, in particular a hysteroscope, has a shaft part (12) having a first shaft and an optical system having a second shaft (40), in which the shaft part (12) and optical system can be displaced with respect to one another along the shafts thereof such that, in a first position, the second shaft (40) of the optical system extends beyond the first shaft of the shaft part (12) on the distal side and that, in a second position, a distal end (23) of the first shaft of the shaft part (12) comes to rest approximately level with a distal end (41) of the second shaft (40) of the optical system.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2010Date of Patent: October 11, 2016Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rudi Campo, Frank Doll
-
Patent number: 9414886Abstract: An electrode is for use in an electrosurgical probe, the electrode having two arms defining a longitudinal direction. The electrode also includes a loop depending from the two arms and defining a cutting area within the loop, and a vaporization member attached to one side of the loop. The vaporization member is such that it does not occlude the cutting area and yet presents a substantial profile when the electrode is moved in the longitudinal direction. The arrangement is such that when the electrode is moved in a first longitudinal direction, the loop is capable of resecting a sample of tissue. When the electrode is moved in the opposite longitudinal direction, the vaporization member is capable of vaporizing tissue adjacent thereto to form a groove therein.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2012Date of Patent: August 16, 2016Assignee: GYRUS MEDICAL LIMITEDInventor: Kelvin John Varney
-
Patent number: 9402679Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an elongated body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a bore extending between the distal and proximal ends, a pair of jaws for severing vessel mounted on the distal end of the body, wherein at least one of the jaws has an electrically conductive material, and a handle coupled to the proximal end of the elongated body, wherein in a first mode of operation, the electrically conductive material is for receiving energy from a DC source, and in a second mode of operation, the electrically conductive material is for receiving energy from a RF source.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2009Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: MAQUET Cardiovascular LLCInventors: Fred Ginnebaugh, Ryan Abbott, Justin Williams, Kenny Dang, Rohit Girotra
-
Patent number: 9402683Abstract: A submucosal layer dissection instrument of the present invention includes an instrument body that is inserted into a submucosal layer, a line formed between the proximal end side and the distal end side of the instrument body; and an expanding section provided on the distal end side of the instrument body that expands in the case of having received a supply of fluid through the line.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2004Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Hiro-o Yamano, Akihito Sadamasa
-
Patent number: 9375274Abstract: The ablation systems, ablation probes, and corresponding methods according to the present disclosure reduce or eliminate energy radiating from an ablation probe into the environment. Some ablation probes include a retractable sheath that shields at least the radiating portion of the ablation probe. The retractable sheath and/or the ablation probe may include conduits through which a fluid may flow to shield the radiating portion and to drive the retractable sheath to an extended state. Other ablation probes include apertures defined in the probe walls through which the fluid can flow to expand a balloon surrounding the radiating portion. Yet other ablation probes include a thermal indicator to indicate the temperature of the ablation probe to a user. The ablation systems include fluid circuits and associated mechanical controls for varying the contents and/or flow rate of the fluid provided to the radiating portion of the ablation probe.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2012Date of Patent: June 28, 2016Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: William O. Reid, Jr.
-
Patent number: 9370329Abstract: A system for performing mapping and ablation functions includes a catheter sized and shaped for vascular access. The catheter includes an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end. A tip section positioned at the distal end of the catheter body and includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. One or more electrode structures are formed on an exterior surface of the tip section. The one or more electrode structures each includes a mapping electrode at the distal portion of the tip section and a contact pad electrically coupled to the mapping electrode.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2013Date of Patent: June 21, 2016Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Zaya Tun, Isaac J. Kim, Josef V. Koblish, Minhchau N. Cao, Steve Ha
-
Patent number: 9333026Abstract: A system for resecting tissue includes a loop structure configured for cutting tissue, at least a portion of the loop structure formed by an elongate structure having a first end and a second end, wherein a length of the loop structure is adjustable by positioning the first end relative to the second end, wherein a first portion of the loop structure comprises a first electrode, and a second portion of the loop structure comprises a second electrode. A system for resecting tissue includes a loop structure configured for cutting tissue, the loop structure formed by an elongate structure having a first end and a second end, wherein a length of the loop structure is adjustable by positioning the first end relative to the second end, and a support structure coupled to a portion of the elongate structure and having a surface for contacting tissue.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Mark E. Girard, Tom Casey, Kimbolt Young, Nathan Murphy, Robert F. Rioux
-
Patent number: 9314294Abstract: A surgical system comprises a device adapted to deliver a plurality of surgical instruments to a site within a patient's body, a first surgical instrument comprising an active electrode probe, a second surgical instrument for performing a non-electrosurgical procedure, a conductive shield surrounding the active electrode probe of the first surgical instrument and connected to a reference potential, and a cold instrument monitor connected to the second surgical instrument and to the reference potential.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2013Date of Patent: April 19, 2016Assignee: ENCISION, INC.Inventors: David Newton, Warren Taylor
-
Patent number: 9254169Abstract: An ablation apparatus may generally comprise an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end and a non-conductive tip at the distal end, a conductive sheath at least partially surrounding a portion of the elongated body intermediate the proximal end and the tip, and an electrical conductor electrically connected to the conductive sheath. The ablation apparatus may comprise a first electrode having a first diameter and a plurality of second electrodes each having a second diameter, wherein the first diameter is greater than the second diameter. Methods of using the ablation apparatus are also described.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Gary L. Long, David N. Plescia, Gregory J. Bakos
-
Patent number: 9254165Abstract: A system and method for detecting faults within an electrosurgical instrument having a shield and an active electrode uses multiple possible fault conditions. In one embodiment the monitoring system comprises an electrosurgical generator coupled to the electrosurgical instrument and adapted to deliver power to the active electrode of the electrosurgical instrument, monitoring circuitry coupled to the electrosurgical generator and the electrosurgical instrument.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2013Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: ENCISION, INC.Inventors: Kurt Albert Aronow, David Newton, Don R. Boyle
-
Patent number: 9220560Abstract: A treatment instrument for an endoscope is provided that is suitable for cutting submucosa in endoscopic submucosal dissection. The treatment instrument for an endoscope includes a treatment portion having a cutting unit at a tip of an insertion portion that is to be inserted into the body. The main unit of the treatment portion is formed in a sawtooth shape having a peak portion and a valley portion. An electrode plate serving as the cutting unit is provided in the valley portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2006Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: JICHI MEDICAL UNIVERSITYInventor: Hironori Yamamoto
-
Patent number: 9216030Abstract: A laparoscopic forceps comprising a handpiece including a distal end portion; a tubular member protruding from the distal end portion of the handpiece, the tubular member having a distal end with a distal opening, a pair of jaws having legs that are disposed within the tubular member and partially protruding from the distal opening, the jaws and the tubular member being movable relative to each other; wherein each of the jaws has an arcuate section; an operable mechanism for creating relative motion between the jaws and the tubular member along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, and one or more spacing members extending across the distal opening of the tubular member and between the jaws; wherein the jaws are closable by the relative movement of the tubular member and the jaws towards each other so that the tubular member advances over the arcuate section of the jaws, and the jaws are openable by the relative movement of the tubular member and the jaws away from each other so that the one or moreType: GrantFiled: September 12, 2014Date of Patent: December 22, 2015Assignee: GYRUS ACMI, INC.Inventors: Tailin Fan, Kester Batchelor, John R. Mensch, Richard A. Thompson
-
Patent number: 9204889Abstract: This invention relates to surgical instruments for applying energy to tissue using a vapor-to-liquid phase transition which delivers large amount of energy to the targeted tissue. In one embodiment, the system is configured for volumetric removal of tissue by means of high velocity ejection of a vapor media from a first vapor port proximate to soft tissue wherein the vapor-to-liquid phase change of the media applies energy to the tissue. The system provides a second port coupled to a suction source that cooperates with the first vapor port to suction tissue debris from the targeted site.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2011Date of Patent: December 8, 2015Assignee: Tsunami MedTech, LLCInventor: John H. Shadduck
-
Patent number: 9173703Abstract: A non-linear electrosurgical electrode extender is disclosed. The extender includes a shaft at a proximal end thereof, a receiver at a distal end thereof, and a curved body portion extending between the shaft and the receiver. The shaft fits in an electrosurgical handpiece that defines a handpiece central axis. The receiver receives the electrosurgical electrode. The curved body portion is disposed outside the handpiece central axis and positions the receiver at a converging angle relative to the handpiece central axis such that when the electrosurgical electrode is disposed in the receiver, a surgically active distal end of the electrode intersects the handpiece central axis. The electrode extender is adapted for use with wire loop gynecologic electrosurgical electrode in gynecologic procedures. The extender maintains the tactility and control of a straight electrode extender while permitting the handpiece to be disposed outside the cervix view axis.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2010Date of Patent: November 3, 2015Assignee: UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS INC.Inventors: Ben D. Shirley, Mark L. Fox
-
Patent number: 9155554Abstract: A tissue resection cap assembly configured to be secured to the distal end of an elongated medical device, such as an endoscope, and a method for resecting tissue. The cap assembly may include a cap structure comprising a working channel and a resection device channel, wherein the resection device channel extends inside the cap structure to a resection device track positioned substantially around the working channel adjacent the distal end of the cap structure. The resection device channel is adapted to direct a resection device from the working channel of the endoscope to the resection device track. The cap assembly further includes one or more ligation bands on the outside surface of the cap structure and a trigger line for deploying the ligation bands from the distal end of the cap structure. The method includes deploying a ligation band around tissue and using a resecting loop to cut the tissue.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2012Date of Patent: October 13, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Paul Smith, Oscar Carrillo, Jr.
-
Patent number: 9119662Abstract: A catheter having a tubular body and a rotatable shaft disposed within a lumen of the tubular body. A cutting element is coupled to the rotatable shaft, the cutting element having a cutting edge, the cutting element and rotatable shaft being longitudinally moveable within the tubular body between a stored position in which the cutting element is positioned distal of a side opening and a cutting position in which the cutting element is contained within the lumen of the tubular body and longitudinally aligned with the side opening. The cutting element is configured to extend through the side opening and to cut material from the wall of a vessel at a treatment site as the catheter is pulled proximally through the treatment site. The catheter may optionally have a rotating distal tip with an abrasive surface. The catheter includes a collection chamber positioned proximally of the cutting window.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2011Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: John Robert Moberg
-
Patent number: 9039703Abstract: An endoscopic surgical instrument including a fluid jet device and an electrode device. The fluid jet device includes a pipe section with a nozzle on one distal end for a dissection and/or a needleless injection by means of a fluid and the electrode device is for cutting and/or coagulating tissue, the pipe section forming the electrode device. The surgical instrument further includes an insulating device attached to the distal end of the pipe section such that the tissue can only be brought into electrically conductive contact with a peripheral region of the pipe section and not with the distal end of the pipe section.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2010Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: ERBE ELEKTROMEDIZIN GMBHInventor: Dietmar Karwei
-
Publication number: 20150141785Abstract: A medical probe includes a distal end and an elongate body for insertion into an organ of a patient. The distal end is connected to the elongate body and includes multiple arms that, when inserted into the organ, extend to form multiple respective spirals each having electrodes disposed thereon.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2013Publication date: May 21, 2015Applicant: BIOSENSE WEBSTER (ISRAEL) LTD.Inventors: Gal Hayam, Stuart G. Williams
-
Patent number: 9033977Abstract: A vaginal cervical retractor used to maneuver and visualize the uterus during various medical examinations and procedures would include an inner tube provided with a movable assembly of plastic cups (cervical cup and vaginal cup) designed to be inserted into the uterine cavity and a retractable electrosurgical needle. A cervical cup is molded to a hollow outer shaft to form the movable cup assembly. This hollow shaft is provided through which the inner tube can be inserted. By utilizing a vaginal cervical retractor elevator provided with an inner rigid tubing, freely sliding vaginal cup and cervical cup designed to move on the inner tubing, attached to a hollow, plastic outer shaft into which the inner tubing can be inserted, and a retractable, flexible, electrosurgical needle, the colpotomy procedure can be performed with the improved uterine manipulator.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2010Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMOREInventor: Vadim Morozov
-
Patent number: 9023044Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument includes a first jaw member with a first electrode area and a second electrode area and a second jaw member, such that at least either the first jaw member or the second jaw member can be pivoted around a pivot axis in such a way that the jaw members can be approached to one another or distanced from one another, so that the first jaw member can be rotated in relation to the second jaw member around a rotation axis between a first predetermined working position and a second predetermined working position, so that in the first working position the first electrode area of the first jaw member is facing the second jaw member and so that in the second working position the second electrode area of the first jaw member is facing the second jaw member.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2012Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Bernd Emmerich
-
Patent number: 9011434Abstract: A medical device including an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The medical device may further include an end-effector disposed at the distal end of the elongate member. The end-effector may include a plurality of arms pivotally connected to one another, wherein each arm includes a tissue-contacting surface, a first portion of the tissue-contacting surface including a plurality of ridges configured to grasp tissue. Further, the tissue-contacting surface may include a channel oriented substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the medical device.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Gary Kappel, Sean Fleury, Paul Smith, Brandon Zalewski, Laurie Soderborn
-
Patent number: 9011315Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for endoscopic fasciotomies. In certain embodiments such methods include dissecting tissue down to the fascia using an endoscopic dissector, lifting the fascia off tissue, vascular structures, muscle, and/or nerves, cauterizing and cutting the fascia using a bisector/bipolar device inserted through a cannula, retracting the cannula, and closing the incision site. A suction device introduced via the cannula may be used to apply suction to remove blood, tissue, irrigation fluid and/or other debris with the cannula in situ.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: The New York and Presbyterian HospitalInventor: Debra A. King
-
Patent number: 8992526Abstract: Surgical instruments are provided for performing laparoscopic or similar minimally invasive operations, including two clamping parts, which can move towards one another and which have clamping surfaces for gripping tissue when they are closed. A cutting device has a cutting edge that, in a cutting direction, can be displaced relative to the clamping parts for cutting the gripped tissue. In such an instrument the cutting direction extends at an acute angle to the clamping surfaces when they are closed.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2005Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Erbe Elektromedizin GmbHInventors: Achim Brodbeck, Dieter Hafner
-
Publication number: 20150088130Abstract: A liquid ejecting apparatus for medical treatment includes a liquid ejecting scalpel that ejects a liquid, an ultrasonic scalpel that generates an ultrasonic wave, an outer case that accommodates the liquid ejecting scalpel and the ultrasonic scalpel and includes an opening portion allowing a distal end portion of the liquid ejecting scalpel or a distal end portion of the ultrasonic scalpel to protrude therethrough, a guide portion that is arranged in the outer case and guides the distal end portion of the liquid ejecting scalpel or the distal end portion of the ultrasonic scalpel to the opening portion, and a manipulation section that is arranged in the outer case and selectively causes the distal end portion of the liquid ejecting scalpel or the distal end portion of the ultrasonic scalpel to protrude through the opening portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2014Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Hirokazu SEKINO, Koichiro MIYAZAKI, Atsuya HIRABAYASHI
-
Patent number: 8979842Abstract: Monopolar electrosurgery devices adapted for resecting tonsil and adenoid tissue. The devices minimize thermal injury by employing a plasma generated by pulsed electrical signals to precisely and effectively cut or coagulate the tissues. Suction may also be applied to the tissues to enhance the cutting, coagulation, and tissue manipulation functions. The devices include an interchangeable tip that may be switched for another tip, depending on which tip may be more suitable for tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Medtronic Advanced Energy LLCInventors: Ralph I. McNall, III, Kay W. Chang, Paul O. Davison
-
Patent number: 8977333Abstract: A shape-imparting mechanism for a catheter that includes an elongate element dimensioned to fit within a lumen of an electrode sheath of a catheter. An insertion facilitating arrangement is carried at a distal end of the elongate element for facilitating insertion of the distal end of the elongate element into the lumen of the electrode sheath of the catheter.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Cathrx LtdInventors: Neil L. Anderson, Matthew Partlett
-
Publication number: 20150066026Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector assembly having jaw members movable to grasp tissue therebetween. One or both jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of energy for treating tissue grasped and one or both of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of energy for electrically cutting tissue. A first switch assembly is selectively activatable for supplying energy to treat tissue. A second switch is selectively activatable for supplying energy to electrically cut tissue. The tactile feel and range of motion during actuation of the second switch assembly mimics the tactile feel and range of motion of activation of a mechanical actuator that advances a cutting blade between the jaw members to mechanically cut tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: COVIDIEN LPInventors: Keir HART, Kelley D. GOODMAN, Diana GUNNARSON, Susan HIEBERT, Scott N. LACOSTA, Weng-Kai K. LEE, Prakash MANLEY, Charles MYERS, Kenneth E. NETZEL, Arlen J. RESCHKE, Paul R. ROMERO, Amanda K. WHITE
-
Patent number: 8970685Abstract: An endoscope apparatus is provided for which a user does not need to adjust irradiation light quantity intentionally while confirming a captured image. A captured image which is bright and has stable tint can be obtained without being limited by an imaging distance with respect to the observation of the structure or components of living bodies. The endoscope apparatus includes a first light source section, a second light source section, a light source control unit which controls the irradiation and irradiation light quantity, an imaging unit which obtains a captured image, luminance value calculating unit which calculates the luminance value, a light source light quantity changing unit which changes the irradiation light quantity according to the luminance value, a white balance adjustment value calculating unit which calculates a white balance adjustment value, and a gain adjusting unit which adjusts the gain of the imaging unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Yasuhiro Minetoma, Hiroshi Yamaguchi
-
Patent number: 8968316Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly and one or more cutting blades. The end effector assembly defines a longitudinal axis and has a pair of jaw members selectively positionable relative to one another about a pivot. One or more of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive tissue engaging surface adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source. One or more of the jaw members includes two or more blade channels defined therein and extending therealong. The one or more cutting blades are selectively movable within one or more of the two or more blade channels.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Jeffrey M. Roy, Rebecca Coulson
-
Publication number: 20150057570Abstract: Medical devices and systems, and methods of their use, are disclosed having configurations suitable for obtaining biological tissue samples suitable for analysis, such as biopsy, while minimizing undesirable collateral damage to surrounding tissue or minimizing air leaks. Certain disclosed medical systems provide for obtaining biological tissue samples, while preserving organ functionality.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2014Publication date: February 26, 2015Applicant: SPINE VIEW, INC.Inventors: Singfatt Chin, Murali Dharan, Jefferey Wayne Etter
-
Patent number: 8961510Abstract: The endoscopic nasal palatoplasty procedure provides a reduction in the posterior aspect of the soft palate and/or uvula, thereby increasing the area of the nasopharyngeal passage between the soft palate and/or uvula and the back of the nasopharynx. This increased nasopharyngeal area promotes nasal breathing, thereby reducing reliance upon oral breathing and corresponding sleep-disordered breathing syndrome and associated problems such as sleep apnea and snoring. The procedure is performed using a conventional surgical implement, such as a Coblator® or other electro cauterizing or laser cauterizing implement, to ablate and cauterize a series of lesions in the soft palate and/or uvula. The procedure is performed by inserting the surgical implement through one of the nasal passages to access the superior surface of the soft palate and/or uvula.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Inventor: Hasan M. Alshemari
-
Patent number: 8956351Abstract: A minimally invasive surgical assembly broadly includes an outer hollow needle which has an outer diameter, a longitudinal axis, and a sharp distal end. An insulating member extends through the hollow needle and is movable relative to the hollow needle. An elongated member extends through the insulating member and is movable relative to both the insulating member and the hollow needle. A resilient wire projects from the elongated member and is retractable within and extendable outside of the insulating member and the hollow needle. The insulating member, elongated member, and resilient wire are movable relative to the needle using first and second moving means whereby the surgical assembly assumes various configurations having different operational functions.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2008Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Teleflex Medical IncorporatedInventors: Sundaram Ravikumar, H. Allan Alward, Robert F. Smith, Jr.
-
Publication number: 20150025528Abstract: An end effector assembly includes a first jaw member defining a wedge configuration having first and second planar surfaces angled inwardly to an apex, and a second jaw member defining a nest configuration having a cut-out defined by third and fourth planar surfaces angled inwardly to a trough. The jaw members are movable between spaced-apart position and approximated positions. In the approximated position, the first and third and second and fourth planar surfaces are disposed in parallel orientation relative to one another imparting a first grasping pressure to tissue disposed therebetween, while the apex is received within the trough imparting a second grasping pressure to tissue disposed therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy between the parallel planar surfaces to create a pair of tissue seals, and between the apex and trough to cut tissue between the tissue seals.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2014Publication date: January 22, 2015Applicant: COVIDIEN LPInventor: GENE H. ARTS
-
Patent number: 8936595Abstract: A surgical instrument, particularly an electrosurgical instrument, including an actuating element for actuating at least one first and one second functional unit, wherein the actuating element is movable in a translational and/or rotational motion within a movement range, wherein the first functional unit is actuatable by means of a movement within a first partial region of the movement range and the second functional unit is actuatable by means of a movement within a second partial region of the movement range, wherein a changeover device is provided such that, as a result of a movement of the actuating element through a changeover region between the first and second partial region, an operative connection between the first functional unit and the actuating element can be interrupted and an operative connection can be established between the second functional unit and the actuating element.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2011Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Inventors: Lothar Mitzlaff, Ralf Krause
-
Publication number: 20150011995Abstract: An electrophysiology system comprises an ablation catheter, a radiofrequency generator, and a mapping processor. The ablation catheter has a tissue ablation electrode and a plurality of microelectrodes distributed about the circumference of the tissue ablation electrode and electrically isolated therefrom. The plurality of microelectrodes define a plurality of bipolar microelectrode pairs. The mapping processor is configured to acquire output signals from the bipolar microelectrode pairs, compare the output signals, and generate an output to a display providing a visual indication of a characteristic of the microelectrodes and the tissue ablation electrode relative to myocardial tissue to be mapped and/or ablated.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2014Publication date: January 8, 2015Inventors: Boaz Avitall, Joseph V. Koblish
-
Publication number: 20150005769Abstract: The invention relates to an electrosurgical instrument and a method for puncturing a wall of a body lumen. The electrosurgical instrument includes an elongate applicator shank which is guided, in a mobile manner, in a guide catheter, a distal applicator electrode and a catheter electrode, arranged on the guide catheter and electrically insulated with respect to the applicator electrode. The method for puncturing a wall of a body lumen includes the steps of inserting a guide catheter, in which an elongate applicator shank is guided in a mobile manner, up to a wall of a body lumen, applying a radiofrequency AC voltage to a distal applicator electrode and a catheter electrode which is arranged on the guide catheter and electrically insulated with respect to the applicator electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventors: German KLINK, Andreas HÖRLLE
-
Patent number: 8920420Abstract: Scissors (1) for an endoscope includes a treatment section (5) provided with a pair of scissor elements (10, 11) which are pivotably supported by a pivoting shaft (support pin (13)) and are pivotally displaced between an open position and a closed position; an operation wire (3) connected to the treatment section (5), and an operation section for displacing the scissor elements (10, 11) between the open position and the closed position by advancing and retracting the operation wire (3). A stopper (14) is provided to the treatment section (5). In the open position, the stopper (14) restricts the relative movement between the pair of scissor elements (10, 11) in the opening direction, and in the closed position, the stopper (14) restricts the relative movement between the pair of scissor elements (10, 11) in the closing direction, thereby to restrict excessive opening and closure of the scissor elements.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2010Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Kaneka CorporationInventors: Miyuki Nishimura, Makoto Nishimura
-
Patent number: 8922373Abstract: A device and method for subcutaneously implanting an identification chip into a domestic animal, the identification chip becoming relatively immobile once implanted.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Foundation Animals Foundation, Inc.Inventor: Gary Karlin Michelson
-
Patent number: 8906014Abstract: A medical instrument comprises a shaft, a work element at the distal end of the shaft, a handle with at least one movable part for actuating the work element and a securing element for securing an endoscope which has an endoscope shaft and an eyepiece. The distal end of the endoscope is able to be arranged in the area of the distal end of the shaft, and the proximal end of the endoscope is able to be arranged in the area of the handle of the instrument, and the endoscope is displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the shaft. The securing element is designed in such a way that the endoscope can be arranged on the outside of the instrument, the eyepiece of the endoscope, in the state when the latter is arranged on the instrument, lying outside the longitudinal axis of the shaft of the instrument.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Uwe Bacher, Gérard Barki
-
Patent number: 8886280Abstract: A nerve monitoring device, including a cannula, a sensor for monitoring a nerve, and an optional support element, can be inserted into an anatomic space. The cannula, sensor and/or support element can automatically conform to and match the geometry of the anatomic space, which can enhance desired contact between the sensor and anatomic features, such as muscles, nerves or tissue in the space in an atraumatic manner. The sensor, cannula and/or support element can include one or more strips or other elements that convert from a retracted mode to an expanded mode in which the strips or elements expand, enlarge or otherwise move to match the geometry of the space and place the sensors in precise monitoring proximity relative to the target muscles, nerves or tissues. An exemplary application of the device is in the field of laryngeal monitoring, however, the device is well suited for other applications.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2010Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: The Magstim Company LimitedInventor: Jack M. Kartush
-
Publication number: 20140330272Abstract: The invention relates to an application probe in which the probe is used to apply radiofrequency alternating current to surrounding tissue, wherein the application probe includes a shank with a distal shank part, which has shank longitudinal sections movable relative to one another. The distal shank part formed thus can be pliable in a first state, as a result of which the application probe can be guided to the application location thereof through an endoscope. In a second state, the shank longitudinal sections of the distal shank part are braced to one another by a pulling element contained in the application probe and form a rigid probe end, which can be employed, together with a suitable probe tip, to penetrate. Moreover, the shank longitudinal sections form the electrode(s) of the application probe for applying the alternating current to surrounding tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2014Publication date: November 6, 2014Inventor: German KLINK
-
Patent number: 8876819Abstract: A magnetically-guided catheter 100 includes a tip positioning magnet in the distal electrode assembly configured to interact with externally applied magnetic fields for magnetically-guided movement. A magnetically-guided mapping catheter 100 includes an electrically-conductive capsule in the form of a casing 146 that includes a distal ablation surface and isolates the positioning magnet from bio-fluids to prevent corrosion. An open irrigation ablation catheter includes an isolated manifold that isolates the positioning magnet from contact with irrigation fluid to prevent corrosion.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2011Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division, Inc.Inventors: Troy T. Tegg, James V. Kauphusman
-
Patent number: 8870864Abstract: An electrosurgical apparatus includes two assemblies, one of which is the primary assembly intended for a first surgical procedure, such as cutting tissue, and a secondary assembly intended for a second type of electrosurgical procedure, such as tissue coagulation. The secondary assembly fits over the electrode tip of the primary assembly and makes electrical contact with the electrode tip of the primary assembly. This allows for single instrument surgery whereby the secondary (coagulation) assembly provides bleeding control after the primary assembly has cut tissue. This combination significantly reduces operating time. The secondary assembly has a snap fit over the primary assembly so that it may be readily attached and detached several times during any surgical procedure, as the surgeon alternates between cutting tissue and coagulating the resulting incisions using the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Medtronic Advanced Energy LLCInventors: Paul O. Davison, Ralph I. McNall, III, John R. Tighe, Alexander B. Vankov
-
Patent number: 8858731Abstract: A disinfecting chemical bottle includes a bottle body including a storing section that stores a chemical used for cleaning/disinfecting an endoscope and a mouth portion including an opening portion from which the chemical freely flows out, a first conductive portion provided so as to be exposed in an inner portion and an outer portion of the bottle body, and a second conductive portion provided at a position different from that of the first conductive portion so as to be exposed in the inner portion and the outer portion of the bottle body, the second conductive portion being electrically connectable to the first conductive portion via the chemical in the bottle body.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2013Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.Inventors: Takaaki Komiya, Tsuyoshi Fujita
-
Patent number: 8858551Abstract: A high-frequency treatment apparatus includes an insertion portion, a covering portion provided in a distal end portion of the insertion portion, an electrode portion provided in the covering portion, through which high-frequency current is to flow, including a side treatment portion arranged along an outer surface of the covering portion and a distal end treatment portion formed of a distal end portion of the electrode portion, and configured to be moved between a forward position where the distal end treatment portion is protruded from the covering portion with respect to a forward and backward movement direction and a backward position where the distal end treatment portion is arranged within the covering portion with respect to the forward and backward movement direction, and an operation member inserted through the insertion portion and connected to the electrode portion wherein the electrode portion is configured to be moved by operating the operation member.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2009Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.Inventor: Kimihiko Naito