Method of indentifying instruments as belonging to a set
US4671916A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 13, 1985 |
| Grant date | Jun 9, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 13, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24736
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of identifying instruments, preferably surgical instruments, as belonging to a set comprises forming at least one bore in a location of each instrument belonging to the set such that said bore will neither substantially weaken the instrument nor interfere with its primary functions. The bore may be cast as part of or drilled partially or completely through each instrument. At least one colored plug of a preferably autoclavable material is then secured in the bore. The colored plug may have a distinctively-shaped head portion, or may have multiple end locks at intermittent positions, the excess of which can be cut away. Most preferably, the method of the invention comprises the step of securing the plug between a pair of differently colored washers. An instrument bearing indicia of a set comprises a colored plug inserted in a bore formed in said instrument and a means for securing said plug in said bore. Most preferably, the plug is made from an autoclavable material selected from either a thermoplastic, a polycarbonate, an elastomer or a metal, such as colorable stainless steel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.