Uterine access device with automatic cervical adjustment
US5104377A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 1990 |
| Grant date | Apr 14, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/4225
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A device and method for accessing the uterus to manipulate it or to introduce fluids or other devices into it. The device includes a shaft having a first, expandable distal member which is inserted into the uterus and a second, inflatable proximal member which is inserted partially into the cervical canal. The proximal member automatically adjusts to the length of the cervical canal upon inflation because only the proximal portion of the proximal member which is outside of the cervical canal expands. During use of the device, the distal member is expanded within the uterus and the shaft is withdrawn proximally until the expanded distal device contacts the internal os of the cervix. The proximal member is then inflated proximal to the exterior os of the cervix. The distal portion of the proximal member lies within and is obstructed by the cervical canal. The distal and proximal members thereby cooperate to securely couple the shaft to the uterus by automatically adjusting to the length of the cervical canal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.