Shape memory effect surgical needles
US5219358A · kind A · utility
450Cited by
9References
5Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 1991 |
| Grant date | Jun 15, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 29, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2210/0047
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Surgical needles are fabricated from a shape memory alloy. The alloy has a low temperature state, in which the needle is formable into an elongated shape to pass through an elongated tube, and a high temperature state, in which the needle forms an arc. The needle is particularly adapted for use in endoscopic surgery. A needle that has a remembered curved shape is straightened and passed to a surgical site through a cannula. It is then returned to its curved shape by heating it at the surgical site. After use, it is withdrawn through the cannula.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.