Trocar seal/protector assemblies
US5342315A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 12, 1993 |
| Grant date | Aug 30, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 12, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2039/0686
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Trocar assembly embodiments are disclosed that include a trocar tube and a housing defining a chamber adjoining a proximal end portion of the trocar tube. An elastomeric seal member is positioned within the chamber for sealing the chamber as an elongate instrument passes through an opening formed in the seal member. A seal/protector assembly is positioned in the chamber proximally of the seal member in facing relationship to the seal member. The protector assembly includes at least two axially aligned protector members, each of which has an annular collar portion and at least one leaf portion formed integrally with the collar portion so as to form a living hinge portion. The leaf portions define an opening therethrough in axial alignment with the opening in the seal member. Insertion of an elongate instrument into contact with the leaf portions causes them to pivot distally increasing the size of the opening formed thereby permitting the instrument to pass therethrough and through the opening in the seal member without causing damage to the seal member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.