Ultrasonic transesophageal probe for the imaging and diagnosis of multiple scan planes
US5402793A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 19, 1993 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 19, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2034/715
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A multiplane TEE probe is provided in which rotation of the ultrasonic transducer is motor controlled. The motor is controlled to rotate the transducer either clockwise or counterclockwise, and at either a high rotational speed or a low rotational speed. The motor is also automatically controlled to drive the transducer to a predetermined home position. The transducer tip of the probe is detachably connected to the gastroscope tube. An aluminum sheet is embedded in the acoustic lens in front of the transducer to dissipate heat which accumulates in the lens. The gastroscope tube includes an articulating section formed of a plurality of matching cylindrical links which form alternating pivot axes from one link to the next. The pivot range of each link with respect to an adjoining link is controlled by opposing limit stops orthogonally located with respect to the pivot points of the links. Preferably the limit stops are formed by a plurality of opposing and meshing fingers to provide the articulating section with high torsional stability. The articulating section is controlled from the handle of the probe, with the articulation limit stops located in the handle. The articulating secti…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.