Process for transecting remote constrained surgical locations such as the transverse carpal ligament
US5423804A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jun 13, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2218/008
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This invention relates to a process for incising the transverse carpal ligament in the hand for relief of the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. More specifically, a process is disclosed in which incising energy, preferably laser energy, is introduced from under the ligament for transecting the transverse carpal ligament while permitting the surgeon to view the interface of transection. A probe, preferably attached to a pistol-type grip, includes at least one tube containing an optic viewing device (preferably fiber-optic), and a conduit for directing incising radiation for the ligament transection. The fiber-optic viewing device, energy conduit, and an optional suction tube commence at the pistol grip where they are connected to the requisite viewing device, energy source, and suction pump. The fiber-optic viewing device terminates at a sufficient distance from the pistol grip to permit extension from the insertion at the wrist to pass under the entire length of the transverse carpal ligament. The energy conduit terminates within the field of view of the fiber-optic viewing device for the discharge of ligament-transecting energy in the view of the fiber-optic device and preferabl…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.