Vascular retractor
US5913818A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 9, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jun 22, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 9, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/320044
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A self-supporting retractor for holding open an anatomic space for performing endoscopic surgical procedures. The retractor includes a substantially rigid elongate member, having proximal and distal ends, and having an arch shape or "C" cross-section, defining a passage and longitudinal working window along the retractor. The distal end is preferably rounded or streamlined to facilitate insertion along a dissected space with minimized tissue trauma, and may include a hooded portion enclosing the passage at the distal end. The elongate member may include radially-cooperating segments or self-retaining edges to maximize the area of the space held open by the retractor. The retractor may include a handle or a pivotable finger grip on the proximal end to manipulate the retractor during use, and/or a curved handle to tent the incision providing access to the dissected space. The retractor may also include a channel member for an endoscope, integrally formed or pivotally attached to the retractor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.