Vacuum-actuated tissue-lifting device and method
US6042539A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 28, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 26, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/306
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A vacuum-actuated tissue-lifting device and method for performing a surgical procedure in an operative space of a patient are disclosed. The preferred device has a shell with a profile configured to surround a tissue surface of the patient, a vacuum port located on the shell for applying a vacuum between the shell and the tissue surface, and an air conduit extending through the shell to permit air to pass into the operative space of the patient when vacuum is applied. In a preferred embodiment, the device has an entry port located on the shell and a perforable membrane located on the entry port to provide a seal when a surgical instrument is inserted through the membrane during the procedure. The device and method of the invention eliminate the need for carbon dioxide insufflation, mechanical lifting devices which create obstructions and high stress zones on tissues within the operative space created, and unwanted displacement of internal organs when the targeted tissue surface is lifted.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.