Endoscopic microsurgical instruments
US6322578A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 14, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 27, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 14, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/305
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Microsurgical instruments for performing extremely small-scale, minimally-invasive microsurgery such as thoracoscopic coronary artery bypass grafting. The instruments utilize a symmetrical, forcep-like actuator which provides extremely precise actuation and control of the instrument and which mimics the feel of instruments used in conventional open surgical procedures. The instruments generally include a pair of coaxially arranged shafts, an end-effector at the distal ends of the shafts, and an actuator at the proximal ends of the shafts. The actuator includes a pair of arms pivotally coupled to one of the outer and inner shafts, and a pair of links pivotally coupled at one end to the arms, and at a second end to the other of the shafts. The links are coupled to a proximal portion of the arms to maximize mechanical advantage and reduce interference. The actuator may be easily adapted for either pull-type or push-type actuation, and for either outer shaft or inner shaft translation. The actuator is provided with a locking mechanism for fixing the relative position of the shafts to maintain the end-effector in a closed position. The locking mechanism includes rigid catches that are e…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.