Visually-directed surgical instrument and method for treating female urinary incontinence
US6475139B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 18, 2000 |
| Grant date | Nov 5, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 18, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2/0045
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Described is a surgical instrument and method for treating female urinary stress incontinence. The instrument includes a curved needle-like element defining in part a curved shaft having a distal end and a proximal end. A tape attaches to the needle for implanting into the lower abdomen of a female to provide support to the urethra. The needle defines an inner lumen for passage of optical devices and/or fluids. A surgical optical system may interface directly with the needle, or alternatively, the needle hand piece or handle may be modified to accept the optical system. The tip of the needle is also modified to contain a window or viewing port that allows for the transmission of light from the ambient target tissue into the imaging lens of the optical system. The optical system allows the surgeon to maintain continuous anatomic visualization during introduction and navigation of the needle within the lower abdomen.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.