Organ manipulator having suction member supported with freedom to move relative to its support
US6506149B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 7, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 14, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/308
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An organ manipulator including at least one suction member or adhesive disc mounted to a compliant joint, a flexible locking arm for mounting such suction member or compliant joint, and a method for retracting and suspending an organ in a retracted position using suction (or adhesive force) so that the organ is free to move normally (e.g., to beat or undergo other limited-amplitude motion) in at least the vertical direction during both steps. In preferred embodiments, a suction member exerts suction to retract a beating heart and suspend it in a retracted position during surgery. As the retracted heart beats, the compliant joint allows it to expand and contract freely (and otherwise move naturally) at least in the vertical direction so that hemodynamic function is not compromised. The suction member conforms or can be conformed to the organ anatomy, and its inner surface is preferably smooth and lined with absorbent material to improve traction without causing trauma to the organ. The compliant joint can connect the member to an arm which is adjustably mounted to a sternal retractor or operating table. The compliant joint can be a sliding ball joint, a hinged joint, a pin sliding i…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.