Methods and devices for improved tissue stabilization
US6626830B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 1, 1999 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 1, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/508
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Devices and methods are disclosed for accessing and stabilizing an unstable or moving tissue structure within a patient's body, and in particular, for temporarily stabilizing a target site on the beating heart. The devices generally involve tissue stabilizers having at least one multiple link support member operably connecting a stabilizer foot to a retractor. To minimize motion at the stabilizer foot and improve overall stabilization of the target site, the tissue stabilizer may involve the a stabilizer foot having multiple support members connected to the stabilizer foot at discreet locations. To improve the ability of an instrument support member to be easily articulated through an access incision to position the stabilizer foot as desired, the instrument support member may be operable associated with an attachment or mount which provides additional degrees of freedom at the connection to the retractor. A mount construction is disclosed that allows the support member and the articulating mount to be locked using a single knob.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.