Apparatus and method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic procedures with laparoscopic visualization
US6632234B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 4, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 14, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 4, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M29/02
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A laparoscopic apparatus for tunneling dissection including a hollow tunneling member and an inflatable balloon disposed at the distal end of the tunneling member to form together a blunt tipped obturator. The tunneling member has a bore sized allow the insertion of a conventional laparoscope therein to provide observation during surgical procedures. The laparoscope provides direct observation of dissection through the open distal end of the tunneling member. Observation is provided both when the device is used to tunnel between tissue layers to a region of interest within the body of a patient, and during subsequent balloon inflation when the tissue layers are dissected to cause separation of the tissue layers and the creation of an anatomical working space. After the anatomic space has been created, the device and laparoscope are withdraw through the incision. If needed, a trocar can be inserted into the incision to provide access back to the previously created space where the surgical procedure is to be performed. The anatomic working space may be insufflated with an insufflation gas if required for the particular procedure. The apparatus is prepared for use by inserting the tun…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.