Apparatus and method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic procedures with laparoscopic visualization

US7001405B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• General Surgical Innovations, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Maciej J. Kieturakis · Redwood City, US
• Helmut Kayan · Loomis, US
• Jan Echeverry · Saratoga, US
• Thomas A. Howell · Palo Alto, US
• Kenneth H. Mollenauer · Portola Valley, US
• James E. Jervis · Atherton, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 30, 2003
• Grant date: Feb 21, 2006
• Expiry date: Oct 3, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61M29/02
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

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. After the anatomic space has been created, the device and laparoscope are withdrawn through the incision. 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 tunneling member into the interior of the balloon, forming the balloon into a generally cylindrical roll about the tunneling member, and preferably, through the use of an integral balloon cover, securing the balloon roll to the tunneling member to form a semi-rigid blunt tipped obturator.