Electroactive polymer actuated medical devices
US8021377B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2005 |
| Grant date | Sep 20, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 3, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S310/80
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is directed to novel apparatus for use in medical procedures relating to tubular body fluid conduits. According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector apparatus is provided for use in making an anastomotic connection between first and second tubular fluid conduits in a patient. The connector apparatus comprises: (a) a locking member, which further comprises one or more electroactive polymer actuators that switch the locking member between a locking state and a release state; and (b) a connector body that is configured to permit flow of bodily fluid between the first and second tubular fluid conduits. The connector body has a first portion configured for insertion into an axial end of the first tubular fluid conduit and a second portion configured for insertion through a sidewall of the second tubular fluid conduit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.