Circular stapler introducer with radially-openable distal end portion

US8353439B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Chester O. Baxter, III · Loveland, US
• John V. Hunt · Cincinnati, US
• Danius P. Silkaitis · Seattle, US
• Jeffrey P. Wiley · Cincinnati, US
• Paul T. Franer · Cincinnati, US
• John B. Schulte · Sharonville, US
• Daniel J. Abbott · Loveland, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 19, 2009
• Grant date: Jan 15, 2013
• Expiry date: Jul 20, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2090/08021
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Introducers for introducing a surgical circular stapler into a patient. Various embodiments comprise a hollow flexible sheath that has a distal end and an open proximal end that is sized to receive a stapling head portion of the circular stapler therein. A radially-openable barrel member is attached to a distal end of the hollow flexible sheath to define an opening for receiving the stapling head therein. A rigid cap member is hingably attached to the radially-openable barrel member and is movable between a closed position wherein the rigid cap member covers a distal end of the opening in the barrel member and open position wherein the rigid cap member is movable to a position wherein the distal end of the opening is exposed. A releasable latch member is provided to engage and release opposed ends of the radially-openable barrel member.