Transponder device to mark implements, such as surgical implements, and method of manufacturing and using same
US8354931B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 5, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 15, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 14, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q2213/13003
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A transponder device to mark a surgical implement, such as a metallic surgical instrument, is provided that comprises a transponder housing attachable to a portion of the surgical implement. The housing may include a transponder receiving cavity spaced at least 1 millimeter, and preferably at least 2 millimeters, from any portion of the surgical implement when the housing is attached to the surgical implement, and preferably includes a saddle-shaped finger support surface or a stabilizing surface sized and configured to receive a finger of a user for providing additional leverage and/or stabilizing structure when operating the implement. The housing may be removably attached to the surgical implement or permanently attached. In use, a transponder is retained in the device. Methods of manufacturing transponder devices and methods of detecting a transponder indicating the possible presence of a surgical implement are also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.