Non-invasive laser vasectomy
US8523848B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 8, 2009 |
| Grant date | Sep 3, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 10, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2018/00029
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention presents novel methods for performing noninvasive vasectomies in animals, including humans, and vasectomy clamps for use in such procedures. The invention further presents an apparatus for use in noninvasive male sterilization procedures. More specifically, the invention presents the application of lasers for noninvasive thermal coagulation and occlusion of the vas. Non-contact cooling of the tissue surface, for example, via cryogen or other cooling spray, prevents scrotal skin burns during the procedure. Both the laser radiation and cooling spray are delivered in a non-contact mode to the tissue. This procedure also preserves the surgical field-of-view, potentially allowing the urologist to visually monitor the skin surface during subsurface heating of the vas and preventing the formation of scrotal skin burns.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.