Mechanically registered videoscopic myringotomy/tympanostomy tube placement system
US8998927B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 5, 2010 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 25, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F11/20
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Devices, systems, methods, and kits for treating the tissue structures of the ear make use of a guide structure that can mechanically register a treatment probe with a target region of a target tissue, the guide structure being fittingly received in an auditory canal and often comprising a conformable body such as a compressible foam, or the like. The guide structure may include an articulating mechanism for selectively orienting the treatment probe toward the target region of, for example, a tympanic membrane. The guide structure may also support a videoscopic image capture device, illumination transmitting optical fibers, an aiming beam transmitter, and the like. Such structures facilitate myringotomy, tympanostomy tube placement, and the like, under local anesthesia in a doctor's office.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.