Apparatus and methods for performing brain surgery
US9968414B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 29, 2016 |
| Grant date | May 15, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/103
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Less invasive surgical techniques for performing brain surgery are disclosed in which a dilating obturator and cannula assembly is inserted into brain tissue until the obturator tip and cannula are adjacent to the target tissue. The obturator is removed and surgery is performed through the cannula. In preferred embodiments the obturator and cannula are placed using image guidance techniques and systems to coordinate placement with pre-operative surgical planning. A stylet with associated image guidance may be inserted prior to insertion of the obturator and cannula assembly to guide insertion of the obturator and cannula assembly. Surgery preferably is performed using an endoscope partially inserted into the cannula with an image of the target tissue projected onto a monitor. Dilating obturator structures having a rounded or semi-spherical tip and/or an optical window for visualizing brain tissue during expansion are contemplated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.