Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080319268 | Radial Expansible Retractor For Minimally Invasive Surgery - An improved radial expansible retractor and a method of minimally invasive surgery, by opening a channel in the brain or other soft tissue of a patient, by inserting the radial expansible retractor into the body of the patient, and by widening the channel at a continuous and gentle rate. The use of the improved radial expansible retractor renders surgical procedures, including neurosurgical procedures, shorter, less traumatic, and more reliable, reducing risk and the need for subsequent surgery and reducing recovery time. Procedures are carried out with real time monitoring of the retracted brain perfusion pressure. A plurality of improved radial expansible retractors may be used in a single operation. The improved radial expansible retractor allows access to areas of the brain previously almost impossible to access. | 12-25-2008 |
20090124860 | Surgical access system and related methods - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-14-2009 |
20090149715 | Surgical Elevator Oximeter - A surgical elevator has an oximeter sensor at its tip, which allows measuring of oxygen saturation of a tissue. | 06-11-2009 |
20090149716 | ENDOSCOPIC SYSTEM FOR ACCESSING CONSTRAINED SURGICAL SPACES - A retractor instrument for minimally invasive surgery may include a housing with a longitudinal axis, an arm extending from a distal end of the housing, and an actuation mechanism, wherein actuation of the actuation mechanism causes radial expansion of the arm relative to the longitudinal axis. The device may be adapted for use with an endoscope or arthroscope or may be an integral part of one such scope. A method of performing surgery in constrained areas within the body is also included and may be applicable to the carpal tunnel of a wrist and palm or the cubital tunnel of an elbow. | 06-11-2009 |
20090259106 | RETRACTOR SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL APPLICATIONS FOR DETECTING CHARACTERISTIC PARAMETERS OF ORGANIC TISSUES - This patent describes a retractor system for surgical applications of the type used to retract organic tissues not involved in an operation, in an area where such an operation is to be performed, of the type comprising at least one spatula equipped with at least one spatula body ( | 10-15-2009 |
20090259107 | METHODS AND DEVICES TO DECREASE TISSUE TRAUMA DURING SURGERY - Methods and devices are disclosed to reduce the tissue trauma that occurs when a physician retracts or otherwise deforms a patient's tissues for surgery or other medical procedures. In one part, methods and devices are disclosed for controlling the force and pace of retraction to reduce tissue trauma. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for applying an oscillating load when opening. In another part, pads that cool the tissue around the incision are disclosed. In another part, pads that elute drugs into the tissues of the tissue margin are disclosed. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed that self-align components of the retractor and engage hard tissues directly to avoid soft tissue damage. In another part, pads that engage tissues to cushion, to sense tissue state, and to modulate tissue state are disclosed. | 10-15-2009 |
20090259108 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 10-15-2009 |
20100094093 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 04-15-2010 |
20100137690 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-03-2010 |
20100160737 | BRAIN RETRACTOR APPARATUS FOR MEASURING AND PREDICTING ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS - Described is a surgical system for monitoring a patient's condition during surgery. One aspect is a non-contact EEG sensor. The non-contact EEG sensor can be used to predict the onset of physiological disorders. Another aspect includes the use of a plurality of pressure sensors to determine the pressure applied by retractors on the patient, including the brain and other organs. | 06-24-2010 |
20100160738 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-24-2010 |
20100174146 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 07-08-2010 |
20100174147 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 07-08-2010 |
20100174148 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 07-08-2010 |
20100185057 | Low-Profile Surgical Access Devices with Anchoring - A surgical access device includes a proximal housing having proximal and distal end portions, the distal end portion of the housing being configured and adapted to engage a proximal portion of a flexible wound retractor. The proximal housing can be provided with a plenum chamber being defined therein, the plenum chamber being in fluid communication with at least one nozzle. The nozzle is preferably configured to direct pressurized fluid in an axial direction from the plenum chamber into a central bore of the surgical access device to provide a constant gaseous seal around a surgical instrument inserted therethrough, while inhibiting a loss of pressurized fluid from the body cavity therethrough. The plenum chamber can be adapted and configured to receive pressurized fluid and conduct the pressurized fluid to the at least one nozzle. | 07-22-2010 |
20100274092 | FORCE-DETERMINING RETRACTION DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A retraction device adapted to retract tissue is provided, comprising at least one pair of opposed retraction members, with each retraction member being capable of operably engaging the tissue to be retracted. A drive mechanism is operably engaged with at least one of each pair of retraction members for separating one of each pair of retraction members from the other to retract the tissue. A measuring device is operably engaged with at least one of the drive mechanism and one of each pair of retraction members, for determining and/or controlling a magnitude and/or rate of a force and/or strain imparted to the tissue by the drive mechanism via the retraction members as the tissue is being retracted. Associated devices and methods are also provided. | 10-28-2010 |
20100286482 | ELECTRICAL DETECTION OF ANATOMIC WALL PENETRATION AND DELINEATION OF ANATOMIC STRUCTURES DURING SURGERY - Devices and methods that may be employed to detect and/or prevent intraoperative full thickness penetration of anatomic walls, and to provide delineation of anatomic structures during surgery. | 11-11-2010 |
20100305406 | SYSTEM, DEVICE AND METHOD FOR GYNECOLOGICAL USE - A device for gynecological examination has an imaging unit, which may include an illumination source, an imaging unit and an optical system, positioned within a speculum type device, typically between the blades thereof. The imaging unit is positioned at the end of an elongated rod that is positioned within a guide tube, both of which pass from between the blades down through the speculum handle, where they can be manipulated by a user to push the unit upward and forward for better viewing. A transmitter for transmitting sensed data to an external or remote receiver may be part of or may be separate from the device. The device may have non-imaging sensors, such as a pH sensor, a sensor to sense electrical impedance of tissues, a temperature sensor, etc., either by itself or in addition to an imager. A system may further include a remote receiver, a processor for processing data and a monitor for presenting images to the user in real time. | 12-02-2010 |
20110092775 | Inflatable surgical retractor - For minimally invasive surgical applications, an expandable surgical retractor is inserted in a surgical corridor and expanded to a desired size and shape. Cooling allows the retractor to maintain the expanded characteristic. Following surgery, the retractor can be removed in a manner that minimizes bleeding and tissue damage. | 04-21-2011 |
20110144439 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-16-2011 |
20110184245 | TISSUE MONITORING SURGICAL RETRACTOR SYSTEM - An apparatus for monitoring the characteristics of tissue adjacent a surgical site and communicating that information to a health care provider includes a retractor, a sensor, and a processing system. The sensor is disposed on the retractor and is configured to measure a parameter indicative of at least one characteristic of the tissue adjacent the first or the second blade. The processing system is in communication with the sensor and configured and arranged to receive information from the sensor indicative of the measured parameter. It includes a threshold stored therein indicative of excessive trauma to the tissue and it is configured in a manner such that it compares the received information to the stored threshold and communicates information to the health care provider regarding the comparison. | 07-28-2011 |
20110190588 | SURGICAL RETRACTOR INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME - A retractor system for percutaneous surgery in a patient includes first and second retractor portions positionable opposite one another in an incision of the patient. The system also includes at least one actuating member operable to provide an oscillating motion to at least one of the first and second retractor portions. The actuating member is in communication with a controller and is responsive to the controller to move and adjust at least one of the first and second retractor portions between a first position and a second position. The system also includes at least one pressure sensor and display and at least one timing circuit with display. In another form, a method is directed to retracting tissue for percutaneous access to a surgical site in a patient using the pressure sensors and display as will as the timing circuit and display to assure that the amount of pressure applied and the duration does not exceed pre-determined values. | 08-04-2011 |
20110237897 | Endoscope Structures And Techniques For Navigating To A Target In Branched Structure - Systems and methods employing a small gauge steerable catheter ( | 09-29-2011 |
20110251462 | PISTON SEAL FOR SINGLE INCISION SURGERY - A surgical portal apparatus for use during a minimally invasive procedure includes a housing and a portal member extending distally from the housing. The housing and portal member combination defines a longitudinal axis. The portal member is sized to be positioned within tissue and has an opening at the distal end. The apparatus also has a pliable seal and a plurality of concentrically arranged piston members, disposed within the housing. The pistons are engageable with the pliable seal and are adapted for moving relative to the housing to control the diameter of a passage through the inner portion of the seal in response to the insertion of a surgical object. | 10-13-2011 |
20110301419 | PRESSURE FEEDBACK ACCESS PORTS FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY - A surgical access port configured and dimensioned for positioning within an opening in tissue for providing access to an internal surgical site includes a body portion defining a passageway therethrough. The body portion includes an outer surface. A pressure feedback indicator is disposed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the body portion. The pressure feedback indicator is configured for providing a visual indication to a user where an applied pressure is greater than a predetermined threshold. | 12-08-2011 |
20110306840 | CONTROLLABLE MAGNETIC SOURCE TO FIXTURE INTRACORPOREAL APPARATUS. - A first magnetic field can be produced across a tissue region using a first magnetic field source, providing a magnetic coupling force between the first magnetic field source and a first object, wherein the first object provides a magnetic field or a magnetic susceptibility to obtain the magnetic coupling force. The magnetic coupling force can be sensed using a force sensor and a resulting sensed force signal can be provided to a controller. The controller can provide an output signal to control the magnetic coupling force using the sensed forced signal to obtain a constant or desired magnetic coupling force. | 12-15-2011 |
20120179000 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 07-12-2012 |
20120203070 | METHODS AND DEVICES TO DECREASE TISSUE TRAUMA DURING SURGERY - Methods and devices are disclosed to reduce tissue trauma when a physician retracts a patient's tissues for surgery. In one part, methods and devices are disclosed for controlling retraction force and pace. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for oscillating force when opening. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for detecting trauma during retraction. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for balancing forces on multiple retraction elements. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for reducing forces in multiple dimensions. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for engaging ribs. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed to compensate for deformation of a retractor under load. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed that combine these methods and devices. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for controlling pressure inside inflatable devices used for deforming biological tissues. | 08-09-2012 |
20120238822 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-20-2012 |
20130012782 | Low-profile surgical access devices with anchoring - A surgical access device includes a proximal housing having proximal and distal end portions, the distal end portion of the housing being configured and adapted to engage a proximal portion of a flexible wound retractor. The proximal housing can be provided with a plenum chamber being defined therein, the plenum chamber being in fluid communication with at least one nozzle. The nozzle is preferably configured to direct pressurized fluid in an axial direction from the plenum chamber into a central bore of the surgical access device to provide a constant gaseous seal around a surgical instrument inserted therethrough, while inhibiting a loss of pressurized fluid from the body cavity therethrough. The plenum chamber can be adapted and configured to receive pressurized fluid and conduct the pressurized fluid to the at least one nozzle. | 01-10-2013 |
20130060091 | ENDOLUMINAL AND TRANSLUMINAL SURGICAL METHODS AND DEVICES - An access device adapted and configured to be inserted through a natural biological orifice, and related surgical methods are provided. The access device includes a body, a nozzle means and means for delivering a pressurized flow of fluid to the nozzle means. The body is configured and dimensioned to be inserted through a natural bodily orifice and has proximal and distal end portions and defines at least one lumen therethrough to accommodate passage of one or more surgical instruments. The nozzle means is operatively associated with the body for directing pressurized fluid into the lumen to develop a pressure differential in an area within a region within the lumen to form a fluid seal around the one or more surgical instruments passing therethrough. | 03-07-2013 |
20130060092 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 03-07-2013 |
20130066154 | TISSUE RETRACTOR APPARATUS AND METHODS - A delicate tissue retraction system having a hollow tubular retractor, a hollow tubular introducer that is removably installed within the retractor, and a navigation module that is removably installed within the introducer. The navigation module has a shaft with a proximal shaft end and a distal shaft end, and a navigation unit mounted to the proximal shaft end. When assembled, the distal shaft end is contained generally within the introducer and the navigation module outside the introducer. The navigation module indicates the location of one or more points on at least one of the retractor and the introducer to a navigation system. | 03-14-2013 |
20130123582 | TISSUE MONITORING SURGICAL RETRACTOR SYSTEM - An apparatus for monitoring the characteristics of tissue adjacent a surgical site and communicating that information to a health care provider includes a retractor, a sensor, and a processing system. The sensor is disposed on the retractor and is configured to measure a parameter indicative of at least one characteristic of the tissue adjacent the first or the second blade. The processing system is in communication with the sensor and configured and arranged to receive information from the sensor indicative of the measured parameter. It includes a threshold stored therein indicative of excessive trauma to the tissue and it is configured in a manner such that it compares the received information to the stored threshold and communicates information to the health care provider regarding the comparison. | 05-16-2013 |
20130131456 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-23-2013 |
20130137931 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144127 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-06-2013 |
20130150676 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150677 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150678 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150679 | System and Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 06-13-2013 |
20130158357 | System and Methods For Performing Surgical Procedures and Assessments - The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. | 06-20-2013 |
20130197313 | SURGICAL RETRACTOR WITH LIGHT - A surgical retractor has a shaft with an integral blade. The shaft and the blade are joined at an angle. The blade has an upper surface. A plurality of LED lights are embedded within the blade and are exposed at the upper surface. The blade surrounding the LED lights is opaque. The retractor may further include a camera mounted on the blade. Also disclosed is a surgical retractor kit including a mounting ring, at least one of the aforementioned surgical retractors, and a coupler for releaseably mounting the retractor to the ring. | 08-01-2013 |
20130211201 | THE SURGICAL VISUAL FIELD ENHANCER APPARATUS AND ITS METHOD OF USE - The Surgical Visual Field Enhancer is used to improve the visual field under a limited skin incision. It includes various parts to make the surgeon's work easier, such as the removable handle, the tunnel opening guide, the tunnel dilator, the lighting tool and the lighting transmitter. Initially, the user holds the surgical tool body of the surgical visual field enhancer and uses the tunnel opening end to create a tunnel through the soft tissue. The tunnel opening end is composed of the tunnel opening tip and the enlargement scalpel for tunnel enlargement. The distance marker and guard are used for depth estimation, in some cases, the tunnel opening guide can be inserted in the soft tissue to guide the tunnel creation. The tunnel dilator will follow the tunnel opening guide to create the tunnel to the operative site. When the tunnel has been created, the visual enhancer end is inserted to enhance the surgical visual field. The surgeon can use a scalpel, scissors or other instrument as required passed through the tunnel created by the visual enhancer end. The associated lighting tool and lighting transmitter can be used as required to provide extra light on the surgical field. | 08-15-2013 |
20130231537 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-05-2013 |
20130237765 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-12-2013 |
20130267785 | METHOD OF PERFORMING A MINIMALLY-INVASIVE INTERVENTION - Apparatus for use in an operating theatre equipped with a surgical table, comprises a lifting frame attachable to the surgical table and adapted for lifting a body part of a subject undergoing a surgical procedure upon the surgical table, and comprising an upright support post incorporating a jack, and a lifting arm pivotally mounted upon the post, whereby the arm can be turned about the upright support post on thrust bearing to either overhang the surgical table, or be pivoted away to permit access to the surgical table. The arm is adapted to support a retractor that comprises a blade portion incorporating a plurality of independent lighting devices positioned in light ports and configured to provide discrete illumination selectively to zones within the surgical field according to (a) a predetermined sequence programme, or (b) a sequence determined by a user of the retractor. | 10-10-2013 |
20130274557 | DETACHABLE DILATOR BLADE - A dilator assembly includes a dilator and a retractor member that is configured to be removably attached to the dilator. | 10-17-2013 |
20130317301 | VAGINAL MANIPULATOR INCLUDING INDEX - A vaginal manipulator includes a shaft, a handle connected to a first end of the shaft, and a head connected to a second end of the shaft. The head includes a rigid anterior surface that moves independently from a rigid posterior surface of the head. When the vaginal manipulator is inserted into a vagina, the rigid anterior surface is movable to displace an anterior wall of the vagina and the rigid posterior surface is movable to displace a posterior wall of the vagina. An index is provided on the head to locate a suture placement position a calculated distance away from a leading proximal end of the head. | 11-28-2013 |
20130317302 | PORTABLE REGULATED VACUUM PUMP FOR MEDICAL PROCEDURES - In various embodiments of the invention, an electro-vacuum pump can be used either as a stand alone unit to create, monitor and control a vacuum or to maintain, assist or as a back up for a hand operated pump in a variety of surgical procedures. The vacuum pump is controlled by a processor and is automatically activated when the vacuum is below a pre-selected parameter or a parameter selected on the fly by the surgeon. Visual or audio feedback is used to allow the surgeon increased control of the vacuum device while carrying out the surgical procedure. | 11-28-2013 |
20130317303 | Inflatable Surgical Retractor - For minimally invasive surgical applications, an expandable surgical retractor is inserted in a surgical corridor and expanded to a desired size and shape. Cooling allows the retractor to maintain the expanded characteristic. Following surgery, the retractor can be removed in a manner that minimizes bleeding and tissue damage. | 11-28-2013 |
20130317304 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 11-28-2013 |
20140005486 | SURGICAL VISUALIZATION SYSTEM WITH CAMERA TRACKING | 01-02-2014 |
20140005487 | OPTICS FOR VIDEO CAMERAS ON A SURGICAL VISUALIZATION SYSTEM | 01-02-2014 |
20140005488 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL APPLICATIONS | 01-02-2014 |
20140012088 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012089 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 01-09-2014 |
20140039264 | DILATION SYSTEM - A dilation system for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures. In one version, the dilation system includes a wedge assembly and an actuating mechanism. The wedge assembly comprises includes a base and a plurality of blades extending from the base so that the distal end of the blades extend away from the base. The mechanism is operably associated with the blades so as to cause the distal end of the blades to move from a closed condition to an expanded condition. | 02-06-2014 |
20140058205 | Methods, Systems, and Devices for Surgical Access and Insertion - The various embodiments herein relate to systems, devices, and/or methods relating to surgical procedures, and more specifically for accessing an insufflated cavity of a patient and/or positioning surgical systems or devices into the cavity. | 02-27-2014 |
20140058206 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. Some embodiments of the surgical access system may be particularly suited for establishing an operative corridor to a surgical target site in the spine. Such an operative corridor may be established through the retroperitoneal space and the psoas muscle during a direct lateral, retroperitoneal approach to the spine. | 02-27-2014 |
20140088367 | NIR/RED LIGHT FOR LATERAL NEUROPROTECTION - The use of red or near infrared light upon neurons of the lumbar plexus that are in distress due to retraction-induced ischemia. The surgeon may protect nerves made ischemic in the surgery by:
| 03-27-2014 |
20140135584 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system comprising a tissue dilation assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures. A retractor assembly for creating an operative corridor to a spinal surgical target site is disclosed, comprising: a retractor body and a plurality retractor blades extending generally perpendicularly to the retractor body, the retractor body being operable to separate the at plurality of retractor blades relative to each; and a supplemental retractor blade assembly attachable to at least two of the plurality of retractor blades, the supplemental retractor blade assembly comprising an elongated supplemental retractor blade and a crossbar connector, the crossbar connector configured to be attached to said at least two retractor blades while engaging the supplemental retractor blade. | 05-15-2014 |
20140148649 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148650 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-29-2014 |
20140235950 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 08-21-2014 |
20140275792 | SURGICAL RETRACTORS - The present disclosure relates to methods and devices for surgically manipulating tissue. In general, the methods and devices can include an elongate retractor shaft having a distal retractor tip that is configured to manipulate tissue, for example the tip can be configured to separate muscle and nerve fibers surrounding a vertebra. The elongate retractor shaft can include an illumination source such that at least a portion of the surgical field is illuminated by the device when the device is used in the body. A sensor can also or alternatively be included on the elongate retractor shaft, for example on the blunt retraction tip, such that the sensor can monitor physiological parameters of the tissue in or adjacent to the surgical field. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288374 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-25-2014 |
20140288375 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 09-25-2014 |
20140296646 | SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR A SKULL/BRAIN INTERFACE - Disclosed are methods, devices, and systems for inducing neuromodulation by focusing a source of stimulation through a skull/brain interface in the form of an aperture formed in the skull, a naturally occurring fenestration in the skull, or a transcranial channel. Further disclosed are methods, devices, and systems for identifying where to locate skull/brain interfaces, accessories that can be used with the interfaces, and features for controlling stimulation delivered through the interfaces. Multiple indications for the skull/brain interfaces are also disclosed, including diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and conditions such as epilepsy, movement disorders, depression, Alzheimer's disease, autism, coma, and pain. | 10-02-2014 |
20140309497 | TISSUE PROTECTION/RETRACTION SYSTEM - The protective tissue cover includes a sleeve configured to slide onto the working portion of a surgical retractor. At least the contact side of the protective tissue cover is constructed from smooth antimicrobial material that minimizes contact irritation with tissue. Alternative embodiments include various multiple-ply constructions that incorporate an antimicrobial layer, an absorbent layer, and other medical layers to assist in surgical procedures. | 10-16-2014 |
20140309498 | TISSUE PROTECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A protective tissue cover having a sleeve configuration to slide onto the working portion of a surgical instrument, such as a retractor. At least the contact side of the protective tissue cover is constructed from smooth antimicrobial material that minimizes contact irritation with tissue. Alternative embodiments include various multiple-ply constructions that incorporate an antimicrobial layer, an absorbent layer, and other medical layers to assist in surgical procedures. | 10-16-2014 |
20140330083 | Use of an Expandable Stent as an Implant Conduit in the Lateral Approach to the Spine - The use of a memory metal mesh stent as a retractor in a lateral approach to the spine. The expanded stent is used as a conduit through which an implant can pass. This advance is predicated upon the appreciation that modern stent implants have diameters that are large enough to accommodate passage of an intervertebral spinal implant therethrough. | 11-06-2014 |
20140336468 | METHOD OF RETRACTING BODY TISSUE DURING SURGERY - A retractor for use in spinal surgery comprises a frame including a ring member defining a generally central interior space. A plurality of blades is releasably supported respectively to slidable arms each supported on the ring member for individual translational movement relative to the ring member. The blades define an initial substantially enclosed opening that is expandable for use in a surgical procedure. A clutch mechanism supported on the ring member is associated with each arm to individually selectively engage each such arm with a rotatable main gear such that upon rotation of the main gear by a single actuator any one, all or any desired combination of arms may be translated relative to the ring member to move the blades and expand the opening in one or more selected desired directions. | 11-13-2014 |
20140343363 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 11-20-2014 |
20150018622 | SURGICAL VISUALIZATION SYSTEMS - A surgical device includes one or more cameras integrated therein. The view of each of the one or more cameras can be integrated together and provided to a surgeon display and/or an assistant display. A surgical tool that includes an integrated camera may be used in conjunction with the surgical device. The image produced by the camera integrated with the surgical tool may be associated with the images generated by the one or more cameras integrated in the surgical device. The position and orientation of the cameras and/or the surgical tool can be tracked, and the surgical tool can be rendered as at least partially transparent. A surgical device may be powered by a hydraulic system, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference with tracking devices. | 01-15-2015 |
20150126811 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-07-2015 |
20150133733 | ENDOSCOPIC FUSION SYSTEM AND METHOD WITH NEUROMONITORING - Systems, methods, and kits for performing endoscopic fusion with neuromonitoring. The endoscopic fusion may be performed, for example, through a cannula providing a portal to the disc space. Throughout various steps in the procedure, neuromonitoring may occur to minimize the possibility of injuring or contacting a nerve. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133734 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133735 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-14-2015 |
20150289865 | TISSUE RETRACTOR APPARATUS AND METHODS - A delicate tissue retraction system having a hollow tubular retractor, a hollow tubular introducer that is removably installed within the retractor, and a navigation module that is removably installed within the introducer. The navigation module has a shaft with a proximal shaft end and a distal shaft end, and a navigation unit mounted to the proximal shaft end. When assembled, the distal shaft end is contained generally within the introducer and the navigation module outside the introducer. The navigation module indicates the location of one or more points on at least one of the retractor and the introducer to a navigation system. | 10-15-2015 |
20150342589 | DILATION SYSTEM - A dilation system for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures. In one version, the dilation system includes a dilation assembly and an actuating mechanism. The dilation assembly comprises plurality of dilator segments. The actuating mechanism is operably associated with the dilator segments so as to cause the dilator segments to move from a collapsed state to an expanded state. | 12-03-2015 |
20150351734 | METHODS AND DEVICES TO DECREASE TISSUE TRAUMA DURING SURGERY - Methods and devices are disclosed to reduce tissue trauma when a physician retracts a patient's tissues for surgery. In one part, methods and devices are disclosed for controlling retraction force and pace. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for oscillating force when opening. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for detecting trauma during retraction. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for balancing forces on multiple retraction elements. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for reducing forces in multiple dimensions. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for engaging ribs. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed to compensate for deformation of a retractor under load. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed that combine these methods and devices. In another part, methods and devices are disclosed for controlling pressure inside inflatable devices used for deforming biological tissues. | 12-10-2015 |
20160038134 | TRANS-SEPTAL SHEATH WITH SPLITTING DILATING NEEDLE AND METHOD FOR ITS USE - A device useful for accessing the left atrium is provided. The device comprises an elongated tubular body and a dilating tip. The tubular body has an axis, a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen longitudinally extending therethrough. The dilating tip is slidably mounted on the distal end of the tubular body. The dilating tip comprises a segmented surface that is generally transverse to the axis of the tubular body, and a generally rigid tube extending distally from the segmented surface and having a sharp distal end. Distal movement of the tubular body relative to the dilating tip exerts a force on the segmented surface to thereby open the segmented surface. | 02-11-2016 |
20160081682 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 03-24-2016 |
20160100908 | OPTICS FOR VIDEO CAMERA ON A SURGICAL VISUALIZATION SYSTEM - A surgical device includes a plurality of cameras integrated therein. The view of each of the plurality of cameras can be integrated together to provide a composite image. A surgical tool that includes an integrated camera may be used in conjunction with the surgical device. The image produced by the camera integrated with the surgical tool may be associated with the composite image generated by the plurality of cameras integrated in the surgical device. The position and orientation of the cameras and/or the surgical tool can be tracked, and the surgical tool can be rendered as transparent on the composite image. A surgical device may be powered by a hydraulic system, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference with tracking devices. | 04-14-2016 |
20160120530 | SURGICAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. | 05-05-2016 |
20160135800 | TISSUE RETRACTOR APPARATUS AND METHODS - A delicate tissue retraction system having a hollow tubular retractor, a hollow tubular introducer that is removably installed within the retractor, and a navigation module that is removably installed within the introducer. The introducer has an inner passage defined by a passage wall having a width dimension that increases in size from a distal introducer end to a proximal introducer end. The navigation module has a shaft with a proximal shaft end, a middle shaft portion, and a distal shaft end, and a navigation unit mounted to the proximal shaft end. When assembled, the distal shaft end is contained generally within the introducer and the navigation module outside the introducer, and the middle shaft portion is spaced from the passage wall. The navigation module indicates the location of one or more points on at least one of the retractor and the introducer to a navigation system. | 05-19-2016 |
20160192921 | Surgical Access System and Related Methods | 07-07-2016 |
20180021032 | NIR/RED LIGHT FOR LATERAL NEUROPROTECTION | 01-25-2018 |
20180021062 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS USING A SURGICAL PORT ASSEMBLY | 01-25-2018 |