U.S. patent application number 13/212390 was filed with the patent office on 2011-12-08 for surgical staple assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.. Invention is credited to Fred J. Molz, IV.
Application Number | 20110297732 13/212390 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38573370 |
Filed Date | 2011-12-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110297732 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Molz, IV; Fred J. |
December 8, 2011 |
Surgical Staple Assembly
Abstract
A surgical staple assembly is disclosed and can include a
surgical staple. The surgical staple assembly can be moved between
a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first
configuration, the surgical staple can be in an original shape.
Moreover, in the second configuration, the surgical staple can be
in a deformed configuration.
Inventors: |
Molz, IV; Fred J.;
(Birmingham, AL) |
Assignee: |
Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
Warsaw
IN
|
Family ID: |
38573370 |
Appl. No.: |
13/212390 |
Filed: |
August 18, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11435943 |
May 17, 2006 |
8021389 |
|
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13212390 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
227/181.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/0644 20130101;
A61B 17/70 20130101; A61B 2017/0688 20130101; A61B 17/0642
20130101; A61B 2017/00867 20130101; A61B 17/064 20130101; A61B
2017/00526 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
227/181.1 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/068 20060101
A61B017/068 |
Claims
1. A surgical staple assembly, comprising: a surgical staple,
wherein the surgical staple assembly is movable between a first
configuration wherein the surgical staple is in an original shape
and a second configuration wherein the surgical staple is in a
deformed configuration.
2. The surgical staple assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a
first bending arm; and a second bending arm, wherein the first
bending arm and the second bending arm are movable to deform the
surgical staple.
3. The surgical staple assembly of claim 2, wherein the first
bending arm and the second bending arm are disposed proximate to
the surgical staple and wherein the first bending arm and the
second bending arm are configured to bend the staple outward.
4. The surgical staple assembly of claim 3, wherein the surgical
staple comprises: a first superior tine; a second superior tine
opposite the first superior tine; a first inferior tine opposite
the first superior tine; and a second inferior tine opposite the
first inferior tine.
5. The surgical staple assembly of claim 4, wherein the first
bending arm and the second bending arm are disposed between the
first superior tine, the first inferior tine, the second superior
tine, and the second inferior tine.
6. The surgical staple assembly of claim 5, wherein the first
bending arm is configured to bend the first superior tine and the
first inferior tine.
7. The surgical staple assembly of claim 6, wherein the first
bending arm is configured to bend the first superior tine and the
first inferior tine outward.
8. The surgical staple assembly of claim 5, wherein the second
bending arm is configured to bend the second superior tine and the
second inferior tine.
9. The surgical staple assembly of claim 8, wherein the second
bending arm is configured to bend the second superior tine and the
second inferior tine outward.
10. The surgical staple assembly of claim 3, wherein the surgical
staple comprises: a first tine; and a second tine opposite the
first tine.
11. The surgical staple assembly of claim 10, wherein the first
bending arm and the second bending arm are disposed between the
first tine, and the second tine.
12. The surgical staple assembly of claim 11, wherein the first
bending arm is configured to bend the first tine.
13. The surgical staple assembly of claim 12, wherein the first
bending arm is configured to bend the first tine outward.
14. The surgical staple assembly of claim 12, wherein the second
bending arm is configured to bend the second superior tine and the
second inferior tine.
15. The surgical staple assembly of claim 14, wherein the second
bending arm is configured to bend the second tine outward.
16. The surgical staple assembly of claim 10, wherein the first
bending arm comprises a rib configured to support the first
tine.
17. The surgical staple assembly of claim 16, wherein the second
bending arm comprises a rib configured to support the second
tine.
18. The surgical staple assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a
superior support plate; and an inferior support plate distanced
from the superior support plate, wherein the first bending arm and
the second bending arm are rotatably disposed between the superior
support plate and the inferior support plate.
19. The surgical staple assembly of claim 18, wherein the superior
support plate is formed with a first hole and a second hole and
wherein the inferior support plate is formed with a first hole and
a second hole.
20. The surgical staple assembly of claim 19, wherein the first
bending arm comprises: a superior post configured to engage the
first hole within the superior support plate; and an inferior post
configured to engage the first hole within the inferior support
plate.
21. The surgical staple assembly of claim 20, wherein the second
bending arm comprises: a superior post configured to engage the
second hole within the superior support plate; and an inferior post
configured to engage the second hole within the inferior support
plate.
22. The surgical staple assembly of claim 2, further comprising: a
bending wedge configured to be placed between the first bending arm
and the second bending arm.
23. The surgical staple assembly of claim 22, wherein the bending
wedge is configured to be moved into the surgical staple
assembly.
24. The surgical staple assembly of claim 23, wherein the first
bending arm and the second bending arm rotate outward as the
bending wedge is moved into the surgical staple assembly.
25. The surgical staple assembly of claim 24, wherein the surgical
staple is deformed as the bending wedge is moved into the surgical
staple assembly.
26. A surgical staple assembly, comprising: a superior support
plate; an inferior support plate spaced from the superior support
plate; and a surgical staple configured to be placed between the
superior support plate and the inferior support plate, wherein the
surgical staple assembly is movable between a first configuration
wherein the surgical staple is in an original shape and a second
configuration wherein the surgical staple is in a deformed
configuration.
27. The surgical staple assembly of claim 26, further comprising: a
first bending arm configured to be disposed between the superior
support plate and the inferior support plate.
28. The surgical staple assembly of claim 27, wherein the first
bending arm is configured to rotate between the superior support
plate and the inferior support plate and deform the surgical
staple.
29. The surgical staple assembly of claim 27, further comprising: a
second bending arm configured to be disposed between the superior
support plate and the inferior support plate.
30. The surgical staple assembly of claim 29, wherein the second
bending arm is configured to rotate between the superior support
plate and the inferior support plate and deform the surgical
staple.
31. The surgical staple assembly of claim 29, wherein the surgical
staple comprises at least two tines and wherein the first bending
arm and the second bending arm are disposed between at least two of
the tines.
32. The surgical staple assembly of claim 29, further comprising: a
bending wedge configured to be placed between the first bending arm
and the second bending arm.
33. The surgical staple assembly of claim 32, wherein the bending
wedge is configured to be moved into the surgical staple
assembly.
34. The surgical staple assembly of claim 33, wherein the first
bending arm and the second bending arm rotate outward as the
bending wedge is moved into the surgical staple assembly.
35. The surgical staple assembly of claim 34, wherein the surgical
staple is deformed as the bending wedge is moved into the surgical
staple assembly.
36. The surgical staple assembly of claim 32, wherein the superior
support plate further comprises: a superior bending wedge guide
configured to engage the bending wedge and guide the bending wedge
as the bending wedge moves within the surgical staple assembly.
37. The surgical staple assembly of claim 36, wherein the superior
support plate further comprises: a superior bending wedge stop
configured to limit the motion of the bending wedge as the bending
wedge moves within the surgical staple assembly.
38. The surgical staple assembly of claim 37, wherein the inferior
support plate further comprises: an inferior bending wedge guide
configured to engage the bending wedge and guide the bending wedge
as the bending wedge moves within the surgical staple assembly.
39. The surgical staple assembly of claim 38, wherein the inferior
support plate further comprises: an inferior bending wedge stop
configured to limit the motion of the bending wedge as the bending
wedge moves within the surgical staple assembly.
40. The surgical staple assembly of claim 36, wherein the superior
bending wedge guide comprises a protrusion and wherein the superior
bending wedge guide is configured to produce a clicking noise when
the protrusion is contacted.
41. The surgical staple assembly of claim 40, wherein the
protrusion is configured to be contacted by the bending wedge.
42. The surgical staple assembly of claim 38, wherein the inferior
bending wedge guide comprises a protrusion and wherein the inferior
bending wedge guide is configured to produce a clicking noise when
the protrusion is contacted.
43. The surgical staple assembly of claim 42, wherein the
protrusion is configured to be contacted by the bending wedge.
44. A method of treating a patient, comprising: retrieving a
surgical staple assembly having a surgical staple, wherein the
surgical staple assembly is movable between a first configuration
in which the surgical staple is in an original shape and a second
configuration in which the surgical staple is deformed; and moving
the surgical staple assembly to the second configuration.
45. The method of claim 44, wherein the surgical staple assembly is
moved to the second configuration by applying a compressive force
to the surgical staple assembly.
46. The method of claim 44, further comprising: retrieving the
surgical staple from the surgical staple assembly.
47. The method of claim 36, further comprising: installing the
surgical staple within a patient.
48. The method of claim 47, further comprising: returning the
surgical staple to the original shape.
49. The method of claim 48, wherein the surgical staple is returned
to the original shape by applying heat to the surgical staple.
50. A kit, comprising: a plurality of surgical staple assemblies,
wherein each surgical staple assembly includes a surgical staple
and wherein each surgical staple assembly is configured to bend
each surgical staple to substantially the same shape.
Description
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to surgical
staples. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to
devices for bending surgical staples made from shape memory metal
alloys.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Surgical staples can be used to close surgical wounds and
other wounds. Further, surgical staples can be used to treat
certain spinal deformities, such as scoliosis. Some surgical
staples can be made from shape memory metal alloys. A surgical
staple made from a shape memory metal alloy can be deformed from an
original shape and installed in a patient. Then, heat can be
applied to the surgical staple to return the deformed staple to the
original shape. When using multiple surgical staples, it may be
desirable to bend the surgical staples to the same shape before
installation in a patient.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical staple
assembly;
[0004] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the surgical
staple assembly;
[0005] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a superior support plate and
an inferior support plate of the surgical staple assembly;
[0006] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the superior support plate;
[0007] FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the superior support
plate;
[0008] FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the inferior support
plate;
[0009] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the inferior support plate;
[0010] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a first surgical staple
bending plate and a second surgical staple bending plate of the
surgical staple assembly;
[0011] FIG. 9 is top plan view of the first surgical staple bending
plate and the second surgical staple bending plate;
[0012] FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of the first surgical staple
bending plate and the second surgical staple bending plate;
[0013] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a surgical staple of the
surgical staple assembly;
[0014] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the surgical staple;
[0015] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the surgical staple;
[0016] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a bending wedge of the
surgical staple assembly;
[0017] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the bending wedge;
[0018] FIG. 16 is a bottom plan view of the bending wedge;
[0019] FIG. 17 is a cross section view of the surgical staple
assembly in a first configuration;
[0020] FIG. 18 is another cross-section view of the surgical staple
assembly in a second configuration;
[0021] FIG. 19 is a plan view of a set of surgical staple
assemblies;
[0022] FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating one method of using a
surgical staple assembly;
[0023] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a surgical staple;
[0024] FIG. 22 is a plan view of the alternative embodiment of the
surgical staple; and
[0025] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a surgical staple assembly
including the alternative embodiment of the surgical staple.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] A surgical staple assembly is disclosed and can include a
surgical staple. The surgical staple assembly can be moved between
a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first
configuration, the surgical staple can be in an original shape.
Moreover, in the second configuration, the surgical staple can be
in a deformed configuration.
[0027] In another embodiment, a surgical staple assembly is
disclosed and can include a superior support plate and an inferior
support plate that can be spaced from the superior support plate.
The surgical staple assembly can also include a surgical staple
that can be placed between the superior support plate and the
inferior support plate. Further, the surgical staple assembly can
be moved between a first configuration and a second configuration.
In the first configuration, the surgical staple can be in an
original shape. In the second configuration, the surgical staple
can be in a deformed configuration.
[0028] In yet another embodiment, a method of treating a patient is
disclosed and can include retrieving a surgical staple assembly
that can have a surgical staple. The surgical staple assembly can
be moved between a first configuration in which the surgical staple
is in an original shape and a second configuration in which the
surgical staple is deformed. The method can also include moving the
surgical staple assembly to the second configuration.
[0029] In still another embodiment, a kit is disclosed and can
include a plurality of surgical staple assemblies. Each surgical
staple assembly can include a surgical staple. Further, each
surgical staple assembly can bend each surgical staple to
substantially the same shape. The kit can include different types
and sizes of surgical staples. For example, the kit can include
four-tine surgical staples, two-tine surgical staples, or a
combination thereof.
Description of a Surgical Staple Assembly
[0030] Referring initially to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a surgical staple
assembly is shown and is generally designated 100. As illustrated
in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the surgical staple assembly 100 can include
a superior support plate 200 and an inferior support plate 300. In
a particular embodiment, a first surgical staple bending arm 400
and a second surgical staple bending arm 500 can be installed
between the support plates 200, 300. In certain embodiments, the
bending arms 400, 500 can be rotatably installed between the
support plates 200, 300.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, a surgical staple 600 can be installed
within the surgical staple assembly 100. In a particular
embodiment, the surgical staple 600 can be installed between the
support plates 200, 300 and around the bending arms 400, 500.
During use of the surgical staple assembly 100, described in detail
below, the bending arms 400, 500 can be used to bend the surgical
staple 600 before the surgical staple 600 can be retrieved from the
surgical staple assembly 100.
[0032] FIG. 1 further shows that the surgical staple assembly 100
can include a bending wedge 700. In a particular embodiment, the
bending wedge 700, e.g., a portion of the bending wedge 700, can be
placed between the first bending arm 400 and the second bending arm
500 within the support plates 200, 300. As described in greater
detail below, the bending wedge 700 can be moved into the surgical
staple assembly 100 in order to move the bending arms 400, 500
outward relative to the surgical staple assembly 100. As the
bending arms 400, 500 move outward, the surgical staple 600 can be
deformed. Further, the surgical staple 600 can be removed from the
surgical staple assembly 100 after the deformation action is
complete.
[0033] In a particular embodiment, the support plates 200, 300, the
bending arms 400, 500, and the bending wedge 700 can be made from
one or more rigid materials. For example, the materials can be
metal containing materials, polymer materials, or composite
materials that include metals, polymers, or combinations of metals
and polymers.
[0034] In a particular embodiment, the metal containing materials
can be metals. Further, the metal containing materials can be
ceramics. Also, the metals can be pure metals or metal alloys. The
pure metals can include titanium. Moreover, the metal alloys can
include stainless steel, a cobalt-chrome-molybdenum alloy, e.g.,
ASTM F-999 or ASTM F-75, a titanium alloy, or a combination
thereof.
[0035] The polymer materials can include polyurethane materials,
polyolefin materials, polyaryletherketone (PAEK) materials,
polyimide materials, or a combination thereof. Further, the
polyolefin materials can include polypropylene, polyethylene,
halogenated polyolefin, fluoropolyolefin, or a combination thereof.
The polyaryletherketone (PAEK) materials can include
polyetherketone (PEK), polyetheretherketone (PEEK),
polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetherketoneetherketoneketone
(PEKEKK), or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the support
plates 200, 300, the bending arms 400, 500, and the bending wedge
700 can be made from any other substantially rigid materials.
[0036] Further, in a particular embodiment, the surgical staple 600
can be made from a biocompatible, shape memory metal alloy. For
example, the surgical staple 600 can be made from a shape memory
metal alloy of titanium and nickel, e.g., nitinol. Alternatively,
the surgical staple 60 can be made from a biocompatible, shape
memory polymer.
[0037] In a particular embodiment, the components of the surgical
staple assembly 100 can be manufactured using a machining process,
a forging process, a forming process, an injection molding process,
a metal injection molding process, or a combination thereof.
Alternatively, the components of the surgical staple assembly can
be manufactured using another process well known in the art.
Description of the Support Plates
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 3 through FIG. 7, details concerning
the support plates 200, 300 can be seen. As shown in FIG. 3 through
FIG. 5, the superior support plate 200 includes a superior surface
202 and an inferior surface 204. Further, the superior support
plate 200 can include a first hole 206 and a second hole 208
therethrough. The first hole 206 can include a first portion 210
having a first diameter 212. Also, the first hole 206 can include a
second portion 214 having a second diameter 216. In a particular
embodiment, the first diameter 212 can be greater than the second
diameter 216.
[0039] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 also show that the second hole 208 can
include a first portion 220 having a first diameter 222 and a
second portion 224 having a second diameter 226. In a particular
embodiment, the first diameter 222 can be greater than the second
diameter 226. Each of the holes 206, 208 is configured to receive
and engage a post from a bending arm, described in detail below.
For example, a post can be inserted through the larger, first
portion 210, 220 of a hole 206, 208 and then, moved linearly into
the smaller, second portion 214, 224 of the hole 206, 208. As the
post is moved into the smaller, second portion 214, 224 of the hole
206, 208, the post can snap into place within the smaller, second
portion 214, 224 of the hole 206, 208.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, a superior bending wedge
guide 230 can extend from the superior support plate 200, e.g.,
through the inferior surface 204 of the superior support plate 200.
The superior bending wedge guide 230 can include a post 232 and a
cap 234. In a particular embodiment, the post 232 can extend
substantially perpendicular from the inferior surface 204 of the
superior support plate 200. Further, in a particular embodiment,
the cap 234 of the superior bending wedge guide 230 can be
generally T-shaped. As described in greater detail below, the
superior bending wedge guide 230 can be configured to receive and
engage the bending wedge 700. Further, the superior bending wedge
guide 230 can allow the bending wedge 700 to slide relative to the
superior support plate 200.
[0041] The superior bending wedge guide 230 can also include a
protrusion 238 extending therefrom. The protrusion 238 can be part
of an audible clicking mechanism, e.g., a clicking mechanism
similar to a dog training clicker, which can be incorporated in the
superior bending wedge guide 230. Accordingly, during operation of
the surgical staple assembly 100, described herein, the protrusion
238 can be contacted by the bending wedge 700. Further, when the
button 238 is contacted, a clicking noise can be generated. The
clicking noise can serve as a signal to a surgeon that a surgical
staple 600 within the surgical staple assembly 100 is fully
deformed, or deployed.
[0042] FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 also show that a superior bending wedge
stop 240 can extend from the inferior surface 204 of the superior
support plate 200. The superior bending wedge stop 240 can prevent
the bending wedge 700 from sliding relative to the superior support
plate 200 beyond the superior bending wedge stop 240. More
specifically, the bending wedge 700 can slide relative to the
superior support plate 200 between the superior bending wedge guide
230 and the superior bending wedge stop 240, e.g., along line
242.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the inferior support
plate 300 includes a superior surface 302 and an inferior surface
304. Further, the inferior support plate 300 can include a first
hole 306 and a second hole 308 therethrough. The first hole 306 can
include a first portion 310 having a first diameter 312. Also, the
first hole 306 can include a second portion 314 having a second
diameter 316. In a particular embodiment, the first diameter 312
can be greater than the second diameter 316.
[0044] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 also show that the second hole 308 can
include a first portion 320 having a first diameter 322 and a
second portion 324 having a second diameter 326. In a particular
embodiment, the first diameter 322 can be greater than the second
diameter 326. Each of the holes 306, 308 is configured to receive
and engage a post from a bending arm, described in detail below.
For example, a post can be inserted through the larger, first
portion 310, 320 of a hole 306, 308 and then, moved linearly into
the smaller, second portion 314, 324 of the hole 306, 308. As the
post is moved into the smaller, second portion 314, 324 of the hole
306, 308, the post can snap into place within the smaller, second
portion 314, 324 of the hole 306, 308.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 7, an inferior bending wedge
guide 330 can extend from the inferior support plate 300, e.g.,
through the superior surface 304 of the inferior support plate 300.
The inferior bending wedge guide 330 can include a post 332 and a
cap 334. In a particular embodiment, the post 332 can extend
substantially perpendicular from the superior surface 304 of the
inferior support plate 300. Further, in a particular embodiment,
the cap 334 of the inferior bending wedge guide 330 can be
generally T-shaped. As described in greater detail below, the
inferior bending wedge guide 330 can be configured to receive and
engage the bending wedge 700. Further, the inferior bending wedge
guide 330 can allow the bending wedge 700 to slide relative to the
inferior support plate 300.
[0046] The inferior bending wedge guide 330 can also include a
protrusion 338 extending therefrom. The protrusion 338 can be part
of an audible clicking mechanism, e.g., a clicking mechanism
similar to a dog training clicker, which can be incorporated in the
inferior bending wedge guide 330. Accordingly, during operation of
the surgical staple assembly 100, described herein, the protrusion
338 can be contacted by the bending wedge 700. Further, when the
protrusion 338 is contacted, a clicking noise can be generated. The
clicking noise can serve as a signal to a surgeon that a surgical
staple 600 within the surgical staple assembly 100 is fully
deformed, or deployed.
[0047] FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 also show that an inferior bending wedge
stop 340 can extend from the superior surface 304 of the support
plate 300. The inferior bending wedge stop 340 can prevent the
bending wedge 700 from sliding relative to the inferior support
plate 300 beyond the inferior bending wedge stop 340. More
specifically, the bending wedge 700 can slide relative to the
inferior support plate 300 between the inferior bending wedge guide
330 and the inferior bending wedge stop 340, e.g., along line
342.
Description of the Bending Arms
[0048] Referring to FIG. 8 through FIG. 10, details concerning the
configuration of the bending arms 400, 500 are shown. As
illustrated in FIG. 8 through FIG. 10, the first bending arm 400
can include a superior surface 402 and an inferior surface 404. In
a particular embodiment, the inferior surface 404 is substantially
parallel to the superior surface 402. FIG. 8 through FIG. 10 show
that the first bending arm 400 can also include an inner surface
406 and an outer surface 408. In a particular embodiment, the outer
surface 408 is substantially parallel to the inner surface 406.
Further, the inner surface 406 and the outer surface 408 are
substantially perpendicular to the superior surface 402 and the
inferior surface 404.
[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the first bending arm
400 can include a proximal end 410 and a distal end 412. A superior
post 414 can extend from the superior surface 402 of the first
bending arm 400 near the distal end 410 of the first bending arm
400. In a particular embodiment, the superior post 414 can extend
substantially perpendicular from the superior surface 402. Also,
the superior post 414 can include a superior end cap 416.
[0050] An inferior post 418 can extend from the inferior surface
402 of the first bending arm 400 near the distal end 410 of the
first bending arm 400. In a particular embodiment, the inferior
post 418 can extend substantially perpendicular from the inferior
surface 404. Moreover, the inferior post 418 can be substantially
co-linear and aligned with the superior post 414. The inferior post
418 can also include an inferior end cap 420.
[0051] In a particular embodiment, the superior post 414 of the
first bending arm 400 can engage the first hole 206 in the superior
support plate 200 (FIG. 5). More specifically, the superior post
414 can be inserted through the larger, first portion 210 of the
first hole 206 and snapped into the smaller, second portion 214 of
the first hole 206. The superior post 414 can rotate within the
smaller, second portion 214 of the first hole 206. Also, the
superior end cap 416 can substantially prevent the superior support
plate 200 from becoming disengaged with the superior post 414.
[0052] Also, in a particular embodiment, the inferior post 418 of
the first bending arm 400 can engage the first hole 306 in the
inferior support plate 300 (FIG. 6). More specifically, the
inferior post 418 can be inserted through the larger, first portion
310 of the first hole 306 and snapped into the smaller, second
portion 314 of the first hole 306. The inferior post 418 can rotate
within the smaller, second portion 314 of the first hole 306.
Further, the inferior end cap 420 can substantially prevent the
inferior support plate 300 from becoming disengaged with the
inferior post 418.
[0053] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show that that the inner surface 406 of
the first bending arm 400 can be shorter than the outer surface 408
of the first bending arm 400. As such, the distal end 412 of the
first bending arm 400 can be angled or tapered from the outer
surface 408 to the inner surface 406. In a particular embodiment,
when the surgical staple assembly 100 is assembled, as shown in
FIG. 1, the bending wedge 700 can engage the angled distal end 412
of the first bending arm 400. Further, as the bending wedge 700 is
slid into the surgical staple assembly 100, the bending wedge 700
can apply an outward force to the first bending arm 400 and the
bending wedge can cause the first bending arm 400 to rotate outward
around the posts 414, 418.
[0054] The first bending arm 400 can also include a superior rib
430 and an inferior rib 432. As shown, the superior rib 430 and the
inferior rib 432 can extend from the outer surface 408 of the first
bending arm 400. In a particular embodiment, the ribs 430, 432 are
substantially parallel to each other, the superior surface 402, and
the inferior surface 404. Further, the ribs 430, 432 can be spaced
from each other a distance that corresponds to a width of a
two-tine staple, described below. As such, a two-tine staple can be
assembled with the surgical staple assembly 100 in lieu of the
four-tine staple 600, described herein. In particular, the two-tine
staple can be slid between the ribs 430, 432 and the ribs 430, 432
can maintain the two-tine staple near a center of the first bending
arm 400.
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 8 through FIG. 10, the second bending
arm 500 can include a superior surface 502 and an inferior surface
504. In a particular embodiment, the inferior surface 504 is
substantially parallel to the superior surface 502. FIG. 8 through
FIG. 10 show that the second bending arm 500 can also include an
inner surface 506 and an outer surface 508. In a particular
embodiment, the outer surface 508 is substantially parallel to the
inner surface 506. Further, the inner surface 506 and the outer
surface 508 are substantially perpendicular to the superior surface
502 and the inferior surface 504.
[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the second bending arm
500 can include a proximal end 510 and a distal end 512. A superior
post 514 can extend from the superior surface 502 of the second
bending arm 500 near the proximal end 510 of the second bending arm
500. In a particular embodiment, the superior post 514 can extend
substantially perpendicular from the superior surface 502. Also,
the superior post 514 can include a superior end cap 516.
[0057] An inferior post 518 can extend from the inferior surface
502 of the second bending arm 500 near the proximal end 510 of the
second bending arm 500. In a particular embodiment, the inferior
post 518 can extend substantially perpendicular from the inferior
surface 504. Moreover, the inferior post 518 can be substantially
co-linear and aligned with the superior post 514. The inferior post
518 can also include an inferior end cap 520.
[0058] In a particular embodiment, the superior post 514 of the
second bending arm 500 can engage the second hole 208 in the
superior support plate 200 (FIG. 5). More specifically, the
superior post 514 can be inserted through the larger, first portion
220 of the second hole 208 and snapped into the smaller, second
portion 224 of the second hole 208. The superior post 514 can
rotate within the smaller, second portion 224 of the second hole
208. Also, the superior end cap 516 can substantially prevent the
superior support plate 200 from becoming disengaged with the
superior post 514.
[0059] Also, in a particular embodiment, the inferior post 518 of
the second bending arm 500 can engage the second hole 308 in the
inferior support plate 300 (FIG. 6). More specifically, the
inferior post 518 can be inserted through the larger, first portion
320 of the second hole 308 and snapped into the smaller, second
portion 324 of the second hole 308. The inferior post 518 can
rotate within the smaller, second portion 324 of the second hole
306. Further, the inferior end cap 520 can substantially prevent
the inferior support plate 300 from becoming disengaged with the
inferior post 518.
[0060] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show that that the inner surface 506 of
the second bending arm 500 can be shorter than the outer surface
508 of the second bending arm 500. As such, the distal end 512 of
the second bending arm 500 can be angled or tapered from the outer
surface 508 to the inner surface 506. In a particular embodiment,
when the surgical staple assembly 100 is assembled, as shown in
FIG. 1, the bending wedge 700 can engage the angled distal end 512
of the second bending arm 500. Further, as the bending wedge 700 is
slid into the surgical staple assembly 100, the bending wedge 700
can apply an outward force to the second bending arm 500 and the
bending wedge can cause the second bending arm 500 to rotate
outward around the posts 514, 518.
[0061] The second bending arm 500 can also include a superior rib
530 and an inferior rib 532. As shown, the superior rib 530 and the
inferior rib 532 can extend from the outer surface 508 of the
second bending arm 500. In a particular embodiment, the ribs 530,
532 are substantially parallel to each other, the superior surface
502, and the inferior surface 504. Further, the ribs 530, 532 can
be spaced from each other a distance that corresponds to a width of
a two-tine staple, described below. As such, a two-tine staple can
be assembled with the surgical staple assembly 100 in lieu of the
four-tine staple 600, described herein. In particular, the two-tine
staple can be slid between the ribs 530, 532 and the ribs 530, 532
can maintain the two-tine staple near a center of the second
bending arm 500.
Description of the Surgical Staple
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 11 through 13, details regarding the
surgical staple 600 are shown. As shown, the surgical staple 600
can include a base 602. A first superior tine 604 and a second
superior tine 606 can extend from the base 602. Further, a first
inferior tine 608 and a second inferior tine 610 can extend from
the base 602. In a particular embodiment, the first superior tine
604 can be substantially parallel to the first inferior tine 608.
Also, the second superior tine 606 can be substantially parallel to
the second inferior tine 610.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 12, the first superior tine 604 can include
an inner surface 612 and an outer surface 614. The second superior
tine 606 can also include an inner surface 616 and an outer surface
618. FIG. 13 indicates that the first inferior tine 608 can include
an inner surface 622 and an outer surface 624. Further, the second
inferior tine 610 can include an inner surface 626 and an outer
surface 628.
[0064] When the surgical staple assembly 100 is assembled, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, the surgical staple 600 can be disposed
around the bending arms 400, 500. Specifically, the inner surface
612 of the first superior tine 604 and the inner surface 622 of the
first inferior tine 608 can be adjacent to the outer surface 408 of
the first bending arm 400. Also, the inner surface 616 of the
second superior tine 606 and the inner surface 626 of the second
inferior tine 610 can be adjacent to the outer surface 508 of the
second bending arm 400.
[0065] Accordingly, as the bending arms 400, 500 are pushed outward
by the bending wedge 700, the bending arms 400, 500 can bend the
tines 604, 606, 608, 610 of the surgical staple 600. More
specifically, as the first bending arm 400 is pushed outward, the
first bending arm 400 can bend the first superior tine 604 and the
first inferior tine 608 of the surgical staple 600. Moreover, as
the second bending arm 500 is pushed outward, the second bending
arm 500 can bend the second superior tine 606 and the second
inferior tine 610 of the surgical staple 600.
Description of the Bending Wedge
[0066] FIG. 14 through FIG. 16 illustrate details concerning the
configuration of the bending wedge 700. As shown, the bending wedge
700 can include a superior surface 702 and an inferior surface 704.
In a particular embodiment, the inferior surface 704 is
substantially parallel to the superior surface 702. The bending
wedge 700 can also include a first side surface 706 and a second
side surface 708. In a particular embodiment, first side surface
706 is angled with respect to the second side surface 708 in order
to establish the wedge shape of the bending wedge 700. The first
side surface 706 and the second side surface 708 are substantially
perpendicular to the superior surface 702 and the inferior surface
704 of the bending wedge 700.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 15, the superior surface 702 of the bending
wedge 700 can include a superior opening 710. In a particular
embodiment, the superior opening 710 can be generally cross-shaped
and can be located along a longitudinal axis of the bending wedge
700. Alternatively, the superior opening 710 can be generally
T-shaped. In a particular embodiment, the superior opening 710 is
sized and shaped to fit over the superior bending wedge guide 230.
More specifically, the superior opening 710 within the superior
surface 702 can be configured to fit over the T-shaped cap 234 of
the superior bending wedge guide 234. In a particular embodiment,
when the bending wedge 700 is inserted over the superior bending
wedge guide 230, the bending wedge 700 can slide along the post 232
of the superior bending wedge guide 230.
[0068] FIG. 16 indicates that the inferior surface 704 of the
bending wedge 700 can include an inferior opening 712. In a
particular embodiment, the inferior opening 712 can be generally
cross-shaped and can be located along a longitudinal axis of the
bending wedge 700. Alternatively, the inferior opening 712 can be
generally T-shaped. In a particular embodiment, the inferior
opening 712 is sized and shaped to fit over the inferior bending
wedge guide 330. More specifically, the inferior opening 712 within
the inferior surface 704 can be configured to fit over the T-shaped
cap 334 of the inferior bending wedge guide 334. In a particular
embodiment, when the bending wedge 700 is inserted over the
inferior bending wedge guide 330, the bending wedge 700 can slide
along the post 332 of the inferior bending wedge guide 330.
Description of the Operation of the Surgical Staple Assembly
[0069] Referring now to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, a cross-section of the
surgical staple assembly 100 is shown. When the surgical staple is
assembled, as shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, the surgical staple 600
can be disposed around the bending arms 400, 500. Further, the
bending wedge 700 can be placed at least partially between the
bending arms 400, 500.
[0070] In a particular embodiment, the surgical staple assembly 100
is movable between a first configuration, shown in FIG. 17, in
which the surgical staple 600 is in an original shape and a second
configuration, shown in FIG. 18, in which the surgical staple 600
in a deformed configuration. In the deformed shape, the surgical
staple 600 is opened, i.e., the tines 604, 606, 608, 610 are bent
outward.
[0071] The surgical staple assembly 100 can be moved between the
first configuration and the second configuration by sliding the
bending wedge 700 relative to the superior support plate (not shown
in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18) and the inferior support plate 300. As the
bending wedge 700 slides into the surgical staple assembly 100, the
bending wedge 700 can cause the bending arms 400, 500 to rotate
outward. Moreover, as the bending arms 400, 500 rotate outward, the
bending arms 400, 500 can bend the tines 604, 606, 608, 610.
Specifically, the first bending arm 400 can bend the first superior
tine 604 and the first inferior tine (not shown in FIG. 17 and FIG.
18) of the surgical staple 600. Further, the second bending arm 500
can bend the second superior tine 606 and the second inferior tine
(not shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18).
[0072] The superior bending wedge stop (not shown in FIG. 17 and
FIG. 18) and the inferior bending wedge stop 340 can limit the
motion of the bending wedge 700. In other words, the superior
bending wedge stop (not shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 18) and the
inferior bending wedge stop 340 can substantially prevent movement
of the bending wedge 700 in the surgical staple assembly 100 beyond
the wedge stops. As such, when multiple surgical staple assemblies
are used, each surgical staple assembly 100 can be moved to the
second configuration and the surgical staple 600 within each
surgical staple assembly 100 can be bent to a consistent deformed
configuration.
Description of a Set of Surgical Staple Assemblies
[0073] FIG. 19 illustrates a set of surgical staple assemblies,
generally designated 1900. As shown, the set of surgical staple
assemblies 1900 can include a box 1902 that can have a plurality of
openings 1904. Further, a surgical staple assembly 1906 can be
placed within each opening 1904. In a particular embodiment, each
surgical staple assembly 1906 can be a surgical staple assembly
according to the present disclosure. Also, each surgical staple
assembly 1906 can include a surgical staple 1908.
[0074] A surgical staple assembly 1906 can be retrieved from the
box 1902 and moved to the second configuration, described above, in
order to deform the surgical staple 1908. Thereafter, the surgical
staple 1908 within the surgical staple assembly 1906 can be
retrieved from the surgical staple assembly 1906 and inserted
within a patient. As described above, each surgical staple 1908 can
be bent to the same shape prior to insertion within the
patient.
[0075] In a particular embodiment, the set of surgical staple
assemblies 1900 can include four-tine surgical staples, two-tine
surgical staples, or a combination thereof. Further, the set of
surgical staple assemblies 1900 can include surgical staples having
various sizes and the different sized staple assemblies can be
color coded by size.
Description of a Method of Using a Surgical Staple Assembly
[0076] Referring to FIG. 20, a method of using a surgical staple
assembly is shown. In a particular embodiment, the surgical staple
assembly is the surgical staple assembly shown and described
herein. Commencing at block 2000, a surgical staple assembly can be
retrieved. At block 2002, a compressive force can be applied to the
surgical staple assembly. In a particular embodiment, the
compressive force can drive a wedge of the surgical staple assembly
into the surgical staple assembly. The wedge can bend the tines of
a surgical staple within the surgical staple assembly. More
specifically, the tines of the surgical staple can be bent
outward.
[0077] Moving to block 2004, the surgical staple can be retrieved
from the surgical staple assembly. Further, at block 2006, the
surgical staple can be installed. For example, the surgical staple
can be installed in a patient, e.g., in a bone of the patient or in
a fleshy or meaty part of the patient. At block 2008, the surgical
staple can be returned to the original shape of the surgical
staple, e.g., the shape of the surgical staple before application
of the compressive force to the surgical staple assembly. In a
particular embodiment, the surgical staple can be made from a
memory metal alloy and the surgical staple can be returned to the
original shape by applying heat to the surgical staple.
[0078] Continuing to decision step 2010, it can be determined
whether another surgical staple is required, e.g., by a doctor or
surgeon. If another surgical staple is required, the method can
return to block 2000 and continue as described herein. On the other
hand, if another surgical staple is not required, the method can
end at state 2012.
Description of an Alternative Embodiment of a Surgical Staple
[0079] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, an alternative embodiment of a
surgical staple is shown and is generally designated 2100. As
shown, the surgical staple 2100 can include a base 2102. A first
tine 2104 and a second tine 2106 can extend from the base 2102.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 22, the first tine 2104 can include an
inner surface 2112 and an outer surface 2114. The second tine 2106
can also include an inner surface 2116 and an outer surface
2118.
[0081] In a particular embodiment, the four-tine surgical staple
600, described above, can be removed from the surgical staple
assembly 100 and replaced with the two-tine surgical staple 2100.
As shown in FIG. 23, the two-tine surgical staple 2000 can be
disposed around the bending arms 400, 500 between the ribs 430,
432, 530, 532 on each bending arm 400, 500.
[0082] Specifically, the inner surface 2112 of the first tine 2104
can be adjacent to the outer surface 408 of the first bending arm
400. Also, the inner surface 2116 of the second tine 2106 can be
adjacent to the outer surface 508 of the second bending arm 400.
Moreover, the first tine 2104 can be disposed between the ribs 430,
432 of the first bending arm 400 and the ribs 430, 432 can engage
and support the first tine 2104 along the first bending arm 400.
The second tine 2106 can be disposed between the ribs 530, 532 of
the second bending arm 500 and the ribs 530, 532 can engage and
support the second tine 2106 along the second bending arm 500.
[0083] Accordingly, as the bending arms 400, 500 are pushed outward
by the bending wedge 700, as described herein, the bending arms
400, 500 can bend the tines 2104, 2106 of the surgical staple 2100.
More specifically, as the first bending arm 400 is pushed outward,
the first bending arm 400 can bend the first tine 2104 of the
surgical staple 2100. Moreover, as the second bending arm 500 is
pushed outward, the second bending arm 500 can bend the second tine
2106 of the surgical staple 2100.
CONCLUSION
[0084] With the configuration of structure described above, the
surgical staple assembly provides a device that can be used to bend
a surgical staple to a deformed configuration prior to installation
in a patient. Further, the surgical staple assembly can be used to
consistently bend a staple to the same shape. When multiple
surgical staple assemblies are used, each surgical staple within
each surgical staple assembly can be bent to the same shape.
[0085] The above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered
illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are
intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other
embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the
present invention. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the
scope of the present invention is to be determined by the broadest
permissible interpretation of the following claims and their
equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the
foregoing detailed description.
* * * * *