U.S. patent application number 14/354128 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-25 for jawed trocar tip assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to TROCARE LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is TroCare LLC. Invention is credited to Gerald Feuer, Clark B. Foster, Gerald Jay Sanders.
Application Number | 20140288367 14/354128 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48136510 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140288367 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Feuer; Gerald ; et
al. |
September 25, 2014 |
JAWED TROCAR TIP ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A trocar assembly is presented herein. The trocar assembly can
include a tip assembly comprising an adapter sleeve and a jaw
assembly component. The jaw assembly component can be hingeably
coupled to the adapter sleeve such that it has a first position,
such as a rest position, and a second position, such as an expanded
position. The adapter sleeve can be configured to couple the jaw
assembly to a trocar of the trocar assembly component.
Additionally, the trocar assembly can have a trocar having a hollow
elongate member that includes a first end and a second end. The
first end of the hollow elongate member can be open. The first end
can allow an implement to be inserted therein. The insertion of the
implement can transition the jaw assembly component from the rest
position to the expanded position.
Inventors: |
Feuer; Gerald; (Atlanta,
GA) ; Foster; Clark B.; (Mission Viejo, CA) ;
Sanders; Gerald Jay; (Palo Alto, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TroCare LLC |
Houston |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
TROCARE LLC
Houston
TX
|
Family ID: |
48136510 |
Appl. No.: |
14/354128 |
Filed: |
October 24, 2012 |
PCT Filed: |
October 24, 2012 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2012/061741 |
371 Date: |
April 24, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13280233 |
Oct 24, 2011 |
8708889 |
|
|
14354128 |
|
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|
61568623 |
Dec 8, 2011 |
|
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|
61593957 |
Feb 2, 2012 |
|
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|
61624963 |
Apr 16, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/104 ;
606/185 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 90/37 20160201;
A61B 2017/3454 20130101; A61B 1/00096 20130101; A61B 1/126
20130101; A61B 17/3417 20130101; A61B 17/320016 20130101; A61B
1/00177 20130101; A61B 17/3478 20130101; A61B 1/00087 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/104 ;
606/185 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/32 20060101
A61B017/32; A61B 1/12 20060101 A61B001/12; A61B 1/00 20060101
A61B001/00 |
Claims
1-49. (canceled)
50. A tip assembly for a trocar comprising: an adapter sleeve
configured to be coupled to the trocar; a jaw assembly component
coupled to the adapter sleeve.
51. The tip assembly for a trocar as recited in claim 50, wherein
the adapter sleeve and the jaw assembly component are integrally
formed.
52. The tip assembly for a trocar as recited in claim 50, wherein
the adapter sleeve and the jaw assembly are configured for mating
engagement.
53. The tip assembly for a trocar as recited in claim 50, wherein
the adapter sleeve is configured to receive a first end of the
trocar.
54. The tip assembly for a trocar as recited in claim 50, wherein
the adapter sleeve and jaw assembly component are substantially
transparent allowing light to pass therethrough so that an image
can be captured by a camera within the trocar assembly.
55. The tip assembly as recited in claim 50, wherein the jaw
assembly component is hingedly coupled to the adapter sleeve.
56. The tip assembly of claim 50, wherein the tip assembly has at
least a first position wherein the jaw assembly component is
substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the adapted sleeve
and a second position wherein the jaw assembly component is rotated
such that an end of the jaw assembly component is positioned
radially away from the longitudinal axis.
57. The tip assembly of claim 50, wherein the jaw assembly
component comprises a penetrating surface adapted to penetrate
through at least one layer of body tissue.
58. The tip assembly of claim 50, wherein the jaw assembly
component comprises a pair of jaws hingedly coupled to an end of
the adapter sleeve, each jaw being hingedly coupled to an outer
portion of the end and each jaw being opposite to one another.
59. The tip assembly of claim 58, wherein in the first position,
each of the jaws are substantially parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the adapter sleeve and are positioned with respect to one
another such that the ends of the jaws form a substantially conical
contour adapted to penetrate the layer of the body tissue.
60. The tip assembly as recited in claim 58, wherein the pair of
jaws comprises: a first jaw having a penetrating member at the end
thereof, the penetrating member adapted to penetrate at least one
layer of body tissue; and a second jaw hingedly coupled to the end
of the adapter sleeve and opposite to the first jaw; wherein in the
first position, the first jaw and the second jaw are each
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the adapter
sleeve and wherein the penetrating member of the first jaw extends
longitudinally further than a distal end of the second jaw.
61. The tip assembly of claim 60, wherein the first jaw comprises:
a first slider having the penetrating member at a distal end
thereof, the first slider being coupled to the first jaw such that
the first slider is axially translatable with respect to the first
jaw.
62. The tip assembly of claim 61, wherein the first slider
comprises a first scope cleaner coupled to a proximal end of the
first slider opposite to the distal end of the first slider, the
first scope cleaner being configured to sweep across an interior of
the adapter sleeve when the first slider translates axially away
from a proximal end of the first scope cleaner.
63. The tip assembly as recited in claim 60, wherein: the second
jaw comprises a second slider having a second scope cleaner coupled
to a proximal end thereof and axially translatable with respect to
the second jaw; the second slider being coupled to the second jaw
such that in the first position, the first scope cleaner and the
second scope cleaner are adjacent one another; and the second scope
cleaner being configured to sweep across an interior of the adapter
sleeve when the second slider translates axially away from the
proximal end of the first scope cleaner.
64. The tip assembly as recited in claim 60, wherein: the
penetrating member is a substantially conical tip; and in the first
position, the first jaw and the second jaw are positioned with
respect to one another such that the substantially conical tip
extends beyond the distal end of the second jaw, and the first jaw
and the second jaw form a substantially contiguous contour.
65. The tip assembly as recited in claim 60, wherein the first
scope cleaner having at least one groove formed therein.
66. The tip assembly as recited in claim 60, wherein the second
scope cleaner having at least one groove formed therein.
67. The tip assembly as recited in claim 60, wherein the first
scope cleaner and the second scope cleaner each having at least one
groove formed therein.
68. The tip assembly as recited in claim 67, wherein the at least
one groove formed in the first scope cleaner traverses through a
center of the first scope cleaner.
69. The tip assembly as recited in claim 67, wherein the at least
one groove formed in the second scope cleaner traverses through a
center of the second scope cleaner.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/280,233 filed 24 Oct. 2011 and claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/568,623 filed 8 Dec. 2012; U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/593,957 filed 2 Feb. 2012; and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/624,963 filed 16 Apr. 2012. The
contents of each are incorporated herein by reference in the
entirety.
FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to trocar devices,
and more specifically, to jawed trocar assemblies which can be
utilized in surgical procedures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] Implementations of the present application will now be
described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached
Figures, wherein:
[0004] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an endoscopic tool assembly
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0005] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a locking member for a jawed
trocar assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0006] FIG. 3 is a partial side view of a jawed trocar assembly
illustrating an insertion of an implement into the jawed trocars in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure
having an implement inserted therethrough;
[0007] FIG. 4 is a side view of a second end of a jawed trocar
assembly in a first position (for example, a rest position) in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a side view of a second end of a jawed trocar
assembly in a second position (for example, an expanded position)
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0009] FIG. 6 is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a
jawed trocar assembly in a first position (such as a rest position)
and illustrating an implement (such as an endoscope) to be inserted
therein in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0010] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a side of the jawed trocar
assembly illustrated in FIG. 6 except in a second position (such as
an expanded position);
[0011] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a locking member configured
for engagement with the jawed trocar assembly to maintain the jawed
trocar assembly in the rest position in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0012] FIGS. 9-13 are cross-sectional views of an exemplary
embodiment of a jawed trocar assembly, in accordance with the
present disclosure, having a scope cleaner mechanism coupled
thereto, illustrating several positions of the scope cleaner
mechanism against an endoscope inserted into the jawed trocar
assembly to clean debris from the surface of the endoscope;
[0013] FIGS. 14 and 15 are perspective views of another exemplary
embodiment of a jawed trocar assembly, in accordance with the
present disclosure, having a scope cleaner mechanism which is
rotatable;
[0014] FIGS. 16-18 are perspective views of another embodiment of a
scope cleaner mechanism which can be inserted into a jawed trocar
assembly in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a jawed trocar assembly in accordance with the present disclosure
having a biasing mechanism configured to bias the jawed trocar
assembly in the second position, for example the expanded position,
wherein the illustrated jawed trocar assembly is in the first
position, for example, the rest position;
[0016] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the jawed trocar assembly
illustrated in FIG. 19, wherein the biasing mechanism has been
actuated to bias the jawed trocar assembly in the expanded
position;
[0017] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the jawed trocar
assembly illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrating an actuator of
the biasing mechanism;
[0018] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a reflecting member;
[0019] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the reflecting member
assembled with a jawed trocar assembly in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a removal trocar assembly
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of a trocar assembly having a
trocar and a tip assembly for the trocar in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of a trocar
assembly assembled with a tip assembly in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment showing the interconnections of components of
the tip assembly and the trocar assembly in phantom;
[0023] FIGS. 27-29 are perspective views of a trocar assembly
illustrating the removal of a locking member in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment;
[0024] FIGS. 30-31 are cross-sectional views of a tip assembly
illustrating the coupling of a jaw assembly component and adapter
sleeve of the tip assembly in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment;
[0025] FIGS. 32-35 are cross-sectional views of a tip assembly
coupled with a trocar assembly illustrating the removal of a
locking member of the tip assembly;
[0026] FIG. 36 is an exploded view of a tip assembly for a trocar
assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;
[0027] FIGS. 37-38 are cross-sectional views of the tip assembly
illustrated in FIG. 36 illustrating the coupling of the jaw
assembly component and the adapter sleeve of the tip assembly
illustrated in FIG. 36;
[0028] FIGS. 39-42 are cross-sectional views of a tip assembly
illustrated in FIGS. 78-38 coupled with a trocar assembly and
illustrating the removal of a locking member of the tip
assembly;
[0029] FIG. 43 is a side elevation view of an exemplary tip
assembly, in a closed configuration, having an exemplarily jaw
retention device in the form of a band;
[0030] FIG. 44 is a side elevation view of the exemplary tip
assembly of FIG. 43, in an open configuration, wherein the band has
been fractured;
[0031] FIG. 45 is a side elevation view of an exemplary tip
assembly, in a closed configuration, having an exemplarily jaw
retention device in the form of at least one tab;
[0032] FIG. 46 is a side elevation view of the exemplary tip
assembly of FIG. 45, in an open configuration, wherein the at least
one tab has been fractured;
[0033] FIG. 47A is a top view of an exemplarily scope cleaner
having a groove formed therein, according to an exemplarily
embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 47B is a cross-sectional view of the scope cleaner of
FIG. 47A taken along line B-B;
[0035] FIG. 48A is a top view of another exemplarily scope cleaner
having a groove formed therein, according to an exemplarily
embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 48B is a cross-sectional view of the scope cleaner of
FIG. 48A taken along line B-B;
[0037] FIG. 49A is a top view of yet another exemplarily scope
cleaner having a groove formed therein, according to an exemplarily
embodiment; and
[0038] FIG. 49B is a cross-sectional view of the scope cleaner of
FIG. 49A taken along line B-B.
[0039] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of yet another exemplarily tip
assembly in an open configuration, according to an exemplarily
embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of the tip assembly of
FIG. 50;
[0041] FIG. 52 is a a perspective view of still another exemplarily
tip assembly in an open configuration, according to an exemplarily
embodiment;
[0042] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view of the tip assembly of
FIG. 52.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of
illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been
repeated among the different figures to indicate corresponding or
analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set
forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the
implementations described herein. However, it will be understood by
those of ordinary skill in the art that the implementations
described herein can be practiced without these specific details.
In other instances, methods, procedures and components have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the related relevant
feature being described. Also, the description is not to be
considered as limiting the scope of the implementations described
herein.
[0044] Several definitions that apply throughout this document will
now be presented. The phrase "coupled" is defined as connected,
whether directly or indirectly through intervening components and
is not necessarily limited to physical connections.
[0045] Medical procedures performed within the body cavity of a
patient are typically achieved through narrow tubes or cannulas
inserted through a small entrance incision in the skin of the
patient. Typically, the cannula is extended into the patient's body
through the entranceincision to provide an access port. The access
port allows the surgeon to insert a number of different medical
implements therethrough. For example, the medical implements can be
inserted through the cannula or a trocar to access portions of the
body cavity that are far removed from the incision. Medical
procedures which utilize cannulas and/or trocars can include
endoscopic procedures in which an endoscope is inserted into the
cavity to provide the surgeon with a view of the interior cavity of
the patient, laparoscopic procedures, colonoscopic procedures, and
other minimally invasive procedures which are performed via small
incisions in the skin of a patient. Many of these procedures are
often performed remotely from the incision. Consequently,
application of the medical implements can be complicated by a
reduced field of view and/or a reduced tactile feedback from the
surgeon at the proximal end of the medical implement.
[0046] A trocar assembly in accordance with the present disclosure
can include a hollow elongate member and a jaw. The hollow elongate
member can have a first end a second end. The first end can be open
and configured to receive an implement insertable therethrough. The
jaw can be hingedly coupled to the second end of the hollow
elongate member. The jaw can be adapted to penetrate at least one
layer of a body tissue. For example, the jaw can be adapted to
penetrate at least one layer of a body tissue. The trocar assembly
can have a first position and a second position. The first position
can be a rest position wherein the jaw is substantially parallel to
a longitudinal axis of the hollow elongate member. The second
position can be an expanded position wherein the jaw is rotated
such that an end of the jaw is positioned radially away from the
longitudinal axis. In the event the implement is inserted through
the hollow elongate member, when the trocar assembly is placed in
the second position, the implement can be protrudable therefrom.
For example, in the event the implement is inserted and received
within the hollow elongate member, the trocar assembly can be
transitionable into the second position. For example, when the
implement is longitudinally advanced through the hollow elongate
member to protrude out from the second end of the hollow elongate
member, the jaw can be rotated such that the end of the jaw is
positioned radially away from the longitudinal axis of the hollow
elongate member, thereby placing the trocar assembly in the second
position. In this second position, as the implement is protrudable
from the second end of the hollow elongate member and from the end
of the jaw, the implement can engage portions of a body cavity of a
patient to perform medical procedures within the body cavity.
[0047] Other configurations and arrangements will be described
below in relation to illustrated implementations. One of ordinary
skill would appreciate that the elements from the illustrated
implementations can be optionally included, combined, omitted, and
arranged in various combinations to achieve the described benefits
of the presently disclosed notification device. It will also be
appreciated that while FIGS. 4-23 illustrate distal ends of the
jawed trocar assembly, these views are merely for illustration, and
those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the length
of the jawed trocar assembly can vary from views illustrated
therein.
[0048] FIG. 1 is perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
medical implement assembly having a trocar assembly in accordance
with the present disclosure. The medical implement assembly 100 in
FIG. 1 can include a trocar assembly 200 and an implement 400. For
example, in FIG. 1, the implement 400 is an endoscope. However, the
implement 400 can also be a laparoscope, an endoscopic stapler, a
suctioning device, a fluid line, or other implement. The trocar
assembly 200 can include a hollow elongate member 205 having a
first end 203 and a second end 209. The first end 203 can be the
proximal end which is closest to the surgeon during medical
procedures. The implement 400 can be insertable through the first
end 203 of the hollow elongate member 205, as shown in FIG. 3. The
second end 207 can be the distal end which is inserted into the
body cavity of a patient for medical procedures. The second end 207
can also have a circumference 209. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the
trocar assembly 200 can include at least one jaw 210 coupled to the
second end 209 of the elongate member 205. For example, in FIG. 1,
the at least one jaw 210 is hingedly coupled to a circumference 209
of the second end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205. The trocar
assembly 200 can have a first position 2000 (shown in FIG. 4) to a
second position 2500 (shown in FIG. 1). In the second position
2500, shown as an expanded position in FIG. 1, the at least one jaw
210 can be rotated such than an end 213 of the at least one jaw 210
is positioned radially away from the longitudinal axis 230 of the
hollow elongate member 205. Those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that while FIG. 1 illustrates the at least one jaw 210
rotates radially away from the longitudinal axis, the at least one
jaw 210 can rotate along an axis of rotation offset from the
longitudinal axis of the hollow elongate member 205. For example,
the at least one jaw 210 can be hinged to the circumference of the
hollow elongate member 205 such that the at least one jaw 210 can
swing away from the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate
member 205, similar to the way a door moves on a door hinge.
[0049] In FIG. 1, the at least one jaw 210 includes a pair of jaws.
Each of the pair of jaws 210 can be hingedly coupled to the second
end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205. For example, in FIG. 1,
each jaw is hingedly coupled to the circumference 209 of the second
end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205. Also illustrated in FIG.
1, the pair of jaws 210 can be coupled to the hollow elongate
member 205 such that each jaw 210 is opposite to the other. In at
least one embodiment, at least one of the pair of jaws 210 can have
a penetrating surface 211 adapted to penetrate through at least one
layer of the body tissue. In another embodiment, both of the jaws
210 can have a penetrating surface 211. The penetrating surface 211
can be an abrasive surface, a smooth surface, a blade, a razor, a
sharp edge, or other surface which allows the at least one jaw 210
to penetrate through at least one layer of body tissue. Further
details as to the first position 2000 and second position 2500 of a
trocar assembly 200 having a pair of jaws 210 will be discussed
below with respect to FIGS. 4 and 5. In this second position 2500,
the implement 400 can protrude from the second end 207 of the
hollow elongate member, through the jaws 210, and out from the jaws
210. For example, in the second position 2500, the distal end 410
of the implement 300 can protrude form the end 213 of the at least
one jaw 210.
[0050] In FIG. 1, the at least one jaw 210 can be configured to
penetrate (for example, make an incision) through at least one
layer of a body tissue. Those of skill will appreciate that in
order to penetrate at least one layer of body tissue, the at least
one jaw 210 of the trocar assembly 200 can be substantially rigid
to allow pressure to be placed on the trocar assembly 200 to
penetrate the at least one layer of body tissue. For example, the
at least one jaw 210 can be made of a rigid material. For example,
the jaw can be made of a hard plastic, metal, composite material,
or other material that does not substantially deform when pressure
is applied to the at least one jaw 210 to penetrate through at
least one layer of body tissue. In another embodiment, the at least
one jaw 210 can be made of a semi-deformable material, such as a
pliable plastic or other semi-deformable material that does not
substantially deform when pressure is applied to the at least one
jaw 210 to penetrate through the at least one layer of body tissue.
Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the at
least one jaw 210 can be made of a biologically-safe material, as
the at least one jaw 210 is insertable into a body cavity of
patient. Some examples of biologically-safe material include but
are not limited to polycarbonate and polysuphone.
[0051] In another embodiment, the at least one jaw 210 can be made
of a deformable plastic, but the at least one jaw 210 can be
couplable to a locking member 300 (shown in FIG. 2) which when
coupled to the at least one jaw 210, provides the at least one jaw
210 with a rigidity that reduces the deformation of the at least
one jaw 210 when pressure is applied thereto to penetrate through
the at least one layer of body tissue. For example, in an
embodiment where the at least one jaw 210 includes a pair of jaws,
a locking member 300 (shown in FIG. 2) can be coupled to the pair
of jaws to maintain the pair of jaws in the rest position 2000
(shown in FIG. 4) and to provide the pair of jaws with sufficient
rigidity such that when pressure is placed on the jaws 210 to
penetrate through a layer of body tissue, the pair of jaws 210 will
not deform. FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary locking member 300
which can be couplable to a pair of jaws. For example, in FIG. 2,
the locking member 300 can include a rod 305. The rod 305 can be a
tube, a hollow tube, a cylindrical member, a hollow cylindrical
member, a wire, or any other structure or member which can be
coupled to the hollow elongate member 205 and can maintain the jaw
in the rest position. In FIG. 2, the rod 305 can be insertable
through the hollow elongate member 205. At least one protrusion 310
can coupled to an end 307 of the rod 305. For example, the at least
one protrusion 310 can be welded, screwed, glued, or otherwise
attached to the rod 305. In other embodiments, the at least on
protrusion 310 can be formed at the end of the rod 305.
[0052] In FIG. 2, the at least one protrusion 310 can be coupled to
the end 307 of the rod 305 that is adjacent the at least one jaw
210 coupled to the hollow elongate member 205, in the event the
locking member 300 is inserted into the hollow elongate member. In
FIG. 2, the locking member 300 includes four protrusions 310.
However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
any number of protrusions 310 can be implemented. Each of the
protrusions 310 can matingly engage with a corresponding recess
(not shown) formed in at least one of the jaws 210 illustrated in
FIG. 1. In the event the locking member 100 is inserted into the
hollow elongate member 205 and at least one of the protrusions 310
matingly engages the corresponding recess, the jaws 210 can be
locked or maintained in the rest position 2500, thereby allowing
pressure to be placed on the jaws 210 to penetrate through at least
one layer of body tissue, without substantially deforming the jaws
210. The locking member 300 can be removable from the hollow
elongate member 205, thereby disengaging the at least one
protrusion 310 from the jaws 210. In the event the locking member
300 is removed from the hollow elongate member 205, the trocar
assembly 100 can be transitionable between a first position (for
example, rest position) and a second position (for example, and
expanded position). FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a
locking member 300. In FIG. 8, the locking member 300 includes a
hollow cylindrical member 805 having an end 807. At least one tab
810 can be coupled to the end 807 of the hollow cylindrical member
805. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a plurality of tabs 810
are formed along the circumference 809 of the end 807 of the hollow
cylindrical member 805. Similar to the protrusions of the locking
member 300 illustrated in FIG. 2, when the hollow cylindrical
member 805 is inserted in the hollow elongate member 205 of the
trocar assembly 200, the plurality of tabs 805 can engage recesses
509 (shown in FIGS. 9-13) formed in the at least one jaw 210 to
maintain the trocar assembly 200 in a rest position 2000. For
example, by maintaining the jaws 210 in the rest position 2000.
[0053] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a partial view of the at least one
jaw 210 illustrated in the trocar assembly 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 4
illustrates the at least one jaw 210 the at least one jaw 210 in a
first position 2000 that is a rest position. For example, in FIG.
4, the at least one jaw 210 the at least one jaw 210 is a pair of
jaw 210. In the first position 2000, the pair of jaws 210 are each
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow
elongate member 205. Also illustrated in FIG. 4, in the first
position 2000, the pair of jaws 210 are positioned with respect to
one another such that the ends 213 of each of the jaws 210 form a
substantially conical contour adapted to penetrate the layer of the
body tissue. The first position 2000 can be a position in which an
implement 400 has been inserted through the cavity of the hollow
elongate member 205 but has not been advanced therethrough to
protrude from the second end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205.
When the implement 400 has been inserted through the cavity of the
hollow elongate member 205 and is advanced therethrough such that
the implement 400 begins to protrude out from the second end 207 of
the hollow elongate member 205 and begins to engage an inner
surface 235 (shown in FIG. 5) of at least one of the jaws 210, the
trocar assembly 100 can be transitioned into the second position
2500.
[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates a partial view of the trocar assembly 100
as the trocar assembly is transitioning into the second position
2500. In the second position 2500, each of the jaws of the pair of
jaws 210 can be rotated such that the ends 213 of each jaw 210 are
positioned radially away from the longitudinal axis 230. In this
second position 2500, the implement 400 can be protrudable
therefrom to perform medical procedures within the body cavity. As
illustrated in FIG. 5, the end 410 of the implement 400 can engage
an interior surface 235 of at least one of the jaws 210 as the
implement is advanced through the hollow elongate member 205. As
the implement 400 is further advanced through the hollow elongate
member 205 to protrude out from the second end 207, the end 410 of
the implement 400 can apply a force against the interior surface
235 of at least one of the jaws 210 to permit the rotation of at
least one of the jaws 210 about the second end 207 of the hollow
elongate member 205 to displace or position the ends 213 of the
jaws 210 radially away from the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow
elongate member 205. The further the implement 400 is advanced
through hollow elongate member 205, the jaws 210 are further
rotated, and the radial distance between the ends 213 of the jaws
210 from the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate member
205 is increased. The implement 400 can be advanced through the
hollow elongate member 205 and through the jaws 210 such that the
end 410 of the implement 400 can protrude a distance away from the
ends 213 of the jaws 210. As the implement 400 can protrude a
distance away from the ends 213 of the jaws 210, the implement 400
can be manipulated for medical procedures within the patient's body
cavity without substantial interference from the jaws 210.
[0055] While FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a trocar assembly 200 having
a pair of jaws 210 which are substantially identical, in another
embodiment, the pair of jaws 210 need not be identical. For
example, FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of a trocar assembly
200 having a pair of jaws 510 has a first jaw 511 and a second jaw
515, the second jaw 510 being different from the first jaw 511. In
FIG. 6, the trocar assembly 200 is in the first position 2000,
wherein the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515 are each substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate member
250. In FIG. 6, the first jaw 511 includes a penetrating member 513
at an end thereof. In FIG. 6, the penetrating member 513 is
configured to penetrate at least one layer of body tissue. For
example, the penetrating member 513 can be a substantially conical
tip, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a blade, a tip having a cutting
surface thereon, or any other member which can penetrate at least
one layer of body tissue. In FIG. 6, the second jaw 515 does not
include a penetrating member. Instead the second jaw 215 is
configured to be positioned adjacent the first jaw 511 in the first
position 2000 such that the penetrating member 513 extends
longitudinally further than an end 517 (shown in FIG. 7) of the
second jaw 515. For example, in FIG. 6, the penetrating member 513
extends longitudinally further than the end 517 of the second jaw
515 in the first position 2000 (for example the rest position) such
that the exterior surfaces of the penetrating member 513 and the
second end 517 form a substantially conical contour. That is, in at
least one embodiment where the first jaw 511 includes a penetrating
member 513, the first jaw 511 and the second jaw 515 can be
configured such that in the first position 2000 (for example, the
rest position), the first jaw 511 and the second jaw 515 can form a
substantially contiguous contour. With the substantially contiguous
contour, the trocar assembly 205 can have a substantially uniform
shape that permits a clean penetration through at least one layer
of body tissue. Also illustrated in FIG. 6 is an implement 400 that
is an endoscope which is insertable through the hollow elongate
member 205. The endoscope 400 in FIG. 6 has two lenses 415.
However, in other embodiments, the endoscope 400 can have one lens
415' (shown in FIG. 9) or more than one lens 415. For example, in
FIG. 9, a lens 415' of an endoscope 400 having a single lens 415'
is shown overlaid on the two lenses 415.
[0056] FIGS. 7 and 9-13 illustrate another embodiment of a trocar
assembly 200 having a pair of jaws 511, 515. In FIG. 7, the trocar
assembly 200 can have a first jaw 511 having a first slider 514
axially translatably coupled thereto. For example, the first slider
514 can be configured to translate along the first jaw 511 parallel
to the longitudinal axis of the first jaw 511. That is, the first
slide 514 can be axially translatable with respect to the first jaw
511. The longitudinal axis of the first jaw 511 can be parallel to
the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate member 205.
Similarly, the second jaw 515 can have a second slider 516 axially
translatably coupled thereto. The second slider 516 can be
configured to translate along the longitudinal axis of the second
jaw 516. That is, the second slider 516 can be axially translatable
with respect to the second jaw 516. The longitudinal axis of the
second jaw 516 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis 230 of the
hollow elongate member 205 in the first position 2000. In FIG. 7,
though not illustrated, when the trocar assembly 205 is in the
first position 2000 (for example, the rest position), the first
slider 514 and the second slider 516 can be positioned adjacent one
another parallel to the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow
elongate member 205. In at least one embodiment, the first slider
514 and the second slider 516 can be translatably coupled to their
respective jaws 511, 515 via a pin and slot coupling (not shown).
For example, the first slider 514 and second slider 516 can have a
slot (not shown) formed therein. The slot of the first slider 514
can be configured to engage a pin (not shown) coupled to the first
jaw 511. The slot of the second slider 516 can be configured to
engage a pin (not shown) coupled to the second jaw 515. Thus, the
pins of the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515, slide within the
slots of the respective first slider 514 and second slider 516,
thereby providing for the axially translatable cooperation between
the jaws 511, 515, and the sliders 514, 516. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that the sliders 514, 516 can be
coupled to their respective jaws 511, 515 by other couplings. For
example, by a biasing coupling, a spring coupling, or other
coupling that allows for the axially translatable cooperation
between the sliders 514, 516 and their respective jaws 511, 515. In
at least one embodiment, at least one of the sliders 514, 516 can
be biased towards the first position 2000, where and end 518, 519
of the slider 514, 516 is adjacent the second end 207 of the hollow
elongate member 205. For example, the slider 514, 516 can be biased
by a spring, a cam surface, or other mechanism configured to bias
the slider 514, 516 toward the first position 2000. In another
embodiment, only one of the sliders 514, 516 can be biased towards
the first position.
[0057] In the second position 2500 of the trocar assembly 200, the
first slider 514 and second slider 516 are able to translate along
their respective jaw 511, 515. For example, in FIG. 7, when an
implement 400 is inserted and advanced through the hollow elongate
member 205 such that the distal end 410 of the implement 400
engages an end 518, 519 of the first slider 514 and second slider
516. As the implement 400 is further advanced through the hollow
elongate member 205 to protrude out from the second end 207 and to
advance through the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515, the implement
400 can apply pressure against the first slider 514 and second
slider 516 to translate the first slider 514 and second slider 516
away from the second end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205. For
example, the first slider 514 and second slider 516 can translate
axially away from the second end 207 of the hollow elongate member
205 as the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515 rotate radially away
from the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate member 205 in
the second position 2500 (for example, the expanded position). In
other words, as the implement 400 is advanced through the hollow
elongate member 205 and the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515, the
implement 400 can assist in translating the first slider 514 and
second slider 516 with respect to the first jaw 511 and second jaw
515. While FIG. 7 illustrates a trocar assembly 200 having two
sliders 514, 516, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the trocar assembly 200 can have one slider 514,
516.
[0058] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the
trocar assembly 200 can include a scope cleaner 700 interiorly
positioned with respect to the jaws 510. For example, in FIG. 7,
the scope cleaner 700 can be a pair of wiper blades 705, 707
coupled to the jaws 510. The wiper blades 705, 707 can be rigid
wiper blades, deformable wiper blades, tips of wiper blades,
absorbent blades, or other structures which can wipe or sweep
debris off of implements 400 insertable in the hollow elongate
member 205. In FIG. 7, a first wiper 705 can be coupled to the
first jaw 511. In FIG. 7, the first wiper blade 705 can be coupled
to the first slider 514. In FIG. 7, the first slider 714 has the
penetrating member 513 coupled to a first end 512, and the first
wiper blade 705 can be coupled to the first slider 514 at an end
518 opposite to the penetrating member 513. The first wiper blade
705 can be configured to sweep across an interior 208 (shown in
FIGS. 16-18) of the hollow elongate member 205 when the first
slider 514 translates axially away from the second end 207 of the
hollow elongate member 205 and the first jaw 511 is rotated into
the second position 2500. The second wiper blade 707 can be coupled
to the second jaw 515. For example, in FIG. 7, the second wiper
blade 707 can be coupled to the second slider 516. In FIG. 7, the
second wiper blade 707 can be coupled to an end 519 of the second
slider 516, such that in the first position 2000, the first wiper
blade 705 and the second wiper blade 707 are adjacent one another.
The second wiper blade 709 can be configured to sweep across an
interior 208 (shown in FIGS. 16-18) of the hollow elongate member
205 when the second slider 516 translates axially away from the
second end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205 and the second jaw
515 is rotated into the second position 2500. The sweeping movement
of the first wiper blade 705 and second wiper blade 707 will be
described in further detail with the exemplary non-limiting
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9-13.
[0059] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the trocar
assembly 200 illustrated in FIG. 7 taken along the longitudinal
axis 230 of the hollow elongate member 205. In FIG. 9, the trocar
assembly 200 is in the first position 2000 (e.g., rest position). A
locking member 300, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 8, is
inserted in the hollow elongate member 205 and engaged with the
first jaw 511 and second jaw 515 to maintain the trocar assembly
200 in the first position 2000. For example, as illustrated in FIG.
9, the tabs 810 of the locking member 300 engage recesses 509
formed in an interior surface 507 of the first jaw 511 and second
jaw 515. As the locking member engages recesses 509, the first jaw
511 an second jaw 515 are prevented from rotating axially away from
the longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate member 205. Also
illustrated in FIG. 9, as the locking member 300 maintains the
trocar assembly 200 in the first position, the first wiper blade
705 and second wiper blade 705 are maintained adjacent one another
and proximate to a center 206 of the cross-sectional face of the
hollow elongate member 205. FIG. 9 also illustrates a
cross-sectional view of the trocar assembly 200 taken along a plane
perpendicular to the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515 and the
longitudinal axis 230. As illustrated in this cross-sectional view,
when the locking member 300 maintains the trocar assembly 200 in
the first position, the first wiper blade 705 and the second wiper
blade 707 are maintained such that the first wiper blade 705 and
second wiper blade 707 are adjacent to one another. In the event an
implement 400 is inserted in the hollow elongate member 705 and the
trocar assembly 200 is in the first position 2000, the first wiper
blade 705 and the second wiper blade 707 can be adjacent to a
distal end 410 of the implement 400. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 9, the first wiper blade 705 and the second wiper blade 707
are disposed adjacent one another.
[0060] FIG. 10 illustrates the trocar assembly 200 in FIG. 9,
except the locking member 300 has been removed from the hollow
elongate member 205. As the locking member 300 has been removed,
the trocar assembly 200 is permitted to transition from the first
position 2000 (e.g., rest position) to the second position 2500.
The trocar assembly 200 can be transitioned to the second position
2500 as the implement 400 is advanced through the hollow elongate
member 205 to protrude out from the second end 207 of the hollow
elongate member 205.
[0061] FIG. 11 illustrates the trocar assembly 200 in FIGS. 9 and
10, where the implement 400 has been advanced towards the second
end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205 such that the implement
400 begins to protrude out from the second end 207 and the first
jaw 511 and second jaw 515 begin to rotate axially away from the
longitudinal axis 230 of the hollow elongate member 205. That is,
FIG. 11 illustrates the trocar assembly 200 beginning to transition
to the second position 2500 (e.g., expanded position). In FIG. 11,
as the implement 400 advances further through the hollow elongate
member 205 to protrude out from the second end 207 of the hollow
elongate member 205, the first slider 514 and second slider 516
translate axially away from the second end 207 of the hollow
elongate member 205, thereby permitting the wiper blades 705, 707
to sweep across the exterior surface of the implement 400. FIG. 11
also illustrates a cross-sectional view of the trocar assembly 200
taken along a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis 230. As
illustrated in this cross-sectional view in FIG. 11, as the
implement 400 protrudes out from the second end 207 of the hollow
elongate member 205 and engages the wiper blades 705, 707, the
force of the implement 400 against the wiper blades 705, 707 can
cause the wiper blades 705, 707 to sweep across the exterior
surface of the implement 400. For example, as illustrated in FIG.
11, the wiper blades 705, 707 can move radially away from the
center 206 of the cross-sectional face of the implement 400 and the
second end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205. That is, the
wiper blades 705, 707 can sweep outwardly across the face of the
implement 400 beginning from the center 206 of the implement 400
towards the circumference of the implement 400.
[0062] FIG. 12 illustrates the trocar assembly 200 in the second
position 2500 (e.g., expanded position). In the non-limiting
exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the implement 400 has
been advanced through the hollow elongate member 205 beyond the
second end 207 of the hollow elongate member 205. As illustrated in
FIG. 12, the implement 400 has been advanced beyond the second end
207 of the hollow elongate member 205 such that the implement 400
can advance between the first jaw 511 and second jaw 515. As
illustrated in FIG. 12, as the implement 400 is further advanced
through the hollow elongate member 205 and between the first jaw
511 and second jaw 515, the wiper blades 705, 707 sweep further
outwardly across the exterior face of the implement 400 until the
wiper blades 705, 707 are positioned proximate the circumference of
the implement. If the implement 400 is advanced even further
through the hollow elongate member 205 and between the first jaw
511 and the second jaw 515, the implement 400 can be advanced to
protrude beyond the second end 517 of the second jaw 515 and beyond
the penetrating member 213 of the first jaw 511, as illustrated in
FIG. 13.
[0063] As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the implement 400 is
advanced such that it protrudes beyond the second end 517 of the
second jaw 515 and the penetrating member 513 of the first jaw 511,
the wiper blades 705, 707 can remain positioned adjacent the
circumference of the implement 400. In at least one non-limiting
exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the first slider
514 and second slider 516 can be biased towards the second end 207
of the hollow elongate member 205. For example, the first slider
514 and the second slider 516 can be biased such that the first
slider 514 and second slider 516 form a contiguous contour with
their respective first jaw 511 and second jaw 515, as illustrated
in FIG. 13. For example, each of the first slider 514 and the
second slider 516 can be biased towards the second end 207 of the
hollow elongate member by a biaser such as a spring, a cam surface,
or other biasing member.
[0064] In FIGS. 9-13, as the wiper blades 705, 707 can be swept
across the exterior of the implement 400, the wiper blades 705, 707
can wipe debris from the implement 400. For example, if the
implement 400 is an endoscope, as illustrated in FIG. 9-13, the
sweeping action of the wiper blades 705, 707 can wipe debris from
the endoscope, thereby increasing the surgeon's visibility of the
body cavity in which the endoscope is inserted to perform surgical
procedures. The wiper blades 705, 707 can also reduce "fogging" of
the lens or clean the lens of the endoscope. With the embodiment of
the scope cleaner 700 illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 9-14, a surgeon
need not remove the endoscope 400 from the body cavity to clean the
endoscope 400. That is, the surgeon need only retract and advance
the endoscope 400 from the trocar assembly 200. For example, in
FIG. 13, as the endoscope 400 protrudes beyond the second end 517
of the second jaw 515 and the penetrating member 513 of the first
jaw 511, the endoscope 400 can be manipulated by the surgeon during
medical procedures. During these medical procedures, the endoscope
400 can accumulate debris thereon. In the event the surgeon's
visibility from the endoscope 400 becomes obstructed, the endoscope
400 can be retracted within the hollow elongate member 205 such
that the trocar assembly 200 is in the first position 2000 (e.g.,
the rest position). The endoscope 400 can then be advanced through
the hollow elongate member 205 and out beyond the second end 517 of
the second jaw 515 and the penetrating member 513 of the first jaw
511, thereby permitting the wiper blades 705, 707 to sweep across
the exterior surface of the endoscope and to wipe debris off of the
endoscope 400. As a result, the surgeon's visibility from the
endoscope 400 is clearer as the endoscope 400 is cleaned by the
wipers 705, 707. While FIG. 9-13 illustrate the wiper blades 705,
707 having a length that is longer than the diameter of the lenses
415, 415', those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
the wiper blades 705, 707 can have a length that is substantially
equal to the entire diameter of the lenses 415, 415', a length that
is substantially equal to an inner diameter of the hollow elongate
member 205, a length that is 80 percent of the inner diameter of
the hollow elongate member 205, or any other length which can clean
debris off of the endoscope 400 or implement inserted into the
trocar assembly.
[0065] FIGS. 14 and 15 are an illustration of another non-limiting
exemplary embodiment of a trocar assembly 200 of the present
disclosure having an alternative embodiment of a scope cleaner 900.
In FIGS. 14 and 15, the scope cleaner is a rotatable scope cleaner
900. For example, the rotatable scope cleaner 900 comprises a
rotatable stem 905 and a wiper blade 910. The rotatable stem 905
can be actuated by the surgeon. The wiper blade 910 is rotatably
coupled to a distal end 909 of the stem 905. For example, a
rotation of the stem 905 causes the wiper blade 910 to rotate. As
the wiper blade 910 rotates, the wiper blade 905 can sweep across
the cross-sectional face of an implement 400 inserted into the
hollow elongate member 205 and/or an interior of the hollow
elongate member 205. In FIGS. 14 and 15, the wiper blade 910 is a
rotatable arched blade. For example, in FIGS. 14 and 15, the at
least one jaw 210 includes an aperture 950 formed therein. The
aperture 950 is configured such that the rotatable wiper blade 910
can pass therethrough when the wiper blade 910 is rotated. FIG. 14
illustrates a starting position of the rotatable blade 910 where
the rotatable blade 910 is positioned parallel to an interior
circumference of the at least one jaw 210. When the endoscope 400
is inserted and/or retracted into the hollow elongate member 205,
and the trocar assembly 200 is placed in the first position 2000
(e.g., rest position), the endoscope 400 can be positioned adjacent
the rotatable wiper blade 910 such that the wiper blade 910 engages
the exterior surface of the endoscope 400. The rotatable stem 905
can be actuated to rotate the wiper blade 910. For example, the
wiper blade 910 can be rotated outwardly through the aperture 950,
such that the wiper blade 910 is positioned externally to the at
least one jaw 210. FIG. 15 illustrates an end position of the
rotatable blade 910 after the rotatable stem 910 has been rotated
to rotate the wiper blade 910 outwardly through the aperture 950.
As the wiper blade 910 is rotated outwardly through the aperture
950, the wiper blade 910 can sweep across the exterior surface of
the endoscope 400, thereby cleaning the endoscope and removing
debris therefrom. In FIGS. 14 and 15, the rotatable wiper blade 910
can be arched to maximize the surface area of the endoscope cleaned
or wiped by the wiper blade. However, in other embodiments, the
wiper blade 910 can have other shapes and configurations, so long
as the wiper blade 910 can be manipulated to clear debris from the
surface of the endoscope, thereby increasing or clearing the
surgeon's visibility of the endoscope 400.
[0066] FIGS. 16-18 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a scope
cleaner 1000. In FIGS. 16-18, the scope cleaner is a rotatable
flexible wiper blade assembly 1000. In FIGS. 16-18, the wiper blade
assembly 1000 can include a flexible wiper blade 1050 coupled to a
lever 1015, 1017. The flexible wiper 1050 can be configured to be
positioned between the jaw (not shown) and the second end (not
shown) of a hollow elongate member (not shown) to which the
flexible wiper 1050 can be coupled. In FIGS. 16-18, the flexible
wiper blade 1050 can be coupled to two levers 1015, 1017. A
rotation of the levers 1015, 1017 can cause the flexible wiper 2050
to sweep across an interior 208 of the hollow elongate member 205
in which the flexible wiper blade assembly 1000 is inserted.
However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
the wiper blade 1050 can be coupled to only one lever.
[0067] In FIGS. 16-18, a first end 1005 of the wiper blade 1050 can
be coupled to the first lever 1015. For example, in FIGS. 16-18,
the first end 1005 can be coupled to the first lever 1015 by a stem
1010 configured to extend longitudinally parallel to the hollow
elongate member 205 in which the flexible wiper blade assembly 1000
is inserted. The second end 1007 of the flexible wiper blade 1050
can be coupled to the second lever 1017. In at least one
embodiment, such as in FIGS. 16-18, the second end 1007 of the
flexible wiper blade 100 can be coupled to the second lever 1017 by
a respective stem 1010 configured to extend longitudinally parallel
to the hollow elongate member 205. As illustrated in FIGS. 16-18,
the flexible wiper blade 1050 can extend along a diameter of the
interior of a hollow elongate tube in which the flexible wiper
blade assembly 1000 is inserted. In FIGS. 16-18, the flexible wiper
blade 1050 extends across an entirety of the diameters to the
hollow elongate member to ensure that an entirety of the
cross-sectional surface of the hollow elongate member will be
cleaned. However, in other embodiments, the flexible wiper blade
1050 can extend partially across the diameter of the hollow
elongate member or can extend across the interior of the hollow
elongate member in any other manner that allows the wiper blade
1050 to sweep across at least a portion of the interior of the
hollow elongate member.
[0068] In FIGS. 16-18, a rotation of the levers 1015, 1017 can
cause the flexible wiper 2050 to sweep across an interior 208 of
the hollow elongate member 205 in which the flexible wiper blade
assembly 1000 is inserted. For example, in FIG. 17, the first lever
1015 has been rotated counterclockwise. In response to this
counterclockwise rotation of the first lever 1015, the first end
1005 of the flexible wiper blade 1050 is also rotated
counterclockwise. As the second end 1007 of the flexible wiper
blade 1050 has not been rotated, the flexible wiper blade 1050
deforms or flexes. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the
flexible wiper blade 1050 can flex and form a reverse-S-shape. As
the flexible wiper blade 1050 can flex, the flexible wiper blade
1050 can sweep across approximately half of an interior 208 of the
hollow elongate member 205 in which the flexible wiper blade
assembly 1000 is inserted. In another embodiment, the flexible
wiper blade 1050 can sweep across an exterior surface of an
implement (not shown), for example, across the lens of an
endoscope. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 16-18,
the flexible wiper blade 1050 can be flexed to sweep across the
remaining half of the interior 208 of the hollow elongate member
205 upon a rotation of the second lever 1017. For example, in FIG.
18, the second lever 1017 can be rotated clockwise, which thereby
rotates the second end 1007 of the flexible wiper blade 1050 to
also rotate counterclockwise. As a result of this rotation, the
flexible wiper blade 1050 can continue to flex. As the rotation of
the first lever 1015 can cause the wiper blade 1050 to flex into a
reverse-S-shape, the rotation of the second lever 1017 can cause
the wiper blade 1050 to continue to flex out of the
reverse-S-shape. For example, the rotation of the second lever 1017
can cause the flexible wiper blade 1050 to flex into a
semi-circular shape, as illustrated in FIG. 18. In FIG. 18, the
flexible wiper blade 1050 has flexed to a position that is a minor
image of the beginning position of the flexible wiper blade 1050
before either of the levers 1015, 1017 has been rotated. As
illustrated in FIG. 18, the flexible wiper blade 1050 has swept
across substantially an entirety of the interior 208 of the hollow
elongate member 205.
[0069] FIGS. 19-21 illustrate an exemplary non-limiting embodiment
of a trocar assembly 200 having a biasing mechanism 1100. The
biasing mechanism 1100 can be configured to maintain the trocar
assembly 200 in the second position 2500. For example, the biasing
mechanism 1100 can maintain the at least one jaw 210 of the trocar
assembly 200 in a position where the end 213 of the jaw is
positioned radially away from the longitudinal axis (for example, a
longitudinal center line) of the hollow elongate member 205. By
biasing the trocar assembly 200 in the second position 2500 (e.g.,
the expanded position), implements 400 (not shown) can be inserted
and removed during medical procedures performed within the body
cavity without having to continually transition the at least one
jaw 210 between the first position 2000 and the second position
2500. As the trocar assembly 200 can be biased in the second
position 2500 after being inserted into the body cavity of the
patient, there can be fewer moving parts within the body cavity and
less irritation to the interior of the body cavity.
[0070] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the
scope cleaners 700, 900, 1000 illustrated in FIGS. 6-16 can be
removably coupled to the trocar assembly 200. For example, with the
scope cleaner 700 illustrated in FIGS. 9-13, the scope cleaner 700
can be detachable from the jaw 210. In other embodiments, the scope
cleaners can be removably insertable from the hollow elongate
member 205.
[0071] While FIG. 6-16 illustrate scope cleaners 700, 900, 1000
that include a wiping blade mechanism, those of ordinary skill in
the art will appreciate that other scope cleaners can be
implemented. For example, the scope cleaner can include a cleaning
spray 590 (for example, as illustrated in FIG. 5). The cleaning
spray 590 can include a fluid line 591, 592 connected to an
actuator (not shown), which when actuated sprays fluid from the
fluid line 591, 592. The fluid can be a liquid or a gas. The fluid
can be a cleaning fluid or a drying fluid. In FIG. 5, the cleaning
spray includes two fluid lines 591, 592. However, those of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that one fluid line can be used or
more than two fluid lines can be used. In FIG. 5, one of the fluid
lines 591 can spray a cleaning fluid onto a lens of an endoscope
inserted in the trocar assembly 200. The other fluid line 592 can
spray a drying fluid onto the lens of the endoscope.
[0072] Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that
the scope cleaner can be offset laterally or rotated on a hinge
offset from the at least one jaw 210 to position the scope cleaner
away from the path of an implement 400 inserted into the trocar
assembly 200.
[0073] In FIGS. 19-21 the biasing mechanism 1100 includes a rod
1105 and a bias loop 1110. The bias loop 1110 can be a rigid wire
shaped to conform to a recess 1150 (shown in FIG. 21) formed within
a wall of the at least one jaw 210 the at least one jaw 210 of the
trocar assembly 200. In FIGS. 19-21, the bias loop 1110 has an
oblong shape; however, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the bias loop 1110 can have other shapes. Some
examples of other shapes include a wedge like shape or a round disk
like shape. In FIGS. 19-21, the bias loop 1110 has a first end
configured to engage a first recess of the at least one jaw 210 the
at least one jaw 210. The bias loop 1110 can also have a second end
configured to engage a second recess of the at least one jaw 210.
As illustrated in FIG. 21, the recess 1150 can be formed in an
outer wall of the at least one jaw 210. The recess 1150 can have a
rounded shape to accommodate a rounded portion of the bias loop
1110. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that the recess 1150 can have any other shape, so long as the
recess 1150 can accommodate the bias loop 1110.
[0074] In FIGS. 19-21, the bias loop 1110 can have pressure applied
thereto to urge the at least one jaw 210 of the trocar assembly 200
towards the second position 2500 and maintain the trocar assembly
200 there. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the bias loop
1110 can be coupled to an actuator 1115. For example, the actuator
1115 can be a lever, a knob, a dial, or any other actuator which
can be actuated to place pressure onto the bias loop 1110. In FIG.
21, the bias loop 1110 is coupled to the actuator 1115 by a
substantially rigid wire; however, in other embodiments, the bias
loop 1110 can be coupled to the actuator by a rod, a stem, or other
member which can transfer pressure from the actuator 1115 to the
bias loop 1110. As illustrated in FIGS. 19-20, when the actuator
1115 is actuator, pressure is placed on the bias loop 1110, which
thereby places pressure against the interior of the recess 1150 of
the jaw. As pressure is placed against the interior of the recess
1150, the at least one jaw 210 can be rotated from the first
position 2000, illustrated in FIG. 19, to the second position 2500,
illustrated in FIG. 20. When the actuator 1115 is maintained in a
position that constantly applies pressure to the bias loop 1110,
the trocar assembly 200 can be maintained in the second position
2500 (e.g., expanded position). When the actuator 1115 is released
from the position that applies pressure to the bias loop 1110,
pressure is removed from the bias loop 1110, and the at least one
jaw 210 can be transitioned back to the first position 2000 (e.g.,
rest position) illustrated in FIG. 19. FIGS. 19-21 illustrate a
biasing mechanism 1100 that includes two biasing loops 1110;
however, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
the trocar assembly 200 can have fewer or more than two loops 1110.
Additionally, while FIGS. 19-21 illustrate a biasing mechanism 1100
that includes an actuator 1115 and a biasing loop 1100, those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other biasing
mechanisms 1110 can be utilized to maintain the trocar assembly 200
in the second position 2500. For example, the biasing mechanism
1100 can be a plug, a stopper, or other mechanism which can bias
the trocar assembly in the second position 2500.
[0075] In at least one embodiment, the jawed trocar assembly 200
can include a reflecting member 1200, as illustrated in FIGS. 22
and 23. The reflecting member 1200 can allow for a radial view by
an endoscope (not shown) inserted therein. For example, an
endoscope can be inserted into the jawed trocar assembly to provide
an axial view of the body cavity into which the jawed trocar
assembly 200 is inserted. However, in some instances, the optics
looking axially can be difficult due to shallow angles and
reflections. A reflecting member 1200, for example, as illustrated
in FIG. 22, can enhance the views provided by the endoscope. For
example, the reflecting member 1200 can have a reflective surface
which can reflect an image of the body cavity or the incision
surface of the body tissue to be penetrated to an endoscope
inserted into the jawed trocar assembly. That is, the body cavity
or body tissue to be penetrated which is radially adjacent to the
jawed trocar assembly 200 when the jawed trocar assembly 200 is
inserted in the body cavity can be reflected via the reflecting
member 1200 to the endoscope inserted in the hollow elongate member
205 of the jawed trocar assembly 200.
[0076] FIG. 22 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of such a
reflecting member 1200. In FIG. 22, the reflecting member 1200 can
be a cylindrical member sized to fit within the hollow elongate
member 205 of the jawed trocar assembly 200. The reflecting member
1200 can have a reflective portion 1205 which can reflect an image
of the area radially adjacent to the trocar assembly 200 to an
endoscope inserted in the hollow elongate member 205. For example,
the reflective portion 1205 can be a mirror. As illustrated in FIG.
22, the reflective portion 1205 can have an angled surface (not
labeled) to further enhance the radial view of the endoscope. For
example, the angled surface can be angled: forty-five degrees along
the diameter of the reflective portion 1205 (as illustrated in FIG.
22), sixty-degrees along the diameter of the reflective portion
1205, forty-degrees along the diameter of the reflective portion
1205, forty-five degrees along a radius of the reflective portion
1205, forty-five degrees along a portion of the diameter of the
reflective portion 1205, or any other along the reflective portion
1205 so long as areas radially adjacent to the trocar assembly 200
can be reflected axially into the hollow elongate member 205 to an
endoscope inserted therein. As the angled surface of the reflective
portion 1205 can reflect images of areas radially adjacent to the
trocar assembly to an endoscope axially inserted therein,
information about the penetration and breakthrough areas of the
body cavity and body tissue can be readily viewed by the operator
of the endoscope.
[0077] The reflecting member 1200 can have a locking portion 1210
coupled thereto, as illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23. In FIG. 22, the
locking portion 1210 can be a hollow cylindrical member formed on a
side of the reflecting member 1200 opposite to the reflective
portion 1205. The locking portion 1210 can be configured to lock
the jaws 210 of the trocar assembly 200 in the first position 2000
(for example, the resting position). The locking portion 1210 can
operate similar to the locking member 300 discussed above. In FIGS.
22 and 23, at least one locking tab 1215 is formed on the locking
portion 1210. For example, in FIG. 22, four locking tabs 1215 are
formed on a circumference of the locking portion 1210. However,
those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there can
be fewer or more locking tabs 1215 than as illustrated in FIG. 22.
Those of skill in the art will also appreciate that the locking
tabs 1215 can be locking feet, locking posts, locking pegs, or
other locking members configured to engage a recess of the trocar
assembly 200 to maintain the at least one jaw 210 in the rest
position 2000.
[0078] In FIGS. 22 and 23, the reflecting member 1200 can include a
placement tool 1225. The placement tool 1225 can be releasably
couplable to the reflecting member 1200 to insert the reflecting
member 1200 in the hollow elongate member 205 of the trocar
assembly. In FIGS. 22 and 23, the placement tool 1225 can be a
hollow member 1226 in which the reflecting member 1200 can be
received. For example, in FIG. 22, the reflective portion 1205 can
include a threaded portion 1220 configured for mating engagement
with a respective threaded portion 1230 formed on the placement
tool 1225. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
the reflective portion 1205 can be releasably couplable to the
placement tool 1225 by other mechanism such as a snap-fitting, a
conformance fitting, a twist-and-release fitting, or other
releasable coupling.
[0079] When the reflecting member 1200 is to be inserted into the
trocar assembly 200, the reflecting member 1200 can be coupled to
the placement tool 1225 prior to inserting the reflecting member
1200 into the trocar assembly. For example, the threaded portion
1220 of the reflective portion 1205 of the reflecting member 1200
can be matingly threaded to the threaded portion 1230 of the
placement tool 1225, thereby securing the reflecting member 1200 to
the placement tool 1225. The placement tool 1225 can then be
inserted into the hollow elongate member 205 of the trocar assembly
200 and advanced therethrough until the locking portion 1215 of the
reflecting member 1200 engages the at least one jaw 210 of the
trocar assembly 200 to lock the trocar assembly 200 in the rest
position 2000. The placement tool 1225 can disengage the reflective
portion 1205. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 23, the placement
tool 1225 can disengage the reflective portion 1205 by rotating the
placement tool 1225 in a direction that unmates the threaded
portion 1230 of the placement tool 1225 from the threaded portion
1220 of the reflecting member 1200. When the placement tool 1225 is
disengaged from the reflecting member 1200, the placement tool 1225
can be removed from the hollow elongate member 205 of the trocar
assembly 200. The reflecting member 1200 can remain inside the
hollow elongate member 205. In FIG. 23, the hollow elongate member
205 can have optically semi-transparent walls. For example, the
hollow elongate member 205 can be clear, transparent,
semi-transparent, or otherwise see-through so that images of areas
adjacent to the hollow elongate member 205 can be reflected by the
reflective surface 1205 of the reflecting member 1200. In FIG. 23,
in the event an endoscope or other camera implement is inserted in
the hollow elongate member, the reflective portion 1205 can reflect
images of areas adjacent to the hollow elongate member 205 to the
endoscope or camera implement. For example, as shown in FIG. 23,
the reflected images can follow the radial viewing path 1240. When
the trocar assembly 200 is to be transitioned into the expanded
position (for example, as illustrated in FIG. 20), the placement
tool 1225 can be inserted into the hollow elongate member 205, can
matingly engage the reflecting member 1200, and can be removed from
the hollow elongate member 205, thereby permitting the at least one
jaw 210 of the trocar assembly 200 to transition into the expanded
position.
[0080] The reflecting member 1200 thereby enables the camera
implement to transmit an image reflected by the reflecting member
1200 to the operator of the camera implement. Thus, with the
reflecting member 1200 and the camera implement, the operator of
the trocar assembly can receive: enhanced views of the body tissue
to be penetrated by the trocar assembly 200 and side views and
radial views of the interior of the body cavity when the trocar
assembly 200 is inserted therein.
[0081] While the FIGS. 1-23 illustrate a jawed trocar assembly in
which the at least one jaw 210 is formed on or permanently coupled
to the hollow elongate member 205, those of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate that the at least one jaw 210 can be releasably
coupled to the hollow elongate member 205. For example, the at
least one jaw 210 and the end of the hollow elongate member 205 to
which the at least one jaw 210 can have corresponding threaded
engagement portions. That is, the at least one jaw 210 can be
releasably coupled to the hollow elongate member 205 by screwing
the at least one jaw 210 to the hollow elongate member 205. In
other embodiments, the at least one jaw can 210 can be releasably
coupled to the hollow elongate member 205 by a snap-fit engagement
or any other releasable coupling. By having a releasably couplable
at least one jaw 210, the jaw 210 can be disposable or reusable.
The jaw 210 can also be configured to fit existing trocar members,
disposable trocars, or other hollow elongate member. In another
embodiment, the hollow elongate member 205 can have a slit
extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow elongate
member 205 and extending along a majority of the longitudinal axis.
For example, the slit can extend along 30 percent, 50 percent, 75
percent, or any other majority of the longitudinal axis.
[0082] While FIGS. 1-23 illustrate a pair of jaws having symmetric
jaws, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the
jaws need not be symmetrical. For example, the jaws can be
asymmetrical with respect to each other. That is, one jaw can have
a greater surface area than the other, one jaw can be larger in
size as compared to the other, one jaw can have a contour different
from the other jaw, or one jaw can be otherwise different from the
other jaw.
[0083] A method of inserting an endoscopic tool assembly into a
body cavity, where the endoscopic tool assembly includes any one of
the trocar assemblies 200 described herein and illustrated herein,
can include making an incision through a first body tissue. The
trocar assembly can be inserted into the incision. The trocar
assembly 200 can be advanced through the incision such that the at
least one jaw 210 of the trocar assembly 200 engages a second body
tissue. The trocar assembly 200 can be urged against the second
body tissue to penetrate through the second body tissue. The
endoscopic tool can be inserted through the trocar assembly 200.
The endoscopic tool can be advanced through the trocar assembly 200
beyond the second end 207 of the elongate hollow member 205,
thereby transitioning the trocar assembly 200 from the rest
position 2000 to the expanded position 2500. The endoscopic tool
can be extended beyond the end 213 of the at least one jaw 210.
[0084] In at least one embodiment, a locking member 300 can be
inserted through the trocar assembly 200 prior to inserting the
trocar assembly 200 through the incision. This can thereby ensure
that the at least one jaw 210 is rigid enough to penetrate through
the second layer of body tissue. The locking member 300 can be
removed from the trocar assembly 200 after the trocar assembly 200
has been advanced to penetrate the second body tissue, thereby
allowing for the insertion of the endoscopic tool or any other
implement 400 to be used for medical procedures within the body
cavity.
[0085] A method of cleaning an endoscopic tool assembly inserted
into a body cavity, where the endoscopic tool assembly includes any
one of the trocar assemblies 200 having a scope cleaner described
and illustrated herein, can include urging the trocar assembly 200
against a body tissue to penetrate through the body tissue. An
endoscopic camera of the endoscopic tool can be inserted though the
trocar assembly 200. The endoscopic camera can be advanced through
the trocar assembly 200 beyond the second end of the elongate
hollow member, thereby transitioning the trocar assembly from the
rest position 2000 to the expanded position 2500. The endoscopic
camera can be extended beyond the end 213 of the at least one jaw
210 to expose the lens 415 of the endoscopic camera 400 to the body
cavity. In the event the lens 415 of the camera becomes dirty or
accumulates debris that impedes the visibility of the surgeon
during the medial procedure, the endoscopic camera 400 can be
retracted into the elongate hollow elongate member 205 of the
trocar assembly 200. This can thereby transition the trocar
assembly 200 from the expanded position 2500 to the rest position
2000. The lens 415 can engage with the scope cleaner of the trocar
assembly 200 thereby cleaning debris off of the lens 415. The
endoscopic camera 400 can be reciprocated within the elongate
hollow member 205 such that the lens 415 is reciprocated between
being exterior to the end 213 of the at least one jaw 210 and being
interior to the at least one jaw 210 and engaged with the scope
cleaner.
[0086] In another embodiment, the endoscopic camera 400 can be
rotated within the hollow elongate member 205 after the endoscopic
camera 400 has been retracted into the hollow elongate member 205
and after the lens 415 has been engaged with the scope cleaner. The
rotations of the endoscopic camera 400 can cause the scope cleaner
to wipe debris off of the lens 415.
[0087] In yet another embodiment, the endoscopic camera 400 can be
cleaned by actuating a lever of the scope cleaner after the lens
415 has been engaged with the scope cleaner. The actuation of the
lever can cause a wiper of the scope cleaner to undulate across the
surface of the lens to wipe debris of the lens. In another
exemplary embodiment, actuating a lever of the scope cleaner after
the lens has been engaged with the scope cleaner can cause a spray
of a cleaning fluid against the lens. For example, the cleaning
fluid can be a liquid, a gas, or can include both liquid and gas.
For example, the scope cleaner can include two lines of cleaning
fluid positioned interiorly adjacent to the end of the jaw, and
actuating the lever can spray the cleaning fluid from each of the
two lines. However, those of skill in the art will realize that
there may be fewer or more lines of cleaning fluid for cleaning a
lens.
[0088] As illustrated in FIG. 24, the trocar assembly can take the
form of a removable trocar tip assembly 2002. The removable trocar
tip assembly 2002, for example a removable trocar cap, can be
configured to be mated with a trocar 2006 which does not include
the features as described herein. The trocar tip assembly 2002
allows for a trocar to be assembled and manufactured so that the
trocar assembly 2002 can be optionally included. This results in
reduced tooling, while allowing increased selection and performance
by the operator. The trocar tip assembly 2002 can be sized so as to
mate with a desired trocar 2006. Additionally, the trocar 2006 can
include a coupling device 2004. The coupling device 2004 allows for
the trocar tip assembly 2002 to be coupled to the trocar 2006 in a
fashion so as to resist removal. As illustrated the trocar cap
coupling device 2004 is at least one catch pocket formed on the
trocar 2006. The coupling device 2004 can be other types of
mechanisms to assist in the retention of the trocar tip assembly
2002 once it is installed on the trocar 2006, but allow removal of
the trocar tip assembly 2002 under certain circumstances.
Additionally the trocar tip assembly 2002 can include a
corresponding coupling device (not shown). The trocar tip assembly
2002 can include at least a lens wiper as described herein to clean
the lens of a camera. Additionally, an instrument sleeve 2008 is
included which allows for operation of the trocar cap 2002, which
includes at least one of the features as described herein. For
example, the instrument sleeve 2008 can slip inside of the trocar
2006. The instrument sleeve then can be used to open the trocar tip
assembly 2002.
[0089] In at least one embodiment, the trocar assembly can include
a trocar and a tip assembly removably couplable to the trocar as
illustrated in FIGS. 25-35. The tip assembly 2508, 2514 allows for
retrofitting existing trocars to turn a trocar which does not
include the features as described in FIGS. 1-23 into one that has a
jawed trocar tip, such as the one illustrated in FIG. 24, for
example. As will be described with respect to FIGS. 25-35, the tip
assembly 2508, 2514 is couplable to an end of an existing or "off
the shelf" trocar such that the existing trocar is provided with a
jawed assembly at the end thereof.
[0090] FIG. 25 is an exploded view of a trocar assembly 2500
including a trocar 2501, a tip assembly 2508, 2514, a locking
member 2526 (such as the locking members discussed above), and a
locking-member-removal tool 2536. The trocar 2501 illustrated in
FIG. 25 is an existing trocar. For example, a previously-purchased
trocar, an off-the shell trocar, a commercially available trocar, a
third-party trocar (such as a trocar manufactured or sold by a
party other than the manufacturer or vendor of the tip assembly
2508, 2514), a separately-sold trocar, or any other existing
trocar. The existing trocar 2501 can include an elongate member
2502 having a first end 2504 and a second end 2506. The first end
2504 can be a proximal end, such as the end that will be closest to
the hand of the operator. The first end 2504 can be the end through
which endoscopic implements or other implements are inserted during
endoscopic procedures. The second end 2506 can be a distal end,
such as the end that will be inserted into body cavity during
endoscopic procedures.
[0091] A tip assembly 2508, 2514 can be coupled to the second end
2506 of the trocar 2501. The tip assembly 2508, 2514 can include
adapter sleeve 2508 and the jaw assembly component 2514. As
illustrated in FIG. 25, the adapter sleeve 2508 can be a hollow
cylindrical sleeve configured to receive the second end 2506 of the
trocar 2501. While FIG. 25 illustrates the adapter sleeve 2508 as a
hollow cylindrical sleeve, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the adapter sleeve can be a hollow structure of any
other shape that is configured to couple the jaw assembly component
2514 to the second end 2506 of the trocar 2501.
[0092] In FIG. 25, the tip assembly 2508, 2514 can include a jaw
assembly component 2514. The jaw assembly component 2514 can be a
member having a proximal end 2516 and a distal end 2518. The
proximal end 2516 can be configured to be coupled to the adapter
sleeve 2508. The distal end 2518 can be the end that will be
inserted to the body cavity. As illustrated in FIG. 25, the distal
end 2518 of the jaw assembly component 2514 can include at least
one jaw 2520, 2522. In FIG. 25, the jaw assembly component 2514 can
include a pair of jaws 2520, 2522; however, those of ordinary skill
in the art will appreciate that fewer or more jaws can be included
than as illustrated, so long as the jaw assembly component 2514
includes at least one jaw. In FIG. 25, the pair of jaws 2520, 2522
are hingedly coupled to the distal end 2518 of the jaw assembly
component 2514. The pair of jaws 2520, 2522 can be hingedly coupled
such that the jaw assembly component 2514 has a first position and
a second position. While not illustrated in FIGS. 25-35, those of
ordinary skill will appreciate that the first position for jaw
assembly component 2514 can be similar to the first position (such
as a rest position) and the second position (such as the expanded
position), described above with respect to the jawed trocar
assemblies illustrated in FIGS. 1-24. For example, the tip assembly
2508, 2514 can have a first position such that the jaws 2520, 2522
are substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 2600 (illustrated
in FIG. 26) of the adapter sleeve 2508 and a second position where
at least one of the jaws 2520, 2522 is rotated such that an end of
at least one of the jaws 2520, 2522 is positioned radially away
from the longitudinal axis 2600. Also as illustrate in FIG. 25, one
of the jaws 2520, 2522 can have a penetrating member 2524 or
penetrating surface a distal end of one of the jaw 2520, 2522.
Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the jaws
2520, 2522 of the jaw assembly component 2508 can be configured in
accordance with any of the jaws of the jawed trocars described in
relation to and illustrated in FIGS. 1-24.
[0093] Also illustrated in FIG. 25, the tip assembly 2508, 2514 can
include a locking member 2526 configured to maintain the jaw
assembly component 2520 in the first position (such as the rest
position). The locking member 2526 can be similar to the locking
members described above in relation to FIGS. 1-23. As illustrated
in FIG. 25, the locking member 2526 can be insertable into the jaw
assembly component 2514 of the tip assembly 2508, 2514. The adapter
sleeve 2508 can be configured to fit around the locking member 2526
such that the locking member 2526 is positioned within the adapter
sleeve 2508, as will be described further in relation to FIGS.
26-35.
[0094] In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 25, the
locking member 2526 can be a locking collar. The locking member
2526 can be a cylindrical member 2527 having a proximal end 2532
and a distal end 2528. The proximal end 2532 can be received within
the adapter sleeve 2508 and the elongate member 2502 of the trocar
2501, when the tip assembly 2508, 2514 is assembled with the trocar
2501. The distal end 2528 can include at least one tab 2530
configured to be received by the jawed component assembly 2514 (for
example, by a slot 3005 (shown in FIG. 30) formed in an interior
portion of the jawed component assembly 2514) such that the at
least one tab 2530 maintains the jawed component assembly 2514 in a
first or rest position. The tab 2530 can be integrally formed in
the distal end 2528 of the locking member 2526 or can be affixed,
attached, or otherwise coupled to the distal end 2528 of the
locking member 2526. The tab 2530 can be a foot, a peg, or any
other protrusion which can be configured to maintain the jawed
component assembly 2514 in the first or rest position. In FIG. 25,
the locking member 2526 includes four tabs 2530 integrally formed
on and protruding outwardly from the distal end 2528. Those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that fewer or more tabs
2530 can be included in the locking member 2530, so long as the
locking member 2526 includes at least one tab 2530.
[0095] The proximal end 2532 of the locking member 2526 can include
at least one removing member 2534 configured to cooperate with a
locking-member-removal tool 2536, such as the one illustrated in
FIG. 25. The at least one removing member 2534 can be configured to
matingly engage with the locking-member-removal tool 2536 such that
the locking member 2526 can be disengage from the jawed component
assembly 2514, thereby permitting the jawed component assembly 2514
to be transitionable into a second position, such as an expanded
position. The at least one removing member 2534 can be integrally
formed with, affixed to, attached to, or otherwise coupled to the
proximal end 2543 of the locking member 2526. In FIG. 25, the
locking member comprises two removing member 2534. The two removing
members 2534 can be arms which protrude from the proximal end 2527
of the locking member 2526 in a direction towards the proximal end
2504 of the trocar 2501 when the tip assembly 2508, 2514 is
assembled with the trocar 2501. The removing members 2534 can be
shaped to matingly engage with a corresponding receiving portion of
the locking-member-removal tool 2536 such that when the removing
member 2534 matingly engages the locking-member removal tool 2536,
the locking-member-removal tool 2536 grasps or grips onto the
removing member 2534 to remove the locking member 2526 from the jaw
assembly component 2514.
[0096] The locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be a member 2536
such as a tubular member, a cylindrical member, or any other
elongate member that can be inserted into a trocar 2501 and tip
assembly 2508, 2514 to remove a locking member 2526 received by the
jaw assembly component 2514 of the tip assembly such that the jaw
assembly component 2514 can be transitioned into a second or
expanded position. The locking-member-removal tool 2536 can have a
distal end 2538 configured to engage the proximal end 2532 of the
locking member 2526. The distal end 2538 can be configured to
matingly engage the proximal end 2532 of the locking member 2526
such that the locking-member removal tool 2536 grasps or grips the
locking member 2526 to disengage the locking member 2526 from the
jaw assembly component 2514 in the event the jaw assembly component
2514 receives the locking member 2526. For example, as illustrated
in FIG. 25, the distal end 2538 of the locking-member removal tool
2536 can define at least one recess 2540 configured to matingly
engage the at least one removing members 2534 of the locking member
2526. For example, the at least one recess 2540 can act as a catch
to catch, grip, or otherwise securely receive a portion of the
removing members 2534, such that when the locking-member-removal
tool 2536 is withdrawn or removed from the trocar 2504, the locking
member 2526 remains securely coupled to the locking-member-removal
tool 2536, which thereby disengages the locking member 2526 from
the jaw assembly component 2514 to permit the jaw assembly
component 2514 to be transitionable into the second or expanded
position. The removal of the locking member 2526 will be discussed
in further detail with respect to FIGS. 27-35.
[0097] First, however, this disclosure turns to FIG. 26 which
illustrates the assembly of the trocar 2501, the tip assembly 2508,
2514, and the locking member 2526. In FIG. 26, the proximal end
2516 of the jaw assembly component 2514 can be coupled to a distal
end 2512 of the adapter sleeve 2508. In FIG. 26, the adapter sleeve
2508 and the jaw assembly component 2514 are configured for mating
engagement. For example, the mating engagement 2605 between the
adapter sleeve 2508 and the jaw assembly component 2514 is
identified by a dashed circle. Close-up views are provided in FIG.
26 illustrating the adapter sleeve 2508 and the jaw assembly
component 2514 in a mating engagement and a non-mating engagement.
As illustrated in FIG. 26, the adapter sleeve 2508 includes a
mating member 2602 coupled to or formed on the distal end 2512 of
the adapter sleeve 2508 and configured to matingly engage a
corresponding mating member 2606 coupled to or formed on the
proximal end 2516 of the jaw assembly component 2514. For example,
the mating member 2602 can include a lip 2604 configured to
matingly engage a corresponding rim 2608 of the jaw assembly
component 2514. In one embodiment, the mating member 2602 of the
adapter sleeve 2508 and the corresponding mating member 2606 of the
jaw assembly component 2514 can be a threaded assembly, a
snap-engagement assembly, a press-fit assembly, a pin assembly, or
any other mating assembly which permits the mating engagement of
the adapter sleeve 2508 to the jaw assembly component 2514.
[0098] In FIG. 26, the proximal end 2510 of the adapter sleeve 2508
can receive a distal end 2506 of the elongate member 2502 of the
trocar 2501. For example, the proximal end 2510 of the adapter
sleeve 2508 can have a diameter that is larger than the diameter of
the distal end 2506 of the trocar 2501 such that the distal end
2506 can be inserted in the proximal end 2510 of the adapter sleeve
2508. In another example, the distal end 2506 can be tapered, such
that the distal end 2506 can be inserted in the proximal end 2510
of the adapter sleeve 2508. In FIG. 26, the distal end 2506 of the
trocar 2501 can be snug-fit, press-fit, adhered, affixed,
static-fit, friction-fit, coupled by a ring, or otherwise coupled
to the proximal end 2510 of the adapter sleeve 2508 such that the
trocar 2501 and adapter sleeve 2508 remain coupled during
endoscopic procedures. The adapter sleeve 2508 can be configured
such that the adapter sleeve 2508 is removably couplable to the
trocar 2501, thereby permitting the interchangeability of the
adapter sleeve 2508 with other trocars 2501 and the disposability
of the adapter sleeve 2508 after one or more medical or endoscopic
procedures. In other embodiments, the adapter sleeve 2508 can
remain coupled to the trocar 2501, and the jaw assembly component
2514 can be removable from the adapter sleeve 2508, thereby
permitting the interchangeability of the jaw assembly component
2514 with a plurality of trocars 2501. Additionally, the
removability of the jaw assembly component 2514 from the adapter
sleeve 2508 can permit the disposal of the jaw assembly component
2514 after one or more medical or endoscopic procedures.
[0099] Also illustrated in FIG. 26, the locking member 2526 can be
received by the jaw assembly component 2514. As illustrated in FIG.
26, as the locking member 2526 is received by the jaw assembly
component 2514, the jaw assembly component 2514 is maintained in
the first or rest position, where the jaws of the jaw assembly
component 2514 are parallel to the longitudinal axis 2600 of the
adapter sleeve 2508 (which can also be the longitudinal axis of the
elongate member 2502 of the trocar 2501). As illustrated in FIG.
26, when the jaw assembly component 2514 is assembled with the
adapter sleeve 2508, the locking member 2526 is located within the
adapter sleeve 2508 and the jaw component assembly 2514. Also, in
FIG. 6, when the trocar 2501, adapter sleeve 2508, and jaw
component assembly 2514 are assembled, the locking member 2526 is
located interiorly with respect to each of the trocar 2501, adapter
sleeve 2508, and jaw component assembly 2514 such that the proximal
end 2532 of the locking member 2526 is positioned within an
interior of the elongate member 2502 of the trocar 2501.
[0100] The removal of the locking member 2526 will now be discussed
with respect to FIGS. 27-29 which are perspective views of a trocar
2501 assembled with the tip assembly 2508, 2514 having a locking
member 2526.
[0101] In FIG. 27, a locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be
inserted through the proximal end 2504 of the trocar 2501. The
locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be advanced through the
elongate member 2502 of the trocar 2501 until the distal end 2538
of the locking-member-removal tool 2536 engages the proximal end
2532 of the locking member 2526. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 28, the locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be advanced such
that the distal end 2538 of the locking-member-removal tool 2536
engages the removing members 2534 of the proximal end 2532 of the
locking member 2526.
[0102] In FIG. 28, the recesses 2540 of the locking-member-removal
tool 2536 receive the removing members 2534 of the locking member
2526. For example, the removing members 2534 can be biased away
from a center of the locking member 2526 such that when the distal
end 2538 of the locking-member-removal tool 2536 is advanced
towards the removing members 2534, the removing members 2534 are
deformed or squeezed toward one another and toward a center of the
locking member 2526. Then, as the distal end 2538 of the
locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be further advanced toward the
locking member 2526, the biasing of the removing members 2534 away
from the center of the locking member 2526 can bias the ends of the
removing members 2534 such that the ends removing members 2534
catch or are received by a corresponding recess 2540 of the
locking-member-removal tool 2536. As the locking-member-removal
tool 2536 and the removing members 2534 of the locking member 2526
are now matingly engaged, the locking-member-removal tool 2536 can
be withdrawn from the trocar 2501, as illustrated in FIG. 29.
[0103] In FIG. 29, the locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be
withdrawn from the trocar 2501 such that the locking-member-removal
tool 2536 is removed from the trocar 2501. As illustrated in FIG.
29, as the locking-member-removal tool 2536 and the removing
members 2534 of the locking member 2526 are matingly engaged, the
locking member 2526 is also removed from the trocar 2501, and as a
result disengaged and removed from the jaw assembly component 2514
of the tip assembly 2505, 2514, thereby permitting the jaw assembly
component 2514 to be transitionable into the second or expanded
position for medical or endoscopic procedures.
[0104] FIGS. 30 and 31 are cross-sectional views of the assembly of
jaw assembly component 2514 and the adapter sleeve 2508 of the tip
assembly 2508, 2514 with the locking member 2526. The assembly of
the tip assembly 2508, 2514 and the locking member 2526 is similar
to that described with respect to FIG. 26, except that the slots
3005 of the jaw assembly component 2514 are more clearly
illustrated. As discussed above, the slots 3005 are configured to
receive the tabs 2530 of the locking member 2526 such that jaw
assembly component 2526 can remain in the first of rest position.
Also illustrated in FIG. 30, the jaw assembly component 2514 can
includes a lens cleaner 3010, 3012 coupled to an interior surface
of the jaw assembly component 2514. For example, in FIG. 30, the
lens cleaner includes a first wiper 3010 and a second wiper 2012,
each coupled to one of the first jaw 2520 and the second jaw 2522
of the jaw component assembly 2514. The lens cleaner 2010, 2012 can
be a lens cleaner or scope cleaner as discussed above with respect
to FIGS. 1-24.
[0105] FIG. 32 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembly
of the trocar 2501 with the tip assembly 2508, 2514 assembled in
FIGS. 30 and 31. Specifically, FIG. 32 illustrates the insertion of
a distal end 2506 of the elongate member 2502 of the trocar 2501
into the proximal end 2510 of the adapter sleeve 2508 of the tip
assembly 2508, 2514.
[0106] FIGS. 33-35 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the
removal of the locking member 2526 using the locking-member-removal
tool 2536, as illustrated in FIGS. 27-29, except that that the
slots 3005 of the jaw assembly component 2514 are more clearly
illustrated. While FIGS. 27-35 describe a tip assembly 2508, 2514
in which the adapter sleeve 2508 and the jaw assembly component
2514 are matingly engaged, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the adapter sleeve 2508 and the jaw assembly
component 2514 can be integrally formed. Those of ordinary skill in
the art will appreciate that the adapter sleeve 2508 and jaw
assembly component 2514 can be substantially transparent to allow
light to pass therethrough so that an image can be captured by a
camera within the trocar assembly.
[0107] FIG. 36 is an exploded view of a trocar 2501 and tip
assembly 2508, 2514 similar to that illustrated in FIG. 25, except
that the locking member 3600 and locking-member-removal tool 2536
are different than as illustrated in FIG. 25. In FIG. 36, the
locking member 3600 is shorter in length than the locking member
2526 illustrated in FIG. 25. Similar to the locking member 2526
illustrated in FIG. 25, the locking member 3600 illustrated in FIG.
36 includes a hollow member having a distal end 3605 and a proximal
end 3612. The distal end 3605 of the locking member 3600 can
includes at least one tab 3610 configured to engage corresponding
slots 3705 (shown in FIG. 37) of the jaw assembly component 2514.
As discussed above, the slots 3705 can be formed in an interior
surface of the jaw assembly component 2514. In FIG. 36, the locking
member 3600 includes four tabs 3610 integrally formed and
protruding away from a center of the locking member 3600 towards
the jaw assembly component 2514. In FIG. 36, the proximal end 3612
of the locking member can include four removing members 3614
integrally formed on the proximal end 3612 of the locking member
3600 and protruding away from the center of locking member 3600
towards the proximal end 2504 of the trocar 2501. Similar to the
locking member 2526 illustrated in FIG. 25, the removing members
3614 can be configured to matingly engage an interior surface 4005
(shown in FIG. 40) of the locking-member-removal tool 2536.
[0108] The disclosure now turns to FIGS. 37-38 that illustrate a
cross-sectional view of the assembly of the tip assembly 2508,
2514, For example, FIGS. 37-38 illustrate that the proximal end
2516 of the jaw assembly component 2514 can be configured to
receive the distal end 2512 of the adapter sleeve 2508 via a
threaded assembly, a snap-fit assembly, a press-fit assembly, or
any other coupling configured to couple the jaw assembly component
2514 with the adapter sleeve 2508. The assembly of the jaw assembly
component 2514 with the adapter sleeve 2508 is substantially
similar to that discussed above in relation to FIGS. 30 and 31,
except that the tabs 3610 locking member 3600 are configured to be
received by recess 3705 formed in an interior space of the jaw
assembly component 2502 such that the locking member 3600 is
positioned within an interior space of the jaw assembly component,
rather than an interior space of the adapter sleeve 2508 and/or an
elongate member 2502 of a trocar 2501 assembled with the tip
assembly 2508, 2514. As illustrated in FIGS. 37-38, the ends of the
removing members 3614 of the proximal end 3512 of the locking
member 3600 is positioned with the interior space of the jaw
assembly component 2514.
[0109] FIGS. 39-42 illustrate a cross-sectional view of the removal
of locking member 3600 from the slots 3705 of the jaw assembly
component 2514, thereby permitting the transition of the jaw
assembly component 2514 from the first or rest position to the
second position or expanded position. In FIG. 39, a distal end of
the elongate member 2502 of the trocar 2501 can be inserted in the
adapter sleeve 2508 of the tip assembly 2508, 2514. In FIG. 40, the
locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be inserted through the trocar
2501 an advanced through the elongate member 2502, the adapter
sleeve 2508, and the jaw assembly component 2514, until the distal
end 2530 of the locking-member-removal tool 2536 engages a proximal
end 3612 of the locking member 3600. Similar to FIGS. 33-35, in
FIGS. 40-42, the removing members 3614 of the locking member 3600
can be biased away from a center of the locking member 3600 such
that when the distal end 2538 of the locking-member-removal tool
2536 is advanced towards the removing members 2534, the removing
members 3614 are deformed or squeezed toward one another and toward
a center of the locking member 2600. Then, as the distal end 2538
of the locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be further advanced
toward the locking member 3600, the biasing of the removing members
3614 away from the center of the locking member 3600 can bias the
ends of the removing members 2534 such that the ends removing
members 2534 catch or are received by a corresponding portion 4005
of the locking-member-removal tool 2536, as illustrated in FIG. 41.
For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 40-42, the corresponding
portion 4005 can be an interior edge, a ledge, a protruding rim, or
other portion configured to engage the removing members 3614 of the
locking member 3600, such that the withdrawn of the
locking-member-removal tool 2536 includes the removal of the
locking member 3600 from engagement with the jaw assembly component
2514, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 42. In FIG. 41, the
removing member 3614 of the locking member 3600 engage the
corresponding portion 4005 (an inner ledge formed along an interior
surface of the jaw assembly component 2514) and are biased
outwardly away from the center of the locking member 3600 such that
the removing members 3614 a substantially prevented from
disengaging from the locking-member-removal tool 2536. With the
locking member 3600 matingly engaged with the
locking-member-removal tool 2536, the locking member 3600 matingly
engaged with the locking-member-removal tool 2536 can be removed
from the trocar 2501, thereby permitting the jaw assembly component
2514 to be transitioned from the first or rest position into a
second or expanded position, for example, as illustrated in FIG.
42.
[0110] In FIG. 42, the locking-member-removal tool 2536 is
withdrawn from the tip assembly 2505, 2514 and from the elongate
member 2502 of the trocar 2501. The locking member 3600 can be
coupled the distal end 2530 of the locking-member removal tool 2536
as a result of the mating engagement between the removing members
3614 and the corresponding portion 4005 of the
locking-member-removal tool 2536. Thus, as the locking-member
removal tool 2536 is withdrawn, retracted, or otherwise removed
from the trocar 2501, the locking member 3600 is also withdrawn,
retracted, or otherwise removed from the trocar 2501, thereby
permitting the jaw assembly component 2514 to be transitionable
between the first or rest position and the second or expanded
position for medical or endoscopic procedures.
[0111] Similar to FIGS. 25-35, the tip assembly 2505, 2514
illustrated in FIGS. 36-42 can be removably coupled to the trocar
2501 of a trocar assembly, thereby permitting the
interchangeability of the tip assembly 2505, 2514 with a plurality
of trocars 2501 and the disposability of the tip assembly 2505,
2514 after one or more medical or endoscopic procedures.
Additionally, the adapter sleeve 2508 can remain coupled to the
trocar 2501, and the jaw assembly component 2514 can be removable
from the adapter sleeve 2508, thereby permitting the
interchangeability of the jaw assembly component 2514 with a
plurality of trocars 2501. Additionally, the removability of the
jaw assembly component 2514 from the adapter sleeve 2508 can permit
the disposal of the jaw assembly component 2514 after one or more
medical or endoscopic procedures.
[0112] While FIGS. 25-42 illustrate specific embodiments of a
removable tip assembly 2505, 2514 removably coupled to distal ends
2506 of trocars 2501, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the various components and features disclosed
herein with respect to FIGS. 1-42 can be interchanged and
optionally included to achieve the technical advantages and
benefits of the jawed trocar assembly disclosed herein. For
example, the removable tip assembly 2505, 2514 can include a
reflecting member as described above in relation to FIGS. 22 and
23. In one example, the reflecting member can be coupled to or
integrally formed with the locking member 2526 removably coupled to
the jaw assembly component 2526 of the tip assembly 2505, 2514.
[0113] In another embodiment, another jaw retention device can be
implemented either in place of the locking member or in addition to
the locking member. When implemented in addition to the locking
member, the jaw retention device further provides for an additional
mechanism to hold the jaws in a closed configuration. The closed
configuration is used during the insertion of the tip assembly and
the associated trocar.
[0114] One example of another jaw retention device is illustrated
in FIG. 43, which is a side elevation view of an exemplary tip
assembly 2002, in a closed configuration, having an exemplarily jaw
retention device in the form of a band 4302. The band 4302 can be
configured to encircle the jaws 4310, 4312. When the band 4302
encircles the jaws 4310, 4312, the band 4302 holds the jaws 4310,
4312 in a closed configuration such that lower jaw 4312
substantially abuts the upper jaw 4310. As used herein, substantial
abutment of the lower jaw 4312 with the upper jaw 4310 indicates a
close fit such that there can be a small space between the lower
jaw 4312 and the upper jaw 4310 or almost no space such that the
lower jaw 4312 is pressed against the upper jaw 4310. The
substantial abutment of the lower jaw 4312 and upper jaw 4310 is a
close fit so as to allow tip assembly 2002 to penetrate as
described herein without tearing tissue. The band 4302 includes two
notched portions 4306 (the other notched portion is on the reverse
side). The notched portion 4306 is configured to promote fracturing
of the band 4302 at substantially the region of the band 4302 that
overlaps the region where the upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312
abut one another.
[0115] The band 4302 can be configured in a variety of ways to
facilitate the implementation with the tip assembly. For example,
the edges of the band 4302 can be tapered so as to provide a smooth
transition from the jaws 4310, 4312 to the band 4302. In at least
one implementation, the band 4302 can be co-molded with the first
jaw 4310 and the second jaw 4312, for example using a two shot
molding process. In another implementation, the band 4302 can be
include an adhesive such that the band 4302 is slipped over the tip
of the tip assembly 2002 and pressed into position. In yet another
embodiment, the band 4302 can be an adhesive tape that is wrapped
around the first jaw 4310 and the second jaw 4312. When the band
4302 is a tape, the seam of the tape can be either on the first jaw
4310 or the second jaw 4312 away from the portion of the jaws 4310,
4312 that abut one another. The tape can include notched portions
4302 as illustrated.
[0116] The band 4302 can be fractured thereby allowing the upper
jaw 4310 to separate from the lower jaw 4312. In order to fracture
the band 4302, an implement 400 such as an endoscope or camera
implement as described herein. The jaws 4310, 4312 can be
configured to operate as described herein above. For example, the
jaws 4310, 4312 can be configured to open once the band 4302 has
been fractured. In another example, the jaws 4310, 4312 are only
opened in relation to how far the implement 400 is extended through
the jaws 4310, 4312 such that the jaws 4310, 4312 are only fully
opened when the implement 400 has been extended so far as to cause
the jaws to reach their fully open configuration. In yet another
embodiment, a specially designed jaw opening implement can used to
facture the band 4302.
[0117] FIG. 44 is a side elevation view of the exemplary tip
assembly 2002 of FIG. 43, in an open configuration. As illustrated
in FIG. 44 the band 4302 has been fractured, when the band 4302 has
been fractured the jaws 4310, 4312 can be configured to open as
indicated above. As seen if FIG. 44, the band 4302 has a first
fracture surface 4314 and a second fracture surface 4316. The first
fracture surface 4314 can substantially align with an edge 4324 of
the upper jaw 4310. The second fracture surface 4316 can
substantially align with an edge 4326 of the lower jaw 4312. As
indicated above, the band 4302 fractures in two places with one of
those places being on the reverse side of the illustration. While
the illustrated jaws 4310, 4312 essentially form a half of the tip
assembly 2002 over the relevant region, the jaws 4310, 4312 could
be configured in other ways such that they are not equally
divided.
[0118] In order to assist with the opening of the jaws 4310, 4312,
the tip assembly 2002 can be provided with slots 4304 which allow
the jaws 4310, 4312 to move in relation to one another without
distorting or binding the material of the tip assembly 2002. In
another embodiment the slots 4304 can reduce the distortion or
binding of the material of the tip assembly 2002. In at least one
embodiment, four slots 4304 are provided on the tip assembly 2002.
In another embodiment, only two slots 4304 can be provided. In yet
another embodiment, any multiple of two slots can be
implemented.
[0119] Another embodiment of an exemplary tip assembly 2002 is
illustrated in FIG. 45. The illustration of tip assembly 2002 in
FIG. 45 is a side elevation view of a closed tip assembly 2002
having an exemplarily jaw retention device in the form of at least
one tab 4502. The at least one tab 4502 can be located at the
region where the upper jaw 4310 and lower jaw 4312 substantially
abut one another. In at least one embodiment, the at least one tab
4502 can be at least two tabs 4502. In other embodiments, a
plurality of tabs 4502 can be implemented. For example, multiple
tabs can be implemented on each side of the illustrated
embodiment.
[0120] The description herein refers to tabs 4502 as in the
illustrated embodiment, two tabs 4502 are implemented (one not
shown). The description as provided herein can be applied to other
configurations of tabs 4502 as well. The tabs 4502 can be
configured to be co-molded with the upper jaw 4310 and the lower
jaw 4312 such that during the molding process the tabs 4502 connect
the upper jaw 4310 with the lower jaw 4312. The tabs 4502 can be
integrally formed with the upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312
such that no portion of the tabs 4502 extend beyond the outer
surfaces of the upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312. For example,
the tabs 4502 can be formed such that they are within the width of
material forming the upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312. In
another embodiment the tabs 4502 can be formed on the inside of the
upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312. However, in at least one
embodiment the tabs 4502 can be formed on the outside of the upper
jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312. When the tabs 4502 are formed on
the outside of the upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312, the tabs
4502 can be tapered so as to provide a smooth transition from the
upper jaw 4310 and the lower jaw 4312 to the thickest portion of
the tabs 4502.
[0121] While not illustrated, the tabs 4502 can include notched
portions to facilitate the fracturing of the tabs 4502. In other
embodiments, the tabs may not include notched portions, but instead
the material of the tabs 4502 can be choose such that it facilities
easy fracturing but is strong enough to hold the jaws 4310, 4312 in
place during insertion of the tip assembly 2002.
[0122] FIG. 46 is a side elevation view of the exemplary tip
assembly of FIG. 45, in an open configuration, wherein the at least
one tab 4502 has been fractured. The at least one tab 4502 can be
fractured thereby allowing the upper jaw 4310 to separate from the
lower jaw 4312. In order to fracture the at least one tab 4502, an
implement 400 such as an endoscope or camera implement as described
herein. The jaws 4310, 4312 can be configured to operate as
described herein above. For example, the jaws 4310, 4312 can be
configured to open once at least one tab 4502 has been fractured.
In another example, the jaws 4310, 4312 are only opened in relation
to how far the implement 400 is extended through the jaws 4310,
4312 such that the jaws 4310, 4312 are only fully opened when the
implement 400 has been extended so far as to cause the jaws to
reach their fully open configuration. In yet another embodiment, a
specially designed jaw opening implement can used to facture the at
least one tab 4502.
[0123] When the tab 4502 has been fractured as illustrated in FIG.
46, the jaws 4310, 4312 can be configured to open as indicated
above. As seen if FIG. 46, the tab 4502 has a first fracture
surface 4516 and a second fracture surface 4514. The first fracture
surface 4516 can substantially align with an edge 4526 of the upper
jaw 4310. The second fracture surface 4314 can substantially align
with an edge 4324 of the lower jaw 4312. While not illustrated,
another tab 4502 on the opposite side can be included and can
fracture in a similar manner. When another number of tabs 4502 are
included the fracturing of the other tabs 4502 can proceed in a
similar manner. While the illustrated jaws 4310, 4312 essentially
form a half of the tip assembly 2002 over the relevant region, the
jaws 4310, 4312 could be configured in other ways such that they
are not equally divided.
[0124] In order to assist with the opening of the jaws 4310, 4312,
the tip assembly 2002 can be provided with slots 4304 which allow
the jaws 4310, 4312 to move in relation to one another without
distorting or binding the material of the tip assembly 2002. In
another embodiment the slots 4304 can reduce the distortion or
binding of the material of the tip assembly 2002. In at least one
embodiment, four slots 4304 are provided on the tip assembly 2002.
In another embodiment, only two slots 4304 can be provided. In yet
another embodiment, any multiple of two slots can be
implemented.
[0125] FIGS. 47A, 47B, 48A, 48B, 49A, and 49B illustrate
exemplarily surfaces of scope cleaner 700 according to various
embodiments as presented herein. The scope cleaner can include one
or more scope cleaners. For example, the scope cleaner 700 can
include one or more wiper blades 705, 707. While the illustrated
embodiments include two wiper blades 705, 707, at least one
embodiment includes only a single wiper blade. Furthermore, while
the embodiments illustrated are wiper blades 705, 707, the
disclosure as presented herein can equally apply to other types of
scope cleaners 700. The one or more grooves illustrated in FIGS.
47A, 47B, 48A, 48B, 49A, and 49B can be configured to facilitate
the flow of fluid as the scope cleaner 700 cleans fluid from the
scope that the scope cleaner comes into contact. The surfaces
illustrated herein are the surface that faces the scope and at
least a portion of the scope cleaner 700 contacts the scope as
described above.
[0126] A first example is illustrated in FIG. 47A which is a top
view of an exemplarily scope cleaner 700 having a groove 4702
formed therein. The groove 4702 as illustrated can traverse through
a center 4710 of the scope cleaner 700. In the illustrated
embodiments, the center 4710 of the scope cleaner 700 refers to
midpoint of the scope cleaner 700 in both the lateral and
transverse directions (length and width). In other embodiments, the
center 4710 of the scope cleaner can be based on centroid of the
surface of the scope cleaner 700. In other embodiments, the groove
4702 does not traverse through the center of the scope cleaner
700.
[0127] In FIG. 47A, the groove 4702 traverses through the center
4710 of the first scope cleaner in the form of a first wiper blade
705 and the center 4710 of the second scope cleaner in the form of
a second wiper blade 707. As shown, the groove 4702 comprises a
first groove 4706 in the first wiper blade 705 and a second groove
4704 in the second wiper blade 707. Thus, the first wiper blade 705
and the second wiper blade 707 each have at least one groove formed
therein. In other embodiments, more than one groove can be present
on each of the first wiper blade 705 and the second wiper blade
707.
[0128] A cross-sectional view of the scope cleaner 700 along line
B-B of FIG. 47A is illustrated in FIG. 47B. When a first groove
4706 and a second groove 4704 are implemented as illustrated in
FIG. 47A, the first groove 4706 and the second groove 4704
facilitate the movement of fluid into the groove as the scope is
cleaned. When the scope includes two cameras such as the one
illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 9-11, having the groove in the center of
the scope cleaner prevents buildup of fluid in the regions in which
the camera is mounted. Additionally as illustrated in the example
of FIG. 47B, the first groove 4706 can be sloped from an inner edge
4726 to an outer edge 4725, such that the depth of the groove 4706
is shallower or non-existent at the inner edge 4726 and deeper at
the outer edge 4725. The slope of the first groove 4706 allows for
fluid to build up and run down the groove 4706. By having the
groove 4706 very shallow or non-existent at the inner edge insures
contact with the scope across the entire face of the scope so as to
remove all fluid buildup on the scope. Thus, the first groove 4706
allows fluid to be removed from the scope and channeled to an
appropriate place to minimize the impact of fluid impinging upon
the scope. Furthermore, the first groove 4706 allows the first
scope cleaner 707 to be used multiple times to remove fluid from
the scope.
[0129] Similarly, the second scope cleaner 707 can have a
cross-section that is substantially a mirror image of the
cross-section of the first scope cleaner 705. The second groove
4704 of the second scope cleaner 707 can be sloped in a similar
fashion as described above. For example, the second groove 4704 can
be sloped from an inner edge 4724 to an outer edge 4723, such that
the depth of the second groove 4704 is shallower or non-existent at
the inner edge 4724 and deeper at the outer edge 4723. The slope of
the second groove 4704 allows for fluid to build up and run down
the second groove 4704. By having the second groove 4704 very
shallow or non-existent at the inner edge 4724 insures contact with
the scope across the entire face of the scope so as to remove all
fluid buildup on the scope. Thus, the second groove 4704 allows
fluid to be removed from the scope and channeled to an appropriate
place to minimize the impact of fluid impinging upon the scope.
Furthermore, the second groove 4704 allows the second scope cleaner
705 to be used multiple times to remove fluid from the scope.
[0130] FIG. 48A is a top view of another exemplarily scope cleaner
having a groove formed therein, according to an exemplarily
embodiment. FIG. 48B is a cross-sectional view of the scope cleaner
of FIG. 48A taken along line B-B. As illustrated in FIG. 48A, the
scope cleaner has a plurality of grooves formed therein. As
illustrated there are five grooves 4904 formed in the first scope
cleaner, which is in the form of a first wiper 705. Additionally,
there are five grooves 4902 formed in the second scope cleaner,
which is in the form of a second wiper 705. At least one of the
grooves 4904 on the first wiper 705 traverses the center 4712 of
the first wiper 705. Similarly, at least one of the grooves 4902 on
the second wiper 707 traverses the center 4714 of the second wiper
707.
[0131] The scope cleaner 700 as illustrated in FIG. 48A further
includes an interior portion 4906 that is composed of a different
material from the rest of the scope cleaner 700. The interior
portion can be configured to provide for an enhanced cleaning of
the scope while preventing permeation of fluid. This configuration
encourages the flow of the fluid into the grooves 4902, 4904 of the
scope cleaner 700.
[0132] As seen in the section view of FIG. 48B, the inner portion
4906 of the first wiper 705 borders the inner edge 4926 of the
first wiper 705. Additionally, the inner portion 4906 of the second
wiper 707 borders the inner edge 4924 of the second wiper 707. The
grooves 4902, 4904 have a uniform depth. However, in other
embodiments the grooves 4902, 4904 can have a sloped depth such
that the grooves are like that of FIGS. 47A and 47B. As the inner
portion 4906 is configured to prevent fluid permeation, the fluid
drains down the grooves 4902, 4904 away from the newly exposed
portion of the scope.
[0133] FIG. 49A is a top view of yet another exemplarily scope
cleaner having a groove formed therein, according to an exemplarily
embodiment; and FIG. 49B is a cross-sectional view of the scope
cleaner of FIG. 49A taken along line B-B. As illustrated in FIG.
49A, the grooves are arranged along a diagonal direction on the
face of the scope cleaner 700. As illustrated the first groove 4802
on the first wiper 705 is arranged along a diagonal line that runs
from an inner edge 4826 to an outer edge 4825 of the first wiper
705. The first groove 4802 traverses through the center 4712 of the
first wiper 705. As illustrated the second groove 4804 on the
second wiper 707 is arranged along a diagonal line that runs from
an inner edge 4824 to an outer edge 4823 of the second wiper 707.
The second groove 4804 traverses through the center 4714 of the
second wiper 707. The grooves operate in a similar fashion to the
grooves as described above. Namely, the grooves 4802, 4804 provide
for draining of fluid away from the inner edge 4826, 4824 of the
respective first and second wiper blades 705, 707. In the
cross-sectional view of FIG. 49B, the grooves 4802, 4804 have a
uniform depth.
[0134] While the section profiles have illustrated the wipers as
being triangular in shape, the section profile can be other shapes
as well. For instance, the section profile can have a parallelogram
shape, including rectangular or square shape. When the triangular
shape is implemented enhanced cleaning effect of the lens can be
achieved.
[0135] FIGS. 50-54 illustrate further examples of tip assemblies
that can be implemented with the presented technology. The tip
assemblies illustrated in FIGS. 50-54 can be implemented as a part
of a trocar or a separate component that is configured to be
coupled to a trocar. For example, the tip assemblies can be coupled
to the trocar by an adapter sleeve (not shown). The tip assemblies
illustrated in FIGS. 50-54 are illustrated without all of the
components in order to aid in illustration. Furthermore, the tip
assemblies can be configured to include one or more of the
components, elements, functions or features as described
herein.
[0136] FIG. 50 illustrates an exemplarily tip assembly 5005. The
exemplarily tip assembly 5005 includes jaws 5010, 5011. An upper
jaw 5010 can be configured to flex relative to the body 5003 of the
tip assembly 5005. A lower jaw 5011 can also be configured to flex
relative to the body 5003. The upper jaw 5010 can include a first
slider 5012 that is slidingly coupled to the upper jaw 5010. The
slidingly coupling can be through a one or more channels formed on
the first slider; the one or more channels can be configured to
matingly engage and slide relative corresponding receiving portions
formed in the upper jaw 5012. In other embodiments, other
configurations of the first slider 5012 and upper jaw 5010 are
possible to allow relative motion of the first slider 5012 to the
upper jaw 5010. The lower jaw 5011 can include a second slider 5014
that is slidingly coupled to the lower jaw 5011. The slidingly
coupling can be through a one or more channels formed on the second
slider; the one or more channels can be configured to matingly
engage and slide relative corresponding receiving portions formed
in the lower jaw 5011. In other embodiments, other configurations
of the second slider 5014 and lower jaw 5011 are possible to allow
relative motion of the second slider 5014 to the lower jaw
5011.
[0137] The upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011 can be configured to
flex relative to the body 5003, when a camera or other instrument
abuts the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011. The first slider 5012
can have a wiper 5040 affixed to a first end 5042. The second
slider 5014 can have a wiper 5040 affixed to a first end 5044.
Thus, as the instrument abuts the wipers 5040, the upper jaw 5010
can separate from the lower jaw 5011. As the upper jaw 5010
separates from the lower jaw 5011, the first slider 5012 moves
outward from the upper jaw 5010 and the second slider 5014 moves
outward from the lower jaw 5014, thereby forming an opening between
the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011 through which the instrument
can pass. The wipers 5040 can be configured as described
herein.
[0138] Additionally, a closing mechanism 5022 can be included in
the tip assembly 5005. The closing mechanism 5022 can be configured
to bias the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011 to a closed
configuration as illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG.
51. The closing mechanism 5022 in the illustrated embodiment is an
elastic band. The elastic band can be metallic, plastic, or rubber.
The elastic band can be configured to deliver a desired clamping
force to the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011 so that the upper
jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011 close relative to one another to be in
a closed position in which the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011
substantially abut one another. The closing mechanism 5022 can be
configured to rest in a groove 5020 formed in the upper jaw 5010
and lower jaw 5011. The groove 5020 can be configured such that an
outer surface of the closing mechanism 5022 is substantially flush
with the outer surface of the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw
5011.
[0139] The exemplarily tip assembly 5005 can further include slider
biasing members 5030 that bias the first slider 5012 and the second
slider 5014 to a retracted configuration relative to the upper jaw
5010 and lower jaw 5011, respectively. As illustrated the biasing
member 5030 can be a single component for the first slider 5012 and
a single component for the second slider 5014. In other
embodiments, the biasing member 5030 can be made of one or more
components. For instance, the first slider 5012 can have two
biasing members. In yet other embodiments, the number of biasing
members 5030 for the first slider 5012 can be one or any other
number.
[0140] As illustrated the biasing member 5030 can include one or
more attachment ends 5032 that are configured to be coupled to the
upper jaw 5010 or lower jaw 5011. The attachment ends 5032 can be
coupled to the respective jaw 5010, 5011 so that the biasing member
5030 can be releasably affixed to the respective jaw 5010, 5011. In
yet other embodiments, the biasing member 5030 can be permanently
affixed to the respective jaw 5010, 5011.
[0141] As illustrated the biasing member 5030 that passes through
the first slider 5012 is configured to pass through a distal end
5043 of the first slider 5012 such that there is an distal portion
5033 of the biasing member 5030 that is nearest to the distal end
5043 of the first slider 5012. Similarly, the biasing member 5030
that passes through the second slider 5014 is configured to pass
through a distal end 5045 of the second slider 5014 such that there
is a distal portion 5033 of the biasing member 5030 that is nearest
to the distal end 5045 of the second slider 5014. In other
embodiments, the biasing member 5030 can have different
configurations of a distal portion 5033 that can be further away
from the distal end 5043, 5045 of the respective slider 5012, 5014.
For example, the biasing member 5030 can run less than
three-fourths the length of the slider 5012, 5014. In yet other
embodiments the biasing member 5030 can run less than half the
distance of the slider 5012, 5014. In still other embodiments, the
length of the biasing member 5030 can be distance that is selected
to provide the appropriate return force and allow for the
appropriate opening so that the instrument can pass between the
upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011. As indicated above, the biasing
member 5030 can be configured to return the sliders 5012, 5014 to a
retracted position once the instrument has been removed. Other
configurations of the biasing members 5030 that return the sliders
5012, 5014 to a retracted position are considered within the scope
of this disclosure. The biasing member 5030 can be any elastic
material that allows for biasing the sliders to the retracted
configuration. For example, the biasing member 5030 can be made of
a rubber, plastic or metal.
[0142] FIG. 51 illustrates the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw 5011 in
a closed configuration in which the upper jaw 5010 and lower jaw
5011 substantially abut one another. As seen in the cross-sectional
view, the closing mechanism 5022 is configured to be mounted within
a groove 5020. The closing mechanism 5022 can be glued or otherwise
affixed within the groove 5020. In yet other embodiments, the
groove 5020 can be omitted and the closing mechanism 5022 can be
tapered such that the outer edges of the closing mechanism 5022 are
substantially flush with the outer surface of the upper jaw 5010
and lower jaw 5011.
[0143] As illustrated in FIG. 51, the biasing members 5030 are
shown in their retracted configuration.
[0144] FIG. 52 illustrates an exemplarily tip assembly 5205. The
exemplarily tip assembly 5205 includes jaws 5210, 5212. An upper
jaw 5210 can be configured to flex relative to the body 5203 of the
tip assembly 5205. A lower jaw 5211 can also be configured to flex
relative to the body 5203. The upper jaw 5210 can include a first
slider 5212 that is slidingly coupled to the upper jaw 5210. The
slidingly coupling can be through a one or more channels formed on
the first slider; the one or more channels can be configured to
matingly engage and slide relative corresponding receiving portions
formed in the upper jaw 5212. In other embodiments, other
configurations of the first slider 5212 and upper jaw 5210 are
possible to allow relative motion of the first slider 5212 to the
upper jaw 5210. The lower jaw 5211 can include a second slider 5214
that is slidingly coupled to the lower jaw 5211. The slidingly
coupling can be through a one or more channels formed on the second
slider; the one or more channels can be configured to matingly
engage and slide relative corresponding receiving portions formed
in the lower jaw 5211. In other embodiments, other configurations
of the second slider 5214 and lower jaw 5211 are possible to allow
relative motion of the second slider 5214 to the lower jaw
5211.
[0145] The upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 can be configured to
flex relative to the body 5203, when a camera or other instrument
abuts the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211. The first slider 5212
can have a wiper 5240 affixed to a first end 5242. The second
slider 5214 can have a wiper 5240 affixed to a first end 5244.
Thus, as the instrument abuts the wipers 5240, the upper jaw 5210
can separate from the lower jaw 5211. As the upper jaw 5210
separates from the lower jaw 5211, the first slider 5212 moves
outward from the upper jaw 5210 and the second slider 5214 moves
outward from the lower jaw 5214, thereby forming an opening between
the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 through which the instrument
can pass. The wipers 5240 can be configured as described
herein.
[0146] Additionally, a closing mechanism 5222 can be included in
the tip assembly 5205. The closing mechanism 5222 can be configured
to bias the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 to a closed
configuration as illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG.
53. The closing mechanism 5222 in the illustrated embodiment is an
elastic band. The elastic band can be metallic, plastic, or rubber.
The elastic band can be configured to deliver a desired clamping
force to the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 so that the upper
jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 close relative to one another to be in
a closed position in which the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211
substantially abut one another. The closing mechanism 5222 can be
configured to rest in a groove 5220 formed in the upper jaw 5210
and lower jaw 5211. The groove 5220 can be configured such that an
outer surface of the closing mechanism 5222 is substantially flush
with the outer surface of the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw
5211.
[0147] The exemplarily tip assembly 5205 can further include slider
biasing members 5230 that bias the first slider 5212 and the second
slider 5214 to a retracted configuration relative to the upper jaw
5210 and lower jaw 5211, respectively. As illustrated the biasing
member 5230 can be a single component for the first slider 5212 and
a single component for the second slider 5214. In other
embodiments, the biasing member 5230 can be made of one or more
components. For instance, the first slider 5212 can have two
biasing members. In yet other embodiments, the number of biasing
members 5230 for the first slider 5212 can be one or any other
number.
[0148] As illustrated the biasing member 5230 can include one or
more attachment ends 5232 that are configured to be coupled to the
body 5203. The attachment ends 5232 can be coupled to the body 5203
so that the biasing member 5230 can be releasably affixed to the
body 5203. In yet other embodiments, the biasing member 5230 can be
permanently affixed to the body 5203.
[0149] As illustrated the biasing member 5230 that passes through
the first slider 5212 is configured to pass through a distal end
5243 of the first slider 5212 such that there is an distal portion
5233 of the biasing member 5230 that is nearest to the distal end
5243 of the first slider 5212. Similarly, the biasing member 5230
that passes through the second slider 5214 is configured to pass
through a distal end 5245 of the second slider 5214 such that there
is a distal portion 5233 of the biasing member 5230 that is nearest
to the distal end 5245 of the second slider 5214. In other
embodiments, the biasing member 5230 can have different
configurations of a distal portion 5233 that can be further away
from the distal end 5243, 5245 of the respective slider 5212, 5214.
For example, the biasing member 5230 can run less than
three-fourths the length of the slider 5212, 5214. In yet other
embodiments the biasing member 5230 can run less than half the
distance of the slider 5212, 5214. In still other embodiments, the
length of the biasing member 5230 can be distance that is selected
to provide the appropriate return force and allow for the
appropriate opening so that the instrument can pass between the
upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211. As indicated above, the biasing
member 5230 can be configured to return the sliders 5212, 5214 to a
retracted position once the instrument has been removed. Other
configurations of the biasing members 5230 that return the sliders
5212, 5214 to a retracted position are considered within the scope
of this disclosure. The biasing member 5230 can be any elastic
material that allows for biasing the sliders to the retracted
configuration. For example, the biasing member 5230 can be made of
a rubber, plastic or metal.
[0150] FIG. 53 illustrates the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 in
a closed configuration in which the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw
5211 substantially abut one another. As seen in the cross-sectional
view, the closing mechanism 5222 is configured to be mounted within
a groove 5220. The closing mechanism 5222 can be glued or otherwise
affixed within the groove 5220. In yet other embodiments, the
groove 5220 can be omitted and the closing mechanism 5222 can be
tapered such that the outer edges of the closing mechanism 5222 are
substantially flush with the outer surface of the upper jaw 5210
and lower jaw 5211.
[0151] As illustrated in FIG. 53, the biasing members 5230 are
shown in their retracted configuration. When the biasing members
5230 are coupled to the body 5203, the biasing members 5230 can
provide a force to the first slider 5212 and second slider 5214
such that the sliders act to close the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw
5211. While in the illustrated example the tip assembly 5205
includes the closing mechanism 5222, the closing mechanism 5222 can
be omitted and the upper jaw 5210 and lower jaw 5211 can be biased
to the closed configuration via the biasing members 5230.
[0152] Exemplary implementations have been described hereinabove
regarding a jawed trocar assembly and a method of using the same.
One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the
elements and features illustrated in the implementations described
and illustrated in the figures herein can be optionally included to
achieve the benefits of the presently disclosed jawed trocar
assembly. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate
that features in each of the figures described herein can be
combined with one another and arrange to achieve the described
benefits of the presently disclosed jawed trocar assembly. Various
modifications to and departures from the disclosed implementations
will occur to those having skill in the art. The subject matter
that is intended to be within the spirit of this disclosure is set
forth in the following claims.
* * * * *