U.S. patent application number 14/728344 was filed with the patent office on 2016-05-05 for medical devices, apparatuses, systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is THE BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM. Invention is credited to Richard A. BERGS, Jeffrey A. CADEDDU, Raul FERNANDEZ, Daniel J. SCOTT.
Application Number | 20160120613 14/728344 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44971325 |
Filed Date | 2016-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160120613 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CADEDDU; Jeffrey A. ; et
al. |
May 5, 2016 |
MEDICAL DEVICES, APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
Medical devices having a platform and an arm movable between a
collapsed position and an expanded position. In some embodiments,
the platform comprises at least one of a magnetically-attractive
material and a material capable of being magnetically-charged.
Methods of use.
Inventors: |
CADEDDU; Jeffrey A.;
(Dallas, TX) ; SCOTT; Daniel J.; (Dallas, TX)
; FERNANDEZ; Raul; (Arlington, TX) ; BERGS;
Richard A.; (Arlington, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
THE BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM |
Austin |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
44971325 |
Appl. No.: |
14/728344 |
Filed: |
June 2, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12783440 |
May 19, 2010 |
9044256 |
|
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14728344 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2034/302 20160201;
Y10T 74/188 20150115; A61B 2017/00278 20130101; A61B 2017/00876
20130101; A61B 2017/00283 20130101; A61B 34/70 20160201; A61B
2017/00539 20130101; A61B 2017/00681 20130101; A61B 2017/2923
20130101; A61B 2017/00477 20130101; A61B 34/73 20160201; Y10T
74/18576 20150115 |
International
Class: |
A61B 34/00 20060101
A61B034/00 |
Claims
1. A medical device comprising: a platform comprising at least one
of a magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of
being magnetically-charged; an arm pivotally coupled to the
platform such that the arm is rotatable around a rotational axis
between a collapsed position and an expanded position; and a detent
mechanism configured to adjustably fix the position of the arm
relative to the platform.
2. The medical device of claim 1, where the detent mechanism
comprises a detent member coupled to one of the platform and the
arm such that the detent member is biased in a bias direction
toward the other of the platform and the arm.
3. The medical device of claim 2, where the detent mechanism
further comprises a spring configured to bias the detent member in
the bias direction.
4. The medical device of claim 2, where the detent member comprises
a ball.
5. The medical device of claim 1, where the platform comprises a
resilient portion biased toward the arm, and the detent member
comprises a protrusion extending from the resilient portion of the
platform such that the detent member is biased in a bias direction
toward the other of the platform and the arm.
6. The medical device of claim 1, where the other of the platform
and the arm comprises one or more indentations configured to
receive the detent member.
7. The medical device of claim 6, where the one or more
indentations comprise a first indentation corresponding to the
collapsed position of the arm and a second indentation
corresponding to the expanded position of the arm.
8. The medical device of claim 7, where the one or more
indentations comprise a third indentation corresponding to at least
one position of the arm between the collapsed position and the
expanded position.
9. The medical device of claim 6, where at least one of the one or
more indentations comprises a curved surface.
10. The medical device of claim 9, where at least one of the one or
more indentations comprises a substantially semispherical
surface.
11. The medical device of claim 1, where the detent member of the
detent mechanism is coupled to the platform, and the arm comprises
the indentation.
12. The medical device of claim 1, where the detent member of the
detent mechanism is coupled to the arm, and the platform comprises
the indentation.
13. The medical device of claim 1, where the detent mechanism is
configured such that the detent member can move linearly along a
bias axis between an extended position and a collapsed
position.
14. The medical device of claim 13, where the bias axis is
substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis.
15. The medical device of claim 13, where the arm is rotatable in a
rotational plane, and the bias axis is substantially parallel to
the rotational plane.
16. The medical device of claim 13, where the arm is rotatable in a
rotational plane, and the bias axis is substantially perpendicular
to the rotational plane.
17-53. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/783,440, filed May 19, 2010 (now U.S. Pat. No.
9,044,256) which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to medical devices,
apparatuses, systems, and methods, and, more particularly, but not
by way of limitation, to medical devices, apparatuses, systems, and
methods for performing medical procedures at least partially within
a body cavity of a patient.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] For illustration, the background is described with respect
to medical procedures (e.g., surgical procedures), which can
include laparoscopy, transmural surgery, and endoluminal surgery,
including, for example, natural orifice transluminal endoscopic
surgery (NOTES), single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS), and
single-port laparoscopy (SLP).
[0006] Compared with open surgery, laparoscopy can result in
significantly less pain, faster convalescence and less morbidity.
NOTES, which can be an even less-invasive surgical approach, may
achieve similar results. However, issues such as eye-hand
dissociation, a two-dimensional field-of-view, instrumentation with
limited degrees of freedom, and demanding dexterity requirements
can pose challenges for many laparoscopic and endoscopic
procedures. One limitation of laparoscopy can be the fixed working
envelope surrounding each trocar. As a result, multiple ports may
be used to accommodate changes in position of the instruments or
laparoscope, for example, to improve visibility and efficiency.
However, the placement of additional working ports may contribute
to post-operative pain and increases risks, such as additional
bleeding and adjacent organ damage.
[0007] The following published patent applications include
information that may be useful in understanding the present medical
devices, systems, and methods, and each is incorporated by
reference in its entirety: (1) International Application No.
PCT/US2009/063987, filed on Nov. 11, 2009; (2) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/024,636, filed Dec. 14, 2001, and published
as Pub. No. US 2003/0114731; (3) U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/999,396, filed Nov. 30, 2004, published as Pub. No. US
2005/0165449 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,429,259; (4) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/741,731, filed Apr. 28, 2007, published as
Pub. No. US 2007/0255273 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,691,103; (5)
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/146,953, filed Jun. 26, 2008,
and published as Pub. No. US 2008/0269779; and (6) U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/755,312, filed on Apr. 6, 2010.
SUMMARY
[0008] The present disclosure includes embodiments of medical
devices, systems, and methods.
[0009] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform (e.g., a sterile platform) comprising at least one of a
magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of being
magnetically-charged; an arm (e.g., a sterile arm) pivotally
coupled to the platform such that the arm is rotatable around a
rotational axis between a collapsed position and an expanded
position; and a detent mechanism configured to adjustably fix the
position of the arm relative to the platform. In some embodiments,
the detent mechanism comprises a detent member coupled to one of
the platform and the arm such that the detent member is biased in a
bias direction toward the other of the platform and the arm. In
some embodiments, the detent mechanism further comprises a spring
configured to bias the detent member in the bias direction. In some
embodiments, the detent member comprises a ball. In some
embodiments, the platform comprises a resilient portion biased
toward the arm, and the detent member comprises a protrusion
extending from the resilient portion of the platform such that the
detent member is biased in a bias direction toward the other of the
platform and the arm. In some embodiments, the other of the
platform and the arm comprises one or more indentations configured
to receive the detent member. In some embodiments, the one or more
indentations comprise a first indentation corresponding to the
collapsed position of the arm and a second indentation
corresponding to the expanded position of the arm. In some
embodiments, the one or more indentations comprise a third
indentation corresponding to at least one position of the arm
between the collapsed position and the expanded position. In some
embodiments, at least one of the one or more indentations comprises
a curved surface. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or
more indentations comprises a substantially semispherical surface.
In some embodiments, the detent member of the detent mechanism is
coupled to the platform, and the arm comprises the indentation. In
some embodiments, the detent member of the detent mechanism is
coupled to the arm, and the platform comprises the indentation. In
some embodiments, the detent mechanism is configured such that the
detent member can move linearly along a bias axis between an
extended position and a collapsed position, In some embodiments,
the bias axis is substantially perpendicular to the rotational
axis. In some embodiments, the arm is rotatable in a rotational
plane, and the bias axis is substantially parallel to the
rotational plane. In some embodiments, the arm is rotatable in a
rotational plane, and the bias axis is substantially perpendicular
to the rotational plane.
[0010] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm pivotally coupled to the platform such that the
arm is rotatable at least 90 degrees around a rotational axis
between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a first gear
coupled in fixed relation to the arm such that the rotational axis
passes through the first gear; and a second gear rotatably coupled
to the platform; where the medical device is configured such that:
a tool can be coupled to the second gear such that the tool can be
rotated to rotate the second gear; and if the second gear is
rotated in a first rotational direction when the arm is in the
collapsed position, then the arm will rotate from the collapsed
position toward the expanded position. In some embodiments, the
medical device is configured such that: if the second gear is
rotated in a second rotational direction when the arm is in the
expanded position, then the arm will rotate from the expanded
position toward the collapsed position. In some embodiments, the
second gear is configured to rotate around a first gear axis. In
some embodiments, the arm is rotatable in a rotational plane, and
the first gear axis is substantially parallel to the rotational
plane. In some embodiments, the arm is rotatable in a rotational
plane, and the first gear axis is substantially perpendicular to
the rotational plane. Some embodiments further comprise: a third
gear coupled to the first gear and the second gear such that if the
second gear is rotated, the second gear will rotate the third gear
and the third gear will rotate the first gear. In some embodiments,
the third gear is configured to rotate around a second gear axis.
In some embodiments, the second gear axis is substantially
perpendicular to the first gear axis.
[0011] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm pivotally coupled to the platform such that the
arm is rotatable around a rotational axis and in a rotational plane
between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a first gear
coupled in fixed relation to the arm such that the rotational axis
passes through the first gear; a second gear rotatably coupled to
the platform and configured to rotate around a first gear axis that
is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the arm
and substantially parallel to the rotational plane of the arm; and
a third gear coupled to the first gear and the second gear such
that if the second gear is rotated, the second gear will rotate the
third gear and the third gear will rotate the first gear; where the
medical device is configured such that: a tool can be coupled to
the second gear such that the tool can be rotated to rotate the
second gear; and if the second gear is rotated in a first
rotational direction when the arm is in the collapsed position,
then the arm will rotate from the collapsed position toward the
expanded position. In some embodiments, the platform comprises at
least one of a magnetically-attractive material and a material
capable of being magnetically-charged.
[0012] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm having a hub that is pivotally coupled to the
platform such that the arm is rotatable at least 90 degrees around
a rotational axis between a collapsed position and an expanded
position; a threaded member rotatably coupled to the platform; a
shuttle coupled to the threaded member; and a shuttle arm having a
first end coupled to the shuttle and a second end coupled to the
hub of the arm; where the medical device is configured such that: a
tool can be coupled to the threaded member such that the tool can
be rotated to rotate the threaded member; and if the threaded
member is rotated in a first rotational direction when the arm is
in the collapsed position, then the shuttle will travel in a
substantially linear first direction to cause the arm to rotate
from the collapsed position toward the expanded position. In some
embodiments, the medical device is configured such that: if the
threaded member is rotated in a second rotational direction when
the arm is in the expanded position, then the shuttle will travel
in a substantially linear second direction substantially opposite
the first direction to cause the arm to rotate from the expanded
position toward the collapsed position. In some embodiments, the
threaded member is configured to rotate around a member axis. In
some embodiments, the arm is rotatable in a rotational plane, and
the member axis is substantially parallel to the rotational plane.
In some embodiments, the platform comprises at least one of a
magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of being
magnetically-charged.
[0013] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm coupled to the platform with a pin slidably
disposed within a cam slot defined within one of the platform and
the arm, the pin being coupled to the other of the platform and the
arm, the arm movable between an expanded position and a collapsed
position; a threaded member rotatably coupled to the platform; and
a shuttle coupled to the threaded member and pivotally coupled to
the arm; where the medical device is configured such that: a tool
can be coupled to the threaded member such that the tool can be
rotated to rotate the threaded member; and if the threaded member
is rotated in a first rotational direction when the arm is in the
collapsed position, then the shuttle will travel in a substantially
linear first direction to cause the arm to move from the collapsed
position toward the expanded position. In some embodiments, the
platform has length, a longitudinal axis, and a guide rod that is
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some
embodiments, the shuttle is slidably coupled to the guide rod. In
some embodiments, the medical device is configured such that: if
the threaded member is rotated in a first rotational direction when
the arm is in the collapsed position, then the shuttle will travel
in a substantially linear first direction along the guide rod to
cause the arm to move from the collapsed position toward the
expanded position. In some embodiments, the platform comprises at
least one of a magnetically-attractive material and a material
capable of being magnetically-charged.
[0014] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm pivotally coupled to the platform such that the
arm is rotatable around a rotational axis between a collapsed
position and an expanded position; and a spring configured to bias
the arm toward the platform in a first direction that substantially
parallel to the rotational axis; where the medical device is
configured such that: in the absence of an external force the arm
can contact the platform such that the arm is substantially
prevented from rotating relative to the platform; a tool can be
coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the platform in a
second direction that is substantially parallel to the rotational
axis; and if the arm is moved in the second direction such that the
arm is separated from the platform then the arm is permitted to
rotate relative to the platform. In some embodiments, one of the
platform and the arm comprises a tongue, the other of the platform
and the arm comprises a groove, and the device is configured such
that if the tongue is aligned with the groove and the arm contacts
the platform, the tongue and groove cooperate to substantially
prevent rotation of the arm relative to the platform. In some
embodiments, the other of the platform and the arm comprises two
grooves. In some embodiments, the two grooves intersect each other
and the rotational axis. In some embodiments, the intersecting
grooves are disposed at an angle of between 30 and 60 degrees
relative to one another. In some embodiments, one of the two
grooves corresponds to the collapsed position of the arm, and the
other of the two grooves corresponds to the expanded position of
the arm. In some embodiments, the platform comprises at least one
of a magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of
being magnetically-charged.
[0015] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform comprising a first set of teeth; an arm pivotally coupled
to the platform such that the arm is rotatable around a rotational
axis between a collapsed position and an expanded position, the arm
comprising a second set of teeth; and a spring configured to bias
one of the arm and the platform against the other of the arm and
the platform; where the medical device is configured such that: in
the absence of an external force, the first set of teeth contacts
the second set of teeth such that the arm is substantially
prevented from rotating relative to the platform; and a tool can be
coupled to the medical device to rotate the arm around the
rotational axis. In some embodiments, the platform comprises at
least one of a magnetically-attractive material and a material
capable of being magnetically-charged.
[0016] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm pivotally coupled to the platform such that the
arm is rotatable at least 90 degrees around a rotational axis
between a collapsed position and an expanded position; a motor
coupled to the arm; a first gear coupled in fixed relation to the
platform; and a second gear coupled to the motor; where the medical
device is configured such that: if the motor is actuated to rotate
the second gear in a first rotational direction when the arm is in
the collapsed position, then the arm will rotate from the collapsed
position toward the expanded position. Some embodiments further
comprise: a third gear rotatably coupled to the platform such that
the third gear is configured to rotate around the rotational axis.
In some embodiments, the platform comprises at least one of a
magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of being
magnetically-charged.
[0017] Some embodiments of the present medical devices comprise: a
platform; an arm having a hub that is pivotally coupled to the
platform such that the arm is rotatable at least 90 degrees around
a rotational axis between a collapsed position and an expanded
position; a member movably coupled to the platform; a shuttle
coupled to the member; and a shuttle arm having a first end coupled
to the shuttle and a second end coupled to the hub of the arm;
where the medical device is configured such that: a tool can be
coupled to the member to move the member; and if the member is
moved in a substantially linear first direction when the arm is in
the collapsed position, then the shuttle will travel in the first
direction to cause the arm to rotate from the collapsed position
toward the expanded position. Some embodiments further comprise: a
spring configured to bias the member is a second direction that is
substantially opposite the first direction such that if the arm is
deployed and the member is moved in the second direction, the
spring will cause the arm to rotate toward the collapsed position.
In some embodiments, the platform comprises at least one of a
magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of being
magnetically-charged.
[0018] In some embodiments, the platform comprises a
magnetically-attractive material. In some embodiments, the
magnetically-attractive material includes a magnet. In some
embodiments, the magnetically-attractive material includes two
magnets. In some embodiments, the platform has a coupling side;
each magnet has an N pole and an S pole; and the N pole of one
magnet is oriented toward the coupling side, and the S pole of the
other magnet is oriented toward the coupling side. In some
embodiments, when the arm is in the collapsed position, the device
is at least partially defined by a maximum transverse perimeter
that is less than about 7 inches. In some embodiments, the area
circumscribed by the maximum transverse perimeter is less than
about 3.2 square inches.
[0019] In some embodiments, the platform is at least partially
defined by a maximum transverse perimeter, and the platform has a
longitudinal recess; the arm has a central longitudinal axis; and
when the arm is in the collapsed position, the central longitudinal
axis of the arm passes through the maximum transverse perimeter of
the platform.
[0020] Any embodiment of any of the present systems, apparatuses,
devices, and methods can consist of or consist essentially
of--rather than comprise/include/contain/have--any of the described
elements and/or features. Thus, in any of the claims, the term
"consisting of" or "consisting essentially of" can be substituted
for any of the open-ended linking verbs recited above, in order to
change the scope of a given claim from what it would otherwise be
using the open-ended linking verb.
[0021] Details associated with the embodiments described above and
others are presented below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not
limitation. For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a
given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which that
structure appears. Identical reference numbers do not necessarily
indicate an identical structure. Rather, the same reference number
may be used to indicate a similar feature or a feature with similar
functionality, as may non-identical reference numbers.
[0023] FIG. 1 depicts a graphical representation of one of the
present medical devices positioned within a body cavity of a
patient and magnetically coupled to a positioning apparatus that is
located outside the cavity.
[0024] FIG. 2 is an end view of the medical device and positioning
apparatus shown in FIG. 1.
[0025] FIGS. 3A and 3B are bottom and side-cross-sectional views,
respectively, of one of the present positioning apparatuses.
[0026] FIGS. 4A-4H depict various views of one embodiment of the
present medical devices.
[0027] FIGS. 5A-5E depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0028] FIGS. 6A-6E depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0029] FIGS. 7A-7G depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0030] FIGS. 8A-8B depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0031] FIGS. 9A-9C depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0032] FIGS. 10A-10E depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0033] FIGS. 11A-11E depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0034] FIGS. 12A-12C depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0035] FIGS. 13A-13I depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0036] FIGS. 14A-14D depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0037] FIGS. 15A-15C depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0038] FIGS. 16A-16B depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0039] FIGS. 17A-17B depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0040] FIGS. 18A-18J depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0041] FIGS. 19A-19K depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0042] FIGS. 20A-20F depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0043] FIGS. 21A-21B depict various views of an arm suitable for
use with the medical device of FIGS. 20A-20F.
[0044] FIGS. 22A-22E depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0045] FIGS. 23A-23F depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
[0046] FIGS. 24A-24F depict various views of another embodiment of
the present medical devices.
DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0047] The term "coupled" is defined as connected, although not
necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items
that are "coupled" may be integral with each other. The terms "a"
and "an" are defined as one or more unless this disclosure
explicitly requires otherwise. The term "substantially" is defined
as being largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified, as
understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example,
in any of the present embodiments, the term "substantially" may be
substituted with "within [a percentage] of" what is specified,
where the percentage includes any of 5, 10, and/or 15 percent.
[0048] The terms "comprise" (and any form of comprise, such as
"comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such
as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of include, such as
"includes" and "including") and "contain" (and any form of contain,
such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs.
As a result, a system, medical device, or apparatus that
"comprises," "has," "includes" or "contains" one or more elements
possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to
possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of
a system, medical device, or apparatus that "comprises," "has,"
"includes" or "contains" one or more features possesses those one
or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one
or more features. For example, a medical device that comprises a
platform and a magnetically-attractive material includes the
specified features but is not limited to having only those
features. Such a medical device could also include, for example, an
arm coupled to the platform.
[0049] Further, a device or structure that is configured in a
certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be
configured in other ways than those specifically described.
[0050] Referring now to the drawings, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 by
reference numeral 10 is one embodiment of a system for medical
procedures that can be used with the present invention. System 10
is shown in conjunction with a patient 14, and more particularly in
FIG. 1 is shown relative to a longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the ventral cavity 18 of a human patient 14, and in FIG. 2 is shown
relative to a transverse cross-sectional view of the ventral cavity
of the patient. For brevity, cavity 18 is shown in simplified
conceptual form without organs and the like. Cavity 18 is at least
partially defined by wall 22, such as the abdominal wall, that
includes an interior surface 26 and an exterior surface 30. The
exterior surface 30 of wall 22 can also be an exterior surface 30
of the patient 14. Although patient 14 is shown as human in FIGS. 1
and 2, various embodiments of the present invention (including the
version of system 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) can also be used with
other animals, such as in veterinary medical procedures.
[0051] Further, although system 10 is depicted relative to ventral
cavity 18, system 10 and various other embodiments of the present
invention can be utilized in other body cavities of a patient,
human or animal, such as, for example, the thoracic cavity, the
abdominopelvic cavity, the abdominal cavity, the pelvic cavity, and
other cavities (e.g., lumens of organs such as the stomach, colon,
or bladder of a patient). In some embodiments of the present
methods, and when using embodiments of the present devices and
systems, a pneumoperitoneum may be created in the cavity of
interest to yield a relatively-open space within the cavity.
[0052] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, system 10 comprises an apparatus
34 and a medical device 38; the apparatus is configured to
magnetically position the device with a body cavity of a patient.
In some embodiments, apparatus 34 can be described as an exterior
apparatus and/or external unit and device 38 as an interior device
and/or internal unit due the locations of their intended uses
relative to patients. As shown, apparatus 34 can be positioned
outside the cavity 18 near, adjacent to, and/or in contact with the
exterior surface 30 of the patent 14. Device 38 is positionable
(can be positioned), and is shown positioned, within the cavity 18
of the patient 14 and near, adjacent to, and/or in contact with the
interior surface 26 of wall 22. Device 38 can be inserted or
introduced into the cavity 18 in any suitable fashion. For example,
the device 18 can be inserted into the cavity through a puncture
(not shown) in wall 22, through a tube or trocar (not shown)
extending into the cavity 18 through a puncture or natural orifice
(not shown), or may be inserted into another portion of the patient
14 and moved into the cavity 18 with apparatus 34, such as by the
methods described in this disclosure. If the cavity 18 is
pressurized, device 38 can be inserted or introduced into the
cavity 18 before or after the cavity 18 is pressurized.
[0053] Additionally, some embodiments of system 10 include a
version of device 38 that has a tether 42 coupled to and extending
away from the device 38. In the depicted embodiment, tether 42
extends from device 38 and out of the cavity 18, for example,
through the opening (not shown) through which device 38 is
introduced into the cavity 18. The tether 42 can be flexible and/or
elongated. In some embodiments, the tether 42 can include one or
more conduits for fluids that can be used, for example, for
actuating a hydraulic cylinder or irrigating a region within the
cavity 18. In some embodiments, the tether 42 can include one or
more conductors for enabling electrical communication with the
device 38. In some embodiments, the tether 42 can include one or
more conduits for fluid and one or more conductors. In some
embodiments, the tether does not include a conduit or conductor
and, instead, includes a cord for positioning, moving, or removing
device 38 from the cavity 18. The tether 14, for example, can be
used to assist in positioning the device 34 while the device 34 is
magnetically coupled to the apparatus 38, or to remove the device
34 from the cavity 18 when device 38 is not magnetically coupled to
apparatus 34.
[0054] As is discussed in more detail below, apparatus 34 and
device 38 can be configured to be magnetically couplable to one
another such that device 38 can be positioned or moved within the
cavity 18 by positioning or moving apparatus 34 outside the cavity
18. "Magnetically couplable" means capable of magnetically
interacting so as to achieve a physical result without a direct
physical connection. Examples of physical results are causing
device 38 to move within the cavity 18 by moving apparatus 34
outside the cavity 18, and causing device 38 to remain in a
position within the cavity 18 or in contact with the interior
surface 26 of wall 22 by holding apparatus 34 in a corresponding
position outside the cavity 18 or in contact with the exterior
surface 30 of wall 22. Magnetic coupling can be achieved by
configuring apparatus 34 and device 38 to cause a sufficient
magnetic attractive force between them. For example, apparatus 34
can comprise one or more magnets (e.g., permanent magnets,
electromagnets, or the like) and device 38 can comprise a
ferromagnetic material. In some embodiments, apparatus 34 can
comprise one or more magnets, and device 38 can comprise a
ferromagnetic material, such that apparatus 34 attracts device 38
and device 38 is attracted to apparatus 34. In other embodiments,
both apparatus 34 and device 38 can comprise one or more magnets
such that apparatus 34 and device 38 attract each other.
[0055] The configuration of apparatus 34 and device 38 to cause a
sufficient magnetic attractive force between them can be a
configuration that results in a magnetic attractive force that is
large or strong enough to compensate for a variety of other factors
(such as the thickness of any tissue between them) or forces that
may impede a desired physical result or desired function. For
example, when apparatus 34 and device 38 are magnetically coupled
as shown, with each contacting a respective surface 26 or 30 of
wall 22, the magnetic force between them can compress wall 22 to
some degree such that wall 22 exerts a spring or expansive force
against apparatus 34 and device 38, and such that any movement of
apparatus 34 and device 38 requires an adjacent portion of wall 22
to be similarly compressed. Apparatus 34 and device 38 can be
configured to overcome such an impeding force to the movement of
device 38 with apparatus 34. Another force that the magnetic
attractive force between the two may have to overcome is any
friction that exists between either and the surface, if any, that
it contacts during a procedure (such as apparatus 34 contacting a
patient's skin). Another force that the magnetic attractive force
between the two may have to overcome is the force associated with
the weight and/or tension of the tether 42 and/or frictional forces
on the tether 42 that may resist, impede, or affect movement or
positioning of device 38 using apparatus 34.
[0056] In some embodiments, device 38 can be inserted into cavity
18 through an access port having a suitable internal diameter. Such
access ports includes those created using a conventional
laparoscopic trocar, gel ports, those created by incision (e.g.,
abdominal incision), and natural orifices. Device 38 can be pushed
through the access port with any elongated instrument such as, for
example, a surgical instrument such as a laparoscopic grasper or a
flexible endoscope.
[0057] In embodiments where the tether 42 is connectable to a power
source or a hydraulic source (not shown), the tether can be
connected to the power source or the hydraulic source (which may
also be described as a fluid source) either before or after it is
connected to device 38.
[0058] In some embodiments, when device 38 is disposed within
cavity 18, device 38 can be magnetically coupled to apparatus 34.
This can serve several purposes including, for example, to permit a
user to move device 38 within cavity 18 by moving apparatus 34
outside cavity 18. The magnetic coupling between the two can be
affected by a number of factors, including the distance between
them. For example, the magnetic attractive force between device 38
and apparatus 34 increases as the distance between them decreases.
As a result, in some embodiments, the magnetic coupling can be
facilitated by temporarily compressing the tissue (e.g., the
abdominal wall) separating them. For example, after device 38 has
been inserted into cavity 18, a user (such as a surgeon) can push
down on apparatus 34 (and wall 22) and into cavity 18 until
apparatus 34 and device 38 magnetically couple.
[0059] In FIGS. 1 and 2, apparatus 34 and device 38 are shown at a
coupling distance from one another and magnetically coupled to one
another such that device 38 can be moved within the cavity 18 by
moving apparatus 34 outside the outside wall 22. The "coupling
distance" between two structures (e.g., apparatus 34 and device 38)
is defined as a distance between the closest portions of the
structures at which the magnetic attractive force between them is
great enough to permit them to function as desired for a given
application.
[0060] Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a bottom view and a side
cross-sectional view are shown, respectively, of an embodiment of
apparatus 34. Apparatus 34 has a width 50, a depth 54, and a height
58, and includes a housing 46. The apparatus (and, more
specifically, housing 46) is configured to support, directly or
indirectly, at least one magnetic assembly in the form of one or
more magnetic field sources. In the embodiments shown, apparatus 34
is shown as including a first magnetic field source 62a and a
second magnetic field source 62b. Each magnetic field source 62a,
62b has a coupling end 66 and a distal end 70. As described in more
detail below, the coupling ends face device 38 when apparatus 34
and device 38 are magnetically coupled. The depicted embodiment of
housing 46 of apparatus 34 also includes a pair of guide holes 68
extending through housing 46 for guiding, holding, or supporting
various other devices or apparatuses, as described in more detail
below. In other embodiments, the housing of apparatus 34 can have
any other suitable number of guide holes 68 such as, for example,
zero, one, three, four, five, or more guide holes 68. In some
embodiments, housing 46 comprises a material that is minimally
reactive to a magnetic field such as, for example, plastic,
polymer, fiberglass, or the like. In other embodiments, housing 46
can be omitted or can be integral with the magnetic field sources
such that the apparatus is, itself, a magnetic assembly comprising
a magnetic field source.
[0061] Magnets, in general, have a north pole (the N pole) and a
south pole (the S pole). In some embodiments, apparatus 34 can be
configured (and, more specifically, its magnetic field sources can
be configured) such that the coupling end 66 of each magnetic field
source is the N pole and the distal end 70 of each magnetic field
source is the S pole. In other embodiments, the magnetic field
sources can be configured such that the coupling end 66 of each
magnetic field source is the S pole and the distal end 70 of each
magnetic field source is the N pole. In other embodiments, the
magnetic field sources can be configured such that the coupling end
of the first magnetic field source 62a is the N pole and the
recessed end of the first magnetic field source 62a is the S pole,
and the coupling end of the second magnetic field source 62b is the
S pole and the recessed end of the second magnetic field source 62b
is the N pole. In other embodiments, the magnetic field sources can
be configured such that the coupling end of the first magnetic
field source 62a is the S pole and its recessed end is the N pole,
and the coupling end of the second magnetic field source 62b is the
N pole and its recessed end is the S pole.
[0062] In the embodiment shown, each magnetic field source includes
a solid cylindrical magnet having a circular cross section. In
other embodiments, each magnetic field source can have any suitable
cross-sectional shape such as, for example, rectangular, square,
triangular, fanciful, or the like. In some embodiments, each
magnetic field source comprises any of: any suitable number of
magnets such as, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six,
seven, eight, nine, ten, or more magnets; any suitable number of
electromagnets such as, for example, one, two, three, four, five,
six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more electromagnets; any suitable
number of pieces of ferromagnetic material such as, for example,
one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more
pieces of ferromagnetic material; any suitable number of pieces of
paramagnetic material such as, for example, one, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more pieces of paramagnetic
material; or any suitable combination of magnets, electromagnets,
pieces of ferromagnetic material, and/or pieces of paramagnetic
material.
[0063] In some embodiments, each magnetic field source can include
four cylindrical magnets (not shown) positioned in end-to-end in
linear relation to one another, with each magnet having a height of
about 0.5 inch and a circular cross-section that has a diameter of
about 1 inch. In these embodiments, the magnets can be arranged
such that the N pole of each magnet faces the S pole of the next
adjacent magnet such that the magnets are attracted to one another
and not repulsed.
[0064] Examples of suitable magnets can include: flexible magnets;
Ferrite, such as can comprise Barium or Strontium; AlNiCo, such as
can comprise Aluminum, Nickel, and Cobalt; SmCo, such as can
comprise Samarium and Cobalt and may be referred to as rare-earth
magnets; and NdFeB, such as can comprise Neodymium, Iron, and
Boron. In some embodiments, it can be desirable to use magnets of a
specified grade, for example, grade 40, grade 50, or the like. Such
suitable magnets are currently available from a number of
suppliers, for example, Magnet Sales & Manufacturing Inc.,
11248 Playa Court, Culver City, Calif. 90230 USA; Amazing Magnets,
3943 Irvine Blvd. #92, Irvine, Calif. 92602; and K & J
Magnetics Inc., 2110 Ashton Dr. Suite 1A, Jamison, Pa. 18929. In
some embodiments, one or more magnetic field sources can comprise
ferrous materials (e.g., steel) and/or paramagnetic materials
(e.g., aluminum, manganese, platinum).
[0065] FIGS. 4A-4H depict various views of device 38a, another
embodiment of one of the present medical devices that can be moved
within a body cavity using one of the present apparatuses to which
it is magnetically coupled, and which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. In embodiments of the present medical
devices and systems in which the medical device (e.g., devices 38a,
38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f, 38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n,
38o, 38p, 38q, 38r, 38s, 38t, and 38u) includes an arm, a tool, a
light emitting diode (LED), or the like that is coupled to the
structure shown, for example, in FIGS. 4A-4H, that structure may be
referred to as a "platform."
[0066] In the embodiment shown, device 38a comprises: a platform
100a and an arm 104a pivotally coupled to platform 100a such that
arm 104a is rotatable around a rotational axis 108 between a
collapsed position (FIG. 4G) and an expanded position (FIG. 4H). In
the embodiment shown, platform 100a comprises at least one of a
magnetically-attractive material and a material capable of being
magnetically-charged (e.g., comprises members 112a, 112b that each
comprises a magnetically-attractive material and/or a material that
is capable of being magnetically charged). In the embodiment shown,
device 38a also comprises a detent mechanism 116a configured to
adjustably fix the position of arm 104a relative to platform 100a.
FIG. 4E is a partially cross-sectional view, and FIG. 4F is a
partially cutaway view that omits a portion of platform 100a to
show portions of device 38a in more detail.
[0067] As shown, platform 100a can comprise a housing 120a and can
support one or more members 112a, 112b, as noted above. Platform
100a has a proximal end 122, a distal end 124, and a length 128
extending between proximal end 122 and distal end 124. Platform
100a also has, in the depicted embodiment, a longitudinal recess
132 defined along at least a portion of length 128 of the platform.
As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D, platform 100a can also have a maximum
transverse perimeter 136. The "maximum transverse perimeter" of one
of the present platforms is defined by the smallest circle or
rectangle that can circumscribe the largest cross-section of the
platform. In some embodiments, when arm 104a is in the collapsed
position, the maximum transverse perimeter is less than about 7
inches. In some embodiments, the area circumscribed by the maximum
transverse perimeter is less than about 3.2 square inches.
[0068] In the embodiment shown, detent mechanism 116a comprises a
detent member 140a coupled to one of the platform and the arm such
that detent member 140a is biased in a bias direction 144a toward
the other of the platform and the arm. In the embodiment shown, the
other of the platform and the arm comprises one or more
indentations 148a configured to receive detent member 140a. For
example, in the embodiment shown, detent member 140a is coupled to
platform 100a and biased toward arm 104a which comprises
indentations (e.g., 148a-1, 148a-2). In other embodiments, detent
member 140a can be coupled to arm 104a and biased toward platform
100a (e.g., platform 100a can comprise one or more indentations).
In the embodiment shown, detent mechanism 116a further comprises a
spring 152 configured to bias detent member 140a in bias direction
144a. In the embodiment shown, detent member 112a comprises a ball.
In the embodiment shown, the one or more indentations comprise a
first indentation 148a-1 corresponding to the collapsed position of
the arm (FIG. 4G) and a second indentation 148a-2 corresponding to
the expanded position of the arm (FIG. 4H). In some embodiments,
the one or more indentations comprise a third indentation (not
shown) corresponding to at least one position of the arm between
the collapsed position and the expanded position. In the embodiment
shown, at least one (e.g., each) of the one or more indentations
148a-1, 148a-2 comprises a curved surface 156. For example, in the
embodiment shown, at least one (e.g., each) of indentations 148a-1,
148a-2 comprises surface 156 that is semispherical (a portion of a
sphere that is less than a hemisphere--less then one half of a
sphere).
[0069] In the embodiment shown, detent mechanism 116a is configured
such that detent member 140a moves linearly along a bias axis 160
between an extended position (e.g., FIGS. 4G and 4H) and a
collapsed position (e.g., when arm 104a is between the collapsed
position and the expanded position such that spring 152 is
compressed and detent member 140a is correspondingly depressed). In
the embodiment shown, bias axis 160a is substantially perpendicular
to rotational axis 108. In the embodiment shown, arm 104a is
rotatable in a rotational plane (passing through substantially the
center of platform 100a and of arm 104a such that the rotational
plane passes through substantially the center of arm 104a in both
of the expanded and collapsed positions), and bias axis 160a is
substantially parallel to the rotational plane.
[0070] Arm 104a can have a proximal end 164 and a distal end 168.
Arm 104a can be coupled to platform 100a such that arm 104a is
movable between (1) a collapsed position where distal end 164 of
arm 104a is adjacent to platform 100a, or where arm 104a is
substantially parallel to platform 100a, as shown in FIG. 4H, and
(2) an expanded position where distal end 168 of arm 104a is spaced
apart from platform 100a, or where arm 104a is oriented at a
non-zero angle to platform 100a. When arm 104a is in the collapsed
position, the longitudinal axis of arm 104a is preferably disposed
within maximum transverse perimeter 136 of platform 100a.
Similarly, when arm 104a is in the collapsed position, at least a
portion of the arm can be disposed within recess 132 such that a
majority of the lateral sides of arm 104a is bordered by platform
100a such that platform 100a affords some protection to arm 104a
during, for example, insertion into and removal from cavity 18.
[0071] As best shown in FIG. 4D, arm 104a can include an opening
and/or connector 172 configured to be coupled to a tool (not
shown--e.g., a hook or other mechanical implement) and/or a tether
(e.g., tether 42), such as, for example, to permit a user to apply
a mechanical force to rotate the arm from the collapsed position to
the expanded position, or from the expanded position to the
collapsed position; and/or to couple the tether to the arm to
deliver power or control signals or forces to actuate or operate a
tool 176 coupled to the arm. Tool 176 can include, for example, a
blade, a hook, a cautery tool, or any other tool that may be useful
or advantageous for a medical procedure. In the embodiment shown,
tool 176 is a cautery tool. Cautery tool 176 can be coupled to arm
104a, for example, at or near the distal end 168 of the arm.
Cautery tool 176 can be powered by way of a conductor (not shown)
that runs through, with, or along the tether 42. Furthermore,
during use of device 38a, the conductor can be positioned in and/or
coupled to opening and/or connector 172 located in the proximal end
164 of the arm and visible, for example, in FIGS. 4D, 4G, and 4H.
In some embodiments, cautery tool 176 can be positively charged
with a high electric voltage, such as, for example, a voltage that
is compatible with known electrosurgical units (e.g., up to 9,000
Volts peak-to-peak and/or 390 kHz sinusoidal), such that when
cautery tool 176 contacts a grounded patient's flesh or tissue, the
circuit completes and cautery tool 176 is able to cut or cauterize
the flesh or tissue with relatively little force. When arm 104a is
in the collapsed position, the longitudinal axis of cautery tool
176, or another tool 176, can be parallel to the longitudinal axis
of arm 104a and can also be within the maximum transverse perimeter
of platform 100a. In the embodiment shown, device 38a is configured
such that a tool (e.g., a tool 220) can be coupled to arm 104a
(e.g., via axle 178a with an Allen screw head) such that the tool
can be rotated to rotate arm 104a from the collapsed position
toward the expanded position
[0072] In some embodiments, device 38a can be inserted into cavity
18 and magnetically coupled to apparatus 34, as described above.
Once device 38a and apparatus 34 are magnetically coupled to each
other, or device 38a is otherwise secured in position within cavity
18, a user can deploy or expand the tool (e.g., cautery tool 176)
from the collapsed position (e.g., FIGS. 4A, 4C, and 4G) to an
expanded position (e.g. FIG. 4H) by applying a mechanical force
(e.g., via an external tool or tether 42) to rotate arm 104a
relative to body 100a. In some embodiments, when arm 104a is in an
expanded position, the user can move device 38a to adjust its
position within cavity 18 by moving magnetically coupled apparatus
34 outside cavity 18. In some embodiments, the user may further be
able to move or adjust the pitch and yaw of device 38a by, for
example, moving or adjusting the pitch and yaw of apparatus 34
where wall 22 is compliant enough to permit such pitch and yaw
motion or adjustment. Embodiments of the present devices and
systems can be configured such that when device 38a is in an
operational position (e.g., cautery tool 176 is in a position that
is acceptable to the user for performing a task within cavity 18),
cautery tool 176 can be activated or electrified in any suitable
manner, including, for example, through an electrosurgery unit
(with or without a foot pedal), a power source, or the like.
Embodiments of the present devices and systems can be configured
such that cautery tool 176 can be powered and actuated by
conventional methods and systems such as, for example, with a
conventional cautery power supply. Such a power supply can be
electrically-coupled to or in electrical communication with the
cautery tool 176 in any suitable manner, including, for example, by
way of a physical tether (e.g., tether 42). Embodiments of the
present devices and systems can be configured such that a user can
activate cautery tool 176 using a foot pedal, a switch, a
voice-actuated activator, or any other suitable method, system, or
device. Other embodiments of the present devices and systems can be
configured such that cautery tool 176 can be deployed (e.g., arm
104a can be deployed from a collapsed to an expanded position)
and/or controlled by way of a joystick or other relatively
more-complicated user interface.
[0073] In the embodiment shown, platform 100a includes housing 120a
and two magnetically-attractive or magnetically-chargeable members
(in this case, first member 112a and second member 112b), which are
supported by (e.g., coupled to) housing 120a. Device 38a has a
coupling side 180 and a working side 184. Device 38a can be part of
embodiments of the present systems that include an embodiment of
apparatus 34. Device 38a can be configured such that coupling side
180 faces an embodiment of apparatus 34, and such that working side
184 faces away from apparatus 34, when apparatus 34 and device 38a
are magnetically coupled to each other. Housing 120a can support or
hold members 112a and 112b in fixed relation to one another. Each
member has a coupling end 188 oriented toward coupling side 180 of
device 38a and a distal end 192 oriented toward working side 180 of
device 38a.
[0074] Members 112a and 112b can comprise any suitable material
that is magnetically attracted to the magnetic field sources 62a,
62b of apparatus 34. Examples of such material include, for
example, a magnet, a ferromagnetic material, and a paramagnetic
material. In a further example, such material may include a
permanent magnet material that can be magnetized and/or
de-magnetized with exposure to a magnetic field. In some
embodiments, one or both of apparatus 34 and device 38a are
configured such that that the magnetic field sources of the
apparatus can each be aligned with a different
magnetically-attractive member of device 38a, meaning that an axis
can be substantially centered in and run lengthwise through a given
aligned pair comprising a magnetic field source of the apparatus
and a magnetically-attractive member of the device. In the
embodiment shown, members 112a and 112b each has an elongated
shape. In some embodiments of the present devices, each member
112a, 112b comprises a cylindrical magnet having a height of about
0.25 inches, and a circular cross-section with a diameter of about
0.375 inches. In other embodiments, each member comprise a
cylindrical magnet having a height of about any of 0.15 inches,
0.16 inches, 0.17 inches, 0.18 inches, 0.19 inches, 0.20 inches, or
0.21 inches; and a circular cross-section with a diameter of about
any of: 0.25 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.35 inches, 0.375 inches, 0.4
inches, 0.45 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.625
inches, or 0.65 inches. In some embodiments, each member 112a, 112b
comprises a plurality of magnets of varying sizes or shapes, for
example, five cylindrical magnets having a circular cross-section,
two with a height of about 0.6 inches and a diameter of about 0.375
inches, and three with a height of about 0.6 inches and a diameter
of about 0.5 inches; four cylindrical magnets having a circular
cross section, one with a height of about 0.06 inches and a
diameter of about 0.5 inches, and three with a height of about 0.6
inches and a diameter of about 0.625 inches. In other embodiments,
members 112a, 112b include any suitable cross-sectional shape,
dimension, or number of magnets, or volumes of ferromagnetic or
paramagnetic materials.
[0075] In embodiments of the present devices (e.g., device 38a),
where members 112a and 112b include magnets, each member will
generally have an N pole and an S pole. In some of these
embodiments, first member 112a has its N pole oriented toward
coupling end 188 and its S pole oriented toward distal end 192, and
second member 112b has its S pole oriented toward its coupling end
188 and its N pole oriented toward its distal end 192, such that
the members 112a, 112b are in an N-S/S-N configuration. In others
of these embodiments, first member 112a has its S pole oriented
toward coupling end 188 and its N pole oriented toward distal end
192, and second member 112b has its N pole oriented toward its
coupling end 188 and its S pole oriented toward its distal end 192,
such that the members 112a, 112b are in an S-N/N-S
configuration.
[0076] For example, FIG. 1 depicts a pictorial side view of an
embodiment of system 10 in which apparatus 34 and device 38 are
magnetically coupled across a wall 22 of a patient with wall 22
shown in cross-section for clarity. As described above, the
magnetic field sources 62a, 62b of apparatus 34 and the
magnetically-attractive members 112a, 112b of device 38 (e.g., 38a)
can be configured in various ways. In one "consistent"
configuration, the coupling ends 66 of both magnetic field sources
62a, 62b are configured to have the same polarity (e.g., both N
poles or both S poles), such that the coupling ends 66 of the
magnetic field sources 62a, 62b have an N-N configuration or
orientation or an S-S configuration or orientation. In this
"consistent" configuration, device 38 can be configured such that
members 112a, 112b are magnets and coupling ends 188 of members
112a, 112b are oppositely oriented relative to coupling ends 66 of
magnetic field sources 62. For example, where coupling ends 66 of
the field sources 62a, 62b have an N-N configuration, members 112a,
112b of the device can have an S-S configuration, and where
coupling ends 66 have an S-S configuration, coupling ends 188 can
have an N-N configuration. In this way, magnetic field sources 62a,
62b and members 112a, 112b will be attracted to, and attract, each
other such that the magnetic attractive forced can be maximized
between apparatus 34 and device 38.
[0077] In another "alternating" configuration, coupling ends 66 of
magnetic field sources 62a, 62b can be configured to have different
polarities. For example, the N pole of first magnetic field source
62a can be oriented at coupling end 66 while the S pole of second
magnetic field source 62b can be oriented at its coupling end 66,
or vice versa, such that the coupling ends of the magnetic field
sources have an N-S or S-N configuration. In this "alternating"
configuration, device 38 can be configured such that members 112a,
112b are magnets that also have an alternating orientation. For
example, coupling ends 188 of members 112a, 112b can have an N-S
orientation or an S-N orientation. In this way, the coupling end 66
with an N pole primarily attracts and is attracted to the coupling
end 188 having an S pole, and the coupling end 66 with an S pole
primarily attracts and is attracted to the coupling end 188 having
an N pole. Stated otherwise, each coupling end 66 attracts and is
attracted to the coupling end 188 having an opposite polarity, and
each coupling end 66 repels and is repelled by the coupling end 188
having a like polarity. As such, when in the "alternating"
configuration, apparatus 34 and device 38 are attracted to one
another in a specific relationship, such that when apparatus 34 and
device 38 are magnetically coupled, control over or "tracking" of
device 38 can be improved.
[0078] FIGS. 5A-5E depict various views of another embodiment 38b
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38b is similar in
several respects to medical device 38a, so generally only the
differences between them will be described here. In particular,
detent mechanism 116b comprises two detent members 140b-1, 140b-2
that are coupled to arm 104a and biased toward platform 100a which
comprises indentations (e.g., 148b-1, 148b-2). In the embodiment
shown, each bias axis 160b-1, 160b-2 is substantially perpendicular
to rotational axis 108. In the embodiment shown, each bias axis
160b-1, 160b-2 is substantially perpendicular to the rotational
plane of arm 104b. FIG. 5D is a partially cross-sectional view, and
FIG. 5E is a partially cutaway view that omits a portion of
platform 100b to show portions of device 38b in more detail. As
illustrated, indentations 148b-1, 148b-2 can be defined by members
196b-1, 196b-2, respectively that can be disposed in platform 100b
(e.g., in housing 116b). In other embodiments, indentations 196b-1,
196b-2 can be defined directly by housing 120b.
[0079] FIGS. 6A-6E depict various views of another embodiment 38c
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38c is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a and 38b, so generally only
the differences between them will be described here. In particular,
platform 100c comprises a resilient portion 200 (at or including a
portion of distal end 124 of platform 100c and on only one side of
arm 104c) biased toward arm 104c (if resilient portion 200 is
deflected away from arm 104c, resilient portion 200 will tend to
return to its pre-deflected or original position). Additionally, in
the embodiment shown, detent member 140c comprises a protrusion
extending from resilient portion 200 of platform 100c such that
detent member 140c is biased in a bias direction 144c toward the
arm. In this embodiment, as in device 38a, arm 104c includes first
and second (a first set of) indentations 148c-1, 148c-2
corresponding to the collapsed position of the arm, and third and
fourth (a second set of) indentations 148c-3, 148c-4 corresponding
to the expanded position of the arm. FIG. 6D is a perspective view
of the platform without the arm, and FIG. 6E is a partially cutaway
view that omits a portion of platform 100c to show portions of
device 38c in more detail. As shown, in some embodiments of the
present medical devices, the arm (e.g., 104c) can be disposed on an
axle 204c that is pivotally coupled to the platform (e.g., 100c)
and/or a pin 208 can extend through arm 104c and into (and/or
through) axle 204c to substantially fix the position of the arm
relative to the axle. In the embodiment shown, resilient portion
200 is configured to act similarly to spring 152 in devices 38a,
38b to bias protrusions 140c-1, 140c-2 toward arm 104c. In some
embodiments, resilient portion 200 can be purposefully weakened to
permit it to act as described (e.g., platform 100c can be provided
with notches, grooves, or the like at or around resilient portion
200 to permit resilient portion to function as described).
[0080] FIGS. 7A-7G depict various views of another embodiment 38d
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38d is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, and 38c, so generally
only the differences between them will be described here. In
particular, medical device 38d is configured such that arm 104d can
be rotated or deployed differently relative to platform 100d. In
the embodiment shown, arm 104d is pivotally coupled to platform
100d such that arm 104d is rotatable at least 90 degrees around
rotational axis 108 between a collapsed position (FIG. 7E) and an
expanded position (FIG. 7G). In the embodiment shown, device 38d
comprises: a first gear 212d coupled in fixed relation to arm 104d
such that rotational axis 108 passes through first gear 212d (is
substantially colinear with the rotational axis of first gear
212d); and a second gear 216d rotatably coupled to platform 100d.
FIG. 7D is a partially cutaway view that omits a portion of
platform 100d to show portions of device 38d in more detail.
[0081] Additionally, in the embodiment shown, device 38d is
configured such that a tool 220 can be coupled to second gear 216d
(e.g., as illustrated from FIG. 7D to FIG. 7E) such that tool 220
can be rotated to rotate second gear 216d; and such that if second
gear 216d is rotated in a first rotational direction 224 when arm
104d is in the collapsed position (FIG. 7E), then arm will rotate
from the collapsed position toward the expanded position (e.g.,
from FIG. 7E toward FIG. 7F). In the embodiment shown, device 38d
is also configured such that: if second gear 216d is rotated in a
second rotational direction 228 when arm 104d is in the expanded
position (FIG. 7F), then arm 104d will rotate from the expanded
position toward the collapsed position (e.g., from FIG. 7F toward
FIG. 7E).
[0082] In the embodiment shown, second gear 216d is configured to
rotate around a first gear axis 236d. In the embodiment shown,
first gear axis 236d is substantially parallel to the rotational
plane of arm 104d. In other embodiments, first gear axis 236d can
be substantially perpendicular to the rotational plane of arm 104d.
In the embodiment shown, first gear axis 236d is substantially
perpendicular to the length of platform 100d (e.g., substantially
perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of arm 104d when arm
104d is in the collapsed position. In the embodiment shown, first
gear 212d is unitary with arm 104d. In other embodiments, first
gear 212d can be separately formed and held in fixed relation to
arm 104d in any suitable fashion (e.g., with one or more pins or
other fasteners, adhesive, welds, or the like). In the embodiment
shown, second gear 216d comprises a worm gear coupled to platform
100d and first gear 212d such that second gear 216d can rotate
relative to platform 100d and such that rotation of second gear
216d will cause rotation of first gear 212d (and thereby arm 104d).
In the embodiment shown, platform 100d comprises an opening 240d
(e.g., with a tapered top portion 244d) configured to permit tool
220 to be inserted into opening 240d and coupled to second gear
216d. For example, second gear 216d can comprise a hexagonal
opening (e.g., configured to receive an Allen wrench), a hexagonal
head (e.g., configured to be coupled to a socket wrench to cause
second gear 216d to rotate, a female Phillips screw head (e.g.,
configured to be coupled to a Phillips screwdriver to cause second
gear 216d to rotate), a flat-head screw head (e.g., configured to
be coupled to a flat-head screwdriver to cause second gear 216d to
rotate), a press-fit receiver, and/or any other suitable shape or
structure to permit a tool 220 to be coupled to second gear 216d.
As such, tool 220 can be any suitable tool configured to couple to
second gear 216d, such as, for example, an Allen wrench, a socket
wrench, a Phillips or flat-head screwdriver, a needle, a hook,
and/or the like, as appropriate for various embodiments of the
present devices.
[0083] Tool 220 can be inserted into the patient's body cavity
transdermally and/or can be rotated by a motor once coupled to
second gear 216d (e.g., a power tool). For example, as illustrated
in FIGS. 7E-7G, a needle 220 can be inserted through opening 240
and coupled with second gear 216d by pressing the tip of needle 220
into second gear 216d (e.g., such that friction between needle 220
and second gear 216d permits needle 220 to rotate second gear
216d). Once needle 220 is inserted into and/or engages second gear
216d, needle 220 can be rotated to cause second gear 216d to rotate
and deploy (rotate) arm 104d toward the expanded position shown in
FIG. 7G. Needle 220 can be, for example, an 18-gauge hypodermic
needle. Upon deployment or rotation of arm 104d to the desired
angle relative to platform 100d, needle 220 can be removed from
platform 100d and/or from the patient. In some embodiments, first
and second gears 212d and 216d, respectively, are configured to
have a relatively low efficiency for reversing the process (e.g.,
such that a greater torque is required to reverse the rotation of
the arm (to return the arm to the collapsed position), such as, for
example, so that the gears resist retraction of the arm to the
collapsed position. In the embodiment shown, device 38d is
configured to permit arm 104d to rotate and/or be substantially
fixed at any angle between the collapsed position and the expanded
position.
[0084] FIGS. 8A-8B depict various views of another embodiment 38e
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38e is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, and 38d, so
generally only the differences between them will be described here.
In particular, medical device 38e is configured such that second
gear 216e has a flat-head screw head such that second gear 216e can
be coupled to and rotated by a flat-head screwdriver. Additionally,
platform 100e and arm 104e are configured to ft closely together to
minimize the possibility of body fluids and/or tissue infiltrating
or contaminating first gear 212e and second gear 216e. For example,
in the embodiment shown, second gear 216e is substantially
enclosed. FIG. 8B is a partially cutaway view that omits a portion
of platform 100e to show portions of device 38e in more detail.
[0085] FIGS. 9A-9C depict various views of another embodiment 38f
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38f is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, and 38e, so
generally only the differences between them will be described here.
In particular, medical device 38f is configured such that first
gear axis 236f (rotational axis of second gear 216f) is
substantially parallel to the length of platform 100f (e.g.,
substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of arm
104f when arm 104f is in the collapsed position). Additionally, in
the embodiment shown, first gear axis 236f is closer to coupling
side 180 of platform 100f than to working side 184, and rotational
axis 108 is closer to working side 184 than coupling side 180. FIG.
9C is a partially cutaway view that omits a portion of platform
100f to show portions of device 38f in more detail. In the
embodiment shown, second gear 216f is coupled to (e.g., threaded
onto and/or secured with an adhesive, locknut, or the like) an
Allen screw 248f such that rotation of screw 248f will rotate
second gear 216f.
[0086] FIGS. 10A-10E depict various partially cutaway views of
another embodiment 38g of the present medical devices, which can
also be used as part of one of the present systems. In each of
FIGS. 10A-10E, a large portion of platform 100g is omitted to show
detent mechanism 116g and arm 104g in more detail. Medical device
38g is similar in several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b,
38c, 38d, 38e, and 38f, so generally only the differences between
them will be described here. In particular, medical device 38g is
configured such that first gear axis 236g is closer to working side
184 of platform 100g than to coupling side 180, and rotational axis
108 is closer to coupling side 180 than working side 184.
Additionally, in the embodiment shown, second gear 216g is covered
by housing 120g at distal end 124 of platform 100g such that an
elongated member (not shown, but similar, for example, to a rod,
threaded rod, bolt, or the like) can be coupled to second gear 216g
and extended to proximal end 122 of platform 100g such that the
elongated member can be coupled to a tool and/or rotated at
proximal end 122 of platform 100g to cause second gear 216g and arm
104g to rotate.
[0087] FIGS. 11A-11E depict various views of another embodiment 38h
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38h is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
and 38g, so generally only the differences between them will be
described here. In particular, medical device 38h is configured
such that first gear axis 236h (and Allen screw 248h) is
substantially perpendicular to the rotational plane of arm 104h.
FIG. 11C is a partially cutaway view that omits a portion of
platform 100h to show portions of device 38h in more detail. In the
embodiment shown, medical device 38h further comprises: a third
gear 252h coupled to first gear 212h and second gear 216h such that
if second gear 216h is rotated, second gear 216h will rotate third
gear 252h and third gear 252h will rotate first gear 212h. In the
embodiment shown, third gear 252h is configured to rotate around a
second gear axis 256h that is substantially perpendicular to first
gear axis 236h. In the embodiment shown, first gear 212h comprises
a bevel gear coupled in fixed relation to arm 104h, third gear 252h
comprises a worm-gear follower with a bevel gear rotatably coupled
to platform 100h and configured to engage and rotate with first
gear 212h, and second gear 216h comprises a worm gear rotatably
coupled to platform 100h and configured to engage and rotate with
third gear 252h.
[0088] FIGS. 12A-12C depict various views of another embodiment 38i
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38i is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, and 38h, so generally only the differences between them will
be described here. In particular, medical device 38i is configured
such that arm 104i is rotatable around rotational axis 108 by less
than 90 degrees (e.g., such that expanded position is where arm
104i is rotated between 30 and 60 degrees clockwise from the
collapsed position shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C). In the embodiment
shown, second gear 212i is rotatably coupled to platform 100i such
that first gear axis 236i is substantially perpendicular to
rotational axis 108 of arm 104i and such that first gear axis 236i
is substantially parallel to the rotational plane of arm 104i. In
the embodiment shown, first gear axis 236i is also substantially
perpendicular to the length of platform 100i (e.g., substantially
perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of arm 104i when arm
104i is in the collapsed position.
[0089] FIGS. 13A-13I depict various views of another embodiment 38j
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38j is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, and 38i, so generally only the differences between them
will be described here. In particular, medical device 38j is
configured such that arm 104j can be adjusted and secured relative
to platform 100j in a different fashion. In the embodiment shown,
arm 104j has a hub 260j that is pivotally coupled to platform 100j
such that arm 104j is rotatable at least 90 degrees around
rotational axis 108 between a collapsed position (FIG. 13H) and an
expanded position (FIG. 13I). FIG. 13G is a cutaway view in which
platform 100j is omitted to show the other parts of device 38j in
more detail, and FIGS. 13H and 13I are partially cutaway views that
omits a portion of platform 100j to show portions of device 38j in
more detail.
[0090] In the embodiment shown, medical device 38j also comprises:
a threaded member 264j rotatably coupled to platform 100j; a
shuttle 268j coupled to threaded member 264j; and a shuttle arm
272j having a first end 276j coupled (e.g., pivotally coupled) to
shuttle 268j and a second end 280j coupled (e.g., pivotally
coupled) to hub 260j. In the embodiment shown, medical device 38j
is configured such that: a tool (e.g., 220) can be coupled to
threaded member 264j such that the tool can be rotated to rotate
threaded member 264j; and if threaded member 264j is rotated in a
first rotational direction 224 when the arm is in the collapsed
position, then shuttle 268j will travel in a substantially linear
first direction 284 to cause arm 104j to rotate from the collapsed
position toward the expanded position. In the embodiment shown,
medical device 38j is also configured such that: if threaded member
264j is rotated in a second rotational direction 228 when arm 104j
is in the expanded position, then shuttle 268j will travel in a
substantially linear second direction 288 (that is substantially
opposite first direction 284) to cause arm 104j to rotate from the
expanded position toward the collapsed position. Threaded member
264j can be entirely threaded, or can have only a portion (e.g., a
portion sufficient to permit the shuttle to travel between the
collapsed and expanded positions of the arm). In the embodiment
shown, threaded member 264j is configured to be coupled to a tool
(e.g., such that tool can rotate threaded member 264j) at or near
proximal end 122 of platform 100j (e.g., via Allen screw head
248j). Threaded member 264j is configured to rotate around a member
axis 292 that is substantially parallel to the rotational plane of
arm 104j.
[0091] FIGS. 14A-14D depict various views of another embodiment 38k
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38k is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, and 38j, so generally only the differences between
them will be described here. In particular, medical device 38k is
configured such that arm 104k is coupled to platform 100k by way of
slots and pins. In the embodiment shown, arm 104k is coupled to
platform 100k with a pin 300k slidably disposed within a cam slot
304k defined within one of platform 100k and arm 104k, where the
pin is coupled to the other of the platform and the arm, and the
arm movable between an expanded position (FIG. 14D) and a collapsed
position (FIG. 14C).
[0092] As with device 38j, medical device 38k includes a threaded
member 264k rotatably coupled to platform 100k; a shuttle 268k
coupled to threaded member 264k. In the embodiment shown, shuttle
268k is pivotally coupled to arm 104k. Medical device 38k is
configured such that: a tool (e.g., 200) can be coupled to threaded
member 264k such that the tool can be rotated to rotate threaded
member 268k; and if threaded member 268k is rotated in a first
rotational direction 224 when arm 104k is in the collapsed
position, then shuttle 268k will travel in a substantially linear
first direction 284 to cause arm 104k to move from the collapsed
position toward the expanded position.
[0093] For example, in the embodiment shown, cam slot 304k is
formed in housing 120k of platform 100k, and pin 300k is coupled in
fixed relation to arm 104k such that pin 300k is slideably received
in cam slot 304k. More particularly, housing 120k of platform 100k
includes one or more cam slots 304k (two, in the depicted
embodiment) that are angularly disposed relative to the
longitudinal axis of platform 100k and that extend transversely
through at least a portion of the platform. In some embodiments,
platform 100k can include a second cam slot (not shown, but
parallel to substantially linear directions 284, 288) extending
transversely through at least a portion of the platform. In the
embodiment shown, proximal end 164 of arm 100k is coupled to
platform 100k by pin or pins 300k extending into cam slots 304k,
such that in moving from the collapsed position of FIG. 14C to the
expanded position of FIG. 14D, arm 104k moves both longitudinally
with shuttle 268k in the direction of distal end 124 of platform
100k and angularly outward from platform 100k. In the embodiment
shown, threaded member 264k includes an Allen screw head 248k to
receive a tool that comprises an Allen wrench.
[0094] FIGS. 15A-15C depict various views of another embodiment 38l
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38l is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, and 38k, so generally only the differences
between them will be described here. In particular, threaded member
2641 comprises a tab 2481 with a hole configured to receive a tool
(e.g., 220) that includes a hook to rotate threaded member
2641.
[0095] FIGS. 16A-16B depict various views of another embodiment 38m
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38m is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, and 38l, so generally only the differences
between them will be described here. In particular, medical device
38m is substantially similar to device 38l, but is configured such
that housing 120m of platform 100m includes a side access panel 308
that can be removed to access internal components of device 38m. As
illustrated for device 38m, the arm (e.g., 104m) of the present
devices (e.g., 38m) can be can have a rectangular cross section
and/or longitudinal recess 132 can be provided with a
cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the
arm (e.g., to reduce the likelihood of debris from entering
longitudinal recess 132 while the arm is in the collapsed
position).
[0096] FIGS. 17A-17B depict various views of another embodiment 38n
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38n is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, and 38m, so generally only the
differences between them will be described here. In particular,
medical device 38n is substantially similar to device 38l, but is
configured such that threaded member 264n includes a slotted end
248n with a post across the slot such that the slot can receive a
tool (e.g., 220) that includes a hook to rotate threaded member
264n.
[0097] FIGS. 18A-18J depict various views of another embodiment 38o
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38o is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, and 38n, so generally only the
differences between them will be described here. In particular,
medical device 38o is substantially similar to device 38l, but is
configured such that platform 100o includes one or more (e.g., two,
as shown) guide rods 312 that are substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis of platform 100o. In the embodiment shown,
shuttle 268o is slidably coupled to guide rods 312. Additionally,
in the embodiment shown, medical device 38o is configured such
that: if threaded member 264o is rotated in a first rotational
direction 224 when arm 104o is in the collapsed position, then
shuttle 268o will travel in a substantially linear first direction
284 along guide rods 312 to cause arm 104o to move from the
collapsed position toward the expanded position. In this
configuration, guide rods 312 are configured to act as linear
bearings by helping to constrain or limit shuttle 268o to
forward/back linear motion along guide rods 312.
[0098] FIGS. 19A-19K depict various views of another embodiment 38p
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38p is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, and 38o, so generally only
the differences between them will be described here. In particular,
arm 104p is pivotally coupled to platform 100p such that arm 104p
is rotatable around rotational axis 108 between a collapsed
position (FIG. 19H) and an expanded position (FIG. 19K). Medical
device 38p comprises: a spring 316 configured to bias arm 104p
toward platform 100p in a first direction 320 that substantially
parallel to rotational axis 108. In the embodiment shown, medical
device 38p is configured such that: in the absence of an external
force arm 104p can contact platform 100p such that arm 104p is
substantially prevented from rotating relative to platform 100p; a
tool (e.g., 220) can be coupled to arm 104p to move arm 104p
relative to platform 100p in a second direction 324 that is
substantially parallel to rotational axis 108; and if arm 104p is
moved in second direction 324 such that arm 104p is separated from
platform 100p then arm 104p is permitted to rotate relative to
platform 100p. FIG. 19E is a partially cutaway view that omits a
portion of platform 100p to show portions of device 38p in more
detail, FIG. 19F is a cutaway view showing only the portion of
platform 100p that includes tongue 328, and FIG. 19G is a cutaway
view showing only the portion of arm 104p that includes grooves
332.
[0099] In the embodiment shown, one of platform 100p and arm 104p
(platform 100p in the embodiment shown) comprises a tongue 328, the
other of platform 100p and arm 104p (arm 104p in the embodiment
shown) comprises a groove 332, and device 38p is configured such
that if tongue 328 is aligned with groove 332 and arm 104p contacts
platform 100p, then tongue 328 and groove 332 cooperate to
substantially prevent rotation of the arm relative to the platform.
In the embodiment shown, arm 104p comprises two grooves 332 that
intersect each other and rotational axis 108 (e.g., two grooves 332
whose respective central axes intersect). In the embodiment shown,
grooves 332 are disposed at an angle 334 of between 30 and 60
degrees (e.g., equal to, greater than, or between any of: 30, 35,
40, 45, 50, 55, and/or 60 degrees) relative to one another. For
example, in the embodiment shown, one of the two grooves 332
corresponds to the collapsed position of the arm, and the other of
the two grooved 332 corresponds to the expanded position of the
arm.
[0100] FIGS. 19H-19K illustrate the deployment or rotation of arm
104p (the groove and tongue are on the opposite side of the arm in
FIGS. 19H-19K, for clarity in the illustrated perspective, but the
function and construction are otherwise substantially similar).
More particularly, in the embodiment shown, an axle 204p is coupled
in fixed relation to arm 104p and axle 204p includes a slotted end
with a post across the slot such that the slot can receive a tool
(e.g., 220) that includes a hook to engage the post of axle 204p in
the slot of axle 204p. As shown in FIG. 19H tool engages axle 204p
such that tool can pull axle 204p and arm 104p in first direction
320 to compress spring 316 and separate arm 104p (and groove 332)
from platform 100p (and tongue 328). Upon separation of arm 104p
from platform 100p (e.g., by at least the greater of the height of
tongue 328 or the depth groove 332), as shown in FIG. 19F, then arm
104p is permitted to rotate relative to platform 100p, as shown in
FIG. 19G. When or while arm is rotated from the collapsed position
to the expanded position, arm 104p can be permitted to return to
its biased state in which arm 104p is in contact with platform
100p, such that when tongue 328 is aligned with the groove 332 that
corresponds to the expanded position of arm 104p, arm 104p will be
substantially prevented from rotating relative to platform
100p.
[0101] FIGS. 20A-20F depict various views of another embodiment 38q
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38q is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, 38o, and 38p, so generally
only the differences between them will be described here. In
particular, medical device 38q is substantially similar to device
38p, but platform 100q comprises a first set of teeth 336; arm 104q
comprises a second set of teeth 340, and medical device 38q is
configured such that: in the absence of an external force, first
set of teeth 336 contacts second set of teeth 340 such that arm
104p is substantially prevented from rotating relative to platform
100p; and a tool can be coupled to medical device 38q (e.g., to
axle 204q) to rotate arm 104q around rotational axis 108. For
example, in the embodiment shown, axle 204q comprises an Allen
screw configuration, and due to the angled surfaces and relatively
shallow depth of the teeth, arm 104q can be rotated relative to
platform 100q without first pulling arm 104q away from platform
100q (e.g., the angled surfaces of the teeth can be configured such
that the lateral component of a torque applied to axle 204q is
sufficient to separate arm 104q and platform 100q to permit
rotation of the arm). In other embodiments, arm 104q can be pulled
or otherwise separated from platform 100q before rotating arm 104q
relative to platform 100q.
[0102] FIGS. 21A-21B depict various views of an arm 104r suitable
for use with device 38q. Arm 104r is substantially similar to arm
104q, but first set of teeth 340r are configured as a separate
piece that is coupled to arm 104r (e.g., by way of pins or other
fasteners). In some embodiments first set of teeth 340r comprise a
material that is different than that of the arm.
[0103] FIGS. 22A-22E depict various views of another embodiment 38s
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38s is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, 38o, 38p, 38q, and 38r, so
generally only the differences between them will be described here.
In particular, arm 104s is pivotally coupled to platform 100s such
that arm 104s is rotatable at least 90 degrees around rotational
axis 108 between a collapsed position and an expanded position. In
the embodiment shown, medical device 38s comprises a motor 344s
coupled to (e.g., internal to) arm 104s; a first gear 212s coupled
in fixed relation to platform 100s; and a second gear 216s coupled
to motor 344s. In the embodiment shown, medical device 38s is
configured such that: if motor 344s is actuated to rotate second
gear 212s in a first rotational direction 224 when arm 104s is in
the collapsed position, then arm 104s will rotate from the
collapsed position toward the expanded position. In some
embodiments, medical device 38s further comprises: a third gear
(not shown) rotatably coupled to platform 100s such that the third
gear is configured to rotate around rotational axis 108 (e.g., to
help distribute the load between first gear 212s and second gear
216s).
[0104] FIGS. 23A-23E depict various views of another embodiment 38t
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38t is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, 38o, 38p, 38q, 38r, and
38s, so generally only the differences between them will be
described here. In particular, medical device 38t comprises a motor
344t coupled to (e.g., internal to) platform 100t, a second gear
216t coupled to motor 344t, a first gear 212t coupled in fixed
relation to arm 104t, and a third gear 252t rotatably coupled to
arm 104t such that third gear 252t (e.g., to help distribute the
load between first gear 212t and second gear 216t). As shown, each
of first, second, and third gears 212t, 216t, 252t has a custom
shape that is different from a standard toothed gear, and each gear
instead comprises a plurality of substantially equally-sized,
substantially circular protrusions from a central hub. FIG. 23F is
a partially cutaway view that omits a portion of platform 100t to
show portions of device 38t (including the gears) in more
detail.
[0105] FIGS. 24A-24F depict various views of another embodiment 38u
of the present medical devices, which can also be used as part of
one of the present systems. Medical device 38u is similar in
several respects to medical devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, 38o, 38p, 38q, 38r, 38s,
and 38t, so generally only the differences between them will be
described here. In particular, medical device 38u is similar to
device 38j, but comprises: a member 264u (e.g., non-threaded member
264u) movably (e.g., slidably) coupled to platform 100u; a shuttle
268u coupled to member 264u (e.g., via a pin or tab); and a shuttle
arm 272u having a first end 276u coupled to shuttle 268u and a
second end 280u coupled to hub 260u of arm 104u. In the embodiment
shown, medical device 38u is configured such that: a tool (e.g.,
220) can be coupled to member 264u to move (e.g., slide) member
264u (e.g., by pushing member 264u with the tool); and if member
264u is moved in a substantially linear first direction 284 when
arm 104u is in the collapsed position (FIG. 24E), then shuttle 268u
will travel in first direction 284 to cause arm 104u to rotate from
the collapsed position (FIG. 24E) toward the expanded position
(FIG. 24F). In the embodiment shown, medical device 38u further
comprises: a spring 348 configured to bias member 268u in second
direction 288 such that if arm 104u is deployed and member 268u is
moved in second direction 288, spring 348 will cause arm 104u to
rotate toward the collapsed position.
[0106] In any of the present embodiments, the medical device e.g.,
devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f, 38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l,
38m, 38n, 38o, 38p, 38q, 38r, 38s, 38t, and 38u) can be sterilized.
For example, embodiments of the present medical devices can
comprise a sterilized and/or sterile platform (e.g., 100a, 100b,
100c, etc.) and/or a sterilized and/or sterile arm (e.g., 104a,
104b, 104c, etc.). Embodiments of the present medical devices
(e.g., devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f, 38g, 38h, 38i, 38j,
38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, 38o, 38p, 38q, 38r, 38s, 38t, and 38u) can be
made by any suitable method and can comprise any suitable material
or materials. For example, the platforms (e.g., 100a, 100b, 100c,
etc.) and arms (e.g., 104a, 104b, 104c, etc.) can be machined by
conventional subtractive methods such as milling or turning, or can
be formed by additive methods such as those used for rapid
prototyping; and can comprise suitable biocompatible materials such
as plastics, metals, composites, alloys, and the like. Various
other components such as, for example, bearings, gears, fluid
cylinders, cables, conductors, conduits, and the like can be
obtained from common mechanical/electrical suppliers, such as, for
example, Small Parts, Inc., Florida, USA; McMaster-Carr Supply
Company, Georgia, USA; Stock Drive Products/Sterling Instrument,
New York, USA; SMC Corporation of America, Indiana, USA; Bimba
Manufacturing Company, Illinois, USA; Festo Corporation, New York,
USA; Faulhaber Group, Germany; and MicroMo Electronics, Inc.,
Florida, USA. Similarly, the parts or components of embodiments of
the present systems and/or medical devices can be assembled through
any suitable means including, for example, conventional manual
techniques, fastening, press-fitting, securing with biocompatible
epoxies or adhesives, and the like. In embodiments of the present
systems and medical devices that include tether 42, and tether 42
serves to couple the tool of the device to a power source, the
source can be a hydraulic source such as a fluid (liquid or gas)
pressure source. Examples of fluid pressure sources include hand
pumps, electric pumps, compressed gas bottles with a pressure
regulator, or the like. In embodiments in which the power source
that tether 42 can couple to the tool is an electrical power
source, examples of such power sources include batteries, electric
amplifiers, and the like. Other examples of electrical power
sources that can be used where the tool is a cautery tool include,
as mentioned above, electrosurgery units, such as, for example, an
electrosurgery unit or power source available from suppliers such
as, for example, ValleyLab, Colorado, USA; Erbe USA, Inc., Georgia,
USA. In some embodiments, tether 42 can include more than one
conductors and/or conduits. For example, tether 42 can include one
conductor and one conduit, two conductors and one conduit, three
conductors, or the like, as appropriate for delivering hydraulic
fluid (gas or liquid) and/or electric power to various components
of the relevant device (e.g., devices 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f,
38g, 38h, 38i, 38j, 38k, 38l, 38m, 38n, 38o, 38p, 38q, 38r, 38s,
38t, and 38u). By of way additional examples, the tether 42 can
include a conductive portion coaxially around a fluid conduit, or
can include a conductive portion (insulated) within a fluid conduit
(e.g., configured to permit fluid to flow within the conduit
adjacent to the conductor).
[0107] The various embodiments of the present systems, apparatuses,
devices, and methods described in this disclosure can be employed
and/or applied for any suitable medical or surgical procedures,
including, for example, natural orifice transluminal endoscopic
surgery (NOTES), single-incision laparosopic surgery (SILS),
single-port laparoscopy (SLP), and others.
[0108] The various illustrative embodiments of systems,
apparatuses, devices, and methods described herein are not intended
to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they
include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope
of the claims. For example, although the version of cam slots 304k
shown in platform 100k of device 38k extend through the platform in
which they reside such that slots 304k, in other embodiments, slots
3041 may extend only partially into the respective portions of the
platform in which they reside such that slots 3041 are not visible
from either side of the platform (e.g., as in device 38l of FIGS.
15A-15C).
[0109] The claims are not intended to include, and should not be
interpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function
limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a
given claim using the phrase(s) "means for" or "step for,"
respectively.
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