U.S. patent application number 16/126653 was filed with the patent office on 2019-01-03 for adjustable cannula systems and devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is Doheny Eye Institute. Invention is credited to Luis Arana, Prashant Bhadri, Mark Humayun, Ralph Kerns, Matthew McCormick, Anderson Gustavo Teixeira Pinto.
Application Number | 20190000507 16/126653 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43796173 |
Filed Date | 2019-01-03 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190000507 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kerns; Ralph ; et
al. |
January 3, 2019 |
ADJUSTABLE CANNULA SYSTEMS AND DEVICES
Abstract
Various adjustable cannula systems are provided. The systems can
include an adjustable cannula capable of expansion and/or
contraction having an elongate body with a distal end and a
proximal end. The adjustable cannula can be coupled to an upper
housing and a lower housing such that rotation of the upper housing
results in expansion or contraction of the adjustable cannula. The
adjustable cannula can also have a proximal end having a lumen
larger than a distal end lumen. A plurality of flanges can be
formed in the elongate body by a plurality of slits that span a
majority of a length of the cannula, including along or proximate
to its proximal end and distal end.
Inventors: |
Kerns; Ralph; (Laguna
Niguel, CA) ; Bhadri; Prashant; (Pico Rivera, CA)
; McCormick; Matthew; (Forest Falls, CA) ; Pinto;
Anderson Gustavo Teixeira; (Sao Paulo, BR) ; Humayun;
Mark; (Glendale, CA) ; Arana; Luis; (Curitiba,
BR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Doheny Eye Institute |
Los Angeles |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
43796173 |
Appl. No.: |
16/126653 |
Filed: |
September 10, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14941412 |
Nov 13, 2015 |
10076359 |
|
|
16126653 |
|
|
|
|
13394467 |
Mar 6, 2012 |
9198797 |
|
|
PCT/US2010/049722 |
Sep 21, 2010 |
|
|
|
14941412 |
|
|
|
|
61244841 |
Sep 22, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 9/00736 20130101;
A61B 2017/00867 20130101; A61B 2017/00398 20130101; A61F 9/007
20130101; A61B 17/3439 20130101; A61B 17/3431 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 17/34 20060101
A61B017/34; A61F 9/007 20060101 A61F009/007 |
Claims
1-32. (canceled)
33. A cannula system configured to be anchored in the pars plana of
an eyeball, the system comprising an expandable member that
increases upon application of electrical energy having a first
polarity to the expandable member, and that decreases upon
application of electrical energy having a second polarity to the
expandable member, the second polarity opposite the first
polarity.
34. The cannula system of claim 33, wherein a proximal end of the
expandable member is coupled to an electrical energy source, and
wherein the expandable member increases or decreases from one gauge
to another when electrical energy is applied by the electrical
energy source.
35. The cannula system of claim 34, comprising the electrical
energy source.
36. The cannula system of claim 33, further comprising an
insulating layer configured to inhibit the electrical energy from
injuring surrounding tissue.
37. An adjustable cannula system comprising: a housing; an
expandable member coupled to the housing, the expandable member
including a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the
proximal portion has a larger cross-sectional area than the distal
portion in an unexpanded state; and a plurality of folds extending
along a portion of the expandable member such that the folds form a
plurality of edge points, wherein the folds are configured to
accommodate expansion of the expandable member.
38. The adjustable cannula system of claim 37, wherein the distal
end of the expandable member comprises outer edge points and inner
edge points.
38. The adjustable cannula system of claim 37, wherein, upon
expansion of the expandable member, the expandable member has a
substantially smooth surface.
Description
[0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/244,841, entitled "Adjustable Universal Cannula Systems and
Devices," filed Sep. 22, 2009. The entire disclosure of the
priority application is hereby expressly incorporated by reference
in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] Embodiments of the invention relate to cannulas and trocars
and, in particular, to devices, systems, and methods for adjusting
opening sizes of cannulas.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Cannulas typically are tubes inserted into a body part for
allowing insertion of fluids, materials, or instruments through the
cannula or to allow the drainage or removal of fluids.
[0004] The smaller in cross-section that a cannula is, the less
trauma is caused to the tissue surrounding the cannula. Recent
developments in ophthalmology provide a good example of the
benefits of small diameter cannulas. It has become increasingly
common for vitreoretinal surgery to use cannulas sized small enough
to pass instruments of 23 gauge (ga.) or less through the cannula.
This then allows the incision from the cannula site to be small
enough to self-seal without having to use sutures. This
self-sealing of the incision in-turn allows the cannula to be
inserted transconjunctivally, saving time and eliminating the need
to incise and retract the conjunctiva before incising the sclera,
as required using 20 ga. or larger instruments. While the use of
smaller sized cannulas has been beneficial, the necessity of using
smaller sized instruments has reduced the efficiency of some
aspects of surgery compared to the older standard of using 20 ga.
instruments. For example, the use of a vitreous cutter with a 23
ga. or smaller outer diameter takes more time to remove vitreous
compared to a 20 ga. outer diameter cutter. Also, the insertion of
viscoelastic material through a 23 ga. or smaller lumen is more
difficult and time consuming compared to using a 20 ga. lumen.
Therefore, it would be desirable to have a cannula system that
provides the small incision advantages of a self-sealing incision
while still allowing the use of more efficient larger diameter
instruments.
[0005] Certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the
invention are described in this disclosure. It should be understood
that not all possible aspects, advantages, and features may be
employed or achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment
of the invention.
SUMMARY
[0006] Systems and methods related to an adjustable cannula are
provided. In some embodiments, an adjustable cannula system for
performing eye surgery is provided. The system comprises a bottom
housing for placement on an eye, the bottom housing comprising
first and second lumens. The system further comprises an expandable
member configured to increase and decrease from one diameter to
another, the expandable member to be received in the first and
second lumens of the bottom housing. The expandable member includes
a distal end for insertion into the eye. At least two coupling
elements are located at a proximal end of the expandable member.
The bottom housing is configured to engage one of the coupling
elements, while the top housing is configured to engage the other
of the two coupling elements. The diameter of the expandable member
can be controlled by rotating the top housing relative to the
bottom housing.
[0007] In some embodiments, a cannula system is provided that
includes an expandable member formed as a coil that increase and
decreases from one diameter to another. The cannula system further
includes a bottom housing for coupling to and receiving the
expandable member including a lumen defining a maximum diameter and
a top housing for coupling to the expandable member and to the
bottom housing. Coupling of the top and bottom housings forms a
detent mechanism providing and maintaining a plurality of
expandable member diameters when the top housing is rotated
relative to the bottom housing.
[0008] In some embodiments, a cannula system is provided comprising
an expandable tube having a first tab and a second tab. A bottom
housing is coupled to the expandable tube via the first tab and a
top housing is coupled to the expandable tube via the second tab,
wherein rotation of the top housing relative to the bottom housing
results in expansion or contraction of the expandable tube.
[0009] In some embodiments, an adjustable cannula is provided
comprising an elongate body having a distal end and a proximal end,
wherein the proximal end has a lumen larger than a distal end
lumen. A plurality of flanges are formed in the elongate body by a
plurality of slits spanning a majority of a length of the elongate
body. Material is formed between the flanges at the distal end for
maintaining an initial minimum diameter of the distal end
lumen.
[0010] In some embodiments, an adjustable cannula is provided
comprising an elongate body having a distal end and a proximal end,
the proximal end having a lumen larger than a distal end lumen. A
plurality of flanges is formed in the elongate body by a plurality
of slits spanning a majority of a length of the elongate body.
[0011] In some embodiments, an adjustable cannula comprises an
elongate body having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal
end having a lumen larger than a distal end lumen. A plurality of
flanges is formed in the elongate body by a plurality of slits
spanning a majority of a length of the elongate body. Material is
formed between the flanges and substantially fills the slits. The
material defines an initial minimum diameter of the cannula,
wherein the material has an initial small cross-sectional width
upon insertion into tissue and expands to a subsequent larger
cross-sectional width at some time after insertion into the tissue
so that a working channel of the cannula is enlarged by the
material expanding and causing the flanges to separate.
[0012] In some embodiments, a cannula system anchored in the pars
plana of an eyeball is provided comprising an expandable member
that increases and decreases from one gauge to another by
electroactive action.
[0013] In some embodiments, an adjustable cannula system is
provided comprising an elongate body having a proximal portion and
a distal portion, wherein an inner diameter of the proximal portion
is greater than an inner diameter of the distal portion. A
plurality of slits extend from the proximal portion to the distal
portion, wherein the slits are configured to accommodate expansion
and contraction of the elongate body.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The features, aspects, and advantages of the inventions are
described with reference to the drawings of various embodiments,
which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the inventions.
The figures are merely illustrative and may not represent the
actual scale and size of the device or systems.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a cross-section of an eye including a perspective
of a cannula in accordance with the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective of the cannula of FIG.
1;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a partially assembled view of another example of a
cannula in accordance with the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a partial exploded view of the cannula of FIG.
2;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a partial perspective of the cannula of FIG.
2;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective of a portion of the cannula of FIG.
2;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective of another portion of the cannula of
FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of yet another example of a
cannula in accordance with the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 9 is another perspective of the cannula of FIG. 8;
[0024] FIGS. 10A and 10B are exploded perspectives of still yet
another example of a cannula in accordance with the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 11 is an elevation of yet another example of a cannula
in accordance with the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a partial perspective of yet another example of a
cannula in accordance with the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a perspective of yet another example of a cannula
in accordance with the present invention; and
[0028] FIG. 14 is a perspective of yet another example of a cannula
in accordance with the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 15A is a perspective of yet another example of a
cannula with upper housing in accordance with the present
invention.
[0030] FIG. 15B illustrates the cannula of FIG. 15A being coupled
to an upper housing.
[0031] FIG. 15C illustrates the cannula of FIG. 15B being expanded
via use of a probe.
[0032] FIG. 16A is a perspective of yet another example of a
cannula with housing in accordance with the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 16B illustrates the cannula of FIG. 16A in an expanded
form.
[0034] FIG. 17A is a perspective of yet another example of a
cannula with housing in accordance with the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 17B illustrates a distal portion of the cannula of FIG.
17A in an expanded form.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0036] Although several embodiments are disclosed, it will be
understood that the invention described may extend beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments and includes other uses of the
invention and obvious modifications and equivalents. Embodiments of
the invention are described with reference to the accompanying
figures, wherein like numerals refer to like elements throughout.
The terminology used in the following description is not to be
interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner. In addition,
embodiments of the invention may comprise multiple novel features
with no single feature solely responsible for its desirable
attributes or essential to practicing the inventions described.
[0037] The term "cannula" as used is a broad term, and unless
otherwise indicated, may mean, without limitation, a tube, coil,
hose, or the like for insertion into a body part. The term cannula
may also encompass devices with or without trocars or devices where
the cannula itself also functions as a trocar to create in
incision. Cannulas can be used to deliver or remove fluids, gases,
drugs, materials, oils, tissues, instruments, samples, devices, or
the like to and from the body. The diameter of cannulas can be
increased, decreased, expanded, or collapsed. Such adjustments of
the cannulas can be performed mechanically, thermodynamically, or
by using electrical current. Cannulas can be constructed of any
suitable material. For example, metals such as nitinol, stainless
steel, or the like, or the cannulas can be formed of various
plastics or polymers such as polyamide, parylene, or
polyurethane.
[0038] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to an adjustable
cannula. In certain embodiments, the adjustable cannula provides an
adjustable port opening enabling surgical procedures in various
parts of the body. In some embodiments, the adjustable cannula can
be configured to have a small initial diameter, thereby allowing
the adjustable cannula to be inserted into small incisions in the
body. During the surgery, the surgeon can expand the cross-section
or diameter of the adjustable cannula to increase the working
channel. In some embodiments, the adjustable cannula can be used in
tissue having an elastic, flexible, or resilient characteristic,
thus advantageously allowing the diameter of the adjustable cannula
to expand and permitting the tissue to return to the approximate
size of the initial small incision and self-seal without the need
for sutures. By removing the need for sutures, patient discomfort
is reduced and/or the risk of infection is decreased. In the case
of orthopedic surgeries or other surgeries, a reduced initial
surgical opening can minimize scaring and/or decrease the amount of
healing time as well as the risk of infection.
[0039] In certain embodiments, the adjustable cannula can be used
in the technology fields of orthopedics, ophthalmology,
neurosurgery as well as other technology fields. The adjustable
cannula can be universal, such that is can be applied to many
different technologies. In certain embodiments, the adjustable
cannula can have diameter range of 3 mm-9 mm in the orthopedics
field. In certain embodiments, the adjustable cannula can have
diameter range of 0.4-1 mm in the ophthalmic field. In certain
embodiments, the adjustable cannula can have diameter range of 1
mm-4 mm in the neurosurgery and orthopedic fields.
[0040] FIG. 1 shows an adjustable cannula 100, in accordance with
the present invention, and in use in an eye 101. For example, the
adjustable cannula 100 can be placed transconjunctivally through
the sclera 108, as shown, to provide a port opening for placing,
inserting and removing, injecting and aspirating, surgical
instruments, fluids, gases, or the like. Adjustable cannula 100 may
include a top housing or hub 102, a bottom housing or hub 104, and
an expandable member or tube 106. In FIG. 1 and certain other
embodiments, the expandable member is in the form of a cylindrical
tube (or other conduit with a lumen there through) having a
diameter; however, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the
expandable member 106 can assume other forms, including non-tubular
(e.g., square, oval, asymmetrical, conical) forms.
[0041] Generally, in eye surgery the surgeon makes an incision in
the eye using a separate knife (not shown) and then inserts a
cannula into the incision or inserts a cannula simultaneously with
an incising trocar (also not shown) inserted in and extending
through the cannula. Depending on the size of the incision, sutures
may be required to close and seal the incision after completing
surgery. Incisions 20 ga. or larger generally require sutures to
close and seal the incision. The use of sutures may cause
complications, for example, suture irritation, inflammation,
post-operative astigmatism, scleral pigment changes, or the like.
Accordingly, some surgeons prefer self-sealing sutureless
techniques, for example, making small incisions and inserting a 23,
24, 25 ga., or smaller cannula or port into the eye. Typically,
incisions of 23, 24, 25 ga., or smaller allow the incision to
self-seal or substantially self-seal after the operation and
therefore does not require the use of sutures. However, the use of
cannulas or ports having a size of 23, 24, 25 ga., or smaller can
affect the efficiency and/or efficacy of the surgery. For example,
it generally takes more effort and time to inject gas and fluid
(for example, silicone oil) through a 23, 24, or 25 ga. port
compared to a 20 ga. port. Additionally, surgeons are limited in
the types and sizes of instruments that can be used during surgery
using 23 ga. or smaller instruments compared to the older
traditional 20 ga. instruments. For example, surgeons cannot insert
as large of a light instrument through a 23 ga. or smaller port
compared to a 20 ga. port, thereby possibly impeding the surgeon's
ability to illuminate and visualize the posterior chamber of the
eye.
[0042] In some embodiments, an adjustable cannula 100 is provided.
In some embodiments, the adjustable cannula 100 includes an
expandable member 106 in the form of a tube that is in part
cylindrical with a diameter, while in other embodiments, the
expandable member 106 can assume other forms without a diameter,
while still being expandable and contractible. In some embodiments,
the adjustable cannula 100, as disclosed, may have a small initial
diameter for use as a 23, 24, 25 ga., or smaller port, and,
advantageously, the surgeon can expand the diameter of the
adjustable cannula 100 to increase the working channel to
potentially accommodate a 20 ga. or larger instrument. Accordingly,
the adjustable cannula system, as disclosed, allows surgeons to
make smaller incisions in the body without sacrificing the greater
efficiency of a larger diameter size of the working channel. The
resilient, elastic nature of the tissue allows the tissue to return
to approximately its initial small self-sealing size after removal
of the adjustable cannula 100, despite the cannula 100 having
expanded the initial incision to accommodate a larger working
channel. In some embodiments, while the adjustable cannula 100
displaces or stretches some surrounding tissue during use, after
contracting and/or removing the adjustable cannula 100 from the
patient, tissue can return to approximately near or at their
original position prior to displacement or stretching by the
cannula.
[0043] In certain embodiments, a surgeon may initially insert an
expandable tube 106 sized to accommodate a 23, 25, 27, 28 ga. or
smaller port in the eye. During surgery, the surgeon can increase
the diameter of the expandable tube 106 by attaching top housing
102 to the expandable tube 106, seating the top housing 102 in the
bottom housing 104, attaching the expandable tube 106 to the bottom
housing 104, and rotating the top housing 102 relative to the
bottom housing 104 causing the expandable tube 106 to a least
partially uncoil, creating a larger working channel. In certain
embodiments, the diameter of the expandable tube 106 can be
increased to 27, 26, 25, 24, 23, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18 ga. (0.4-1
mm), or larger. In some embodiments, the diameter of the tube 106
can be expanded from a first position to a second position by
between about 1% and 80%, or between about 20% and 40%.
[0044] FIG. 2 shows the adjustable cannula 100 of FIG. 1 in
exploded perspective. Bottom housing 104 includes a first lumen
110, through which tube 106 passes and in which locking mechanism
112 is rotatably received. Bottom housing 104 also includes a
second smaller lumen (shown below) through which tube 106 is
inserted and a slot (also shown below) for coupling with coupling
element 114 of tube 106. While the coupling element 114 is in the
form of a tab or protrusion, the coupling element is not limited to
these particular shapes or forms. The flange or lip 116 helps to
retain the tube 106 in bottom housing 104. The coupling element 118
of tube 106 couples with the top housing 102 via slot 120. Like
coupling element 114, while coupling element 118 is in the form of
a tab or protrusion, the coupling element is not limited to these
particular shapes or forms. When fully assembled, a user rotating
top housing 102 in a clockwise direction while holding bottom
housing 104 stationary or rotating bottom housing in a
counter-clockwise direction causes expandable tube 106 to expand.
In other embodiments, the components can be configured such that
the top housing 102 can be rotated in a counter-clockwise direction
to cause expandable tube 106 to expand. Preferably, locking
mechanism 112 has a slight taper that mates with a taper of lumen
110 so that top housing 102 is snuggly and rotatably coupled to
bottom housing 104. A snap-fit using detents or the like (not
shown), as known by those skilled in the art, may also be used to
ensure that top housing 102 stays coupled to bottom housing 104 yet
allows for rotation. Top housing 102 includes a protrusion (shown
below) that matingly seats with notches 122, essentially forming a
detent mechanism to hold expandable tube 106 at a desired diameter.
The coupling of the top and bottom housings 102 and 104 forms a
detent mechanism providing and maintaining a plurality of
expandable tube 106 diameters when the top housing 102 is rotated
relative to the bottom housing 104.
[0045] Expandable tube 106 is preferably made at least in part of a
thin, resilient material such as nitinol (a memory metal) or other
shape memory alloy (e.g., Cu--Al--Ni), stainless steel, or other
suitable material that can form a sufficiently small diameter coil
and yet be robust enough not to collapse against the pressure of
stretched tissue. In some embodiments, the tube 106 can be composed
of a plastic with metal (e.g., nitinol) pieces embedded therein. In
some embodiments, having the exposed portion of the cannula formed
of plastic advantageously minimizes the risk of harm to surrounding
tissue caused during expansion, as plastic is more deformable
relative to metal and does not apply the same degree of force in
multiple directions as metal. In some embodiments, the materials
can be biocompatible, or can be provided with a protective layer
(e.g., of aluminum oxide) to enhance biocompatibility. In some
embodiments, the expandable tube 106 can be formed in part of a
material that has an elasticity of between 20.times.10.sup.6 psi
and 2.times.10.sup.6 psi that allows the expandable tube 106 to
return to an original, non-expanded state with ease. Such elastic
material advantageously allows the expandable tube 106 to be used
multiple times in different surgical operations, without having
concern about long-term deformation.
[0046] In some embodiments involving an adjustable cannula 100 with
an expandable coil, the coil can cooperate with tissue to assist in
sealing the interior of the cannula (e.g., such as when the coil is
expanded). To minimize the risk of tissue and other materials from
becoming captured in the expanded coil, the edges of the coil can
be slanted toward the interior portion of the coil, thereby
allowing tissue to slide off the slanted edges and away from the
interior portion of the coil during coil expansion or contraction.
In addition, in some embodiments, the coil can be provided with a
biocompatible coating that reduces the friction between coil and
the tissue/other materials, thereby reducing the risk of capturing
tissue and other materials by the coil. The surface of the coil can
be substantially smooth to allow tissue and other materials to
slide off the coil, thereby preventing tissue or materials from
being captured by the coil. In an embodiment, the coil is
substantially tightly wound to reduce the amount of the space
between layers of the coil, thereby preventing tissue and other
materials from becoming captured by the coil.
[0047] FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective of another
example of an adjustable cannula 124. Adjustable cannula 124 is
essentially the same as the example shown in FIG. 2, except that
bottom housing 126 has more notches 128 for more selectivity
regarding the lumen 103 diameter of tube 106. Additionally, bottom
housing 126 has several barbs 132 for grabbing tissue to facilitate
rotation of top housing 102 with respect to bottom housing 126 and
thus, adjustment of the lumen diameter 130 of expandable tube 106.
In some embodiments, the barbs 132 are formed and integrated with
the bottom housing 126, while in other embodiments, the barbs 132
are removably coupled to the bottom housing 126 such that they can
be removed if desired.
[0048] FIG. 4 is a partial exploded perspective of the embodiment
of FIG. 2, showing the coupling of expandable tube 106 to the top
and bottom housings 102 and 104. Tab 118 of the expandable tube 106
fits into slot 120 of the top housing 102 as shown by arrow 134.
Arrow 136 shows tab 114 of the expandable tube 106 fitting into
slot 138 of the bottom housing 104. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, the bottom housing 104 is coupled to the expandable
tube 106 via a first tab 114, while the top housing 102 is coupled
to the expandable tube via a second tab 118. Rotation of the top
housing 102 relative to the bottom housing 104 results in expansion
or contraction of the expandable tube 106.
[0049] The view in FIG. 4 also shows the second smaller lumen 140
of bottom housing 104. The second lumen 140 receives the expandable
tube 106. Advantageously the second lumen 140 may be configured to
limit a maximum diameter size to which the tube 106 can be
expanded. By so limiting, second lumen 140 is a safety mechanism
preventing the expandable tube 106 from expanding too much and
damaging or tearing the surrounding tissue. For example, the second
lumen 140 can be sized to limit the tube 106 from expanding beyond
accommodating a 20 ga. instrument and protect the sclera from
tearing or other damage. In other areas of the body, the second
lumen 140 can be configured to limit the tube 106 from expanding
beyond a maximum design limit (example 4 mm) to prevent surrounding
tissue from tearing, or becoming damaged.
[0050] In certain embodiments, the expandable tube 106, shown in
partial perspective in FIG. 5, is a coiled or a wound-up material.
The expandable tube 106 can be constructed of metal (for example,
nitinol), a plastic, or a polymer, or combination thereof. The
thickness of the tube 106 material can be about 0.001 inches
(0.0254 mm), and can range from about 0.001 inches (0.0254 mm) to
about 0.01 inches (0.254 mm). In some embodiments, the expandable
tube 106 can have a length of between 3 mm and 15 mm. The
expandable tube 106 comprises a distal end (shown in above figures)
for insertion into the eye, and a proximal end 142 which preferably
remains external to the eye during use. Flange 116 prevents tube
106 from passing through lumen 140, shown in FIG. 4.
[0051] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of top housing 102 showing
attachment mechanism 112, slot 120, and lumen 144. Lumen 144
receives instruments and materials to be inserted into or removed
from the eye and communicates with lumen 140 of tube 106.
Instruments can include, for example, biopsy devices, scissors,
tissue cutting and/or removal devices, draining devices,
endoilluminators, fluid infusion devices, and the other surgical
instruments. A groove 146 spans the diameter of top housing 102. In
some embodiments, an instrument having a mating end can be inserted
into the groove 146 and can assist in clockwise or
counter-clockwise rotation of the top housing 102.
[0052] FIG. 7 is a perspective of bottom housing 104 clearly
showing first lumen 110, second lumen 140, notches 122 and slot 138
for coupling with tab 114. From this angle, the notches 122 are
shown as grooves along the perimeter of the cannula. Also from this
angle, it is shown that in some embodiments the slot 138 can be
curved or angled. This design of the slot 138 advantageously helps
to secure a tab member 114 within the bottom housing 104.
[0053] Thus as has been described above, an adjustable cannula, in
accordance with the present invention, the user can rotate the top
housing 102, which engages tab 118 causing the expandable tube 106
to also rotate with respect to bottom housing 104. Depending on the
direction of the rotation, the expandable tube 106 either coils or
uncoils causing the lumen 140 diameter of the expandable tube 106
to decrease or increase. The coiling or uncoiling can occur because
the tab 118 is held fixed or substantially fixed or in position
through engagement with the bottom housing 104. In certain
embodiments, bottom housing 104 may be anchored to tissue or held
by the physician to allow the relative rotation of top housing 102.
With the tab 118 rotating while the tab 114 is fixed or
substantially fixed, the expandable tube 106 is increased or
decreased in diameter, thereby increasing or decreasing the
diameter of the working channel, i.e. lumen 140. In certain
embodiments, the expandable tube 106 is configured to uniformly
expand and contract or substantially uniformly expand and contract
at the proximal end and the distal end, as the user rotates the top
housing 102. In other embodiments, the expansion and contraction of
proximal end 142 may be greater than the expansion and contraction
of the distal end of tube 106. The expandable tube 106 may be
extracted after reducing the expandable tube 106 to a smaller
diameter, preferably as small as possible to minimize trauma to
surrounding tissue during extraction.
[0054] In certain embodiments, the locking mechanism 112, shown in
FIG. 6, can engage the lower housing element 104 to lock the top
housing 102 in a user selected position and maintain a particular
diameter of the expandable tube 106. The locking mechanism 112 can
comprise flexible fingers 148 extending distally and with spacing
150 between each finger 148. In certain embodiments, the distal
ends of the fingers 148 are configured to taper or push outward so
as to exert a radial outward force against the inner surface of
bottom housing 104 defining lumen 110 to engage the top housing 102
with the bottom housing 104 and retain the top housing 102
connected with the bottom housing element 104. In certain
embodiments, lumen 110 is partially conical or tapers. Said another
way, the lumen 110 has a wider distal end (larger diameter) and a
narrower proximal end (smaller diameter). In certain embodiments,
the fingers 148 form a partially conical shape, i.e. the fingers
148 form a wider distal region (larger diameter) and narrower
proximal region (smaller diameter). In certain embodiments, the
user may pull the top housing 102 proximally outward or away from
the bottom housing 104 causing the flexible fingers 148 to be
pushed inward as the flexible fingers 148 are forced into the
narrower portions of the lumen 110. When the top housing 102 is
released by the user, the resilient force of the flexible fingers
148 pushes the fingers 148 distally inward into the lumen 110,
allowing the flanges to return to a more relaxed state.
[0055] FIG. 8 discloses another example of an adjustable cannula
200 where cannula 200 is an elongate body with a proximal end 202,
a distal end 204, and a middle region 206 between the proximal and
distal ends. As can be seen, there is no particular structure
delineating the proximal end 202 from the middle region 206 or the
middle region 206 from the distal end 204. The terms proximal end,
middle region, and distal end are intended to refer to the general
areas of the cannula 200 and not to a specific spot or place on
cannula 200. The initial diameter of the adjustable cannula 200 at
the proximal end 202 can be larger than the initial diameter of the
cannula 200 at the distal end 204 and the middle region 206. In
certain embodiments, the distal end 204 and the middle region 206
are formed by elongated flanges 208 configured to flex when an
object, fluid, gas, tissue, device, or the like is inserted through
the lumen 210. As the flanges 208 flex, the working channel or
diameter of cannula 200 increases and decreases. Sufficient force
of the flanges 208 pressing against the resilient elastic
surrounding tissue allows the increase of the working channel.
Conversely, when the compressive force of the resilient elastic
surrounding tissue presses against the flanges 208 is greater than
the force exerted by the cannula, the working channel will
decrease, i.e. the diameter of cannula 200 will decrease. In some
embodiments, an instrument (e.g., such as a probe) can be provided
within the cannula that retains expansion of the cannula even
against pressure from the tissue.
[0056] In some embodiments, the flanges 208 of the cannula 200 are
separated by slits 212. The slits 212 of the cannula 200 can
cooperate with surrounding tissue to assist in sealing or
maintaining closure of the interior of the cannula 200. Upon
expansion of the cannula walls, the slits 212 of the cannula also
expand, such that the openings of the slits 212 can increase. While
the increase in size of the slits 212 can expose the interior lumen
of the cannula 200, such that material (e.g., liquid) within the
cannula can leak, the slits 212 of the cannula 200 can
advantageously cooperate with the surrounding tissue to thereby
maintain closure of the interior lumen of the cannula. The tissue,
which is generally elastic, can advantageously occupy all or a
portion of the spaces in the openings of the slits, thereby
providing a blocking function by serving as the "walls" of the
cannula. Accordingly, liquid in the cannula can be inhibited from
leaking out due to the blocking tissue, even when the cannula 200
is expanded.
[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the cannula 200 comprises two
or more slits 212, such as three, four, five, six, seven or eight
slits. In other embodiments, the cannula 200 comprises a single
slit such that the cannula is "C-shaped." The number of slits 212
can affect the performance of the cannula in transporting fluids
and tissue. For example, a fewer number of slits can result in the
slit openings or the gap size of the slits being larger in size
during cannula expansion, which can result in tissue being
inadvertently captured in the slit openings during contraction
following expansion such that the slits remain open.
[0058] Generally, an expanded cannula with fewer slits, can
increase the gap size of the slits may increase, thereby increasing
the chances of capturing or catching tissue or other unwanted
material in the slits while the cannula is contracting. While
increasing the number of slits may reduce the gap size of the
slits, and thus the risk of capturing or catching material in the
slits during contraction, the strength or rigidity of the cannula
walls may decrease, which is important for preventing collapse of
the cannula during insertion. Accordingly, a cannula for insertion
may benefit from at least two or three slits and fewer than five or
six slits. However, in other embodiments, the number of slit can
range from 2-10, or 1-20, or 1-25. One skilled in the art will
realize however that providing a cannula with at least one slit can
provide numerous advantages over conventional cannulas without
slits.
[0059] The one or more slits 212 advantageously accommodate and
modulate expansion and contraction of the cannula. While the
expansion and contraction can occur by an electrical, mechanical or
magnetic means, in some embodiments, the expansion and contraction
are performed mechanically means, by insert of, for example, a
probe (as shown in FIG. 15C). The slits can be positioned
symmetrically around the cannula (e.g., three slits at a 120
degrees apart) or asymmetrically. In some embodiments, two or more
slits can have similar widths, while in other embodiments, two or
more slits can be of varying widths. In some embodiments, having
slits advantageously allow tissue (e.g., scar tissue as in diabetic
retinopathy) or other material (e.g., a foreign body such as a
piece of metal during hammering) to be removed from the eye, that
has entered the eye.
[0060] In other embodiments, the walls of the slits 212 can be
configured to allow tissue or other materials to squeezed out or
otherwise removed while the walls of the cannula contract from an
expanded state. For example, the side walls of the slits 212 can be
substantially smooth so as to reduce the risk of catching or
capturing tissue or other materials during contraction. In an
embodiment, the side walls of a slit 212 can form a substantially
wedge shaped configuration to prevent tissue or other materials
from being captured in the slits during contraction. The open side
of the wedge can face into the interior of the cannula or face
outwardly to the exterior of the cannula. The side walls of a slit
212 can be substantially curved or rounded to prevent tissue or
other materials from being captured in the slits during
contraction. The side walls of the slit 212 can also comprise a
coating, for example, Teflon, to prevent tissue or other materials
from being captured in the slits during contraction.
[0061] An additional advantage of having a cannula 200 with slits
212 is that viscous fluids, which would otherwise be very difficult
to push through a small cannula, can be more easily pushed through
one with the slits 212, as the slits 212 can open up under pressure
of the fluid. For example, infusing 1000 centisoke or 5000
centisoke silicone oil in the eye can result in an opening of the
slits when desired. Adding such fluids removes the need to use an
instrument or probe to open the slits 212.
[0062] In some embodiments, to expand the flanges 208 with slits
212, a mechanical means can be provided to force the expansion. In
some embodiments, the mechanical means comprises a probe (as shown
in FIG. 15C) that can be inserted into the cannula 200 to expand
the flanges 208. The probe can comprise a light source, cutter,
diathermy tool, or any other surgical instrument capable of
insertion into the cannula 200 and forcing expansion of the cannula
200. Other probes can also include but are not limited to scissors,
blades, picks, forceps, and lens removal devices for dropped lens
fragments. In operation, when the probe is inserted into a cannula
200 with slits 212, the interior walls of the cannula 200 will
expand outward. In some embodiments, the proximal most end of the
cannula 200 (which may not include a slit) need not be expandable,
and can be set to the maximum probe size available for the
procedure. Advantageously, the slits 212 help to mechanically
accommodate and modulate the degree of expansion of the cannula
200. Upon removal of the probe, the cannula 200 will contract to a
reduced size. Accordingly, the adjustable cannula 200 with slits
212 is user friendly because it requires no forceful mechanical
manipulation of the cannula 200 to expand or contract the diameter
of the cannula. Further, the adjustable cannula 200 with slits 212
requires no moving parts and thus can be easily manufactured with a
single injection molding process.
[0063] In some embodiments, one or more probes can be of a single
size, such that expansion of the cannula 200 is achieved by using
multiple probes that increase in size. For example, in one
embodiment, three different probes of various increasing gauges
(e.g., 25 ga., 23 ga. and 20 ga.) can be used to assist in the
expansion of the cannula. In other embodiments, a probe can be of
an adjustable size, such that only a single probe need be used to
assist in the expansion of the cannula 200.
[0064] In some embodiments, the probe can have a hollow interior to
allow for tools or instruments, as well as liquids and tissue, to
pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the probe can therefore
serve as both an expansion tool for the cannula 200 with slits 212,
as well as access port to access a target site.
[0065] In certain embodiments, flanges 208 are prevented from
separating at their extreme distal ends by material 214. As the
extreme distal ends of the adjustable cannula 200 can rest against
an eye, preventing separation of the extreme distal ends of the
cannula advantageously reduces damages to the eye that can occur
during expansion and contraction of other parts of the cannula.
Material 214 may be formed of the same material as flanges 208 and
molded simultaneously with cannula 200 in manufacture, such that
the elongate body is a single unitary molded piece. One skilled in
the art will appreciate that material 214 is optional, and that in
other embodiments, the cannula may be expandable even at its
extreme distal end.
[0066] Alternatively, material 214 may be a ring of material placed
or attached to flanges 208, as shown in detail below. Material 214
may serve one or more purposes. These purposes include maintaining
a small initial diameter of the distal end 204 and middle region
206 as cannula is inserted into tissue by a trocar (not shown) held
within cannula 200 and extending beyond distal end 204. Another
purpose of material 214 is to allow the flanges to flex and slits
212 to expand under the pressure of viscoelastic being inserted
into the eye, thereby effectively enlarging the volume of the
cannula 200 in the eye to allow faster and easier injection of
viscoelastic. Conversely, when no increased pressure is present the
flanges 208 may return to an unflexed state with minimal width
slits 212 to assist in preventing fluid escaping the eye.
[0067] An alternate purpose of material 214 is to be only robust
enough to maintain the initial small diameter during insertion of
cannula 200 into tissue but weak enough to break upon the insertion
of a device larger in diameter than the initial small diameter. In
this way, flanges 208 are allowed to separate from each other and
flex or bend outwardly to provide a wider working channel.
[0068] Lumen 210 may be large enough to accommodate and define the
largest acceptable diameter that flanges 208 are allowed to flex,
such as for a 20 ga. or greater vitreous cutter, while the distal
end and middle region diameters are small enough to require a
minimal sized incision in the tissue, similar to that describe
above with respect to expandable tube 106. In some embodiments,
slits 212 can extend a substantial length, even a majority of the
length, of cannula 200 and at least long enough to allow flanges
208 to separate sufficiently to accommodate the largest diameter
device compatible with lumen 210. For example, the slits 212 can
extend from a distal end 204 to a wider proximal end 202 of the
cannula 200. In other embodiments (not shown), instead of a series
of single slits that extend a substantial length of the cannula, a
series of multiple slits can extend along a single line and can be
provided to accommodate expansion and contraction of the slits.
[0069] As can be seen in FIG. 8, in a non-expanded state, a
proximal end 202 of the cannula 200 can have a larger diameter than
a middle 206 and/or distal end 204 of the cannula. In some
embodiments, the proximal end 202 of the cannula 200 remains
outside of patient (e.g., outside of an eye) such that it need not
be expanded or contracted. Rather, it can be sized larger than the
middle 206 and/or distal end 204 of the cannula 200 to thereby
facilitate the insertion of instruments into the cannula, and
provide greater visual access to a surgeon utilizing the cannula.
For example, for instruments insertable into the cannula 200 that
may have a broader proximal portion (e.g., a handle portion) than a
distal portion, the broader proximal portion of the instrument can
be inserted with ease into the broader proximal end 2020 of the
cannula 200. After expansion of the cannula 200, the middle 206
and/or distal end 204 can be less than, the same as, or greater
than the diameter of the proximal end 202 of the cannula 200.
[0070] In embodiments involving a cannula 200 with slits 212, the
cannula 200 can be comprised in part or substantially of a plastic
material. In some embodiments, to form the cannula, the plastic can
be injection molded, such as in a single shot. Different
plastic-based materials can be used to form the cannula 200,
including but not limited to organic and synthetic polymers,
polyamide (Nylon), polyoxymethylene (Delrin), parylene, and
polyurethane. In some embodiments, the cannula 200 can be formed of
a plastic-based material that provides sufficient rigidity to the
cannula 200, while also maintaining some degree of flexible to
accommodate expansion and contraction of the cannula 200 during
use. In some embodiments, the cannula 200 can have a Flexural
Modulus of between 3.times.10.sup.5 PSI and 5.times.10.sup.5 PSI.
In some embodiments, the cannula 200 can be formed of a plastic
with metal pieces embedded therein.
[0071] FIG. 9 is a perspective of another example of an adjustable
cannula 216 in accordance with the present invention. Cannula 216
is essentially the same as cannula 200 except that material 214 is
replaced by ring 218. In some embodiments, the ring 218 is
removable. Ring 218 may be resilient and expandable or rigid,
depending on the purpose of using cannula 216. Ring 218 may be
adhered to cannula 216 with an acceptable adhesive or may be held
in place by any known attachment mechanism.
[0072] The cannulas 200 and 216 may be used alone with a trocar
device, or with top and bottom housings 102 and 104, as shown in
FIGS. 10A and 10B. In some embodiments, the top and/or bottom
housings 102 and 104 may be used to provide more structure to hold
cannulas 200 or 216 in place during surgery. Though slots 120 and
138 are shown, they are not needed for cannulas 200 and 216. Flange
or rim 220 is held between bottom housing 104 and the fingers (not
shown) of top housing 102.
[0073] In FIGS. 10A and 10B, certain features of the top housing
102 and bottom housing 104 are apparent. The top housing 102
comprises at least one ridge element 107 configured to engage a
plurality of grooves or notches 122 and 124 in the bottom housing
104. The first and second notches 122 and 124 are sized and
configured to securely position at least one ridge element 107. In
certain embodiments, the at least one ridge element 107 is
configured to fit within notch 122 to lock the top housing 102 into
a particular position. In some embodiments, to rotate the top
housing 102 to a different position, the user can pull the top
housing 102 proximally outward and rotate the top housing 102 to
disengage the ridge element 107 from the notch 122 and engage a
second notch 124. Upon rotation of the top housing 102, the cannula
200 can expand or contract. Accordingly, the cannula can be
securely kept in a first state while the ridge element 107 is in a
first notch 122, and securely kept in a second expanded or
contracted state relative to the first state while the ridge
element 107 is in a second notch 124.
[0074] FIG. 11 shows another cannula 222 and differs from cannula
200 in that flanges 224 taper so that slits 226 between flanges 224
progressively widen towards the distal end of cannula 222, thereby
advantageously providing for varied expansion along the length of
the cannula. For some applications, this configuration of flanges
224 may be advantageous such as providing more space for
maneuvering instruments during surgery.
[0075] FIG. 12 shows yet another cannula 228 having flanges 230
with thermodynamically changing material 232 filling the space
between the flanges 230. Material 230 has an initial small
cross-sectional width upon insertion into tissue and expands to a
subsequent larger cross-sectional width at some time after
insertion into tissue so that the working channel of cannula 228 is
enlarged by the force of material 230 expanding causing flanges 230
to further separate. Material 230 can be attached between flanges
230 by any known manufacturing techniques including adhesive,
molding, injection, etc. Material 230, depending on the amount of
expansion and contraction needed, can be any number of materials
such as various hydrogels. Material 230 may begin at a low
temperature by being quickly treated with a Cryo-device, often used
in many surgeries, immediately before insertion and then material
230 may increase in temperature from contact with surrounding
tissue and materials being injected and aspirated from the surgical
site. As material 230 increases in temperature, material 230
expands. Material 230 may also take the form of hydrophilic
materials. Hydrophilic materials absorb moisture and expand as
moisture is absorbed and therefore material 230 causes flanges 230
to separate from each other, expanding the working channel of
cannula 228.
[0076] FIG. 13 is yet another example of a cannula 234 having a
housing 236 with several flanges 238 attached. In this embodiment,
housing 236 is a single molded device having a tapering entry lumen
240 with flanges 238 attached by any acceptable method such as
adhesive. The entry lumen defines the maximum working channel
allowed by cannula 234 and flanges are attached such that they are
able to expand and deflect beginning immediately at the interface
with housing 236 at lumen 240. In this embodiment, the cannula 234
may be formed by insert molding a tube (e.g., nitinol) composed of
flanges 238 (e.g. super elastic nitinol) into polymer housing 236.
Cannula 234 has several specific features, including several slits
(five in this example) distributed substantially symmetrically
about the cannula body, a wider proximal end than distal end, and
the wider proximal end of flanges 238 is within housing 236 that is
placed on the tissue outside the surgical site.
[0077] In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14, an expandable
member 306 similar to the expandable member 106, is coupled to an
electrical energy source 330. The electrical energy source 330 can
be configured to apply a current to the expandable member 306,
which can be controlled by a switch 319. Depending on the polarity
of the current, the expandable member 306 can be configured to
increase or decrease in diameter. In certain embodiments, the
amount of electrical current applied to the expandable member
ranges between 1 nanoamp and 100 microamps. In certain embodiments,
the electrical current does not damage or injure the eye or the
surrounding tissue, as the current may be insulated from the tissue
(e.g., by an insulating layer). Depending on the current passed
through expandable member 306, for safety purposes, a grounding
path, as is known, may be used to protect the patient and
surrounding tissue from harm. A ground 327 is operatively connected
to the eye 101 to assist in the grounding process.
[0078] In some embodiments, a proximal end of the expandable member
306 is coupled to the electrical energy source 330. The expandable
member 306 can be part of a cannula system that can be anchored in
the pars plana of an eyeball. The expandable member 306 can
increase or decrease from one gauge to another when electrical
energy is applied by the electrical energy source 330. The
expandable member 306 can be extracted by reducing a diameter of
the expandable member to a larger gauge by varying the electrical
energy applied by the electrical energy source 330.
[0079] FIG. 15A is a perspective of yet another example of a
cannula with upper housing in accordance with the present
invention. The cannula includes an expandable member 400 including
a proximal portion 402 and a distal portion 404. In an unexpanded
state, the proximal portion 402 has a larger cross-sectional area
than the distal portion 404 to form a generally conical shape or
cone-like configuration. In some embodiments, the expandable member
400 comprises a foldable or winding coil that has an ending edge
415, as shown in FIG. 15A. In an embodiment, the ending edge 415 is
positioned on the surface of the expandable member 400 diagonally
relative to a longitudinal axis extending between the distal end
and proximal end of the expandable member 400 because the diameter
of the proximal end is larger than the diameter of the distal end
of the expandable member 400. The ending edge 415 can comprise a
substantially smooth edge, a curved edge, a slanted edge, a
coating, or other edge configuration to prevent tissue from being
captured by the ending edge 415 as the expandable member 400
expands and contracts. Also shown is an upper housing 482 which can
couple with the expandable member 400. The expandable member 400
and upper housing 482 form an adjustable cannula system that can
expand and contract via a mechanical force (e.g., a probe) as
discussed with respect to FIG. 15C.
[0080] FIG. 15B illustrates the cannula of FIG. 15A being coupled
or being inserted into an upper housing. The expandable member 400
of the cannula can be coupled to the upper housing 482 by any of
the methods described above or can merely placed into the housing
be snapped into place or be held in place due to frictional forces.
For example, the expandable member 400 can include a tab capable of
mating with a mateable portion (e.g., a slot) in the upper housing
482. In other embodiments, the expandable member 400 of the cannula
and the upper housing 482 are formed as a single piece.
[0081] FIG. 15C illustrates the cannula of FIG. 15B being expanded
via use of a probe. Like the cannula with slits described in above
embodiments, the cannula having expandable member 400 in the form
of a winding coil can also be expanded using a probe 450. As the
probe is inserted into the cannula, the coiled portion at the
distal end and at the intermediate portion begin to unwind to
expand the internal working channel of the expandable member 400.
In an embodiment, the proximal end does not expand because the
proximal end of the expandable member 400 comprises a larger
diameter than the diameter of the intermediate and distal portion.
In some embodiments, the probe 450 is hollow, such that
instruments, tools or tissue can be introduced through the probe.
In some embodiments, the probe is an instrument or device that can
include, for example, biopsy devices, scissors, tissue cutting
and/or removal devices, draining devices, light sources, fluid
infusion devices, and the other surgical instruments. While
introducing the probe 450 into the expandable member 400 can result
in expansion, removing the probe 450 from the expandable member 400
can result in contraction. Advantageously, like the other cannulas
described above, the cannula described in FIGS. 15A-15C allows for
introduction into tissue a cannula of narrow size that can
controllably expand only if desired to larger sizes, thereby
reducing the risk of injury of tissue and the need for sutures.
Further, the cannula illustrated in FIGS. 15A-15C does not require
twisting of the housing portion to expand or contract the diameter
of the cannula, rather expansion and contraction occurs when a
probe is inserted or removed from the cannula.
[0082] In some embodiments, the cannula 400 is of a material that
is sufficiently elastic to allow for expansion of one or more
coils, and sufficiently stiff to prevent collapse of the cannula
during the expansion. Such material can include various plastics
and metals (including metal alloys), as well as plastics with metal
embedded therein. The geometry of the cannula 400 can also be
controlled to minimize the damage to the surrounding tissue
performed by the cannula 400 when it is introduced and/or expanded
within an eye. Controlling the geometry can provide for sufficient
stiffness, while providing sufficient flexibility to the cannula to
allow for expansion.
[0083] FIG. 16A is a perspective of yet another example of a
cannula with housing in accordance with the present invention. The
cannula includes an expandable member 500 including a proximal
portion 502 and a distal portion 504, wherein the proximal portion
502 has a larger cross-sectional area than the distal portion 504
in an unexpanded state. Along the body of the expandable member 500
are a plurality of flutes or folds 516. In the illustrated
embodiment, the folds 516 extend along a majority of the length of
the expandable member 500, from the proximal portion 502 to a
furthest most distal end 520 of the distal portion 504, although
the folds need not assume such a length in every embodiment (for
example, the proximal portion need not be fluted). Due to the folds
516, the distal end 520 includes a number of edge points as shown
in FIG. 16A. Also shown is a housing 582 which is coupled with the
expandable member 500. The expandable member 500 and housing 582
form an adjustable cannula system that can expand and contract via
a mechanical force (e.g., a probe) as discussed with respect to
FIG. 15C. In some embodiments, the cannula can be formed at least
in part of a metal, metal alloy (e.g., nitinol) or polymer, or any
combination thereof.
[0084] FIG. 16B illustrates the cannula of FIG. 16A in an expanded
form that has been expanded via use of a probe. As the probe is
inserted through the expandable member 500, the folds 516 of the
expandable member 500 accommodate expansion. As shown in FIG. 16B,
upon expansion, the folds of the expandable member 500 can expand
outward, such that the expandable member 500 is left with a
substantially smooth surface. Also, upon expansion, the expandable
member 500 can assume a cylindrical shape such that the distal end
520 appears circular. Advantageously, like the other cannulas
described above, the cannula described in FIGS. 16A and 16B allows
for introduction into tissue a cannula of narrow size that can
controllably expand only if desired to larger sizes, thereby
reducing the risk of injury of tissue and the need for sutures.
[0085] FIG. 17A is a perspective of yet another example of a
cannula with housing in accordance with the present invention. The
cannula includes an expandable member 600 including a proximal
portion 602 and a distal portion 604, wherein the proximal portion
602 has a larger cross-sectional area than the distal portion 604
in an unexpanded state. Along the body of the expandable member 600
are a plurality of actuating elements 616 that can expand into a
cross-hatched or cage pattern (as shown in FIG. 17B). In the
illustrated embodiment, the actuating elements 616 extend along a
majority of the length of the expandable member 600, from the
proximal portion 602 to the distal portion 604, although in other
embodiments, the actuating elements 616 can extend a lesser portion
along the length of the expandable member 600 (e.g., the proximal
portion need not have the actuating elements). Also shown is a
housing 682 which is coupled with the expandable member 600. The
expandable member 600 and housing 682 form an adjustable cannula
system that can expand and contract via a mechanical force (e.g., a
probe) as discussed with respect to FIG. 15C. In some embodiments,
the cannula can be formed at least in part of a metal, metal alloy
(e.g., nitinol) or polymer, or any combination thereof.
[0086] FIG. 17B illustrates a distal portion of the cannula of FIG.
17A in an expanded form via use of a probe. As the probe is
inserted through the expandable member 600, the actuating elements
616 of the expandable member 600 accommodate expansion. As shown in
FIG. 17B, upon expansion, the actuating elements 616 can expand
outward and form a cross-hatched or cage pattern. In some
embodiments, the cannula in an expanded form can resemble a
wire-frame. In some embodiments, the exposed cross-hatched areas
can interact with tissue to provide a seal for the cannula, while
in other embodiments, the exposed cross-hatched areas can be
surrounded by a thin film or membrane that can be contractible with
the cannula to prevent liquids and other materials form
inadvertently entering and/or escaping the lumen of the cannula.
Advantageously, like the other cannulas described above, the
cannula described in FIGS. 17A and 17B allows for introduction into
tissue a cannula of narrow size that can controllably expand only
if desired to larger sizes, thereby reducing the risk of injury of
tissue and the need for sutures.
[0087] Thus, there has been described several examples of
adjustable cannulas that allow a small initial incision to be made
but yet allow use of larger port sizes during surgery while
allowing the incision to return to a size that may be self-sealing
and without the need for sutures. The following are some comments
regarding some possible variations of the examples described above.
These statements and variations are not to be considered exhaustive
or the only variations possible in accordance with the present
invention, but only for further illustrative purposes.
[0088] In some embodiments, the adjustable cannula 200 can be
tapered such that it is of a reduced diameter in a distal portion
relative to a proximal portion. In some embodiments, the cannula
200 is configured to be naturally tapered upon entering a body
cavity, while in other embodiments, the cannula 200 is configured
to be naturally non-tapered but will taper in whole or in part upon
expansion of the cannula. In some embodiments, the walls of the
cannula 200 are tapered. The advantage of having a tapered cannula
or tapered walls is that surrounding tissue is less likely to be
disturbed around the narrowest sections of the tapered cannula 200,
and certain tissue will only be affected if the cannula 200 is
expanded.
[0089] In some embodiments, the cannula 200 comprises an adjustable
seal located at a distal portion or proximal portion of the
cannula, as is known, to prevent the escape of liquids and gases
within the cannula, as well as the influx of unwanted materials
into the cannula 200. As is known, the seal can comprise a film or
diaphragm that adjusts with the cannula during expansion and
contraction. In some embodiments, the seal can comprise a shutter
ring or valve that adjusts into various positions (e.g., fully
opened, partially opened, fully closed) in accordance with the
state of the cannula. In some embodiments, like the slit openings,
the adjustable seal can also interact with surrounding tissue such
that when there is an opening in the seal, the surrounding tissue
can help provide a blocking function.
[0090] Conditional language, such as, among others, "can," "could,"
"might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or
otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally
intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other
embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, or steps.
Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply
that features, elements, or steps are in any way required for one
or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily
include logic for deciding, with or without user input or
prompting, whether these features, elements, or steps are included
or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
[0091] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends
beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative
embodiments or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and
equivalents thereof. Additionally, the skilled artisan will
recognize that any of the above-described methods can be carried
out using any appropriate apparatus. Further, the disclosure herein
of any particular feature, aspect, method, property,
characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in
connection with an embodiment can be used in all other embodiments
set forth herein. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the
present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the
particular disclosed embodiments described above.
* * * * *