Covidien AG Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20140288553 | VESSEL SEALING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRICAL CUTTING MECHANISM - An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing vessels and cutting vessels includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members which are movable relative to one another from a first spaced apart position to a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced apart electrically conductive tissue contacting surfaces which each have an insulator disposed therebetween, the conductive surfaces are connected to an electrosurgical energy source. The first jaw member includes an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within the insulator which extends towards the second tissue contacting surface to create a gap therebetween. The cutting element is inactive during the sealing process while the two pairs of electrically conductive surfaces are activated to seal tissue. During the cutting process, the cutting element is energized to a first potential and at least one electrically conductive tissue contacting surface is energized to a different potential to effect a tissue cut through the tissue held between the jaw members along the already formed tissue seal. | 09-25-2014 |
20140257270 | CIRCUIT AND METHOD FOR REDUCING STORED ENERGY IN AN ELECTROSURGICAL GENERATOR - A circuit for discharging stored energy in an electrosurgical generator includes a pulse width modulator for controlling a high voltage power supply, an error signal generating circuit configured for delivering an error signal as a difference between an output signal voltage and a feedback voltage generated by the high voltage power supply. The circuit further includes a switching circuit configured to switch in a load in parallel with an output of the high voltage power supply when the error signal is less than a first predetermined threshold to discharge the output. | 09-11-2014 |
20140236202 | Method for Operating a Two-Stage Switch for Surgical Device - In a surgical device having a control device and a button operatively connected to the control device, the control device operative to carry out at least two operational conditions of the surgical device, a method for operating the surgical device comprising pressing a single actuation member of the button to a first depressed position to thereby effect a first of the at least two operational conditions and pressing the actuation member in substantially the same direction to a second depressed position to thereby effect a second of the at least two operational conditions different from the first operational condition. | 08-21-2014 |
20140221762 | Anoscope for Ano-Rectal Diagnostic and Surgery - A composite anoscope for ano-rectal diagnostic and surgery, wherein the anoscope ( | 08-07-2014 |
20140194873 | IN-LINE VESSEL SEALER AND DIVIDER - An endoscopic forceps includes a housing having a shaft attached thereto, the shaft including a pair of jaw members disposed at a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly disposed in the housing which moves the jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for manipulating tissue. A pair of handles is operatively connected to the drive assembly and the handles are movable relative to the housing to actuate the drive assembly to move the jaw members. Each of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy for treating tissue. The forceps also includes a first switch disposed on the housing which is activatable to selectively deliver energy of a first electrical potential to at least one jaw member for treating tissue in a monopolar fashion. A second switch is disposed on the housing and is activatable to selectively deliver energy of a first electrical potential to one jaw member and selectively deliver energy of a second electrical potential to the other jaw member for treating tissue in a bipolar fashion. | 07-10-2014 |
20140188101 | Radio Frequency Generator and Method for a Cordless Medical Cauterization and Cutting Device - A circuit for generating a radio-frequency signal for a surgical device is disclosed. The circuit has a voltage regulator that supplies direct current (DC) voltage, a first MOSFET, a second MOSFET, and a MOSFET driver. The MOSFET driver receives the DC voltage supplied from the voltage regulator and has a local oscillator. The local oscillator switches the first MOSFET and the second MOSFET on and off at a frequency generated by the local oscillator. The circuit further includes a transformer connected to the first and second MOSFETs, having a center tap and a main voltage applied at the center tap, and providing an alternating current (AC) output. | 07-03-2014 |
20140180275 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AN OUTPUT OF A RADIO-FREQUENCY MEDICAL GENERATOR HAVING AN IMPEDANCE BASED CONTROL ALGORITHM - A system for performing an electrosurgical procedure at a surgical site is disclosed. The system includes a sensor configured to continually sense an electrical and/or a physical property of tissue at a surgical site and to generate a sensor signal as a function thereof. The system also includes a control module configured to process the sensor signal using a processor, an algorithm, and a map having one or more predetermined values. The control module is further configured to compare the sensor signal to a predetermined level to determine reliability of the sensor signal and to signal an electrosurgical generator in response to a reliable sensor signal such that the electrosurgical generator enters energy control mode, wherein the electrosurgical generator matches an output of the control signal with a predetermined value from the map. | 06-26-2014 |
20140171985 | STAPLER FOR MUCOSECTOMY - The head of a stapler for mucosectomy comprises an external goblet-shaped body ( | 06-19-2014 |
20140166184 | Limited Durability Fastening for a Garment - A limited durability fastening for a garment. The garment is provided with fastening members which engage to close the fastening and the fastening members are provided with means for controlling the degradation of the closure strength of the fastening as it is opened and closed and thus the number of permissible closures of the fastening having a pre-determined closure strength. The garment is particularly useful when fitted to a foot where short life is desirable at low cost or to a garment where re-use is to be discouraged for either clinical or commercial reasons. | 06-19-2014 |
20140163431 | Switched Resonant Ultrasonic Power Amplifier System - A switched resonant power amplifier system for ultrasonic transducers is disclosed. The system includes an amplifier that receives and processes a driver output signal for generating a drive signal that is provided to an ultrasonic device for controlling output of the ultrasonic device. An output control circuit receives and processes a signal related to a feedback signal generated by the ultrasonic device and a divider reference signal, and generates a compensated clock signal that is adjusted for at least one of phase and frequency differences between the received feedback signal and the divider reference signal. A compensated drive circuit receives and processes the compensated clock signal for generating the divider reference signal, and for generating the driver output signal. | 06-12-2014 |
20140135761 | SINGLE ACTION TISSUE SEALER - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members. | 05-15-2014 |
20140107646 | SINGLE ACTION TISSUE SEALER - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members. | 04-17-2014 |
20140107645 | SINGLE ACTION TISSUE SEALER - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members. | 04-17-2014 |
20140100569 | BIPOLAR FORCEPS HAVING MONOPOLAR EXTENSION - An endoscopic forceps for treating tissue includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto which has first and second jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes an actuator for moving jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. Each of the jaw members is connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are selectively capable of operating in a bipolar mode which enables the jaw members to conduct bipolar energy through tissue held therebetween to treat tissue. The forceps also includes a monopolar element housed within the first jaw member which is selectively movable from a first position within the first jaw member to a second position distal to the first jaw member. The monopolar element is connected to the source of electrosurgical energy and is selectively activatable independent of the bipolar mode. | 04-10-2014 |
20140100559 | VESSEL SEALING SYSTEM - An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical generator includes impedance sensing circuitry which measures impedance of tissue, a microprocessor configured to determine whether a tissue reaction has occurred as a function of a minimum impedance value and a predetermined rise in impedance, wherein tissue reaction corresponds to a boiling point of tissue fluid, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 04-10-2014 |
20140100523 | PUMP SET HAVING SECURE LOADING FEATURES - An enteral feeding set for an enteral feeding pump having a control system for controlling operation of the pump to supply nutrient liquid to a patient through the enteral feeding set loaded in the pump, a source of electromagnetic radiation operatively connected to the control system of the pump for emitting electromagnetic radiation, and an electromagnetic radiation detector operatively connected to the control system for receiving the electromagnetic radiation and providing an indication to the control system that the feeding set is properly loaded in the pump. The feeding set includes a conduit for carrying nutrient liquid to a patient. A safety interlock includes a light pipe for providing a passage of the electromagnetic radiation from the source of electromagnetic radiation to the electromagnetic radiation detector only when the safety interlock is loaded in the pump such that nutrient liquid flow to the patient is regulated by the pump. | 04-10-2014 |
20140094798 | SINGLE ACTION TISSUE SEALER - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members. | 04-03-2014 |
20140058385 | VESSEL SEALING SYSTEM - An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical generator includes impedance sensing circuitry which measures impedance of tissue, a microprocessor configured to determine whether a tissue reaction has occurred as a function of a minimum impedance value and a predetermined rise in impedance, wherein tissue reaction corresponds to a boiling point of tissue fluid, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 02-27-2014 |
20140058381 | VESSEL SEALING SYSTEM - An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical generator includes impedance sensing circuitry which measures impedance of tissue, a microprocessor configured to determine whether a tissue reaction has occurred as a function of a minimum impedance value and a predetermined rise in impedance, wherein tissue reaction corresponds to a boiling point of tissue fluid, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 02-27-2014 |
20140039490 | ARC BASED ADAPTIVE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTROSURGICAL UNIT - A system and method for performing electrosurgical procedures are disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue in form of one or more electrosurgical waveforms having a crest factor and a duty cycle. The system also includes sensor circuitry adapted to measure impedance and to obtain one or more measured impedance signals. The sensor circuitry is further adapted to generate one or more arc detection signals upon detecting an arcing conditionĀ§. The system further includes a controller adapted to generate one or more target control signals as a function of the measured impedance signals and to adjust output of the electrosurgical generator based on the arc detection signal. An electrosurgical instrument is also included having one or more active electrodes adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 02-06-2014 |
20140031819 | VESSEL SEALER AND DIVIDER - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes an elongated shaft having opposing jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The forceps also includes a source of electrical energy connected to each jaw member such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal. A generally tube-like cutter is included which is slidably engaged about the elongated shaft and which is selectively movable about the elongated shaft to engage and cut tissue on at least one side of the jaw members while the tissue is engaged between jaw members. | 01-30-2014 |
20130345677 | DUAL LUMEN CATHETER WITH CONTRASTRADIOGRAPHY SECTIONS TO IDENTIFY THE LUMENS - A catheter has an outer peripheral portion ( | 12-26-2013 |
20130245657 | Battery Assembly for Battery-Powered Surgical Instruments - A battery assembly for use in a number of battery-powered, cordless ultrasonic surgical instruments with handles having a battery chamber and coupled to different ultrasonic waveguide types, comprises a housing having an exterior shape formed to removably connect with the battery chamber of the handles. The housing has at least one energy storage cell operable to power an ultrasonic-signal-generation assembly of the surgical instruments. The ultrasonic-signal-generation assembly is operable to dynamically produce a resonant wave along an ultrasonic waveguide. A battery/handle interface has a plurality of connectors shaped to mate with a plurality of corresponding connectors within the battery chamber of the handles. A voltage-control circuit communicatively couples with and provides power to the ultrasonic-signal-generation assembly, detects which one of the ultrasonic waveguide types is coupled to the handle connected to the housing, and provides an output in response to the detected waveguide type. | 09-19-2013 |
20130239402 | Method of Assembling a Cordless Hand-Held Ultrasonic Cautery Cutting Device - A method for assembling an ultrasonic surgical device includes the steps of rotatably freely connecting an ultrasonic waveguide to an ultrasonic surgical handle body, the ultrasonic waveguide having a proximal coupling end, substantially simultaneously removably coupling an ultrasonic-driving-wave-signal generating circuit to the ultrasonic surgical handle body and removably inserting an ultrasonic-movement-producing distal end of a cordless, rotatably free ultrasonic transducer into the ultrasonic surgical handle body opposite the proximal coupling end of the ultrasonic waveguide, and rotating the ultrasonic waveguide with respect to the ultrasonic transducer to fixedly couple the ultrasonic waveguide to the ultrasonic-movement-producing distal end of the ultrasonic transducer. | 09-19-2013 |
20130218071 | BRONCHOTRACHEAL ACCESS VALVE FOR A BRONCHOASPIRATION APPARATUS - A bronchotracheal access valve for a bronchoaspiration apparatus. The valve is characterized in that the rotation of a second member in a given direction with respect to a first member moves the valve from a configuration in which a conduit communicates hydraulically with a sleeve, to a configuration in which the conduit communicates hydraulically with a flush conduit via a duct and a channel to flush an end portion of a catheter. | 08-22-2013 |
20130138098 | ELECTROSURGICAL RADIO FREQUENCY ENERGY TRANSMISSION MEDIUM - A system and method for transmitting electrosurgical energy from a generator to an electrosurgical instrument are provided. The electrosurgical system includes a generator adapted to generate electrosurgical energy for treating tissue. The generator includes one or more active output terminals which supply energy to the tissue. The active output terminals are operatively connected to one or more supply lines. The generator also includes one or more return output terminal which returns energy from the tissue. The return output terminals are operatively connected to at least one return line. The system also includes an electrosurgical instrument operatively connected to the one or more supply lines and one or more return electrodes operatively connected to one or more return lines. The system further includes an electrosurgical cable including one or more supply lines and one or more return lines. The one or more supply lines and one or more return lines are wound in a double helix fashion such that the electrical field along the cable is mitigated along the length thereof. | 05-30-2013 |
20130046322 | Method of Switching a Surgical Device - Method for operating a self-powered surgical device, comprising providing a handle with a self-contained power supply and control circuit operable to carry out at least two operational conditions of the surgical device and effecting the at least two operational conditions with a two-stage switch electrically connected to the control circuit, a first stage of the switch effecting a first of the two operational conditions and a second stage of the switch effecting a second of the two operational conditions different from the first operational condition, the two-stage switch having a variable resistance such that the first stage occurs when a first depression force is applied to the switch, the second stage occurs when a second depression force greater than the first depression force is applied to the switch, and a holding force lower than the second depression force is required to maintain the switch in the second stage. | 02-21-2013 |
20130046321 | Two-Stage Switch for Surgical Device - A self-powered surgical device, comprising a handle having a self-contained power supply and a control circuit operable to carry out at least two operational conditions of the surgical device; and a two-stage switch electrically connected to the control circuit, a first stage of the switch effecting a first of the at least two operational conditions and a second stage of the switch effecting a second of the at least two operational conditions that is different from the first operational condition, the two-stage switch having a variable resistance such that the first stage occurs when a first depression force is applied to the switch, the second stage occurs when a second depression force greater than the first depression force is applied to the switch, and a holding force lower than at least the second depression force is required to maintain the switch in the second stage. | 02-21-2013 |
20130046291 | Method of Switching a Surgical Device - Method for operating a surgical device, comprising providing a control circuit operable to carry out at least two operational conditions of the surgical device and effecting the at least two operational conditions with a two-stage switch electrically connected to the control circuit, a first stage of the switch effecting a first of the at least two operational conditions and a second stage of the switch effecting a second of the at least two operational conditions different from the first operational condition, wherein the force required to sustain the first operational condition is less than the force required to enter the first operational condition and the force required to enter the second operational condition is greater than the force required to sustain the first operational condition. | 02-21-2013 |
20130046290 | Two-Stage Switch for Surgical Device - A surgical device, comprising a control circuit operable to carry out at least two operational conditions of the surgical device, and a two-stage switch electrically connected to the control circuit, a first stage of the switch effecting a first of the at least two operational conditions and a second stage of the switch effecting a second of the at least two operational conditions that is different from the first operational condition, wherein the force required to sustain the first operational condition is less than the force required to enter the first operational condition and the force required to enter the second operational condition is greater than the force required to sustain the first operational condition. | 02-21-2013 |
20130041367 | VESSEL SEALING SYSTEM - An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical generator includes impedance sensing circuitry which measures impedance of tissue, a microprocessor configured to determine whether a tissue reaction has occurred as a function of a minimum impedance value and a predetermined rise in impedance, wherein tissue reaction corresponds to a boiling point of tissue fluid, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. | 02-14-2013 |
20130030432 | Single Action Tissue Sealer - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members. | 01-31-2013 |
20130030429 | Soft Tissue RF Transection and Resection Device - A method for performing an electrosurgical procedure is presented including providing an electrosurgical system having an electrosurgical generator, a first electrosurgical device including a first electrically conductive element, a second electrosurgical device including a second electrically conductive element configured to be coupled to a first location of a target tissue and a third electrosurgical device including a third electrically conductive element configured to be coupled to a second location of the target tissue. The method also includes the steps of positioning the second and third electrically conductive elements relative to one another, orienting and defining a direction and a length of a single resection line between the second and third electrically conductive elements, and moving the first electrically conductive element along the single resection line to desiccate or divide the target tissue. | 01-31-2013 |
20130023874 | BIPOLAR FORCEPS HAVING MONOPOLAR EXTENSION - An endoscopic forceps for treating tissue includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto which has first and second jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes an actuator for moving jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. Each of the jaw members is connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are selectively capable of operating in a bipolar mode which enables the jaw members to conduct bipolar energy through tissue held therebetween to treat tissue. The forceps also includes a monopolar element housed within the first jaw member which is selectively movable from a first position within the first jaw member to a second position distal to the first jaw member. The monopolar element is connected to the source of electrosurgical energy and is selectively activateable independent of the bipolar mode. | 01-24-2013 |
20120316555 | System and Method for Closed Loop Monitoring of Monopolar Electrosurgical Apparatus - An electrosurgical system is disclosed comprising a generator configured to electrosurgical coagulation waveforms. The generator includes a closed loop control system for controlling the electrosurgical coagulation waveforms. The closed loop control system includes a sensor configured to sense a tissue property and/or an energy property and to transmit the tissue property and/or the energy property as one or more sensor signals having an amplitude. The control system also includes a gain controller configured to process the at least one sensor signal to reduce the amplitude of the sensor signals and to obtain a signal to noise ratio of the at sensor signals within a predetermine range. A microprocessor coupled to the generator and is configured to adjust the electrosurgical coagulation waveforms as a function of the sensor signals. | 12-13-2012 |
20120303026 | Vessel Sealer and Divider With Non-Conductive Stop Members - An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes an elongated shaft having opposing jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The jaws members are connected to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal. At least one non-conductive and spaced-apart stop member is disposed on an inner-facing surface of the jaw members to regulate the gap distance between the jaw members when tissue is held therebetween. The forceps also includes a longitudinally reciprocating knife which severs the tissue after sealing at a location which is proximate the sealing site. | 11-29-2012 |
20120271295 | Method of Using Vasoconstrictive Agents During Energy-Based Tissue Therapy - A mammal undergoing an energy-based therapy is treated by administering at least one vasoconstrictive agent to the mammal prior to or during the procedure. The at least one vasoconstrictive agent is added in amounts sufficient to reduce or prevent vasodilation. This treatment method increases or promotes the size of the coagulation zone created after energy-based therapy. | 10-25-2012 |
20120266891 | SYSTEM FOR TRANSTRACHEAL ADMINISTRATION OF OXYGEN - A system for transtracheal administration of supplemental oxygen to a patient in need of continuous long tem oxygen therapy comprising a cannula ( | 10-25-2012 |
20120261066 | Sealed Device and Method of Sealing - A method for creating a sealed device includes the steps of providing a structure comprised of at least two adjacent parts forming an enclosure and having a contact surface therebetween. At least one part of the structure is comprised of a material that appears substantially opaque to the naked eye and is substantially transparent to light. A light-curable adhesive is applied at the contact surface, and light is transmitted to cure the light-curable adhesive to form a hermetic seal at the contact surface between the at least two adjacent parts. | 10-18-2012 |
20120239023 | Method of Using Vasoconstrictive Agents During Energy-Based Tissue Therapy - A mammal undergoing an energy-based therapy is treated by administering at least one vasoconstrictive agent to the mammal prior to or during the procedure. The at least one vasoconstrictive agent is added in amounts sufficient to reduce or prevent vasodilation. This treatment method increases or promotes the size of the coagulation zone created after energy-based therapy. | 09-20-2012 |
20120233844 | VESSEL SEALING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRICAL CUTTING MECHANISM - An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing vessels and cutting vessels includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members which are movable relative to one another from a first spaced apart position to a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface connected to an electrosurgical energy source. At least one of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within an insulator defined in the jaw member. A rigid structural support is included which is configured to support the electrically conductive tissue sealing surface and includes at least one flow channel defined therein. | 09-20-2012 |
20120226274 | Electrosurgical System Employing Multiple Electrodes and Method Thereof - A method for performing an electrosurgical procedure at a surgical site on a patient, the method including the steps of providing a current restricting circuit operatively coupled between a source of electro surgical energy and an electrode, the current restricting circuit including: a switch configured to direct the flow of electrosurgical energy; and a plurality of current restrictive devices arranged in an H-Bridge arrangement, wherein the switch is disposed between adjacent current restrictive devices of the plurality of current restrictive devices; restricting the flow of electrosurgical energy wherein the current restricting circuit is configured to restrict a flow of electrosurgical energy when the switch is in a first position; enabling the flow of electrosurgical energy when the switch is in a second position; and dynamically controlling the electrosurgical energy delivered to the electrode with the current restricting circuit. | 09-06-2012 |
20120221286 | Electronic Thermometer with Selectable Modes - An electronic thermometer is configured for selectable predictive modes based upon the same predictive algorithm. A mode selector is adapted for user selection between several modes of operation of the thermometer. Each mode of operation utilizes the same predictive algorithm for estimating the temperature of the subject before the thermometer reaches full equilibrium. Different modes offer users a selection for striking the appropriate balance between response time and precision, based upon user preferences and needs. | 08-30-2012 |
20120221031 | Method of Maintaining Constant Movement of a Cutting Blade of an Ultrasonic Waveguide - A method of maintaining a constant movement of a cutting blade of an ultrasonic waveguide includes providing an ultrasonic transducer operable to convert a received motional current into a movement of a cutting blade of an ultrasonic waveguide, a measurement circuit connected in a parallel configuration with the ultrasonic transducer, and a variable power source operable to supply current through a set of connection points to the parallel configuration and thereby create the motional current in the ultrasonic transducer. Current is supplied through a set of connection points of the parallel configuration with the variable power source to, thereby, create the motional current in the ultrasonic transducer and the motional current is regulated with a current controller by varying an output of the power source, thereby maintaining a substantially constant rate of movement of the cutting blade across a variety of cutting loads. | 08-30-2012 |
20120204883 | Transtracheal Catheter Apparatus - A catheter apparatus ( | 08-16-2012 |
20120165818 | System and Method for Controlling Electrode Gap During Tissue Sealing - A forceps includes a housing, a shaft, an end effector assembly coupled to the distal end of the shaft and including opposing jaw members, and a drive rod slidingly disposed within the shaft. Each of the jaw members includes a sealing plate attached thereto. Longitudinal reciprocation of the drive rod moves at least one of the jaw members from a first position in spaced relation relative to the other jaw member to at least one subsequent position wherein the sealing plates cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The forceps also includes at least one sensor configured to sense a gap distance between the opposing jaw members, and a linear actuator operably coupled to the drive rod. The linear actuator is configured to reciprocate the drive rod in a longitudinal direction as a function of the sensed gap distance in response to signals provided by the at least one sensor. | 06-28-2012 |
20120101491 | Thermocouple Measurement System - A thermocouple measuring circuit for sensing a temperature at a measuring point is provided. The thermocouple measurement circuit ( | 04-26-2012 |
20120095456 | Articulating Bipolar Electrosurgical Instrument - A bipolar electrosurgical instrument has a pair of pivotable juxtaposed jaw members and a locking mechanism operatively associated with a second of the jaw members. The locking mechanism has a first position engaged with the second jaw member for preventing movement of the second jaw member between an axially aligned orientation and at least one angled orientation, and a second position. The second position is disengaged from the second jaw member allowing for movement of the second jaw member between the axially aligned orientation and the at least one angled orientation. The instrument has an actuation mechanism operatively connected to a first of the jaw members with the actuation mechanism operable to move the first jaw member between an axially aligned first orientation and at least one angled orientation. An articulation knob is operatively associated with the locking mechanism and effectuates independent operation of the locking and actuation mechanisms. | 04-19-2012 |
20120078196 | ADMINISTRATION FEEDING SET - An administration feeding set for use with a flow control apparatus to deliver fluid from at least one fluid source to a patient. The set includes tubing for flow of fluid along a fluid pathway and a mounting member on the tubing adapted to engage the flow control apparatus. The mounting member has at least two receiving portions co-axial with the fluid pathway. The set also includes one or more identification members selectively positioned on one or more of the at least two receiving portions of the mounting member to permit identification of the administration feeding set as having a particular functional configuration different from another functional configuration. | 03-29-2012 |
20120059367 | Electrosurgical System Employing Multiple Electrodes - A system for heat ablation of tissue, the system comprising a radiofrequency source configured to supply RF energy to at least two electrodes for treating tissue, at least one return electrode configured to return the RF energy to the radiofrequency source, a controller configured to sequentially apply the RF energy to each of the at least two electrodes for a pre-determinable period of time and circuitry configured to switch the RF energy to an internal load. The RF energy is applied simultaneously to the internal load and at least one of the at least two electrodes. The controller is configured to apply the RF energy to the next electrode in the sequence when the amount of time the applied RF energy is off is greater than a predetermined minimum off time. | 03-08-2012 |
20120004779 | Aliquot Correction for Feeding Set Degradation - A peristaltic pump is able to deliver accurate volumes over the life of a pump set that is operated on by the pump to drive the flow of fluid. The pump delivers fluid in small volumes or aliquots. In order to deliver fluid at any particular selected flow rate, the pump determines how often the rotor will rotate. The pump is able to calculate aliquot volume based on selected flow rate, but also on a factor that compensates for changes in the dimensions of the pump set over its life. | 01-05-2012 |
20110253716 | Medical Waste Disposal System - A method of medical waste disposal comprising (a) positioning an open end of a container relative to a hood assembly such that the hood assembly substantially covers the open end of the container; (b) depositing medical waste in the container through a passage defined by the hood assembly until the container is at least partially full; (c) placing a lid over the open end of the container such that the open end is substantially closed; (d) disposing of the container; (e) sterilizing the hood assembly; and (f) repeating step (a). | 10-20-2011 |
20110202056 | Laparoscopic Apparatus for Performing Electrosurgical Procedures - A system and apparatus for irrigating a surgical site during an electrosurgical procedure are disclosed. The system includes a hand piece having an elongated housing connected to a multi-lumen tube extending proximally from the housing and having an irrigation tube for delivering irrigation fluid, a suction tube for withdrawing irrigation fluid, and electrical wiring, a first controls for adjusting flow of irrigation fluid within the irrigation tube and second controls for adjusting flow of irrigation fluid within the suction tube. A valve cassette is connected to the multi-lumen tube, which includes an irrigation valve configured to control the flow within the irrigation tube and a suction valve configured to control the flow within the suction tube. A hardware control module controls the irrigation valve and the suction valve based on control signals from the first and second controls. | 08-18-2011 |
20110196368 | Open Vessel Sealing Instrument - A disposable open electrosurgical forceps for sealing tissue is disclosed in the present disclosure. The disposable open electrosurgical forceps comprise a pair of first and second shaft members containing a fiber reinforced thermoplastic blend material having fiber strands of at least 2 millimeters in length. Each shaft member includes a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof which are movable from a first position in spaced relation relative to one another to at least one subsequent position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. Each of the jaw members also includes an electrically conductive sealing plate for communicating electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween. At least one of the jaw members includes a knife channel defined along a length thereof which is dimensioned to reciprocate a cutting mechanism therealong. An actuator is included for selectively advancing the cutting mechanism from a first position wherein the cutting mechanism is disposed proximal to tissue held between the jaw members to at least one subsequent position wherein the cutting mechanism is disposed distal to tissue held between the jaw members. The actuator includes a trigger which cooperates with a rack and pinion system to advance the cutting mechanism from the first to second positions through tissue held therebetween. | 08-11-2011 |
20110190761 | Temperature Sensing Return Electrode Pad - An electrosurgical return electrode is disclosed. The return electrode includes a conductive pad having one or more temperature monitoring zones and a patient-contacting surface configured to conduct electrosurgical energy and a temperature sensing circuit coupled to the conductive pad. The temperature sensing circuit includes at least one diode disposed within the at least one temperature monitoring zone, the at least one diode having a predetermined forward voltage drop that is indicative of temperature of at least one temperature monitoring zone. | 08-04-2011 |
20110178516 | System and Method for Closed Loop Monitoring of Monopolar Electrosurgical Apparatus - An electrosurgical system is disclosed comprising a generator configured to electrosurgical coagulation waveforms. The generator includes a closed loop control system for controlling the electrosurgical coagulation waveforms. The closed loop control system includes a sensor configured to sense a tissue property and/or an energy property and to transmit the tissue property and/or the energy property as one or more sensor signals having an amplitude. The control system also includes a gain controller configured to process the at least one sensor signal to reduce the amplitude of the sensor signals and to obtain a signal to noise ratio of the at sensor signals within a predetermine range. A microprocessor coupled to the generator and is configured to adjust the electrosurgical coagulation waveforms as a function of the sensor signals. | 07-21-2011 |
20110162796 | Method for Manufacturing an End Effector Assembly - A method of manufacturing a jaw member of an end effector assembly for use with an electrosurgical instrument is disclosed that includes the steps of providing an electrically conductive tissue engaging plate and a jaw support; covering one side of the electrically conductive tissue engaging plate with an electrically insulative, thermally non-degrading coating; placing and securing the electrically conductive tissue engaging plate and the jaw support into a jaw mold; and introducing a liquid substance into the jaw mold and allowing the liquid substance to cure around the electrically conductive tissue engaging plate and the jaw support. Alternatively, the method includes the steps of: providing an electrically conductive tissue engaging plate and a jaw support; covering one side of the electrically conductive tissue engaging plate with an electrically insulative, thermally non-degrading coating; and securing the side of the electrically conductive tissue engaging plate onto the jaw support with an adhesive. | 07-07-2011 |
20110106079 | Insulating Boot for Electrosurgical Forceps - Either an endoscopic or open bipolar forceps includes a flexible, generally tubular insulating boot for insulating patient tissue, while not impeding motion of the jaw members. The jaw members are movable from an open to a closed position and the jaw members are connected to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal. A knife assembly may be included that allows a user to selectively divide tissue upon actuation thereof. The insulating boot may be made from a viscoelastic, elastomeric or flexible material suitable for use with a sterilization process including ethylene oxide. An interior portion of the insulating boot may have at least one mechanically interfacing surface that interfaces with a mechanically interfacing surface formed between the shaft and a jaw member or with a mechanically interfacing surface disposed or formed on the shaft or a jaw member. | 05-05-2011 |
20110092971 | Electrosurgical Pencil with Advanced ES Controls - An electrosurgical system is provided that includes an electrosurgical generator; and an electrosurgical pencil selectively connectable to the electrosurgical generator. The electrosurgical pencil includes an elongated housing; at least one electrocautery end effector removably supportable within the housing and extending distally from the housing, the electrocautery end effector being connected to the electrosurgical generator; and at least one voltage divider network supported on the housing. The at least one voltage divider network is electrically connected to the electrosurgical generator and controls at least one of the intensity of electrosurgical energy being delivered to the electrosurgical pencil and the mode of electrosurgical energy being delivered to the electrosurgical pencil. The voltage divider network generates a plurality of characteristic voltages which are measurable by the electrosurgical generator and which electrosurgical generator in turn transmits a corresponding waveform duty cycle at a particular intensity to the electrocautery end effector of the electrosurgical pencil. | 04-21-2011 |
20100280410 | Needle Assembly with Removable Depth Stop - A needle assembly ( | 11-04-2010 |
20100249722 | Administration Feeding Set - An administration feeding set for use with a flow control apparatus to deliver fluid from at least one fluid source to a patient. The set includes tubing for flow of fluid along a fluid pathway and a mounting member on the tubing adapted to engage the flow control apparatus. The mounting member has at least two receiving portions co-axial with the fluid pathway. The set also includes one or more identification members selectively positioned on one or more of the at least two receiving portions of the mounting member to permit identification of the administration feeding set as having a particular functional configuration different from another functional configuration. | 09-30-2010 |
20100249719 | Methods for Manually Injecting/Aspirating Fluids Through Small Diameter Catheters and Needles and Manual Injection/Aspiration Systems Including Small Diameter Catheters and Needles - A system for increasing rates at which fluids may be manually forced through injection/aspiration elements, such as catheters and needles, includes the injection/aspiration elements, as well as a syringe including a pair of crossed handles, one associated with the barrel of the syringe, the other associated with the plunger of the syringe, to provide a mechanical advantage. The system may include and injection/aspiration element of small (e.g., 0.052 inch or smaller) inner diameter and small outer diameter (e.g., 5 French or less). Such systems enable the use of a single hand to hold and operate a syringe in a variety or procedures, including angiography, angioplasty, discography, glue/cement injection, and a variety of aspiration procedures (e.g., biopsy, sampling, media removal, etc.). | 09-30-2010 |
20100217153 | Device for Shielding a Sharp Tip of a Cannula and Method of Using the Same - A safety device for shielding a sharp tip of a tubular needle includes a shaft sized and shaped for being received into the passage of the tubular needle through a first end of the passage and extending to a second end of the passage. A shield is associated with the shaft and is constructed for receiving and substantially shielding the sharp tip of the needle. A catch is associated with the shaft. The catch prevents the withdrawal of the shaft from the passage of the needle when the shield is shielding the sharp tip of the needle. | 08-26-2010 |
20100217152 | Device for Shielding a Sharp Tip of a Cannula and Method of Using the Same - A safety device for shielding a sharp tip of a tubular needle includes a shaft sized and shaped for being received into the passage of the tubular needle through a first end of the passage and extending to a second end of the passage. A shield is associated with the shaft and is constructed for receiving and substantially shielding the sharp tip of the needle. A catch is associated with the shaft. The catch prevents the withdrawal of the shaft from the passage of the needle when the shield is shielding the sharp tip of the needle. | 08-26-2010 |
20100198144 | METHOD FOR USING A PUMP SET HAVING SECURE LOADING FEATURES - A controller for operating a pumping apparatus to supply fluid to a patient through a pump set includes a processor programmed to instruct a first source of electromagnetic radiation to emit electromagnetic radiation in a direction for striking a safety interlock of the pump set. The processor activates a first electromagnetic radiation detector to detect the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the first source. The processor instructs a second source of electromagnetic radiation to emit electromagnetic radiation in a direction for striking the safety interlock. The processor activates a second electromagnetic radiation detector to detect the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the second source. The processor controls the pumping apparatus to operate for pumping fluid in the pump set only when electromagnetic radiation emitted from the first source is detected by the first detector and when the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the second source is not detect by the second detector. | 08-05-2010 |
20100194001 | DIE FOR MOLDING OF A CUFF ON A PLASTIC TUBE - A die for molding a cuff on a plastic tube, including an upper shell and a lower shell defining a molding cavity between them; each of the shells has an external structure and an internal wall for defining a half of the molding cavity and for defining a hollow space with the external structure. The molding cavity and hollow spaces are separated from each other by internal walls. The die includes openings which are connected with the molding cavity and the hollow spaces respectively. | 08-05-2010 |
20100192956 | METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A CUFF ON PLASTIC TUBE PROVIDED WITH AN EXTERNAL SHEATH - Method for manufacturing a cuff on a plastic tube comprising an inner tube and an outer sheath covering said inner tube. The outer sheath comprises at least a portion to be molded for producing a cuff. The method comprises a covering step including an injection operation in which air is intermittently or continuously injected between the inner tube and sheath. | 08-05-2010 |
20100126670 | APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING EXTRUDED COILED TUBES FOR MEDICAL PURPOSES - An apparatus for manufacturing extruded coiled tubes for medical purposes is provided which includes rotary shafts protruding from a spindle, each rotary shaft being coupled to a respective flexible shaft resting on a series of supporting elements substantially equidistant to each other and supported by a main central shaft; at least an extrusion head to extrude a ribbon, and at least an extrusion head to extrude a rib; the ribbon and the rib being co-extruded, side by side, and being wound on an ideal surface formed by the external surfaces of the flexible shafts. The apparatus is characterized in that for changing the pitch with which the rib is wound on a base tubular element, formed on its turn by the winding coil of the ribbon, at least two twisting bars operated by a crank are used to rotate the supporting elements with a pre-defined angle. | 05-27-2010 |
20100056994 | PUMPING APPARATUS WITH SECURE LOADING FEATURES - A pumping apparatus and pump set for use to deliver a supply of liquid to a patient. The feeding set has a conduit for the nutrient liquid and a safety interlock device associated with the conduit. The pumping apparatus has a pumping device and a control system for controlling operation of the pump. An electromagnetic radiation source is operatively connected to the control system of the pump for emitting an electromagnetic radiation signal in a direction for striking the safety interlock device of the feeding set. The safety interlock device being adapted to affect the direction of the electromagnetic radiation. An electromagnetic radiation detector is operatively connected to the control system for receiving the electromagnetic radiation signal when the direction is affected by the safety interlock device, and provides an indication to the control system that the feeding set conduit is properly positioned in the feeding pump. | 03-04-2010 |
20090301593 | HOSES WITH CONNECTION PORTIONS - A hose consisting of a smooth tubular wall and a rib wound spirally on the smooth tubular wall. The hose includes at least one duct portion and at least one connection portion; in the connection portions, the rib is wound spirally with a narrower pitch than on the duct portions. | 12-10-2009 |
20090301479 | FILTER AND/OR HME DEVICE FOR RESPIRATORY CIRCUITS COMPRISING A CONDENSATION TRAP - A filter and/or HME device including an upper shell suitable to be connected to ventilation means, a lower shell suitable to be connected to a tracheal or tracheostomy tube of a patient, a filter and/or HME element disposed between the upper shell and the lower shell and a condensation screen disposed in front of the filter and/or HME element and facing the lower shell wherein the condensation screen has a conical wall extending from the opposite part of the filter and/or HME element to produce, together with a portion of the lower shell a collection chamber for the condensation that forms. | 12-10-2009 |
20090233350 | RESPIRATORY APPARATUS WITH A BIOBURDEN INDICATOR - A respiratory apparatus includes a bioburden indicator, having an input valve for the entry of air to be analysed, an element for bioburden analysis, and a suction valve suited to be connected to a suction system to suck up the air to be analysed. | 09-17-2009 |
20090205659 | DEVICE FOR DETECTING RELATIVE HUMIDITY IN A RESPIRATORY CIRCUIT - A device for detecting the relative humidity in a respiratory circuit is provided which includes a housing closed towards the outside by a transparent element, and towards the inside by a membrane permeable to the humidified gas passing through the equipment to which the device is applied and wherein the housing includes a humidity indicator element. | 08-20-2009 |
20090205195 | METHOD OF MAKING ELECTRONIC THERMOMETER WITH ANTI-THEFT FEATURE - A method of making an electronic thermometry assembly includes assembling a magnetic source capable of generating a magnetic field into a housing of the mount. A microcontroller including a resettable anti-theft counter for recording a use-parameter of the thermometer is mounted on a circuit board so that the thermometer is disabled in an anti-theft mode when the counter reaches a pre-selected number. A solid-state sensor in communication with the microcontroller is mounted on the circuit board. The sensor is capable of being activated by the magnetic field of the magnetic source to signal to the microcontroller to reset the anti-theft counter. The circuit board is assembled with the microcontroller and solid-state sensor thereon into a housing of the thermometer. | 08-20-2009 |
20090191066 | ALIQUOT CORRECTION FOR FEEDING SET DEGRADATION - A peristaltic pump is able to deliver accurate volumes over the life of a pump set that is operated on by the pump to drive the flow of fluid. The pump delivers fluid in small volumes or aliquots. In order to deliver fluid at any particular selected flow rate, the pump determines how often the rotor will rotate. The pump is able to calculate aliquot volume based on selected flow rate, but also on a factor that compensates for changes in the dimensions of the pump set over its life. | 07-30-2009 |
20090177170 | Closable Male Luer Connector - The present invention provides a closable male luer connector ( | 07-09-2009 |
20090165792 | ANTI-CONDENSATION DEVICE FOR CATHETERS - An anti-condensation arrangement ( | 07-02-2009 |
20090135884 | ELECTRONIC THERMOMETER WITH FLEX CIRCUIT LOCATION - An electronic thermometer is configured for ease and accuracy in construction. A probe of the thermometer includes a flex circuit containing electronic components used to measure temperature and transmit signals to a calculating unit of the thermometer. A resilient locator can function to pre-position the flex circuit prior to final fixation so that the electronic components are reliably positioned in manufacture | 05-28-2009 |
20090133694 | DEVICE FOR DETECTING A DANGEROUS RESISTANCE TO FLOW IN A FLOW OF GAS THROUGH A FILTER EQUIPPED, IN CASE, WITH AN HME | 05-28-2009 |
20090078251 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONDITIONING RESPIRATORY GASES - A respiratory gas conditioning system and method are provided and includes an inhale branch (IB), an exhale branch (EB), a low-dead-space heat and moisture exchanger (HME), and a connector ( | 03-26-2009 |
20080300542 | Male Luer Connector - Certain embodiments of the present invention include a male luer connector having a valve arrangement for keeping a passage that extends through the male luer connector closed when the male luer connector is not attached to a corresponding female luer connector. This passage of the male luer connector may opened by connecting the male luer connector to a female luer connector. The valve arrangement of the male luer connector may include a movable sealing element arranged around a central fluid conduit. In some embodiments, the male luer connector may include a filter that is permeable to gas, but substantially impermeable to liquid, thus allowing gas to be purged from the male luer connector while substantially preventing liquid from leaking from the connector at least when the male luer connector is not connected to a female luer connector. | 12-04-2008 |
20080283053 | MEDICAL HEAT AND MOISTURE EXCHANGER (HME) - An HME (heat and moisture exchanger) ( | 11-20-2008 |