Electroactive polymer-based actuation mechanism for linear surgical stapler
Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000
United States of America Patent
Stats
-
Aug 5, 2008
Grant Date -
Feb 23, 2006
app pub date -
Sep 30, 2005
filing date -
Jul 28, 2004
priority date (Note) -
In Force
status (Latency Note)
Importance
Abstract
Methods and devices are provided for actuating and/or articulating a surgical stapler. In one embodiment, a surgical stapler is provided having a stapling mechanism or end effector that is movably coupled to a distal end of an elongate shaft. An electrically expandable and contractible actuator, such as an electroactive polymer actuator, can be used to pivotally or angularly adjust a position of the stapling mechanism relative to the elongate shaft by delivering energy to the electroactive polymer actuator. In another embodiment, an electroactive polymer actuator can be used to actuate the staple applying assembly, thereby driving one or more staples, and preferably at least two linear rows of staples, into tissue. The actuator can alternatively or additionally drive a blade distally to cut tissue being stapled.
First Claim
Family
International Classification(s)
Cited Art Landscape
Patent Citation Ranking
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Recipient Email Address
Recipient Email Address
Comment
Recipient Email Address
Add to Portfolio(s)
To add this patent to one, or more, of your portfolios, simply click the add button.
This Patent is in these Portfolios:
Add to additional portfolios:
Last Refreshed On:
Changes done successfully