Method and apparatus for cutting embolic coils
AssigneeNeurosurj Research & Development, LLC
InventorAftab S. Karim
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Abstract
The invention relates to a hand held microsurgical apparatus for cutting metallic embolic coils and the methods pertaining thereto.
Claims18
An apparatus for cutting embolic coils comprising
- first and second legs each having a cutting portion and a connecting portion wherein the legs are pivotally connected at a first pivot point between the cutting portion and the connecting portion;
- first and second handles which are pivotally connected at a second pivot point and each is pivotally connected to at least one leg in the connecting portion of the leg at a third and fourth pivot point and wherein all pivot points are substantially planar,
- wherein the cutting portion comprises cutting blades on the top and front of the cutting portion such that the cutting portions form a spoon element on the bottom,
- wherein the legs are adjustable by the handles between an open position and a closed position and further wherein, in said closed position, the cutting portions are capable of cutting embolic coils.
The apparatus of claim I, wherein upon cutting, the first and second pivot points remain substantially longitudinally planar and the third and fourth pair of pivots expand apart from each other and the longitudinal plane of the first and second pivot points.
A method for cutting an embolic coil during an microsurgical procedure in the brain or spine of a patient, wherein said method comprises cutting said coil with an apparatus capable of minimizing the possibility of damage to the brain or spine.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.