Shape memory effect surgical needles
AssigneeEthicon, Inc.
InventorsLee P. Bendel, William C. McJames, Walter McGregor, Robert J. Tannhauser
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Abstract
Surgical needles are fabricated from a shape memory alloy. The alloy has a low temperature state, in which the needle is formable into an elongated shape to pass through an elongated tube, and a high temperature state, in which the needle forms an arc. The needle is particularly adapted for use in endoscopic surgery. A needle that has a remembered curved shape is straightened and passed to a surgical site through a cannula. It is then returned to its curved shape by heating it at the surgical site. After use, it is withdrawn through the cannula.
Claims5
A method for introducing a curved needle to a surgical site in a patient, comprising the steps of
- (a) inserting a cannula into the patient to permit access from outside the patient to the surgical site,
- (b) providing a shape-metal-alloy needle that, having been formed into an arc shape and tempered at an elevated temperature, has been formed into an elongated shape while in a first, low-temperature state,
- (c) passing the elongated needle through the cannula, and
- (d) heating the needle to a temperature at which the alloy is converted to a second, high temperature state, thereby causing the needle to return to the arc shape.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.