System and device for heating or cooling shape memory surgical devices

Abstract

A system for heating a heat-transformable shape memory surgical device. The system includes a sealed, sterilizable housing, a thermal probe for heating the shape memory surgical device, the thermal probe being connected with the housing, and a printed circuit board positioned within the housing. The printed circuit board includes a system controller having a power circuit for controlling the receipt and distribution of heating power to the thermal probe, a feedback circuit for measuring a condition of the shape memory surgical device via the thermal probe, and a control circuit for receiving data from the feedback circuit and adjustably controlling an amount of heating power that the power circuit distributes to the thermal probe. The control circuit includes an automatic-cutout circuit for terminating the distribution of heating power to the thermal probe after a specific amount of time or upon the occurrence of a predetermined condition.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 726,703, filed Oct. 13, 2005, which is incorporated by reference as if disclosed herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] (1) Field of the Invention [0003] The present invention generally relates to a system and device for heating or cooling shape memory transformable surgical clamps used in implanted surgical applications. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and device for heating or cooling nickel / titanium alloy implant clamps. [0004] (2) Description of the Related Art [0005] Heating or cooling shape memory transformable surgical clamps are initially supplied in an open configuration at ambient temperature. After surgical placement, a quantity of heat is then provided to close the clamp and thus provide tissue support. In other configurations, the clamp can be transformed back to its original shape by cooling. Hence, ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a system for heating a heat-transformable shape memory surgical device. The system includes a sealed, sterilizable housing, a thermal probe for heating the shape memory surgical device, the thermal probe being connected with the housing, and a printed circuit board positioned within the housing. The printed circuit board includes a system contro

Problems solved by technology

In practice, surgical constraints require these surgical devices (or implants) to be manufactured to extremely restrictive specifications.

Many prior art designs are limited in the variety of clamps they can transform.

Many prior art devices fail to include reliable safety systems.

A common problem with the heating devices used to transform shape memory alloy implants is the inability to see the implant transform.

Many prior art devices are not capable of determining when enough energy has been transferred to the implant so it transforms completely but does not get so hot as to damage the surrounding tissue.

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