Surgical forceps

Abstract

This application presents a bifurcated, optimally-angled surgical forceps. In one example, this surgical forceps may enable a more natural maneuver for initial clamping of the vas deferens through the scrotal skin. This may be more comfortable for users and easier to maintain, and may provide greater tactile surface contact between the thumb and vas deferens. This device also may provide the surgeon with an entire segment of vas deferens upon which the vasectomy may be performed, thus reducing the need for frequent repositioning of instruments. The device may also be applied to other surgical procedures that may benefit from the features of the device and where a section of a tubular anatomical structure may need clamping at two points along its length. Examples include blood and lymphatic vessels, ducts of the digestive system, and large nerves or nerve bundles.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is based upon and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 565,628, filed Dec. 1, 2011, attorney docket no. 064693-0260, entitled “Vasectomy Forceps”, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field[0003]This application relates generally to medical instruments, particularly surgical forceps for examinations and operations. This application further relates to vasectomy forceps. This application also relates to performing a vasectomy.[0004]2. General Background and State of the Art[0005]Vasectomy is a male birth control surgical procedure that involves severing the vas deferens and tying and / or sealing the ends, preventing the entry of sperm into the seminal stream. The procedure is often carried out in a physician's office or clinic and is done under local anesthesia. The two widely used methods for performing a vasectomy are “traditional” and “no-scalpel.”[0006]...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The surgical forceps described in this patent text make it easier and more comfortable to perform vasectomies by providing a natural and easy-to-grasp way to clamp the vas deferens through the scrotal skin. The forceps also compress small blood vessels at each end of the vas deferens, which keeps the surgical site clear of blood and reduces the need for frequent repositioning of instruments. The forceps provide a means to manipulate the surgical site without losing grasp over the segment of vas deferens, and may therefore be especially beneficial for less experienced surgeons who perform vasectomies.

Problems solved by technology

Several problems with current tools and methods of no-scalpel vasectomy exist.

For example, the wrist action currently required to push the vas deferens to the surface of the scrotum feels unnatural, is uncomfortable, and is difficult to maintain.

Furthermore, the use of the index finger, middle finger, or tip of the thumb to push the vas deferens between the other two fingers provides little tactile surface against the vas deferens, making isolation and positioning of the vas deferens difficult.

Additionally, existing forceps require much maneuvering and transferring of the vas deferens between different forceps throughout the procedure, in order to occlude and seal the vas deferens on both sides of the clamp.

The grasping and clamping of the vas deferens with a straight tool in this position typically make it cumbersome for the surgeon.

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