Non-locking obturator with interference fit features

Abstract

A surgical access device includes a cannula assembly and an obturator. The obturator is configured to be removably coupled with the cannula assembly along a central axis of the cannula assembly to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of a patient. The obturator includes an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, a tapered distal tip at a distal portion of the elongated shaft, and an obturator head at a proximal portion of the elongated shaft. The obturator head includes an interference fit feature that inhibits proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly by frictional forces with a surface of the cannula assembly.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This application claims U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 018,555, filed May 1, 2020, entitled “Latchless Obturator with Interference Fit Feature”. Background Technology

[0003] Some surgical procedures may require clinicians to access the surgical site through the patient's abdominal cavity. To obtain this access, an opening is first created through the abdominal wall tissue that covers the abdominal cavity. In some surgical procedures (called "laparoscopic" or "endoscopic" surgery), a relatively small opening is created through the abdominal wall tissue, and then a thin instrument is inserted through the opening to access the surgical site. This thin instrument is inserted through an interventional device, commonly called a "cannula," located within the opening. A conventional cannula typically consists of a cannulation assembly and an occluder removably received within the working channel of the cannulation assembly. In use, the occluder engages with the cannulation assembly, and the combined structure (i.e., the cannula) is guided downwards by the clinician through the patient's abdominal wall, such that the distal ends of the occluder and the cannulation assembly extend into the abdominal cavity. The clinician then withdraws the occluder from the cannulation assembly, allowing surgical instruments to be guided downwards through the working channel of the cannulation assembly to access the surgical site.

[0004] The following patents disclose cannulas, their components, and other types of surgical interventional devices only as exemplary models: U.S. Patent 7,981,092, entitled "Vibratory Trocar," published July 19, 2011; U.S. Patent 8,226,553, entitled "Access Device with Insert," published July 24, 2012; U.S. Patent 8,251,900, entitled "Surgical Access Devices and Methods Providing Seal Movement in Predefined Paths," published August 28, 2012; U.S. Patent 8,579,807, entitled "Absorbing Fluids in a Surgical Access Device," published November 12, 2013; U.S. Patent 8,568,362, entitled "Surgical Access Device with Sorbents," published October 29, 2013; and U.S. Patent 8,568,362, entitled "Surgical Access Device with Sorbents," published January 28, 2014. U.S. Patent 8,636,686, entitled “Device”; U.S. Patent 8,690,831, entitled “Gas Jet Fluid Removal in a Trocar”, published April 8, 2014; and U.S. Patent 2019 / 0000496, entitled “Method of Suturing a Trocar Path Incision”, published January 3, 2019. The disclosure of each of the above-cited U.S. patents and publications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] Although various surgical instruments, including surgical intervention devices and end effectors, and other associated components have been manufactured and used, it is believed that no one has manufactured or used the invention described in the appended claims prior to one or more inventors. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary cannula needle having a cannula assembly and a occluder shown in an assembled state is shown;

[0008] Figure 2 It is shown in the disassembled state. Figure 1Side front view of the cannulation assembly and occluder;

[0009] Figure 3A It shows that the clinician is manipulating Figure 1 A lateral cross-sectional view of the trocar penetrating the tissue layer of the abdominal wall;

[0010] Figure 3B It shows Figure 1 An enlarged side sectional view of the cannula, showing its reception in... Figure 3A The distal end of the trocar inside the abdominal cavity;

[0011] Figure 3C It shows Figure 1 A side sectional view of the cannulation assembly, showing its position after the occluder is disengaged and removed. Figure 3A The cannulation assembly inside the abdominal wall;

[0012] Figure 3D It shows that Figure 1 The cannulation assembly from Figure 3A A lateral sectional view of the abdominal wall pulled out proximally;

[0013] Figure 4 A perspective view of another exemplary cannula with a cannula assembly and an occluder shown in an assembled state is shown;

[0014] Figure 5 It is shown in the disassembled state. Figure 4 A perspective view of the cannulation assembly and occluder, showing the reusable cannula and disposable sealing assembly of the cannulation assembly separated from each other, and showing the occluder in a disassembled state;

[0015] Figure 6 An enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of another exemplary occluder is shown;

[0016] Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal end of another exemplary trocar is shown, the trocar including a partially disassembled portion. Figure 6 The blocker and Figure 1 The cannulation assembly;

[0017] Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A An enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the trocar, in which Figure 6 The blocker and Figure 1 The cannulation assembly is in the assembly state;

[0018] Figure 8A It shows that the clinician is manipulating Figure 1 A lateral cross-sectional view of the trocar penetrating the tissue layer of the abdominal wall;

[0019] Figure 8B It shows Figure 7A A side sectional view of the trocar, showing the distal end of the trocar received in the abdominal cavity;

[0020] Figure 8C It shows Figure 7A A side sectional view of the cannula needle, showing how it is positioned while retracting the occluder proximally from the cannula assembly. Figure 8A The cannulation assembly inside the abdominal wall;

[0021] Figure 9 An enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of another exemplary occluder is shown; and

[0022] Figure 10 An enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of another exemplary occluder is shown.

[0023] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and various embodiments of the invention can be conceived to be implemented in many other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention; however, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the explicit arrangements shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The following description of certain examples of the invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is shown by way of example, and a preferred mode is contemplated for carrying out the invention. It will be appreciated that the invention can have other different and obvious aspects, all of which are not departing from the invention. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as substantially illustrative and not restrictive.

[0025] For clarity of disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein in relation to a surgeon or other clinician who grasps the surgical device. The term "proximal" refers to a position where the element is positioned closer to the surgeon, and the term "distal" refers to a position where the element is positioned further away from the surgeon. Furthermore, the extent to which spatial terms such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," etc., are used herein with reference to the accompanying drawings should be understood to be for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be limiting or absolute. In this regard, it should be understood that surgical instruments such as those disclosed herein may be used in a variety of orientations and positions, not limited to those shown and described herein.

[0026] Furthermore, the terms “about” and “approximately” used herein in connection with any numerical value or range are intended to cover the exact value referenced, as well as the appropriate tolerance that enables the referenced feature or combination of features to be used for the intended purpose described herein.

[0027] I. Exemplary single-use cannulas and reusable cannulas

[0028] Figures 1 to 5 Exemplary surgical interventional devices are shown in the form of a single-use first cannula (10) and a reusable second cannula (110), each cannula configured to provide surgical site access in laparoscopic surgery. Each cannula (10, 110) includes a cannulation assembly (12, 112) having a working channel (14, 114) and an occluder (16, 116) configured to be removably and coaxially inserted into the working channel (14, 114) such that the assembled cannula (10, 110) can be guided distally through the patient's abdominal wall and approach the abdominal cavity, for example, as described below. Figures 3A to 3D As stated above.

[0029] A. An exemplary single-use cannula

[0030] like Figures 1 to 2 As shown, the cannulation assembly (12) of a single-use trocar (10) includes a cannula (20) and a sealing housing (30). The cannula (20) and the sealing housing (30) cooperate to define a working channel (14) that extends longitudinally along the central axis (A) of the trocar (10). Specifically, the working channel (14) is defined by the lumen of the cannula (20) communicating with the hollow interior of the sealing housing (30). The cannulation assembly (12) is configured to receive elongated surgical instruments distally through the working channel (14) to provide access to surgical sites within the patient's abdominal cavity. As described in more detail below, the sealing housing (30) houses a pair of sealing structures that define a sealing assembly configured to retain airflow into the patient's abdominal cavity while allowing surgical instruments and tissue debris to pass through the working channel (14).

[0031] The cannula (20) of this type may include: a bell-shaped hub (not shown) located at the proximal end of the cannula; and an elongated cylindrical tube (22) extending distally from the hub and terminating at an angled cannula tip (24). The outer surface of the cannula (22) includes a plurality of tissue gripping features in the form of annular ribs (26) axially arranged along the middle portion of the cannula (22). The ribs (26) are configured to grip the abdominal wall tissue layers through which the cannula (20) is inserted, thereby aiding in stabilizing the cannula (20) in both the axial and radial directions when it is positioned within an opening formed in the patient's abdominal wall.

[0032] More specifically, in this example, the tissue-grasping ribs (26) are formed in an annular fan shape in the sidewall of the cannula (22), such that each rib (26) tapers radially inward from its outermost radial edge in a distal direction. Thus, the outermost radial edge of the ribs (26) is approximately flush with the unribbed proximal and distal portions of the cannula (22). The configuration of the resulting ribs (26) facilitates the distal advancement of the cannula (22) through the tissue layer and prevents its retraction through the tissue layer in the opposite proximal direction. Advantageously, this configuration prevents accidental withdrawal of the cannula (22) from the patient's abdominal wall during surgery. However, it should be understood that in other types of cannulas (10), the cannula (22) may be provided with various other types of tissue-grasping features. For example, the cannula (22) may include tissue gripping features in the form of one or more spiral ribs that extend around at least a middle portion of the cannula (22) and may be fan-shaped similar to ribs (26).

[0033] The sealing housing (30) of the cannula assembly (12) includes a proximal housing portion (32) and a distal housing portion (34), the proximal housing portion (32) being removably attached to the distal housing portion. The proximal housing portion (32) includes a proximal head (36) and a distal base (38) fixed together. The distal housing portion (34) includes: a distal shield (40) surrounding a proximal hub (not shown) of the cannula (20); a cover plate (42) fixed to the proximal end of the distal shield (40); and a latching ring (44) rotatably disposed between the distal shield and the cover plate and having a radially outwardly projecting tab (46). The latching ring (44) is selectively rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position about the central axis (A) of the cannula needle (10) via the tab (46). In the locked position, the latch ring (44) locks the proximal housing portion (32) to the distal housing portion (34). In the unlocked position, the latch ring (44) allows the proximal housing portion (32) to separate from the distal housing portion (34), for example, to directly access the distal sealing structure (not shown) housed within the distal housing portion (34). In some configurations, the distal shield (40) may be integrally formed with the proximal end of the cannula (22), such that the distal shield (40) is a component of the cannula (20).

[0034] Although not shown, the proximal housing portion (32) houses a proximal (or "outer") sealing structure, and the distal housing portion (34) houses a distal (or "inner") sealing structure, both arranged along the central axis (A) of the cannula (10). The proximal and distal sealing structures cooperate to define a sealing assembly that retains airflow into the patient's abdominal cavity during surgery while allowing surgical instruments and tissue debris to pass through the working channel (14). For example, the proximal sealing structure may include an annular sealing member configured to sealably engage the axis of a laparoscopic surgical instrument guided through the working channel (14). The distal end sealing structure may include a duckbill-shaped sealing member configured to maintain the working channel (14) in a sealed state even without the surgical instrument axis.

[0035] The cannulation assembly (12) also includes a blow-in port (50) operably coupled to the proximal end of the cannula (20) and having an adjustable valve in the form of a stopcock valve (52). The blow-in port (50) is configured to guide a blow-in fluid, such as carbon dioxide, from a fluid source (not shown) distally through the working channel (14) and toward the patient's abdominal cavity, thereby expanding (or "blowing in") the cavity with fluid. This expansion of the abdominal cavity creates additional space for easier laparoscopic surgery.

[0036] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the occluder (16) of the cannula (10) includes a proximal head (60), an elongated cylindrical shaft (62) extending distally from the head (60), and a tapered distal tip (64). The occluder shaft (62) is configured to be received within the working channel (14) of the cannula assembly (12) such that the occluder tip (64) extends distally through the cannula tip (24). The occluder head (60) includes a dome-shaped upper body (66), a base plate (68), and an actuable latching member (70) including a pair of latching arms (72) and a corresponding pair of latching buttons (74). The latching arms (72) are configured to be captured in corresponding slots (35) formed in the top surface of the sealing housing head (36) (see...). Figure 7AThe occluder (16) is connected to the cannulation assembly (12) within the slot (35). A latch button (74) is actuable to release the latch arm (72) from the slot (35), thereby allowing the occluder (16) to separate from the cannulation assembly (12). The occluder (16) also includes a central channel (76) extending longitudinally through the occluder head (60) and the occluder axis (62), and is configured to receive an endoscope (not shown) therein to provide visualization during insertion of a cannula (10) through the patient's abdominal wall. A clamping rod (78) of the occluder head (60) is pivotable to selectively secure the endoscope within the central channel (76). The central channel (76) and the clamping rod (78) are merely optional features and may be omitted from the occluder (16) in other configurations.

[0037] The cannulation assembly (12) and the occluder (16) may be configured to be discarded after a single use on a patient. In other configurations, one or more components of the cannula (10) may be suitably configured to withstand sterilization and multiple reuses, for example, as described below. Figures 4 to 5 The cannula (110) is described in more detail.

[0038] B. Exemplary deployment of the cannula near the patient's abdominal cavity

[0039] Figures 3A to 3D An exemplary method is shown for using the aforementioned cannula (10) to pass through the patient's abdominal wall (2) to access the patient's abdominal cavity (1). It should be understood that the abdominal wall (2) comprises a superficial layer extending outwards and a deep layer extending inwards. The superficial layer typically comprises an outer layer of skin (3) and an inner layer of fat (4); while the deeper layers comprise alternating layers of muscle (5) and fascia (6), which are fibrous and flexible and have relatively higher tensile strength than the superficial layers.

[0040] like Figure 3A As shown, with the occluder (16) received within the cannulation assembly (12) and connected to the sealing housing (30), the clinician manipulates the cannula (10) via the occluder head (60) and the sealing housing (30) to push the occluder tip (64) against the skin (3) and medially toward the abdominal cavity (1) while rotating the cannula (10) back and forth. Continued medial pushing of the cannula (10) further guides the occluder tip (64) and the cannula tip (24) distally through the layers of fat (4) and fascia (5) and toward the cavity (1), as... Figure 3B As shown. As discussed above, this step is facilitated by visualization provided by an endoscope (not shown) mounted within the occluder (16). Once the cannula (20) has reached the desired depth in the insertion cavity (1), the clinician releases the occluder head (60) from the sealing housing (30) by pressing the latch button (74), and then withdraws the occluder (16) proximally from the cannula assembly (12), as shown. Figure 3CAs shown. This allows the working channel (14) of the cannulation assembly (12) to freely receive surgical instruments passing distally through it for laparoscopic surgery. As described above, tissue engagement ribs (26) located on the cannulation channel (22) grip the tissue layers (3,4,5) of the abdominal wall (2), thereby providing the cannulation assembly (12) with at least a minimum degree of stability relative to the abdominal wall (2). After the laparoscopic surgery is completed, the clinician grasps the sealing housing (30) and withdraws the cannulation assembly (12) proximally from the abdominal wall (2), as... Figure 3D As shown.

[0041] C. An exemplary reusable cannula with a disposable sealing assembly

[0042] In some cases, it may be desirable to construct the cannula so that one or more of its components can be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures, while one or more other components can be easily and economically disposed of and replaced after each procedure. Figures 4 to 5 Another exemplary trocar (110) constructed in this manner is shown, which has a similar structure and function to the trocar (10) described above, unless otherwise described below.

[0043] Similar to the cannula (10), the cannula (110) includes a cannula assembly (112) having a working channel (114) and an occluder (116) configured to be coaxially inserted into the cannula assembly (112) along the working channel (114). The cannula assembly (112) includes a cannula (120) having: a bell-shaped hub (122) located at the proximal end of the cannula; and an elongated cylindrical tube (124) extending distally from the hub (122) and terminating at an angled cannula tip (126). The outer surface of the cannula (124) includes a plurality of tissue gripping features in the form of annular ribs (128) arranged axially along the middle portion of the cannula (124) and similar to the ribs (26) described above.

[0044] The cannulation assembly (112) also includes a sealing assembly (130). Unlike the sealing assembly defined by the sealing housing (30) of the cannula (10), the sealing assembly (130) is constructed as a modular, replaceable unit, designed to releasably engage with the proximal hub (122) of the cannula (120). Figure 5As best shown, the sealing assembly (130) of this example typically includes an upper frame member (132), an intermediate frame member (134), and a lower frame member (136) arranged coaxially and fixed relative to each other. Although not shown, the proximal (or "outer") sealing structure is supported within the upper frame member (132), while the distal (or "inner") sealing structure is supported within the lower frame member (136). Such sealing structures may be structurally and functionally similar to the proximal and distal sealing structures of the cannula needle (10) described above. The sealing assembly (130) also includes a blow-in port (140) having an adjustable valve in the form of a stopcock valve (142).

[0045] The lower portion of the sealing assembly (130) distal to the inlet port (140) is configured to be housed within the proximal hub (122) of the cannula (120), such that an annular sealing member (144) arranged circumferentially around the lower portion seals against the inner surface of the cannula hub (122). In this manner, the interior of the sealing assembly (130) is in fluid communication with the lumen of the cannula (120) to define a working channel (114) for the cannula assembly (112), through which inlet fluid, surgical instruments, and tissue fragments can be guided, in a manner generally described above in conjunction with the cannula (10). The sealing assembly (130) may be further constructed in accordance with the teachings of one or more of the following patents: U.S. Patent Publication 2019 / 0090905 entitled “Trocar Seal Assemblies”, published March 28, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; and / or U.S. Patent Publication 2019 / 0380742 entitled “Asymmetric Shaft Seal”, published December 19, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] like Figure 5 As best shown, the occluder (116) of the cannula (110) includes a proximal head (150), an elongated cylindrical shaft (152) extending distally from the head (150), and a tapered tip (154) located at the distal end of the shaft (152). The occluder head (150) includes a dome-shaped upper body (156), a base plate (158), and an actuable latching member (160) including a pair of downwardly extending latching arms (162) and a corresponding pair of latching buttons (164). The latching arms (162) are configured to be captured within corresponding slots (138) formed in the top surface of the upper frame member (132) of the sealing assembly (130) to engage the occluder (116) with the cannula assembly (112). The latch button (164) is actuable to release the locking arm (162) from the slot (138), thereby allowing the occluder (116) to separate from the cannulation assembly (112).

[0047] The cannula (120) and occluder (116) in this example are suitably constructed of robust materials such as surgical steel, allowing them to be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures. In contrast, as described above, the sealing assembly (130) is constructed as a single-use unit, intended to be separate from the cannula (120) and replaced after each procedure. For example, the sealing assembly (130) may be constructed of a variety of polymeric materials, including plastics and rubber, making it easy to manufacture and sell at a price that allows the sealing assembly (130) to be disposed of after a single use, similar to the cannula (10) described above.

[0048] II. Exemplary Locking Block

[0049] As described above, each actuable latching member (70, 160) includes a corresponding pair of latching arms (72, 162) and a corresponding pair of latching buttons (74, 164). The corresponding latching arms (72, 162) are configured to be engaged within corresponding slots (35, 138) of the assembled cannulation assembly (12, 112) to connect the occluder (16, 116) to the cannulation assembly (12, 112). Additionally, the latching buttons (74, 164) are actuable to release the latching arms (72, 162) from the slots (35, 138), thereby allowing the occluder (16, 116) to separate from the cannulation assembly (12, 112).

[0050] Therefore, as described herein, the latching member (70, 160) is used to connect the occluder (16, 116) to the cannulation assembly (12, 112), while the cannula (10, 110) is used to approach the lumen (1). Once the cannula (20, 120) has reached the desired insertion depth in the lumen (1), the clinician can disengage the occluder (16, 116) from the cannulation assembly (12, 112) by pressing the latching button (74, 164), and then withdraw the occluder (16, 116) proximally from the cannulation assembly (12, 112), as described herein. Figure 3C As shown. The clinician can press the latch button (74, 164) with one hand by pinching with the thumb and another finger (e.g., the index finger). In other words, in order for the clinician to disengage the occluder (16, 116) from the cannulation assembly (12, 112), the clinician must (A) press the latch button (74, 164) to deflect the latch arm (72, 162) out of proper engagement with the cannulation assembly (12, 112), and (B) pull the occluder (16, 116) proximally relative to the cannulation assembly (12, 112) while pressing the latch button (74, 164) appropriately to disengage the occluder (16, 116) from the cannulation assembly (12, 112).

[0051] As described herein, in order to actuate the latch arm (72,162) by pressing the latch button (74,164), the latch arm (72,162) may require a suitable geometry to facilitate relatively easy actuation of the latch arm (72,162) by pressing the latch button (74,164). A suitable geometry for the latch arm (72,162) may include a leaf spring geometry having an aspect ratio that includes a length that is relatively long compared to its thickness.

[0052] In cases where the occluder (116) is configured to be sterilized and reused in multiple surgical procedures, the long and thin geometry of the latch arm (162), intended for engaging and disengaging the occluder (116) from the cannulation assembly (112), may make the latch arm (162) susceptible to damage during sterilization. Such damage may prevent the actuable latch member (160) from functioning as described herein. For example, a user cleaning and sterilizing the used occluder (116) may accidentally bend the latch arm (162) relative to the latch button (164) to the extent that the latch arm (162) is permanently damaged. As described herein, permanent damage to the latch arm (162) will prevent the latch button (164) from properly disengaging the latch arm (162) from the cannulation assembly (112).

[0053] like Figure 5 As fully demonstrated, the occluder (116) may include a substrate (158) defining reinforcing slots (155) configured to help prevent accidental damage to the latching arm (162). The reinforcing slots (155) are sized to accommodate the latching arm (162). Specifically, the reinforcing slots (155) allow the latching arm (162) to deflect appropriately in response to a press of the latch button (164), thus enabling the latching arm (162) to engage and disengage the occluder (116) from the cannulation assembly (112) as described herein. Additionally, the reinforcing slots (155) reinforce the latching arm (162) to help prevent accidental damage during exemplary use and sterilization. For example, the reinforcing slots (155) may abut against a portion of the corresponding latching arm (162) in the event of accidental contact, thereby reinforcing the latching arm (162) and helping to prevent accidental damage to the latching arm (162).

[0054] However, the presence of the substrate (158) and the reinforcing slot (155) can create various other problems related to the proper sterilization of the occluder (116). For example, the area between the substrate (158) and the dome-shaped upper body (156) may become inaccessible for proper sterilization. Fluid may have difficulty properly accessing or exiting the internal area defined by the substrate (158) and the dome-shaped upper body (156) in order to properly sterilize all surfaces of the occluder (116) located within this internal area. Furthermore, external substances may be trapped in the internal area defined by the substrate (158) and the dome-shaped upper body (156) without a suitable channel for removal.

[0055] Therefore, it may be desirable for the occluder to be configured to (A) be connected and disconnected via a coupling assembly, and (B) be properly sterilized and reused in multiple surgical procedures, while preventing accidental damage to the coupling assembly.

[0056] Figure 6 The proximal end of an occluder (216) that can be easily replaced by the aforementioned occluder (16, 116) when incorporated into a cannula (10, 110) is shown. The occluder (216) may be substantially similar to the aforementioned occluder (116), but with differences detailed below. Therefore, the occluder (216) may be suitably constructed of a robust material (such as surgical steel) so that the occluder (216) can be sterilized and reused in multiple surgical procedures. The occluder (216) includes a proximal head (260), an elongated cylindrical shaft (262) extending distally from the proximal head (260), and a tapered distal tip (264) (see...). Figures 8A to 8B ).

[0057] The elongated cylindrical shaft (262) and the tapered distal tip (264) are substantially similar to the elongated cylindrical shaft (62, 152) and the tapered distal tip (64, 154) described above. Thus, the cylindrical shaft (262) is configured to be received within the working channel (14, 114) of the cannula assembly (12, 112), such that the occluder tip (264) extends through the cannula tip (24, 126) and extends distally.

[0058] The occluder head (260) includes a dome-shaped upper body (266), a base plate (268), and an interference-fit connection assembly (270). As will be described in more detail below, the interference-fit connection assembly (270) of the occluder (216) is configured to properly connect the occluder (216) to the cannulation assembly (12) to form a cannula (210). As will also be described in more detail below, the interference-fit connection assembly (270) may be configured to: (A) improve the robustness and / or durability of the occluder (216) compared to the actuable latching member (160) of the occluder (116), and (B) improve the cleanability (116) of the occluder (216) for sterilization purposes by sealing inaccessible areas.

[0059] In the current example, the interference fit connection assembly (270) includes a pair of spring clips (272) and a tapered shaft surface (280). The tapered shaft surface (280) extends from the elongated shaft (262) toward the substrate (268) such that the area of ​​the tapered shaft surface (280) closer to the substrate (268) is wider than the area of ​​the tapered shaft surface (280) extending distally from the substrate (268). As will be described in more detail below, the tapered shaft surface (280) is sized to abut against the inclined upper surface (37) of the sealing housing (30) defining the working channel (14) to facilitate frictional engagement between the occluder (216) and the cannula assembly (12).

[0060] Each spring clip (272) includes a pair of legs (274) and a central portion (276). The proximal end of each leg (274) extends distally from the distal surface of the substrate (268) in a tapering manner, such that the distal ends of each leg (274) are closer to each other than their proximal ends. The distal end of each leg (274) terminates in the central portion (276), such that the central portion (276) connects to the distal end of each leg (274). The central portion (276) extends from the distal end of each leg (274), so the distance between the distal ends of each leg (274) is closer than the distance between adjacent positions of the central portion (276), as shown from... Figures 7A to 7B This is observed in the perspective view shown.

[0061] The distal surfaces of the legs (274), the central portion (276), and the base plate (268) define a path (278) open at both ends of the spring clip (272). The spring clip (272) is formed of a sufficiently elastic material such that the opposite sides of the legs (274) and the central portion (276) can bend inward relative to each other in response to an external compressive force, thereby changing the cross-sectional dimensions of the path (278). In addition, the spring clip (272) is formed of a sufficiently elastic material such that the opposite sides of the legs (274) and the central portion (276) can extend back to their original shape once the external compressive force is removed, thereby allowing the path (278) to return to its original cross-sectional dimensions. As will be described in more detail below, the dimensions of the spring clip (272) are designed to fit within a corresponding slot (35) of the sealing housing (30) to facilitate a frictional engagement between the occluder (216) and the cannula assembly (12).

[0062] Figures 7A to 8C An exemplary use of the occluder (216) and cannulation assembly (12) as a cannula (210) is shown, passing through the patient's abdominal wall (2) to approach the patient's abdominal cavity (1). Specifically, Figures 7A to 7B An exemplary connection between the occluder (216) and the cannulation assembly (12) is shown, while Figures 8A to 8C Exemplary use of the assembled cannula (210) and final separation of the occluder (216) from the cannula assembly (12) are shown.

[0063] Figure 7A This illustrates an elongated shaft (262) inserted into the working channel (14) of the cannula assembly (12), such that the tapered shaft surface (280) is proximal to the inclined upper surface (37) of the sealing housing (30). Additionally, a spring clip (272) is proximal to the slot (35), but properly aligned with the slot (35) for coupling purposes. Figure 7A At the time shown, the occluder (216) was not properly connected to the cannulation assembly (12).

[0064] Next, as Figure 7B As shown, the clinician can further actuate the occluder head (260) and the cannulation assembly (12) toward each other, such that the tapered shaft surface (280) engages with the inclined upper surface (37) of the sealing housing (30), and that the spring clip (272) is driven into its corresponding slot (35). The engagement between the tapered shaft surface (280) and the inclined surface (37) and the retention of the spring clip (272) within the corresponding slot (35) can help facilitate an interference fit connection between the occluder (216) and the cannulation assembly (12) to form the trocar (210).

[0065] In some cases, the engagement between the tapered shaft surface (238) and the inclined surface (37) can cause deformation of the tapered shaft surface (238) and / or the inclined surface (37). Additionally, in some cases, the engagement between the spring clip (272) and a portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35) can cause deformation of the spring clip (272) and / or a portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35). Such deformation can further facilitate an interference fit connection between the occluder (216) and the cannula assembly (12).

[0066] The tapered shaft surface (280) and the inclined upper surface (37) of the sealing housing (30) may have complementary surfaces, such that when a clinician actuates the occluder head (260) and the cannula assembly (12) toward each other, the engagement between the tapered shaft surface (280) and the inclined upper surface (37) promotes frictional braking, which prevents any further actuation of the occluder head (260) relative to the cannula assembly (12) in the distal direction. The frictional braking generated between the surfaces (37, 280) by actuating the occluder head (260) and the cannula assembly (12) toward each other can create a suitable interference fit connection between the surfaces (37, 280) that is strong enough to properly prevent accidental separation of the occluder (216) and the cannula assembly (12) during exemplary use as described herein. In other words, the frictional engagement between the surfaces (37, 280) can help to properly prevent the occluder (216) from disengaging from the cannulation assembly (12) proximally. For example, the frictional engagement between the surfaces (37, 280) can be strong enough to keep the cannula (210) assembled when the clinician grasps the cannula (210) only through the head (260) of the occluder.

[0067] It should be understood that the inclined upper surface (37) and the tapered shaft surface (280) engage with each other along the plane such that the frictional resistance to movement between the surfaces (37, 280) has at least a component extending along the mating path between the occluder (216) and the cannula assembly (12). This component of the frictional resistance to movement between the surfaces (27, 280) is strong enough to prevent the occluder (216) from separating from the cannula assembly (12) proximally.

[0068] The slot (35) of the sealing housing (30) is defined by an outer lip (39) and an inclined upper surface (37). The slot (35) is sized to be narrower than the widest portion of the spring clip (272). Thus, when a clinician actuates the occluder head (26) and the cannulation assembly (12) toward each other, the spring clip (272) contacts a portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35). This contact forces the opposing sides of the legs (274) and the central portion (276) to bend inward relative to each other, thereby altering the cross-sectional dimensions of the path (278). The contact between the portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35) and the spring clip (272) causing the spring clip (237) to bend inward generates a sufficiently strong frictional braking force to properly prevent accidental separation of the occluder (216) and the cannulation assembly (12) during exemplary use as described herein. For example, the frictional engagement between the slot (35) and the spring clip (272) can be strong enough to keep the cannula (210) assembled when the clinician grasps the cannula (210) only through the occluder head (260).

[0069] It should be understood that the spring clip (272) and the slot (35) engage with each other along a plane such that the frictional resistance to movement between the surfaces of the spring clip (272) and the slot (35) has at least a component extending along the mating path between the occluder (216) and the cannula assembly (12). This component of the frictional resistance to movement between the surfaces of the spring clip (272) and the slot (35) is strong enough to prevent the occluder (216) from separating from the cannula assembly (12) proximally.

[0070] Additionally, the central portion (276) can initially deform upon insertion into the slot (35) and then extend distally within the slot (35) sufficiently to no longer contact the portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35). In this case, the elastic nature of the spring clip (272) allows the central portion (276) to return to its initial shape such that the widest portion of the central portion (276) is wider than the slot (35). Therefore, the contact between the central portion (276) and the portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35) further prevents accidental separation of the occluder (216) from the cannula assembly (12) during exemplary use.

[0071] In some cases, the spring clip (272) may not be elastic at all. In such cases, the spring clip (272) may be more like a downwardly extending pin that generates friction with the slot (35) in a manner similar to the tapered shaft surface (280) and the inclined upper surface (37) described above.

[0072] With the occluder (216) properly connected to the cannulation assembly (12) to form a cannula (210), the clinician can continue to use the cannula (210) to pass through the patient's abdominal wall (2) to approach the patient's abdominal cavity (1). Figure 8A It is fully demonstrated that, with the occluder (216) received within the cannulation assembly (12) and connected to the sealing housing (30), the clinician manipulates the cannula (210) via the occluder head (260) and the sealing housing (30) to push the occluder tip (264) against the skin (3) and toward the abdominal cavity (1) while simultaneously rotating the cannula (210) back and forth. It should be understood that as the clinician manipulates the cannula (210) toward the abdominal cavity (1), the spring clip (272) and the tapered shaft surface (280) can be further actuated into the cannulation assembly (12). Therefore, when the occluder tip (264) is pushed into the abdominal cavity (1), the likelihood of the clinician accidentally disengaging the cannula (210) by overcoming the frictional engagement between the occluder (216) and the cannulation assembly (12). The continued inward pushing of the cannula (210) further guides the tip of the occluder (264) and the tip of the cannula (24) distally through the layers of fat (4) and fascia (5) and close to the cavity (1), as... Figure 8B As shown.

[0073] Next, as Figure 8C As shown, a clinician can pull the occluder (216) proximally relative to the cannulation assembly (12) to separate the occluder (216) from the cannulation assembly (12). In some cases, the clinician can hold the cannulation assembly (12) with one hand while pulling the occluder (216) with the other hand to overcome frictional engagement and keep the cannulation assembly (12) properly secured within the patient's abdominal cavity (1). In other cases, the clinician may not need to hold the cannulation assembly (12) with one hand, allowing the clinician to separate the occluder (216) from the cannulation assembly (12) by pulling only the occluder (216).

[0074] The clinician can apply sufficient force proximally to the occluder (216) relative to the cannulation assembly (12) to overcome the frictional engagement between the inclined upper surface (37) and the tapered shaft surface (280). Additionally, the clinician can apply sufficient force proximally to the occluder (216) relative to the cannulation assembly (12) to overcome the frictional engagement between the spring clip (272) and the surface of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35). With the central portion (276) extending distally within the slot (35) sufficiently to no longer contact the portion of the sealing housing (30) defining the slot (35), the clinician can apply sufficient force proximally to the occluder (216) relative to the cannulation assembly (12) to deform the central portion (276), thereby proximally actuating the central portion (276) away from the slot (35). After exemplary use, the user can appropriately disinfect the occluder (216) for another use.

[0075] Because the spring clip (272) is configured to bend in response to longitudinal movement between the cannulation assembly (12) and the occluder (216), clinicians no longer need to apply sufficient pressure (e.g., clamping motion) to separate the occluder (216) from the cannulation assembly (12). Therefore, the spring clip (272) can have a smaller length-to-thickness ratio compared to the latch arm (162). Additionally, the spring clip (272) can be formed from a more robust material compared to the latch arm (162). Due to the smaller length-to-thickness ratio and the more robust material, the spring clip (272) is less likely to be damaged during sterilization and / or in response to accidental contact.

[0076] Furthermore, since the spring clip (272) no longer needs to move laterally in response to sufficient pressing pressure applied to the button on the dome-shaped upper body (266), the base plate (268) does not need to reinforce the slot, and the dome-shaped upper body (266) does not need to have an opening. Therefore, the base plate (268) can be a solid plate, allowing the interior defined by the base plate (268) and the dome-shaped upper body (266) to be sealed from external fluids and substances. The absence of slots and openings helps prevent external fluids and other substances from approaching the interior of the occluder head (260), which in turn makes the occluder (216) easier to clean and disinfect compared to the occluder (116) described above.

[0077] In the current example, the proximal ends of the two legs (274) are secured to the distal surface of the substrate (268). However, in some cases, only one leg (274) may be secured to the distal surface of the substrate (268). Although in the current example, the central portion (276) forms a semi-cylindrical shape, any suitable shape may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein. In the current example, the legs (274) terminate at the central portion (276) such that the legs (274) are not connected to each other. However, this is merely optional, as the legs (274) may taper toward each other and be directly connected to each other, thus omitting the central portion (276) entirely. In the current example, the legs (274) are formed from a generally flat surface. However, this is merely optional, as the surface of the legs (274) may have any suitable geometry, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the teachings herein, such as an undulating surface.

[0078] Although in the current example the occluder (216) is used in conjunction with the cannulation assembly (12) to form a cannula (210), it should be understood that the occluder (216) may be configured to be used with the cannulation assembly (112) such that the friction coupling assembly (270) properly engages with the sealing assembly (130).

[0079] Figure 9 Another exemplary occluder (316) is shown that can be used as an alternative to the occluder (216) described above. The occluder (316) is substantially similar to the occluder (216) described above, but with differences detailed below. The occluder (316) includes a proximal head (360), an elongated cylindrical shaft (362) extending distally from the proximal head (360), and a tapered distal tip (not shown); it is substantially similar to the proximal head (260), elongated cylindrical shaft (262), and tapered distal tip (264) described above.

[0080] The occluder head (360) includes a dome-shaped upper body (366), a base plate (368), and an interference-fit connection assembly (370), which is substantially similar to the dome-shaped upper body (266), base plate (268), and interference-fit connection assembly (270) described above, except that the interference-fit connection assembly (370) only includes a spring clip (372) and does not include a tapered shaft surface similar to the surface (280) of the occluder (216). The spring clip (372) is substantially similar to the spring clip (272) described above. Therefore, the spring clip (372) is sized to fit within a corresponding slot (35) of the sealing housing (30) to facilitate frictional engagement between the occluder (316) and the cannula assembly (12).

[0081] Figure 10Another exemplary occluder (416) is shown that can be used as an alternative to the occluder (216) described above. The occluder (416) is substantially similar to the occluder (216) described above, but with differences detailed below. The occluder (416) includes a proximal head (460), an elongated cylindrical shaft (462) extending distally from the proximal head (460), and a tapered distal tip (not shown); it is substantially similar to the proximal head (260), elongated cylindrical shaft (262), and tapered distal tip (264) described above.

[0082] The occluder head (460) includes a dome-shaped upper body (466), a base plate (468), and an interference-fit connection assembly (470), which is substantially similar to the dome-shaped upper body (266), base plate (268), and interference-fit connection assembly (270) described above, except that the interference-fit connection assembly (470) only includes a tapered shaft surface (480) and does not include a spring clip similar to the spring clips (272, 372) of the occluder (216, 316). The tapered shaft surface (480) is substantially similar to the tapered shaft surface (280) described above. Therefore, the tapered shaft surface (480) is sized to abut against the inclined upper surface (37) of the sealing housing (30) defining the working channel (14) in order to facilitate the frictional engagement between the occluder (416) and the cannula assembly (12).

[0083] III. Exemplary Combinations

[0084] The following examples illustrate various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein can be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be provided at any time in this patent application or a subsequent filing thereof. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided merely for illustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in a variety of other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or features mentioned below should be considered definitive unless otherwise expressly indicated, for example, by the inventor or a successor of the inventor of interest, at a later date. If any claim set forth in this patent application or a subsequent filing related to this patent application includes additional features beyond those mentioned below, such additional features should not be presumed to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

[0085] Example 1

[0086] A surgical intervention device includes: (a) a cannulation assembly comprising: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula tip coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; and (iii) a working channel defined at least partially by the cannula and the cannula tip extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannulation assembly, wherein the working channel is configured to receive surgical instruments therethrough for access to a surgical site within a patient's body cavity; and (b) an occluder, wherein the occluder is configured to be removably coupled along the central axis to the cannulation assembly to facilitate the surgical intervention device. Inserted through the patient's body wall, wherein the occluder includes: (i) an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongated shaft is sized to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongated shaft; and (iii) an occluder head located at a proximal portion of the elongated shaft, wherein the occluder head includes an interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal movement between the occluder and the cannula assembly through friction with a surface of the cannula assembly.

[0087] Example 2

[0088] According to the surgical interventional device of Embodiment 1, the occluder head includes a base plate and a dome-shaped body, wherein the base plate and the dome-shaped body define an internal region.

[0089] Example 3

[0090] According to the surgical interventional device of Embodiment 2, the substrate and the dome-shaped body form a seal around the internal region.

[0091] Example 4

[0092] According to one or more of the surgical interventional devices described in Embodiments 2 to 3, the interference fit feature extends distally from the substrate.

[0093] Example 5

[0094] According to the surgical intervention device of Embodiment 4, the interference fit feature includes a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the substrate.

[0095] Example 6

[0096] According to one or more of the surgical interventional devices described in Embodiments 4 to 5, the cannula head includes a sealing assembly, the sealing assembly including an inclined upper surface defining a portion of the working channel.

[0097] Example 7

[0098] According to the surgical intervention device of Embodiment 6, the conical surface is configured to engage at least a portion of the inclined upper surface to generate the frictional force.

[0099] Example 8

[0100] According to any one or more of the surgical interventional devices described in Embodiments 2 to 7, the interference fit feature includes a downwardly extending pin connected to the substrate.

[0101] Example 9

[0102] According to the surgical interventional device of Embodiment 8, the cannula head includes a sealing assembly defining a slot located adjacent to the working channel, wherein the downwardly extending pin is configured to engage at least a portion of the sealing assembly defining the slot to generate the frictional force.

[0103] Example 10

[0104] According to the surgical interventional device of Embodiment 9, the downwardly extending pin includes a spring clip formed of an elastic material.

[0105] Example 11

[0106] According to the surgical interventional device of Embodiment 10, the spring clip includes a pair of legs attached to the substrate.

[0107] Example 12

[0108] According to the surgical interventional device of embodiment 11, the spring clip further includes a central body attached to the distal end of each of the pair of legs.

[0109] Example 13

[0110] According to the surgical interventional device of Embodiment 12, the central body includes a semi-tubular shape.

[0111] Example 14

[0112] According to the surgical interventional device of embodiment 13, the spring clip and the substrate together define an open path.

[0113] Example 15

[0114] The surgical interventional device according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the occluder is formed of surgical steel.

[0115] Example 16

[0116] According to any one or more of the surgical interventional devices described in Embodiments 1 to 15, the interference fit feature is attached to the elongated shaft.

[0117] Example 17

[0118] According to any one or more of the surgical interventional devices described in Embodiments 1 to 16, the interference fit feature is spaced apart from the elongated shaft.

[0119] Example 18

[0120] A surgical interventional device includes: (a) a cannulation assembly comprising: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula, wherein the cannula head includes a first engagement surface; and (iii) a working channel at least partially defined by the cannula and the cannula head extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannulation assembly, wherein the working channel is configured to receive surgical instruments therethrough to access a surgical site within a patient's body cavity; and (b) an occluder, wherein the occluder is configured to be removably coupled to the cannulation assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical interventional device through the patient's body wall, wherein... The occluder includes: (i) an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongated shaft is sized to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongated shaft; and (iii) an occluder head located at a proximal portion of the elongated shaft, wherein the occluder head includes an interference fit feature including a second engagement surface configured to abut against a first engagement surface to generate friction when the occluder is engaged with the cannula assembly, wherein the interference fit feature is configured to suppress proximal translation of the occluder relative to the cannula assembly.

[0121] Example 19

[0122] According to the surgical intervention device of embodiment 18, the second engagement surface is attached to the elongated shaft.

[0123] Example 20

[0124] A surgical interventional device includes: (a) a cannulation assembly comprising: (i) a cannula, (ii) a cannula tip coupled to a proximal end of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel at least partially defined by the cannula and the cannula tip extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannulation assembly, wherein the working channel is configured to receive surgical instruments therethrough to access a surgical site within a patient's body cavity; and (b) an occluder, wherein the occluder is configured to be removably coupled to the cannulation assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical interventional device through the patient's body wall, wherein the occluder comprises: (i) a cannula, (ii) a cannula tip coupled to a proximal end of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel at least partially defined by the cannula and the cannula tip extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannulation assembly ...ula, wherein the occluder comprises: (i) a cannula, (ii) a cannula tip extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula, and (iii) a working channel extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cann (ii) an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the elongated shaft is sized to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; and (iii) a tapered distal tip located at the distal portion of the elongated shaft; and (iv) an occluder head located at the proximal portion of the elongated shaft, wherein the occluder head is configured to engage the cannula head when the occluder is connected to the cannula assembly, wherein the occluder head includes an interference fit feature configured to deform itself or a portion of the cannula head to suppress proximal translation of the occluder relative to the cannula head by frictional engagement.

[0125] IV. Miscellaneous

[0126] It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., described herein. Therefore, the foregoing teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., should not be considered in isolation from each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0127] Furthermore, any one or more of the teachings herein may be combined with any one or more of the teachings disclosed in the following patent applications: U.S. Patent Application No. END9247USNP1, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Pinch-To-Release Cannula Depth Limiter”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9247USNP2, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Multi-Diameter Cannula Depth Limiter”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9247USNP3, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Pinch-To-Clamp Cannula Depth Limiter”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9247USNP4, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Universal Size Multi-Walled Elastomer Cannula Depth Limiter”; and U.S. Patent Application No. END9247USNP4, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Threaded Cannula Depth Limiter”. The following U.S. patent applications were filed on the same date as this application: "Tilting Tang Cannula Depth Limiter" [Attorney Reference No. END9247USNP5]; "Two Piece Separable Obturator" [Attorney Reference No. END9247USNP7]; "Balancing Feature for Reusable Trocar" [Attorney Reference No. END9247USNP9]; "Airflow Channels and Patterns in Lumen for Cannula" [Attorney Reference No. END9247USNP10]; and / or "Stabilizer for Surgical Shafts or Cannulas" [Attorney Reference No. END9247USNP11]. The disclosure of each of these patent applications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0128] It should be understood that any patent, patent publication, or other public material allegedly incorporated herein by reference, whether in whole or in part, is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with any existing definitions, statements, or other public material set forth in this disclosure. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures expressly listed herein replace any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or part thereof, allegedly incorporated herein by reference that conflicts with any existing definitions, statements, or other public material set forth herein will be incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with any existing public material.

[0129] The aforementioned devices can be applied to both traditional medical treatments and surgeries performed by medical professionals and robot-assisted medical treatments and surgeries. By way of example only, the various teachings herein can be readily incorporated into robotic surgical systems, such as the DAVINCI system from Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California). TMSystem. Similarly, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various teachings herein can be readily combined with the teachings of any of the following patents: U.S. Patent 5,792,135, entitled “Articulated Surgical Instrument For Performing Minimally Invasive Surgery With Enhanced Dexterity and Sensitivity,” published August 11, 1998, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; U.S. Patent 8,783,541, entitled “Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effector System,” published July 22, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; U.S. Patent 8,479,969, entitled “Drive Interface for Operably Coupling a Manipulatable Surgical Tool to a Robot,” published July 9, 2013; and U.S. Patent 8,479,969, entitled “Robotically-Controlled Cable-Based Surgical End…”, published August 12, 2014. U.S. Patent 8,800,838, entitled “Effectors”, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference; and / or U.S. Patent 8,573,465, entitled “Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effector System with Rotary Actuated Closure Systems”, published on November 5, 2013, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0130] Devices of the types described above may be designed for single-use and disposal, or they may be designed for multiple uses. In either or both cases, these types may be repaired for reuse after at least one use. Repair may include any combination of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing specific parts, and subsequently reassembling. Specifically, some types of devices may be disassembled, and any combination may be used to selectively replace or remove any number of specific parts or portions of the device. While cleaning and / or replacing specific components, some types of devices may be reassembled at a repair facility or by the user prior to surgery for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that device repair can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques and the resulting repaired devices are within the scope of this application.

[0131] By way of example only, the types described herein can be sterilized before and / or after surgery. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and device can then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device can then be stored in a sterile container for later use. Any other techniques known in the art can also be used to sterilize the device, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or vapor.

[0132] Various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, and further improvements to the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by suitable modifications made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Several such possible modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the embodiments, implementations, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc., discussed above are illustrative and not essential. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be considered in accordance with the following claims and should be understood as not being limited to the details of the structures and operations shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A surgical interventional device, comprising: (a) a cannulation assembly, the cannulation assembly comprising: (i) Intubation, (ii) a cannula tip, the cannula tip being connected to the proximal end of the cannula, and (iii) A working channel, at least partially defined by the cannula and the cannula head extending longitudinally along the central axis of the cannula assembly, wherein the working channel is configured to receive surgical instruments passing through it to access a surgical site within a patient's body cavity, wherein the cannula head includes a sealing assembly defining a slot positioned adjacent to the working channel; and (b) An occluder, wherein the occluder is configured to be removably coupled to the cannulation assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical interventional device through the patient's body wall, wherein the occluder comprises: (i) an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, wherein the dimensions of the elongated shaft are designed to fit within the working channel of the cannulation assembly. (ii) a tapered distal tip, said tapered distal tip being located at the distal portion of the elongated shaft, and (iii) An occluder head located at a proximal portion of the elongated shaft, wherein the occluder head includes an interference fit feature configured to suppress proximal movement between the occluder and the cannulation assembly by friction with the surface of the cannulation assembly, wherein the interference fit feature includes a downwardly extending pin coupled to a base plate of the occluder head, wherein the downwardly extending pin is configured to engage at least a portion of the sealing assembly defining the slot to generate the frictional force, wherein the downwardly extending pin includes a spring clip formed of an elastic material, wherein the spring clip includes a pair of legs, each of the pair of legs being attached to the base plate.

2. The surgical interventional device according to claim 1, wherein, The occluder head also includes a dome-shaped body, wherein the substrate and the dome-shaped body define an internal region.

3. The surgical interventional device according to claim 2, wherein, The substrate and the dome-shaped body form a seal around the internal region.

4. The surgical interventional device according to claim 2, wherein, The interference fit feature extends distally from the substrate.

5. The surgical interventional device according to claim 4, wherein, The interference fit feature includes a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the substrate.

6. The surgical interventional device according to claim 4, wherein, The cannula head includes a sealing assembly that includes an inclined upper surface defining a portion of the working channel.

7. The surgical interventional device according to claim 6, wherein, The interference fit feature includes a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the substrate, wherein the tapered surface is configured to engage at least a portion of the inclined upper surface to generate the frictional force.

8. The surgical interventional device according to claim 1, wherein, The spring clip also includes a central body attached to the distal end of each of the pair of legs.

9. The surgical interventional device according to claim 8, wherein, The central body comprises a semi-tubular shape.

10. The surgical interventional device according to claim 9, wherein, The spring clip and the substrate together define an open path.

11. The surgical interventional device according to claim 1, wherein, The occluder is made of surgical steel.

Images