Medical device platform

Abstract

A medical device includes a body and an arm extending from the body and configured to receive a first device such that the first device is suspended relative to the body. Translation of the arm relative to the body is configured to move the first device relative to the body. The medical device includes a receiver extending from the body and configured to receive a second device such that the second device is suspended relative to the body.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 007,194, filed April 8, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to medical systems, devices, and related methods. Among other aspects, examples of the invention relate to systems, devices, and related methods for positioning and / or controlling one or more medical devices within a subject during surgery via a handle assembly. Background Technology

[0004] Technological advancements have enabled users of medical systems, devices, and methods to perform increasingly complex surgeries on subjects. A challenge in minimally invasive surgeries, such as endoscopy, laparoscopy, and thoracoscopic surgery, as well as other surgical fields, is providing control of medical devices during procedures. Placing such devices inside a subject can be difficult. Furthermore, the various medical systems that actuate and control the placement of such devices can be anomalous or difficult to understand. Restrictions on medical devices that facilitate the placement of other devices inside a subject can prolong surgical time, limit their effectiveness, and / or cause injury to the subject due to device malfunction or breakage. Devices and methods are needed to address one or more of these difficulties or other related problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates, among other things, to systems, apparatus, and methods for accessing a target treatment site with a medical device having an intuitive handle assembly that facilitates positioning. Each of the aspects disclosed herein may include one or more features described in conjunction with any of the other disclosed aspects.

[0006] According to one example, a medical device includes a body and an arm, the arm extending from the body and configured to receive a first device such that the first device is suspended relative to the body. Translation of the arm relative to the body is configured to move the first device relative to the body. The medical device also includes a receiver extending from the body and configured to receive a second device such that the second device is suspended relative to the body.

[0007] Any of the medical devices described herein may include any of the following features: A body includes a slot configured to receive an arm such that the arm is movable within the slot. The body includes a locking mechanism that engages with the arm and is configured to secure the arm at one of a plurality of locations relative to the body. The arm is configured to move laterally relative to the body in one or more lateral directions. The arm is movable independently of the receiver such that a first device is movable relative to a second device. At least a portion of the arm is transparent such that a cavity in the arm is visible, allowing visualization of the first device within the cavity of the arm. The arm is configured to pivot relative to the body in one or more pivotable directions. The arm includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening, sized and shaped to receive the first device. The inlet opening is positioned proximally relative to the outlet opening and is configured to form a seal against the first device. The outlet opening is positioned adjacent to the receiver and is configured to allow the first device to extend outward from the arm and toward the second device. The arm is configured to allow axial translation of the first device relative to the outlet opening when the first device is secured to the arm at the inlet opening. The medical device also includes a second body configured to engage an auxiliary surface. The second body includes one or more rails and one or more wheels movably coupled to the rails, allowing the body to move relative to the second body. An arm and a receiver are movable relative to the second body in response to translation of the one or more wheels along the rails. The arm is movable together with the receiver, allowing the first and second devices to move relative to the second body.

[0008] According to another example, a medical device includes a platform having a body defined by a proximal end and a distal end. The medical device includes an arm movably coupled to the body and configured to suspend a first device relative to an auxiliary surface. The first device is movable between the proximal and distal ends in response to translation of the arm along the body. The medical device includes a receiver located at the distal end of the body and configured to suspend a second device relative to the auxiliary surface. The second device is fixed at the distal end.

[0009] Any of the medical devices described herein may include any of the following features: An arm is movable independently of the receiver, allowing the first device to move relative to the second device. The arm includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening, sized and shaped to receive the first device. The inlet opening is configured to form a seal against the first device, and the outlet opening is configured to allow the first device to extend outward from the arm toward the second device. The arm is configured to allow axial translation of the first device relative to the outlet opening when the first device is secured to the arm at the inlet opening. The medical device also includes a second body configured to engage an auxiliary surface. The body includes a pair of wheels movably coupled to a pair of rails of the second body, allowing the body to move relative to the second body. The arm and the receiver are movable relative to the second body in response to translation of the wheels along the rails.

[0010] According to another example, a medical device includes a fixation body; a movable body coupled to the fixation body and movable relative to the fixation body; and an arm extending from the movable body and configured to receive a first device. The first device is movable relative to the fixation body in response to translation of the arm and the movable body relative to the fixation body. The medical device includes a receiver extending from the movable body and configured to receive a second device. The arm and the receiver are movable relative to the fixation body in response to translation of the movable body along the fixation body.

[0011] It is understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and illustrative of the claimed invention, and not restrictive. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary medical device including a platform according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 2 According to various aspects of the present invention Figure 1 A side view of a medical device;

[0015] Figure 3 According to various aspects of the present invention, one or more medical devices are suspended on a platform. Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of the medical device; and

[0016] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of another exemplary medical device including a platform for suspending one or more medical devices according to various aspects of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Examples of the present invention include systems, apparatus, and methods for controlling multiple components of a medical device at a target site within the body, wherein the components typically require manipulation to enter the target site, etc. Reference will now be made in detail to various aspects of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. The term “distal” refers to the part furthest from the user when the device is introduced into the body of a subject (e.g., a patient). Conversely, the term “proximal” refers to the part closest to the user when the device is placed into the body of a subject. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive contents such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or not inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term “exemplary” is used in the sense of “example” rather than “exemplary.” As used herein, the terms “about,” “substantially,” and “approximately” indicate a range of values ​​within + / - 10% of the stated value.

[0018] Examples of the present invention can be used to facilitate the control and positioning of a tool / device of a medical device (e.g., an end effector) at a target treatment site by providing one or more mechanisms and / or components for positioning the tool / device at a target treatment site. For example, some examples combine a platform with the medical device and one or more medical devices to facilitate selective control, positioning, and / or manipulation of components of the medical device, such as, for example, an end effector. The platform may include a body configured to suspend the medical device and one or more medical devices relative to an auxiliary structure, such as, for example, a table. The platform may include a movable arm that can be selectively adjusted relative to the body of the platform to position one or more medical devices at multiple locations and / or orientations relative to the medical device and the target site.

[0019] Examples of the present invention may relate to apparatus and methods for performing various medical procedures and / or treating the large intestine (colon), small intestine, cecum, portions of the esophagus, any other portion of the gastrointestinal tract, and / or any other suitable subject (e.g., patient) anatomical structures (collectively referred to herein as “target treatment sites”). Such apparatus and related methods may be used laparoscopically or endoscopically, or for any other open or minimally invasive surgery, including thoracoscopic and ENT procedures. Reference will now be made in detail to the examples of the invention described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals will be used in all drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0020] Figure 1A schematic illustration of an exemplary medical device 110 according to an example of the present invention is shown. The medical device 110 may include a platform 112 having a body defined by a proximal body 112A, an intermediate body 112B, and a distal body 112C. In this example, the intermediate body 112B may extend between the proximal body 112A and the distal body 112C, such that the proximal body 112A and the distal body 112C are separated from each other by the intermediate body 112B disposed therebetween. The intermediate body 112B may include various suitable sizes, shapes, and / or morphologies relative to the proximal body 112A and the distal body 112C. For example, the intermediate body 112B may be configured to form an angle between the proximal body 112A and / or the distal body 112C, which will be received along the first means (see [reference]) of the proximal body 112A. Figure 3 The proximal body 112A and / or distal body 112C are positioned at an ergonomic location relative to the second device received along the intermediate body 112B and / or distal body 112C. Furthermore, the proximal body 112A and / or distal body 112C may each include a longitudinal length that is at least partially transverse to the longitudinal length of the intermediate body 112B for alignment and / or orientation. In some embodiments, the proximal body 112A and / or distal body 112C may include longitudinal lengths that are parallel to each other.

[0021] It should be understood that the intermediate body 112B of platform 112 may extend relatively above and / or be suspended through the proximal body 112A. Furthermore, the distal body 112C of platform 112 may extend relatively above and / or be suspended through the intermediate body 112B. In this case, the proximal body 112A of platform 112 can provide basic support for platform 112. It should be understood that, without departing from the scope of the invention, platform 112 may include additional or fewer bodies 112A, 112B, 112C than those shown and described herein. Additionally and / or alternatively, in other embodiments, the bodies of platform 112 may include various other suitable shapes, sizes, and / or forms besides those shown and described herein.

[0022] Still referencing Figure 1In some embodiments, the body of platform 112 may be a single-piece structure, such that the proximal body 112A, intermediate body 112B, and distal body 112C can be integrally formed. In other embodiments, the body of platform 112 may be separate components fixed to each other to form a body. The proximal body 112A of platform 112 may be configured and operable to secure platform 112 to an assistive device and / or structure, such as, for example, a table or bed (not shown). This assistive body / structure may be fixed relative to a patient. For example, the proximal body 112A of platform 112 may include a clamping mechanism 111 configured and operable to secure platform 112 to the assistive device and / or structure. The clamping mechanism 111 may include a pair of jaws 116A, 116B, sized and shaped to receive the assistive device and / or structure therebetween.

[0023] The intermediate body 112B of platform 112 may include one or more slots 117A, 117B formed along the longitudinal length of the intermediate body 112B. For example, the intermediate body 112B may include a top slot 117A formed through the top wall of the intermediate body 112B and extending between opposite ends of the intermediate body 112B (e.g., between the proximal body 112A and the distal body 112C). Furthermore, the intermediate body 112B may include one or more side slots 117B formed through the side walls of the intermediate body 112B and extending between opposite ends of the intermediate body 112B (e.g., between the proximal body 112A and the distal body 112C). In one example, the intermediate body 112B includes two slots 117B located on opposite sides of the intermediate body 112B.

[0024] Still referencing Figure 1 Platform 112 may also include one or more movable arms 130 movably coupled to intermediate body 112B. In this example, platform 112 includes a pair of movable arms 130 extending laterally outward from intermediate body 112B via one or more side slots 117B. The pair of movable arms 130 may be securely coupled to intermediate body 112B by a locking mechanism 136 received via top slot 117A. In this case, with the pair of movable arms 130 received within intermediate body 112B via side slots 117B and the locking mechanism 136 received within intermediate body 112B via top slot 117A, the locking mechanism 136 may be configured to engage the pair of movable arms 130 within intermediate body 112B.

[0025] The locking mechanism 136 can also be configured to allow the pair of movable arms 130 to move relative to the body of the platform 112 in response to actuation of the locking mechanism 136. For example, the locking mechanism 136 can be configured such that actuation of the locking mechanism 136 unlocks the pair of movable arms 130 from the intermediate body 112B, thereby allowing the pair of movable arms 130 to move (e.g., translate) relative to the platform 112 in one or more directions (e.g., distal direction A, proximal direction B, from one side to the other, etc.). In some embodiments, the movable arms 130 can be configured to pivot and / or rotate within the side slots 118B and / or relative to the intermediate body 112B (e.g., about an axis extending through the two side slots 117B) in response to actuation of the locking mechanism 136. In embodiments, the locking mechanism 136 may include a rotatable actuator (e.g., a nut, screw, knob, etc.) that can rotate relative to the intermediate body 112B (e.g., clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.).

[0026] Still referencing Figure 1 Each of the pair of movable arms 130 may include a curved portion 132 and / or a linear portion 134, wherein the curved portion 132 is coupled to the intermediate body 112B via a locking mechanism 136. Furthermore, the linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may extend proximally from the curved portion 132. It should be understood that the curved portion 132 of the movable arm 130 may include a longitudinal length having a predetermined curvature between the opposite ends of the curved portion 132. Furthermore, the curved portion 132 of the movable arm 130 may have a configuration that allows the linear portion 134 to extend laterally outward from the intermediate body 112B and / or proximally relative to the body. Therefore, the size and shape of the curved portion 132 can be configured to suspend the linear portion 134 relative to the body of the platform 112.

[0027] In some embodiments, the curved portion 132 may be flexibly bendable, such that the configuration of the curved portion 132 (e.g., size, shape, profile, etc.) can be adjusted in response to applied force. In this case, the position of the linear portion 134 relative to the body of the platform 112 can be selectively adjusted. In other embodiments, the curved portion 132 may be omitted entirely, allowing the linear portion 134 to be coupled to the intermediate body 112B, thereby providing an alternative configuration of the movable arm 130 relative to the platform 112. Alternatively, the linear portion 134 may be omitted, allowing the movable arm 130 to include a continuously curved configuration.

[0028] The linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may include an inlet 135 at the end of the linear portion 134. As described in further detail herein, the inlet 135 may define an opening whose size and shape are configured to allow the device (e.g., Figure 3The device 140) is received into the movable arm 130. It should be understood that the curved portion 132 and the linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may include a configuration that positions the inlet 135 proximally toward the user's position towards the medical device 110.

[0029] Still referencing Figure 1 The dimensions and shapes of portions 132 and 134 of the movable arm 130 can be configured to form a predetermined gap between the inlets 135 to provide sufficient workspace and / or clearance for the user of the medical device 110 to control one or more devices coupled to the movable arm 130 during surgery (e.g., Figure 3 (Apparatus 140). In other words, the curvature and length of the curved portion 132 of the movable arm 130, and the length of the linear portion 134, are operable to separate the pair of movable arms 130 outward relative to the intermediate body 112B and / or to each other. The platform 112 can be configured and operable to facilitate the operation of at least a single user on multiple instruments (e.g., apparatus 140), thereby improving the user's control, articulation, and / or flexibility of the instruments.

[0030] In this example, the curved portions 132 of one or more movable arms 130 may be formed of opaque metal and / or plastic, and the linear portions 134 of one or more movable arms 130 may be formed of transparent plastic. In this case, since the linear portions 134 are transparent, the movable arms 130 can be operated to facilitate visualization of one or more devices received within the linear portions 134 via the inlet 135. In other embodiments, without departing from the scope of the invention, portions 132, 134 of the movable arms 130 may include a variety of other suitable characteristics and / or configurations (e.g., opaque, transparent, size, shape, etc.).

[0031] Still referencing Figure 1 The distal body 112C of platform 112 can be configured and operable to hold and / or suspend one or more instruments and / or devices on platform 112. For example, the distal body 112C of platform 112 may include a receiver 114 configured to hold an instrument therein. In this example, the receiver 114 of distal body 112C may include a channel 119, the size and shape of which are determined according to the instrument (e.g., Figure 3The contours (e.g., width, cross-sectional dimensions, diameter, etc.) of the medical device 120 are configured to facilitate suspension of the device on the platform 112 and relative to one or more auxiliary structures (e.g., a table, bed, etc.). For example, the channel 119 may be U-shaped to receive the cylindrical contours of the medical device 120. It should be understood that the channel 119 of the receiver 114 may include a longitudinal length (measured in a proximal to distal direction) sufficient to maintain the device in a fixed orientation when received therein, allowing the device to be stabilized along the platform 112 during surgery.

[0032] Platform 112 may also include a fastener 118 on the distal body 112C, which can be configured to securely engage the instrument to the receiver 114 when the receiver 114 is received within the channel 119. In this example, the fastener 118 may include a nut, screw, knob, button, lever, switch, etc. In some embodiments, the fastener 118 may be biased into the channel 119 of the receiver 114 (e.g., via a spring) such that the fastener 118 is configured to engage with the instrument received within the channel 119 (e.g., Figure 3 The medical device 120 forms a snap-fit ​​connection. In this case, the receiver 114 of the platform 112 can be configured to facilitate relatively rapid connection and disconnection of the device and the channel 119.

[0033] Now for reference Figure 2 The curved portion 132 of the movable arm 130 may include an outlet 131 (e.g., a hole) positioned along the longitudinal length of the curved portion 132. The size and shape of the outlet 131 of the curved portion 132 may be set and configured to be coupled to one or more components of a receiving device, such as, for example, at the linear portion 134, to the movable arm 130. Additionally, as briefly described above, the clamping mechanism 111 of the platform 112 may include a pair of jaws 116A, 116B coupled to the proximal body 112A. In this example, the pair of jaws 116A, 116B of the clamping mechanism 111 are fixed relative to each other. Furthermore, the clamping mechanism 111 may include a movable strut 115 disposed through at least one of the pair of jaws 116A, 116B.

[0034] For example, the bottom jaw 116B of the clamping mechanism 111 may include an actuator 113 coupled to a movable support 115, wherein the movable support 115 extends through the bottom jaw 116B and is disposed between the pair of jaws 116A, 116B. In this case, actuation (e.g., rotation) of the actuator 113 can provide movement (e.g., translation) of the movable support 115 relative to the pair of jaws 116A, 116B, such as, for example, toward the jaw 116A. Therefore, the clamping mechanism 111 can be configured and operable to secure an auxiliary device and / or structure to the platform 112 in response to positioning the auxiliary device between the pair of jaws 116A, 116B and actuating the actuator 113, thereby engaging the movable support 115 against the auxiliary device.

[0035] Now for reference Figure 3 This illustration schematically depicts an exemplary method of using a medical device 110 to suspend and / or hold one or more devices and / or instruments. For example, the platform 112 of the medical device 110 may be configured and operable to support a medical device 120. The medical device 120 is configured to receive and facilitate the positioning of one or more components relative to a subject (e.g., a patient). In this example, the handle 122 of the medical device 120 may be disposed in the channel 119 of the receiver 114. Figure 1 The medical device 120 is securely attached to the platform 110 via an actuating fastener 118. Therefore, the medical device 120 can be fixed to a user suspension (e.g., via a clamping mechanism 111) relative to the subject via the distal body 112C of the platform 112, and the medical device 110 and / or the medical device 120 and / or the platform 112 can be secured to an auxiliary structure (not shown) (e.g., via a clamping mechanism 111). The platform 112 of the medical device 110 can provide control over the medical device 120 while minimizing the need for manual grasping, holding, manipulating, and / or actuating of the medical device 120.

[0036] By way of illustrative example, medical device 120 can be any type of endoscope, duodenoscope, gastroscope, colonoscope, ureteroscope, bronchoscope, catheter, or other delivery system. For example, medical device 120 may include a handle 122, a distal end 124, a proximal end 126, and one or more ports 128. The handle 122 of medical device 120 may have one or more cavities (not shown) communicating with one or more other devices coupled thereto, such as, for example, one or more devices 140. Handle 122 may also include one or more ports 128 opening into one or more cavities of handle 122. As described in further detail herein, the size and shape of one or more ports 128 may be configured to receive one or more instruments, such as, for example, one or more devices 140.

[0037] Still referencing Figure 3The distal end 124 of the medical device 120 may include a shaft 129 extending outwardly therefrom. The shaft 129 of the medical device 120 may include a tube of sufficient flexibility such that the shaft 129 is configured to selectively bend, rotate, and / or twist when inserted into and / or through the tortuous anatomy of a subject. The shaft 129 may have one or more cavities (not shown) extending through it, including, for example, a working cavity for receiving an instrument (e.g., one or more medical devices 140). In other examples, the shaft 129 may include additional cavities, such as a control line cavity for receiving one or more control lines for actuating one or more distal portions / tools (e.g., articulated joints, lifters, etc.), a fluid cavity for delivering fluid, an illumination cavity for receiving at least a portion of an illumination assembly (not shown), and / or an imaging cavity for receiving at least a portion of an imaging assembly (not shown).

[0038] The proximal end 126 of the medical device 120 may include one or more actuation mechanisms (e.g., knobs, buttons, levers, switches, and / or other suitable actuators) configured to control the deflection of the shaft 129 (e.g., actuation via a control line), fluid delivery, illumination emission, and / or at least one of various imaging functions. The proximal end 126 of the medical device 120 may also include a device port 125 configured and operable to receive one or more components of the medical device 120, such as, for example, an umbilical cord (not shown) for connecting a device to the medical device 120 (e.g., an imaging device).

[0039] Still referencing Figure 3 The platform 112 of the medical device 110 can be configured and operable to support one or more devices 140 via one or more movable arms 130. In this example, each of the one or more devices 140 may include a body 142, one or more actuators 144, a shaft 146, and a tip 148. In this example, the cavity of the linear portion 134 may be sized and shaped according to the profile of the shaft 146 and / or the tip 148 of the device 140. The linear portion 134 is configured and operable to form a seal against the outer surface of the shaft 146 and / or the tip 148 of the device 140 when the shaft 146 and / or the device 140 are received therein via the inlet 135. For example, the movable arm 130 may be configured to provide a frictional engagement between the linear portion 134 and the shaft 146. The linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 can securely fasten the device 140 to the platform 112. The linear portion 134 may be a suitable compressible material to allow insertion of shafts 146 having various sizes and / or shapes. In other embodiments, each of the movable arms 130 may include a fastener mechanism (e.g., similar to fastener 118) along the curved portion 132 and / or the linear portion 134 for securely engaging the device 140 therein.

[0040] In this example, the linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may also be sized and shaped and configured to allow axial translation of the shaft 146 and / or the tip 148 of the device 140 therethrough. Each of the movable arms 130 may provide linear movement of the shaft 146 and the tip 148 within a cavity of the linear portion 134 in response to actuation of the body 142 of the device 140 by a user. Additionally and / or alternatively, the linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may also be sized and shaped and configured to allow rotation of the shaft 146 and / or the tip 148 of the device 140 within the linear portion 134 about the longitudinal axis of the linear portion 134 and the shaft 146. In other embodiments, the linear portion 134 may be configured and operable to rotate relative to the curved portion 132 of the movable arm 130 together with the device 140 to which it is coupled. In these cases, the movable arm 130 can provide increased control, dexterity, and / or degrees of freedom to allow the device 140 to move relative to the platform 112 and / or the subject during surgery. An example of the device 140 is described in U.S. Application No. 62 / 987,694, filed March 10, 2020, entitled “Medical Device Handle Assembly and Method of Use Thereof,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] In some embodiments, device 140 may further include a conduit 139 extending distally from a tip 148, such that the conduit 139 is received within a movable arm 130. The conduit 139 may be in fluid communication with the body 142 of device 140 and may be coupled to an axis 129 of medical device 120 to control one or more components at a target treatment site within a subject. A linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may be operable to facilitate alignment of the conduit 139 with an outlet 131 of a curved portion 132 via a transparent configuration of the linear portion 134. The transparency of the linear portion 134 may allow a user of medical device 110 to visually guide the conduit 139 toward the outlet 131 of the curved portion 132 when the conduit 139 is positioned within the linear portion 134.

[0042] Still referencing Figure 3In some embodiments, the outlet 131 may be positioned adjacent to and / or facing the port 128 of the medical device 120 along the area of ​​the bend 132 to facilitate the connection of the catheter 139 from the movable arm 130 to the medical device 120. Thus, when the catheter 139 of the device 140 extends outward from the movable arm 130 via the outlet 131, the catheter 139 may be received within the port 128 of the medical device 120. In some examples, the position and / or orientation of the movable arm 130 relative to the body of the platform 112 can be modified during surgery in response to unlocking the locking mechanism 136. In this case, the movable arm 130 can be selectively adjusted by moving the bend 132 of the movable arm 130 through and along the side slot 117B of the intermediate body 112B.

[0043] It should be understood that the locking mechanism 136 can be operated to move along the top slot 117A of the intermediate body 112B in response to movement of the curved portion 132 along the side slot 117B. For example, the movable arm 130 can translate toward the proximal body 112A and away from the distal body 112C, and vice versa. Furthermore, the movable arm 130 can move relative to the intermediate body 112B from one side to the other (e.g., laterally in the proximal-distal direction), such that at least one of the means 140 received in one of the pairs of movable arms 130 moves proximal and the other means 140 received in the other pair of movable arms 130 moves distal. By a further example, the movable arm 130 can move vertically (e.g., in the upward and downward directions) in response to pivoting movement of the movable arm 130 about an axis extending through the pair of side slots 117B. In this example, the locking mechanism 136 can allow the movable arm 130 to move to multiple positions along the side slot 117B and relative to the intermediate body 112B.

[0044] Still referencing Figure 3 It should be understood that the curved portion 132 and / or linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 may include various other sizes and / or shapes according to the contours of other suitable devices 140 for coupling to the platform 112. It should also be understood that the channel 119 of the receiver 114 may be sized and / or shaped to have various other suitable configurations according to the contours of other suitable medical devices 120 for coupling to the platform 112. With the medical device 120 suspended by the platform 112 of the medical device 110, a user can actuate one or more portions of the medical device 120 without requiring continuous manual control of the handle 112 during surgery.

[0045] Furthermore, by maintaining one or more devices 140 in a suspended state relative to the subject, the user can selectively grasp, actuate, and release one or more devices 140 during surgery without requiring continuous manual control of the devices 140. In this case, the user of the devices 140 has greater flexibility and freedom to perform surgery on the subject. By fixing the platform 112 of the medical device 110 to an auxiliary surface and / or device, such as, for example, a table 10 ( Figure 4 Platform 112 can hold one or more medical devices 120 and / or devices 140 in a fixed and stable position relative to the subject along the body of platform 112 without requiring physical control of the device 120 and / or device 140 by the user's hand.

[0046] Figure 4 A schematic illustration of another exemplary medical device 210 according to an example of the present invention is shown. Unless otherwise described below, medical device 210 may be substantially similar to medical device 110 described above, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same parts. It should be understood that medical device 210 may be configured and operated in a manner similar to medical device 110, and medical device 210 may be readily incorporated with one or more of the above-described medical instruments 120 and / or devices 140.

[0047] For example, medical device 210 may include a platform 212 defined by a proximal body 112A and a distal body 112C. In this case, the distal body 112C extends laterally relative to the proximal body 112A and extends distally from the top / apex of the proximal body 112A. The proximal body 112A may include a clamping mechanism 111 along the bottom of the proximal body 112A for securing the medical device 210 to an auxiliary structure and / or device, such as, for example, a table 10. In this case, the table 10 engages a movable support 115 against the bottom surface of the table 10 by actuating an actuator 113. Figure 2 It is received between the pair of jaws 116A and 116B and fixed therein.

[0048] Still referencing Figure 4The distal body 112C may include one or more guide rails 217 disposed along the top surface of the distal body 112C. In this example, the distal body 112C includes a pair of guide rails 217 located on the top surface and positioned along the side of the distal body 112C. In this case, the pair of guide rails 217 may extend in all and / or substantially all of the longitudinal length of the distal body 112C. The distal body 112C of the platform 212 may also include one or more recesses 220 disposed along a portion of the pair of guide rails 217. In this example, each of the guide rails 217 may include a recess 220 along the middle portion of the guide rail 217; however, it should be understood that additional and / or fewer recesses 220 may be included along various other portions of the guide rails 217 besides those shown and described herein.

[0049] As described in more detail herein, the guide rails 217 may be configured to receive one or more other components of the medical device 210, such as, for example, wheels 219. Furthermore, one or more recesses 220 along the guide rails 217 may be configured to position one or more components of the medical device 210 (e.g., wheels) to the guide rails 217 when the medical device 210 is received within the recesses 220. The medical device 210 may also include a movable platform 215 coupled to the distal body 112C of the platform 112. In this example, the movable platform 215 of the medical device 210 may include one or more wheels 219 positioned along the bottom surface of the movable platform 215.

[0050] For example, the movable platform 215 may include a pair of wheels 219 along each side of the movable platform 215, wherein the pair of wheels 219 are configured and operable to engage with a pair of rails 217 on the distal body 112C. In this case, with the wheels 219 of the movable platform 215 engaged with the pair of rails 217 on the distal body 112C, the movable platform 215 can be configured to translate along the platform 112 (proximal to distal, and vice versa) to receive one or more devices, such as, for example, medical device 120 and / or device 140, on the movable platform 215. Figure 3 Repositioning relative to platform 112. One or more recesses 220 along the pair of guide rails 217 can engage the wheel 219 when it is received therein, thereby suppressing movement of the movable platform 215 relative to the distal body 112C of platform 212 without the presence of a force pointing proximal or distal on the movable platform 215.

[0051] Still referencing Figure 4The movable platform 215 may include a locking mechanism 236, which may be configured to selectively allow and inhibit movement of the movable platform 215 relative to the distal body 112C of the platform 212. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 236 may operate to lock the wheels 219 of the movable platform 215 upon actuation of the locking mechanism 236, thereby inhibiting rotation of the wheels 219 along the guide rail 217 of the distal body 112C. In other embodiments, the locking mechanism 236 may operate to engage the guide rail 217 with movable levers and / or struts (not shown) positioned along the bottom surface of the movable platform 215 upon actuation of the locking mechanism 236, thereby inhibiting translation of the movable platform 215 relative to the platform 212.

[0052] The movable platform 215 of the medical device 210 may include a pair of movable arms 130 extending proximally from the body of the movable platform 215. The movable arms 130 of the medical device 210 may include the curved portion 132, the linear portion 134, and the inlet 135 described in detail above. Therefore, the movable arms 130 of the medical device 210 can be configured and operable to receive one or more devices 140 through the inlet 135. Figure 3 And it is inserted into portions 132, 134 of the movable arm 130. The movable platform 215 of the medical device 210 may also include a receiver 114 positioned along the top surface of the movable platform 215. The receiver 114 may be sized and shaped and configured to receive one or more instruments therein, such as, for example, the medical device 120 described above.

[0053] Still referencing Figure 4 The movable platform 215 may include a pair of flexible tubes 133 extending outward from the distal surface of the movable platform 215, opposite the proximal surface of the curved portion 132 on which the movable arm 130 is located. When the medical device 120 is coupled to the medical device 210 at the receiver 114, the pair of flexible tubes 133 may be coupled to a port 128 on the handle 122. In this case, the pair of flexible tubes 133 may communicate with one or more cavities of the medical device 120 via the port 128.

[0054] In this example, each of the pair of flexible tubes 133 may define a lumen that communicates with the cavities of the curved portion 132 and the linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130. Furthermore, the movable platform 215 may include one or more cavities (not shown) that fluidly connect the lumen of the curved portion 132 to the lumen of the flexible tube 133. Therefore, it should be understood that one or more components of the device 140 coupled to the movable arm 130 may extend through the pair of flexible tubes 133 and be received via port 128 in a medical device 120, such as, for example, a catheter 139. Figure 3Furthermore, with the curved portion 132 and the linear portion 134 of the movable arm 130 connected to the movable platform 215, it should be understood that the movable arm 130 can be configured to move relative to the platform 215 (e.g., translate) in response to movement of the movable platform 215 along the distal body 112C.

[0055] Each of the aforementioned devices, components, and methods can be used to facilitate access to the target treatment site and provide enhanced control over assistive tools / devices (end-effectors) to be used at the target treatment site. By providing the medical device with a platform capable of suspending one or more devices for moving multiple tools / devices, the user can interact with the target treatment site using various tools / devices of the medical device via enhanced control and manipulation during surgery. In this case, the user can reduce overall surgical time, improve surgical efficiency, and / or avoid unnecessary harm to the subject's body caused by limited control over assistive tools / devices.

[0056] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed apparatus and methods without departing from the scope of the invention. Other aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on consideration of the description and practice of the features disclosed herein. The description and examples are intended to be illustrative only.

Claims

1. A medical device comprising: The main body includes the slot; An arm extending from the body and configured to receive a first device such that the first device is suspended relative to the body, wherein translation of the arm relative to the body is configured to move the first device relative to the body, and wherein the arm is movable within the slot. as well as A receiver that extends from the body and is configured to receive a second device such that the second device is suspended relative to the body.

2. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the body includes a locking mechanism that engages with the arm and is configured to secure the arm at one of a plurality of positions relative to the body.

3. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arm extends laterally outward from the body, and the arm is configured to move laterally relative to the body in one or more lateral directions.

4. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arm is movable independently of the receiver, such that the first device is movable relative to the second device.

5. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the arm is transparent, such that the cavity of the arm is visible to allow visualization of the first device within the cavity of the arm.

6. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arm is configured to pivot relative to the body in one or more pivotable directions.

7. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arm includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening, the arm being sized and shaped to receive the first device, wherein the inlet opening is located proximal to the position where the arm is received within a slot.

8. The medical device of claim 7, wherein the inlet opening is positioned proximally relative to the outlet opening and is configured to form a seal against the first device.

9. The medical device according to any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the outlet opening is located adjacent to the receiver and is configured to allow the first device to extend outward from the arm and toward the second device.

10. The medical device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the arm is configured to allow axial translation of the first device relative to the outlet opening when the first device is secured to the arm at the inlet opening.

11. The medical device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second body configured to engage the auxiliary surface.

12. The medical device of claim 11, wherein the second body includes one or more guide rails, and the body includes one or more wheels movably coupled to the one or more guide rails of the second body such that the body is movable relative to the second body.

13. The medical device of claim 12, wherein the arm and the receiver are movable relative to the second body in response to translation of the one or more wheels of the body along the one or more guide rails.

14. The medical device of claim 13, wherein the arm is movable together with the receiver, such that the first device and the second device are movable relative to the second body.

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