Access port cutter and related methods

Abstract

An access port cutter, and related systems and methods, can be used to cut an access port (102) to a desired length based on the particular patient and / or surgical procedure needs when in use. More specifically, an access port cutter (100) can include a base (120) having an opening (106) that can receive an access port therein such that a desired length of the access port can extend from the opening. An actuation mechanism (104) can linearly translate a blade along at least a portion of the base such that the blade can traverse the opening and cut through the access port. In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism can include a handle (110) that can be pivoted relative to the base to drive the blade. One or more safety features can reduce the risk of inadvertent actuation of the blade and / or prevent debris from contaminating a surgical site or falling onto a patient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This article discloses an access port cutter and related methods, for example, for cutting an access port to a customizable length suitable for a particular patient and / or surgical procedure, such as in use, for example in an operating room and / or surgical field. Background Technology

[0002] In surgical procedures, access ports are inserted through incisions within the patient's body to provide access to and visualization of the surgical site. The distance to the surgical site, and therefore the length of the access port required for access, can depend on one or more factors that may vary based on a particular patient and / or procedure. For example, the location of the surgery, the route of access to the surgical site, and / or patient-specific factors (such as age, body mass index, height, condition of specific anatomy, etc.) can influence the required length of the access port.

[0003] One known solution for these different size requirements is to use a standard access port for each procedure, long enough to ensure it reaches the surgical site from the surface of the patient's skin for most (if not all) patients. However, long ports can have several disadvantages, making the use of ports that extend far beyond the required length a suboptimal solution. For example, longer ports require longer instruments, which can reduce instrument precision and user control. Longer ports can also reduce the angle of instrument access, the effective surgical area, and the surgeon's visibility of the surgical area. Furthermore, longer ports increase the distance from the surgeon to the surgical area, which can increase eye strain and / or physical strain on the surgeon.

[0004] Another known solution is to provide a large number of fixed-length access ports of varying lengths in the operating room or surgical area, allowing the surgeon to select a specific access port with the optimal length during the procedure. However, this may require preparing a large number of access ports for procedures using only a single port. Unused ports can reduce operational efficiency, for example, by requiring time to prepare them, occupying space in the operating room, and requiring reprocessing after surgery. Another possible approach is to use a cutting device to customize the length of the access port during surgery. However, known cutting devices have disadvantages, such as injury to the user from the cutting surface, injury to the user from poor ergonomics of the cutting device, deformation of the access port during and after cutting, and / or debris ejected from the access port during cutting that impacts or contaminates the patient and / or surgical site.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for improved systems, methods, and devices that, when used, such as in a surgical field, cut the access port to the desired length, reducing the risk of injury to the user and patient and the risk of contamination of the surgical site, without adversely affecting operational efficiency or complicating the surgical procedure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This document discloses an access port cutter and related methods for safely customizing the length of an access port to the needs of a specific patient and / or surgical procedure during use, such as in an operating room, surgical field, etc., while maintaining the integrity of the access port. The access port cutter may include a base having an opening in which the access port is received, such that the desired length of the access port extends from the opening. An actuation mechanism allows a blade to be linearly translated along at least a portion of the base, such that the blade traverses the opening and cuts through the access port. In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism may include a shank that is pivotable relative to the base to drive the blade. One or more safety features reduce the risk of unintentional blade actuation and / or prevent debris from contaminating the surgical site or falling onto the patient. In some embodiments, the access port cutter may be configured for use by a surgeon on a patient or at a surgical site, while in other embodiments, the access port cutter may be used on a backrest worktable away from the patient.

[0007] In one aspect, an access port cutter may include a base having an opening, a blade linearly translatable along at least a portion of the base, and an actuation mechanism therein for receiving a surgical access port. The actuation mechanism may cause the blade to linearly translate along at least a portion of the base such that the blade traverses the opening to cut through the surgical access port received within the opening.

[0008] The apparatus and methods described herein may have a variety of additional features and / or variations, all of which are within the scope of this invention. In some embodiments, for example, the linear actuation mechanism may also include a shank pivotally connected to a base. Pivoting the shank relative to the base allows for linear translation of the blade. In some such embodiments, the shank may include a first engagement feature, and the blade may include a second engagement feature. The first engagement feature may be configured to engage with the second engagement feature to allow for linear translation of the blade along a portion of the base. The first engagement feature may be a pinion and the second engagement feature may be a rack. In some embodiments, the blade may be part of a blade holder slidably received within the base portion. The blade holder may include a retaining feature configured to hold the blade away from an opening.

[0009] The inlet port cutter may also include a locking feature for preventing operation of the actuation mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking feature may be a bidirectional locking pin that extends through the actuation mechanism. In some embodiments, the device may include an extension that defines an opening and extends proximally from the opening. In some such embodiments, the extension may include at least one interference feature that engages waste material received within the inlet port body in the opening.

[0010] In another aspect, a surgical system may include an access port and an access port cutter, the access port having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The access port cutter may have at least one opening, a blade, and an actuation mechanism for receiving the access port therein. The actuation mechanism may be configured to linearly translate the blade to cut through the access port received within the opening.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least one opening of the inlet port cutter may include multiple openings. A first opening of the multiple openings may have a central longitudinal axis extending at a first angle relative to the body of the inlet port cutter, and a second opening of the multiple openings may have a central longitudinal axis extending at a second angle relative to the body of the inlet port cutter, the second angle being different from the first angle. In some embodiments, the inlet port cutter opening may include features on which force can be applied. In some embodiments, the inlet port may have a non-circular shape.

[0012] In another aspect, a surgical method may include inserting an access port body into an opening of an access port cutter having an open base portion, a blade, and an actuation mechanism. The method may include operating the actuation mechanism to linearly drive the blade along at least a portion of the base, and cutting the access port body by causing the blade to linearly pass through the opening of the access port cutter.

[0013] Any of the above features or variations can be applied in a variety of different combinations to any particular aspect or embodiment of this disclosure. No specific combination is explicitly described merely to avoid redundancy within the scope of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the inlet port cutter disclosed herein and an embodiment of an inlet port that can be used with the inlet port cutter;

[0015] Figure 1A An embodiment of the entry port cutout according to this disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1The line DD cut Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter;

[0017] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The line AA is intercepted Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter, wherein the blade holder is received in the inlet port cutter;

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Side view of the inlet port cutter;

[0019] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The line BB cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter;

[0020] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Front view of the inlet port cutter;

[0021] Figure 7 The lock is in the first position along Figure 1 The line CC cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter;

[0022] Figure 8 The lock is shown in the second position. Figure 7 A sectional view;

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 An enlarged side view of a portion of the inlet port cutter shown in box E;

[0024] Figure 10 The entry port cutter is shown in its final position. Figure 5 A sectional view;

[0025] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the inlet port cutter disclosed herein;

[0026] Figures 12 to 40 Various embodiments of the inlet port cutter according to this disclosure are shown;

[0027] Figure 41A This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the inlet port cutter disclosed herein;

[0028] Figure 41B It shows that it can have by Figure 41A An implementation of an entry port cut by an entry port cutter at the beveled end;

[0029] Figure 42 yes Figure 41A A top view of the inlet port cutter;

[0030] Figure 43 This is an implementation scheme with a cutting mechanism. Figure 41A A perspective view of the inlet port cutter; and

[0031] Figure 44 This is another implementation scheme with a cutting mechanism. Figure 41A Perspective view of the inlet port cutter. Detailed Implementation

[0032] This document discloses an access port cutter and related methods, for example, for customizing the length of an access port to a specific patient and / or procedure in a manner that reduces the risk of injury to both the user and the patient during use, while maintaining the integrity of the access port. The access port cutter of this disclosure may include a base, a blade, and an actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism may be configured to linearly translate the blade across an opening in the base, such that the blade can cut through the access port received within the opening. As used herein, the phrase "cut through the access port" may mean cutting through the entire cross-section of the hollow body of the access port along a plane that extends in an orientation not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the access port (i.e., inclined to or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the access port). In other words, cutting through the access port reduces the length of the access port as measured along the longitudinal axis of the axial port. Therefore, the access port cutter of this disclosure can provide an access port with a length customized for a specific surgical procedure, and can thereby reduce inefficiencies, such as those associated with ports longer than necessary and / or with an unnecessary number of access ports prepared for a single procedure, in a safe and efficient manner.

[0033] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and principles of use of the apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The apparatuses, systems, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments. Features shown or described in one embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0034] Furthermore, the use of linear or circular dimensions in the descriptions of the disclosed devices and methods is not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in conjunction with such devices and methods. Equivalents to such linear and circular dimensions can be determined for different geometries. Additionally, components with the same number in the embodiments may generally have similar characteristics. Furthermore, the size and shape of the devices and their components may depend at least on the anatomy of the subjects who will use these devices, the size and shape of the objects to be used with these devices, and the methods and procedures for using these devices.

[0035] Figure 1 An embodiment of the access port cutter 100 of this disclosure is shown. The access port cutter 100 can be used to cut the access port 102 to a desired length, as measured along the longitudinal axis A1 of the access port, based on the requirements of a specific surgical procedure and / or patient, such as in an operating room or surgical field. The access port cutter 100 may have a base 104 with an opening 106. The size and shape of the opening 106 can be set along the longitudinal axis A2 of the opening (…). Figure 4 The base 104 may have a proximal portion 104p, a middle portion 104i, and a distal portion 104d. The proximal portion may include a gripper 108. The middle portion may have a first side 101a and a second side 101b, wherein a gap 103 extends between the first and second sides, and an opening 106 may extend through the distal portion. In some embodiments, an extension 106A may extend from the distal portion 104d of the base towards the proximal side and may surround at least a portion of the opening 106.

[0036] The handle 110 may have a proximal end 110p and a distal end 110d and may be movable relative to the base 104. The distal portion of the handle 110 (including at least the distal end 110d) may extend through a gap 103 between a first side 101a and a second side 101b of the intermediate base portion 104i. In some embodiments, the handle 110 may pivot about a pivot pin 111 that extends from the first side 101a of the intermediate base portion 104i through the handle 110 to the second side 101b of the intermediate base portion. The handle 110 may pivot such that movement of the proximal portion 110p away from the front end 104a of the base 104 causes the distal end 110d to move toward the front end of the base through the gap 103. In some embodiments, the handle 110, the intermediate base portion 104i, and the proximal base portion 104p may extend perpendicular to the distal portion 104d of the base, i.e., may extend from the distal portion of the base to the proximal portion parallel to the longitudinal axis A2 of the opening 106. The handle 110 and the gripper 108 may be ergonomically designed so that they can be gripped by a user with either the right-hand gripper or the left-hand gripper.

[0037] As described in detail below, the shank 110 may form part of an actuation mechanism that can be configured to linearly drive the blade 112 within the channel 114 of the base 104. Figure 3 The blade 112 is positioned such that it traverses the opening 106 and cuts through the inlet port 102 received within it. The blade 112 can cut through or pierce the entire cross-section of the inlet tube 102, such that the length of the inlet tube, as measured along its longitudinal axis A1, can be reduced from an initial length L1 to a desired operating length L2. Safety features (such as a locking pin 118) prevent unintentional actuation of the blade 112. In some embodiments, the blade 112 can cut the inlet port 102 along a cutting plane P1 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1 of the inlet port. (Go to...) Figure 1A In other embodiments, the access port cutter 100 may cut the access port 102' along a cutting plane P1' that extends at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis A1 of the access port 102'. In some such cases, the longitudinal axis A2 of the access port cutter opening 106 may be fixed at an angle relative to a portion of the base 104, through which the blade 112 cuts through the access port 102'. In other embodiments, the access port cutter 100 may include an adjustment feature that allows the user to change the angle at which the opening 106 extends relative to the base 104. This allows the access port cutter 100 to cut through the access port 102' such that the cut end of the access port can be angled to better conform to the patient's skeletal anatomy.

[0038] return Figure 1 The inlet port 102 may have a proximal end 102p and a distal end 102d, wherein the lumen 102l extends between the proximal end and the distal end. The initial length L1 of the inlet port 102 may be fixed, as measured along a longitudinal axis A1 from the proximal end 102p to the distal end 102d of the inlet port. Although Figure 1 The shown entry port 102 has an oval or egg-shaped cross-section, but the entry port cutter 100 can be used with entry ports having any of a variety of cross-sectional shapes, such as circles, triangles with rounded corners, etc. More specifically, the shape of the opening 106 of the entry port cutter 100 can be configured to have a geometry complementary to the geometry of the entry port 102 intended for use with the entry port cutter 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, the access port 102 may include one or more engagement features, such as one or more slots 105 and / or ribs 107. For example, as Figure 1As shown, the access port 102 may include a plurality of horizontal slots 105 spaced apart along substantially the entire initial length L1 of the port (in some embodiments, protruding ribs may be used instead of slots). The slots 105 provide interfaces or engagement points for use with various surgical instruments during surgical procedures and / or for alignment with complementary features (not shown) on the inner surfaces of the opening 106 and / or extension 106A of the access port cutter 100. Thus, the slots 105 can be used to aid in aligning and securing the access port 102 within the opening 106. Additionally or alternatively, the port 102 may include one or more vertical ribs 107 for similar purposes (in some embodiments, vertically extending slots may be used instead of ribs). For example, the access port 102 may include a plurality of extruded vertical ribs 107 that may be aligned with complementary or corresponding rib features extending from the inner surfaces of the opening 106 and / or extension 106A.

[0040] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The partial cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter 100, taken by line DD, shows an opening 106 and an extension 106A receiving an inlet port 102. The opening 106 and / or extension 106A may include one or more interference features (such as ribs 109) extending toward a central longitudinal axis A2. Ribs 109 may apply frictional force to the inlet tube 102 received within the opening 106 to create an interference fit that holds the inlet port in place during and after cutting. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more ribs 109 may engage with a corresponding rib or slot 107 of the inlet port 102. While the illustrated embodiment of the inlet port cutter 100 shows two ribs 109, the position and / or number of ribs may vary. Additional or alternative interference features may include, for example, springs, elastomeric features, ball pawls, etc., to hold the inlet port 102 within the opening 106.

[0041] Returning to the inlet cutter 100, as described above, the blade 112 is slidably received within the channel 114 of the base 104, such that the blade 112 can traverse the opening 106 and cut the inlet port 102. The channel 114 can extend along substantially the entire length of the distal base portion 104d from a first end 104a to a second end 104b. The channel 114 can be formed between the proximal flat surface 120 and the distal flat surface 122. The opening 106 can be positioned toward the first end 104a of the distal base portion 104d and can extend through the flat surfaces 120, 122.

[0042] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1The image shows a cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter 100 taken by line AA, and illustrates a blade 112 slidably received within a channel 114 in the distal base portion 104d. In some embodiments, the blade 112 may be held within a blade holder 200 received within the channel 114. The blade holder 200 may have a generally flat body having a shape complementary to the shape of the channel 114. A first end 200a of the blade holder 200 may have a first arm 202 and a second arm 204, with a blade opening 206 extending between the first arm and the second arm. The blade 112 may be held within the blade holder 200 such that the front cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 is located within the blade opening 206. The blade opening 206 can be aligned with the opening 106 of the base 104, such that as the blade holder 200 linearly translates within the channel 114 to the first end 104a of the base, the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 can pierce and cut through the entry port 102 received within the opening 106 of the base 104. In some embodiments, the blade 112 and its cutting path can be designed to reduce deformation of the entry port. For example, the blade 112 can be positioned such that the sharp tip of the blade contacts and pierces the entry port 102 first. In some embodiments, the blade 112 can be heated to allow the blade to pass through the entry port 102 more smoothly. The first arm 202 and the second arm 204 can extend beyond the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 by a distance such that when the blade holder 200 moves to its foremost position (i.e., to the first end 104a of the base 104), the cutting edge of the blade can remain recessed from the leading edge 126 of the base. This reduces the risk of the user being cut by the blade 112 when the blade holder 200 and therefore the blade 112 are in the foremost position.

[0043] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 2 As shown, the blade 112 may be integrally formed with or otherwise permanently attached to the blade holder 200, and both the blade holder and the blade may be disposable. Alternatively, the blade holder 200 may be reusable, and the blade 112 may be inserted into the blade holder prior to operation of the port cutter 100. For example, the blade 112 may slide between the first arm 202 and the second arm 204 into the blade opening 206 of the blade holder 200.

[0044] The blade holder 200 may include one or more retaining features (such as retaining fingers 208a, 208b) that can hold the blade holder 200 in an initial or open position toward the rear end 104b of the base, i.e., the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 can be located away from the opening 106, such as, for example Figure 3As shown. In one embodiment, the fingers 208a, 208b are retained to engage with openings 124a, 124b in the distal base portion 104d. The fingers 208a, 208b are biased outward such that the tips 210a, 210b of the fingers 208a, 208b extend into the openings 124a, 124b. The tips 210a, 210b may include beveled edges 212a, 212b that are beveled inward toward the foremost point of the tip. In this way, a forward thrust can be applied to the blade holder 200 such that the bias of the fingers 208a, 208b can be overcome, and the tips 210a, 210b can slide forward and inward from the openings 124a, 124b along the beveled edges 212a, 212b. The blade holder 200 having the blade 112 is translatable along the channel 114 toward the first end 104a of the base.

[0045] The tips 210a, 210b of the fingers 208a, 208b also ensure that the blade holder 200 can be inserted into the channel 114 in only one direction, i.e., with the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 facing forward toward the first end 104a of the base 104. For example, the tips 210a, 210b may include second inclined surfaces 214a, 214b that are inclined outward away from the central longitudinal axis of the blade holder 200. The inclined surfaces 214a, 214b can abut the second end 104b of the base 104 in the event that the blade holder 200 is inserted in the wrong direction, and can prevent the blade holder from being further inserted into the channel 114. In some embodiments, the blade holder 200 may have a symmetrical design with an identical proximal-facing surface 200p and a distal-facing surface (not shown). Furthermore, as shown in insert A, in some embodiments, the blade 112A received within the blade holder 200 may have symmetrical cutting edges 113A, with the upper and lower tapered portions converging at the blade tip. This allows the blade 112A to cut through the entry port 102 with either side of the blade proximal. Thus, the blade holder 200 can be loaded into the base 104, with either side facing the proximal flat surface 120, simplifying the loading process. In other embodiments, the blade holder may be designed such that one side must face the proximal flat surface for proper loading. This can be useful for embodiments utilizing blades 112 with cutting edges 113 having a single-tapered geometry. For example, as shown in insert A, the blade 112B may have a cutting edge 113B with an upward or proximal tapered portion from the blade tip. This blade design can be beneficial in pushing debris upward away from the patient from the entry port 102 and the cutting portion of the entry port.

[0046] Figure 4 A side view of the inlet port cutter 100 in the initial or open position is shown, wherein the proximal portion 110p of the handle 110 may be in the foremost position. Figure 5 It shows along Figure 4 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the inlet cutter 100 taken from line BB. As described above, the shank 110 is pivotally connected to the base 104 about a pivot point 111, such that a rotational movement M1 of the proximal end 110p of the shank away from the first end 104a of the base (e.g., toward the gripper 108) causes the distal end 110d of the shank to move toward the first end 104a of the base 104 (e.g., in the direction of arrow M2). The distal end 110d of the shank can engage with the blade 112 and / or the blade holder 200, such that a rotational movement of the distal end in direction M2 causes the blade to translate linearly along the channel 114 toward the opening 106 in direction M3. Figure 9 In some embodiments, the rotational motion of the shank 110 can be converted into the linear motion of the blade 112 via, for example, a rack and pinion mechanism. More specifically, one or more teeth 128 may be formed on the distal end 110d of the shank 110. The teeth 128 may engage with a rack 216 formed in the blade holder 200, such that the rotational motion M2 of the teeth 132 can be converted into the linear motion M3 of the blade holder 200. Figure 9 and Figure 10 In other embodiments, the movement of the shank 110 can be converted to the linear movement of the blade 112 via another form of linear actuation mechanism (e.g., a ratchet mechanism). In some embodiments, couplings 128 and 130 may extend distally from the gripper 108 and the shank 110, respectively. Couplings 128 and 130 may be engaged at connection point 134 and may provide resistance to the movement of the shank 110 relative to the gripper 108, requiring a force on the shank 110 to overcome this resistance and move the proximal portion of the shank toward the gripper. Therefore, couplings 128 and 130 may reduce the risk of damage to and / or unintentional actuation of the blade 112.

[0047] Now refer to Figures 6 to 8 The safety lock features, such as the two-way locking pin 118 (also referred to as the lock in this document), are described in detail. Figure 6 This shows that lock 118 is in the first position. Figure 1 A front view of the inlet port cutter 100, in which relative movement between the shank 110 and the base 104 is restricted in this first position. The lock 118 may require the user to take an intentional action before the blade 112 can be driven by the inlet port cutter 100. For example, the user may be required to actuate the lock 118 to engage the lock from... Figure 6 The first position shown moves to the second position, in which the handle can move relative to the base, i.e., pivot. Figure 7 It is along Figure 1The line CC is taken as a cross-sectional view of the inlet port cutter 100, which shows a cross-sectional view of the lock 118 in a first position in which the movement of the handle 110 is restricted. Figure 8 It shows the relationship with Figure 7 The same sectional view, but the lock 118 is in a second position that allows the handle 110 to move.

[0048] Lock 118 may include a pin 302, a first intermediate portion 304a received through a first side 101a of an intermediate base portion 104i, a second intermediate portion 304b received through a second side 101b of the intermediate base portion, a first outer portion 306a, and a second outer portion 306b. Pin 302 may be coupled to the first outer portion 306a and the second outer portion 306b, and may extend from the first outer portion through the first intermediate portion 304a, across a gap 103 in the intermediate base portion 104i, through the second intermediate portion 304b, and into the second outer portion 306b. Pin 302 may have an enlarged diameter portion 303, wherein reduced diameter portions 305a, 305b extend from either side of the enlarged diameter portion. In some embodiments, the enlarged diameter portion 303 may be centrally positioned along the longitudinal axis of pin 302. Pin 302 may be accessible via a slot 136 in the shank 110. Figure 5 The gap 103 extends across the intermediate base portion 104i. The slot 136 may have an arcuate shape, wherein the enlarged diameter portion 138 is located at its first end.

[0049] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 A first spring 308a may be positioned between a first outer portion 306a and a first intermediate portion 304a, and a second spring 308b may be positioned between a second outer portion 306b and a second intermediate portion 304b. In the first position, the first spring 308a and the second spring 308b may apply opposing forces to the first outer portion 306a and the second outer portion 306b, such that the center pin 302 may be held such that the enlarged diameter portion 305 of the pin extends through the enlarged diameter portion 138 at the first end of the slot 136 in the handle 110. Therefore, movement of the handle 110 relative to the base 104 can be prevented because the enlarged diameter portion 303 of the pin 302 may have a larger diameter than the rest of the slot 136, such that movement of the slot is blocked by the pin 302. A force M4 (e.g., a compressive force on one side of the base 104 or a tension on the opposite side of the base) can be applied to one of the first outer portion 306a and the second outer portion 306b to move the lock 118 from the first position to the second position.

[0050] For example, Figure 8The lock 118 is shown in a second position, where a compressive force M4 has been applied to the first outer portion 306a, which compresses the first spring 308a and causes the pin 302 to translate toward the second intermediate portion 304b. More specifically, in the second position, the enlarged diameter portion 303 of the pin 302 can be received within a recess 310b of the second intermediate portion 304b, and the reduced diameter portion 305a of the pin can extend through the enlarged diameter portion 138 of the slot 136 in the handle 110. The reduced diameter portion 305a of the pin 302 can have a diameter less than or equal to the diameter of the slot 136, such that the slot is movable relative to the pin, which in turn allows the handle 110 to move relative to the base 104. Alternatively, a compressive force M4 may be applied to the second outer portion 304b such that the lock 118 can be placed in a second position, wherein the enlarged diameter portion 303 is received within the recess 310a of the first intermediate portion 304a and the reduced diameter portion 305b extends through the enlarged diameter portion 138 of the slot 136.

[0051] Figure 9 It shows Figure 5 The enlarged view of a portion of the inlet cutter 100 shown in box E shows the blade holder 200 received within the distal portion 104d of the base 104. More specifically, the blade holder 200 can be received within the channel 114 in an initial or open position, in which the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 is positioned away from the opening 106 toward the rear end 104b of the base. In the initial position of the inlet cutter 100, the foremost tooth 128 of the distal end 110d of the shank 110 can engage with the corresponding portion of the rack 216 of the blade holder 200. A lock 118 can be positioned in the first position such that the enlarged diameter portion 303 of the pin can be received within the enlarged diameter portion 138 of the slot 136. Thus, the lock 118 restricts the movement of the inlet cutter 100 and the blade holder 200.

[0052] Figure 10 The blade holder 200 is shown in its final or closed position (i.e., the shank 110 has been moved such that the blade 112 can extend across the opening 106 and the cutting edge 113 of the blade can be positioned toward the first end 104a of the base as if beyond the opening 106), received within the distal end 104d of the base 104. Figure 5 The inlet port cutter. Figure 10In the closed position, the lock 118 can be in the second position, such that the reduced diameter portion 303a of the pin 302 can be received within the slot 136 of the shank 110 and can abut the second end 140 of the slot 136. The proximal portion 110p of the shank 110 can extend toward the rear end 104b of the base, and the distal portion 110d of the shank can extend toward the front end 104a of the base. When the blade holder translates toward the front end 104a of the base, the tooth 128 can engage with the back portion of the rack 216 of the blade holder 200.

[0053] Now refer to Figures 1 to 10 One embodiment of a method for operating an access port cutter 100 to cut an access port 102 is described. The access port cutter 100 may be positioned in an initial or starting position that allows the access port cutter to be safely ready for use. A lock 118 may be positioned in a first position where movement of the handle 110 relative to the base 104 is restricted. A blade holder 200 may be positioned and secured within a channel 114 of the distal base portion 104d such that the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 is away from the opening 106. In some embodiments, a user (e.g., a surgeon, nurse, surgical robot, etc.) may insert the blade holder 200 into the rear end 104b of the channel 114 and may slide the blade holder forward toward the front end 104a of the channel until one or more engagement features of the blade holder (e.g., the tips 210a, 210b of retaining fingers 208a, 208b) engage with corresponding engagement features of the access port cutter (e.g., openings 124a, 124b of the distal base portion 104d). In cases where the blade 112 needs to be inserted into the blade holder 200, for example, where the blade holder is reusable and the blade is disposable, the user can slide the blade into the blade opening 206 of the blade holder until the blade is securely received in the blade opening before inserting the blade holder into the channel 114 of the inlet cutter 100. In other embodiments, the blade 112 can be loaded directly into the channel 114 without using the blade holder 200. In such embodiments, the blade 112 may include one or more engagement features (e.g., retaining fingers) formed directly thereon, such that the blade can be similarly secured within the channel 114 in an initial position. Thus, the inlet cutter 100 can be positioned in an initial position where the blade 112 can be positioned away from the opening 106 and movement of the shank 110 and the blade 112 relative to the base 104 is restricted.

[0054] An access port 102 having an initial length L1 can be inserted through an opening 106 of an access port cutter 100 until the desired length L2 extends distally from the opening 106. More specifically, the access port 102 can be received within the opening 106 such that the desired length L2 can extend distally from the distal flat surface 122 of the base 104. The desired length L2 can be determined based on any number of factors, such as the surgical procedure to be performed, the surgical access route, the patient's anatomy, the patient's body mass index, the surgical instruments to be used in the procedure, etc. In some embodiments, the access port 102 can be inserted distally into the opening 106 along axis A2 (i.e., top-loaded), such as... Figure 1 As shown. Alternatively, the access port 102 can be inserted proximally into the opening along axis A1 (i.e., bottom-loaded). In some embodiments, the distal end 102d of the access port 102 can be inserted through an incision in the patient's body before the proximal end 102p of the access port is proximally inserted into the opening 106 of the access port cutter 100. As described above, in some embodiments, the access port 102 can be received within the access port cutter opening 106 such that one or more engagement features of the access port (e.g., one or more horizontal slots 105 and / or vertical ribs 107) can engage with one or more corresponding features (not shown) of the opening 106. Additionally, in some embodiments, the access port 102 can be inserted such that one or more friction features (e.g., ribs 109) of the extension 106A can apply force to the access port 102, which can help retain the access port within the opening.

[0055] Locking pin 118 is movable from a first position to a second position to position the inlet port cutter 100 in a configuration that allows movement of the handle 110 relative to the base 104. More specifically, in some embodiments, the user can push or otherwise apply a force M4 (see [link to relevant documentation]) on the first outer portion 306a in the axial direction of the center pin 302. Figure 7 Force M4 compresses the spring 308a and moves the first outer portion 306a toward the intermediate base portion 104i, such that the pin 302 can move from a first position to a second position in the direction of the compressive force, in which the enlarged diameter portion 303 of the pin extends through the slot 136 of the shank 110 (see...). Figure 6 and Figure 9 In this second position, the reduced diameter portion 305a of the pin extends through the slot of the shank (see...). Figure 7 While this discussion refers to a compressive force M4 applied to the first outer portion 306a, alternatively, a compressive force may be applied to the second outer portion 306b, which would similarly move the lock 118 from the first position to the second position. Furthermore, tension may be applied instead of a compressive force to achieve the same effect.

[0056] With the lock 118 in the second position, the proximal portion 110p of the shank 110 can pivot relative to the base 104, such that the distal end 110d of the shank causes the blade 112 to translate linearly along the channel 114 toward the opening 106. The proximal portion 110p of the shank 110 can move toward the gripper 108 with rotational motion M1, such that the shank can pivot relative to the base 104 about the pivot point 111. As the shank 110 pivots, the slot 136 can move along the reduced diameter portion 305a of the center pin 302, and the distal end 110d of the shank 110 can rotate along arc M2, such that one or more teeth 128 can successively contact portions of the rack 216 of the blade holder 200. When the corresponding portions of the tooth 128 and rack 216 engage and disengage, the rotational motion M2 of the distal end 110d of the shank can be transferred to the blade holder 200 and thus the linear forward motion M3 of the blade 112 (see...). Figure 9 ).

[0057] The shank 110 is pivotable relative to the base, allowing the blade 112 to translate within the channel 114 toward the front end 104a of the base, and the cutting edge 113 of the blade to traverse the opening 106 (see...). Figure 10 Therefore, the blade 112 can cut through the inlet port 102 received within the opening 106, thereby reducing the axial length of the inlet port to a desired length L2. The shank 110 can pivot to the final position where the second end 140 of the slot 136 abuts the center pin 302 of the lock 118. Figure 10 In its final position, the blade 112 may extend across the opening 106, and the cutting edge 113 of the blade may be positioned beyond the opening toward the front end 104a of the base 104. The blade 112 effectively prevents debris from the access port 102 (i.e., the portion of the access port extending proximal to the cutting plane P1) from falling distally through the opening 106. In some embodiments, the cutting edge 113 of the blade 112 may taper upwards, which may encourage debris to move away from the patient. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rib 109 of the extension 106A may retain the cut portion of the access port 102 and any cut debris, thereby reducing the risk of debris falling into the surgical site and / or onto the patient. Additionally, the access port 102 may be made of a non-brittle material, so that debris fragments are reduced when cutting through the access port.

[0058] Figure 11A top view of the cross-section of another embodiment of an inlet port cutter 100′ having a cross-section taken along the cutting plane P1″ is shown. Except as shown below, the structure, operation, and use of this embodiment are similar or identical to those of the inlet port cutter 100, wherein components with similar designations generally have similar features. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a description of the structure, operation, and use of such features is omitted herein. The inlet port cutter 100′ may include a base 104′ having an opening 106′. The opening 106′ may receive an inlet port 102 (not shown) along a longitudinal axis (not shown). Figure 1 This vertical axis can be perpendicular to the page of the drawing (i.e., entering and leaving). Figure 11 (The page in the view extends). The base 104' may have a proximal portion 104p', a middle portion 104i', and a distal portion 104d'. The proximal portion may include a gripper 108'. The middle portion may have a first side 101a' and a second side (not shown), with a gap extending between the first side and the second side. The distal portion has an opening 106' extending through it. The distal portion 104d' may have a distal flat member 122', a proximal flat member (not shown), and a channel 114' extending between the distal flat member and the proximal flat member. It may be cut along the channel 114'. Figure 11 A cross-sectional view. The blade 112' is slidably received within the channel 114'. In some embodiments, the blade 112' may be comprised of a blade holder 200 ( Figure 3 The blade holder can be generally positioned within the channel 114' as described above. The inlet cutter 100' may include a shank 110' that is pivotable about a pivot point 111' relative to the base 104'. The shank 110' may engage with the blade holder 200 and / or the blade 112' such that a rotational movement M2' of the distal end 110d' of the shank causes a forward linear movement M3' of the blade toward the opening 106'.

[0059] exist Figure 11 In one embodiment, the intermediate base portion 104i′, the proximal base portion 104p′, the gripper 108′, and the shank 110′ may extend from the distal base portion 104d′ perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1 of the opening 106′. In other words, these portions 104i′, 104p′, 108′, and 110′ may extend from the distal base portion 104d′ in a straight line with the cutting plane P1″. The entry port cutter 100′ may also include any of the aforementioned features or components. For example, the entry port cutter 100′ may include a lock 118 that engages with a slot 136′ of the shank 110′. The distal end 110d′ of the shank 110′ may include a corresponding rack 216 on the blade holder 200. Figure 3One or more teeth 128' engage. The operation of the access port cutter 100' can be similar to or the same as the operation of the access port cutter 100 described above. While the embodiments of the access port cutters 100, 100' described above may have handles 110, 110' and grippers 108, 108' that extend at a fixed angle relative to the distal base portions 104d, 104d', in other embodiments, the handles and grippers may be adjustable such that their angle of extension relative to the distal base portions can be changed. In some embodiments, the handles 110, 110' and grippers 108, 108' may extend at a fixed angle relative to the distal base portions 104d, 104d' or may be adjustable to a specific angle such that the handles and grippers can extend away from the patient while operating the access port cutter above or near the patient. Thus, the user can cut the access port 102 without contacting the patient during use.

[0060] Figures 12 to 40 Alternative embodiments of the inlet port cutter of this disclosure are shown. Each inlet port cutter may include a blade that is linearly translatable along at least a portion of the base and can traverse an opening to cut the inlet port tube received in the opening. Furthermore, Figures 12 to 40 Each of the access port cutters may include a single blade that can be actuated during use, such as at a surgical site, in a surgical field, or near a patient. The access port cutters can be used to customize the access port to or to a desired length based on the specific needs of the patient and / or the surgery. While many access port cutters described throughout this disclosure are generally discussed as handheld or manually operable, in some embodiments, such access port cutters may be mounted to a worktable or a reusable housing / tray. Additionally, in some embodiments, such access port cutters may be navigation devices and can be operated by a robot in the context of robotic or robot-assisted surgery.

[0061] Figure 12 and Figure 13An entry port cutter 200 is shown. The entry port cutter 200 may include a base 204 having an opening 206 and a gripper 208. The opening 206 may receive an entry port 202 along a longitudinal axis B1 of the opening. A shank 210 may pivot relative to the base 204 and may linearly drive a blade 212 across the opening 206 from a rear end 204b of the base toward a front end 204a of the base. The shank 210 may be aligned vertically or substantially vertically (i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis B1) with the gripper 208 such that the shank may pivot vertically relative to the base 204. The vertical orientation of the shank 210 may limit torque on the entry port 202 when the shank 210 pivots relative to the base 204. In some embodiments, the entry port cutter 200 may be coupled to an entry port anchor 211, which may help maintain proper alignment of the entry port 202 relative to the entry port cutter.

[0062] Figure 13 Figure 1 is a side view of the inlet cutter 200, and Figure B is a top view taken along axis B1 of the portion of the inlet cutter 200 shown in circle B. In some embodiments, the opening 206 may be U-shaped or substantially U-shaped, such that the inlet port 202 can be inserted laterally (i.e., laterally loaded) into the opening 206 relative to the longitudinal axis B1. In other embodiments, the inlet port 202 may be inserted longitudinally along axis B1. The inlet cutter 200 may include a protrusion 209 that may extend from a portion of the base 204 toward the opening 206. The protrusion 209 may apply friction to the inlet port 202 received within the opening 206 and may help retain the inlet port therein. For example, the protrusion 209 may be a leaf spring that may retain a fragmented portion of the inlet port 202 after the inlet port has been cut by the blade 212. In some embodiments, the opening 206 may be sized such that a non-cylindrical inlet port 202 can be received and retained therein.

[0063] The shank 210 can move toward the gripper 208 in direction M13, which causes the blade 212 to translate linearly along the cutting path M13′ toward the front end 204a of the base 204 and across the opening 206. In some embodiments, the blade 212 and the cutting path M13′ can minimize deformation of the entry port 202. For example, the blade 212 can reach the sharp tip 214 at its foremost point. The opening 206 can be designed to receive the entry port 202 such that the weak point of the entry port can be placed at the location where the sharp tip 214 of the blade 112 first contacts the entry port 202 as the blade 112 moves along the cutting path M13′. In some embodiments, the blade 212 can lock into the front end 204a of the base 204 after cutting. For example, a lock (such as a latch 216) can extend from the gripper 208 and can be configured to engage the shank 210 to lock the shank, and thus the blade 212, in the final cutting position. After cutting, locking the blade 212 captures debris from the inlet port 202 and reduces the risk of damage to the user from the cutting edge 213 of the blade 212. The inlet port cutter 200 and debris (if captured) can then be removed from use in one step.

[0064] Figure 14 and Figure 15 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 200' is shown, which is... Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a variation of the inlet port cutter 200. Therefore, except as shown below, the structure, operation, and use of this embodiment are similar or identical to those of the inlet port cutter 200, wherein components with similar designations generally have similar features. The inlet port cutter 200' may include a base 204' having an opening 206' and a gripper 208'. The shank 210' may move relative to the base 204' to linearly drive the blade 212' across the opening 206'. The opening 206' may include a protrusion 209' that may retain the inlet port when initially positioned within the opening and retain the cut portion of the inlet port and any cutting debris within the opening after use. In the illustrated embodiment, the shank 210' may move proximally toward the gripper 208' in a direction M15. In other words, the user can press the shank 210' upward toward the gripper 208', which causes the blade 212' to extend along the cutting path M15' across the opening 206' from the rear end 204b' of the base 204' toward the front end 204a'. A lock 216' extends from the shank 210' and engages with the gripper 208' to lock the shank to the gripper in the final cutting position.

[0065] Figure 16Another embodiment of an entry port cutter 300 for cutting entry port 302 is shown. The entry port cutter 300 may have a base 304 with an opening 306 and a gripper 308. The opening 306 may receive the entry port 302 therein. In some embodiments, the entry port 302 may have a visual mark 303 along its outer surface to help a user position the entry port 302 within the entry port cutter 300. The shank 310 may be movable relative to the base 308 in a direction M16, such that the blade 312 may be linearly translated across the opening 306 along a cutting path M16′. The entry port cutter 300 may include an adjustable guide 350 and a clamp 352 that help align the base 304 and thus the blade 312 relative to the entry port 302. The guide 350 may be a rigid post that extends proximally from the base 304 of the inlet port cutter 300, parallel to the longitudinal axis C1 of the opening 306. Thus, when the inlet port is received within the opening 306, the guide 350 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inlet port 302. The clamp 352 may have an opening (not shown) for receiving the inlet port 302 and may translate longitudinally along the guide 350. The guide lock 354 is movable between a first position in which the clamp 352 is movable relative to the guide 350, and in the second position in which movement is restricted between the first and second positions. The clamp 352 may be moved longitudinally along the guide 350 to a position that secures the inlet port 302 relative to the inlet port cutter 300.

[0066] Figures 17 to 19 An embodiment of an entry port cutter 400 with an integrated clamping mechanism 402 is shown, which can connect the entry port cutter to the entry port. Figure 17 An inlet port cutter 400 is shown, which may include a base 404 having an opening 406 extending between a first arm 408 and a second arm 410 of the base. An inlet port retainer 412 may be inserted into the opening 406 through a first end of the base and may receive an inlet port 401 passing therethrough. More specifically, grooves 416a, 416b may extend along the first arm 408 and the second arm 410 and may respectively receive a first edge 412a and a second edge 412b of the retainer 412. The retainer 412 may help orient the base 404 relative to the inlet port 401 such that the blade 414 ( Figure 19The base 404 may extend from the base and traverse the opening 406 to cut through the access port. The base 404 may be integrated at a second end of the base or otherwise securely attached to the clamping mechanism 402. The clamping mechanism 402 may include a first lever arm 418 and a second lever arm 420 arranged in a scissor-like manner. The proximal portions 418p, 420p of the lever arms 418, 420 may be induced to converge toward each other, so that the distal portions 418d, 420d of the lever arms, which may respectively have recessed portions 422, 424, may move toward each other, such that the recessed portions may clamp or securely hold the access port 401 therebetween. The arms 418, 420 may be extended such that when the distal portions 418d, 429d move toward each other, the recessed portions 422, 424 may engage with the portion received in the base 402. Figure 18 The inlet port retainer 412 within the opening 406 is substantially aligned. Figure 19 An embodiment of the mechanical structure of the entry port cutter 400 inserted into the entry port retainer 410 is schematically shown. The distal portions 418d, 420d of the lever arms 418, 420 can be induced to converge toward each other (i.e., in direction M19), such that the recessed portions 422, 424 secure the entry port 401 therebetween. The blade 414 can then be driven linearly along a portion of the base 404 (i.e., in direction M19′), and the cutting edge 415 of the blade 414 can traverse the opening of the entry port retainer 412 to cut through the entry port 402.

[0067] Figure 20 and Figure 21 Another embodiment of an entry port cutter 500 for cutting an entry port 502 is shown. The entry port cutter 500 may include a base 504 having a proximal end 504a and a distal end 504b. A blade 512 may slide or translate across an opening 506 formed between the base 504 and a shank 510. More specifically, the opening 506 may be sized and shaped to receive the entry port 502 therein, and may be formed between a recessed edge of the base 504 and a corresponding edge of the shank 510. The shank 510 may have a proximal portion 510a that extends beyond the opening 506 and may form a lever arm relative to the distal portion 510b of the shank. The blade 512 may extend distally from the proximal portion 510a of the shank 510 such that the cutting edge of the blade faces the opening 506. The user can translate the shank 510 in the direction M20 (i.e., distally relative to the base 504) so ​​that the blade 512 can traverse the opening 506 and cut through the inlet port 502 received in the opening. If desired, the inlet port 502 can be rotated within the opening 506 so that the blade can cut through the entire periphery of the inlet port.

[0068] Figure 22Another embodiment of an access port cutter 600 is shown, which can cut an access port 602 to a desired length. The access port cutter 600 may have a base 604 having an attachment feature 606 at its first end 604a. The attachment feature 606 may engage with a corresponding attachment feature 608 of an access port ring 610. The access port ring 610 may have an inner cavity extending therethrough, configured to receive the access port 602. The access port ring 610 may be positioned along the access port 602 such that the desired length of the access port can extend distally from a proximal surface 610p of the access port ring 610. In some embodiments, the engagement feature 606 of the base 604 may be a groove, and the corresponding engagement feature 608 of the access port ring 610 may be a lip or a protrusion. The engagement feature 606 of the base 604 can be connected to the engagement feature 608 of the inlet port ring 610, such that the proximal surface 604p of the base 604 can be aligned with the proximal surface 610p of the ring 610.

[0069] The inlet cutter 600 may also include a blade 612 that is translatable across at least a portion of the proximal-facing surface 604p of the base 604. A shank 614 may be pivotally coupled to the base 604 about a pivot point 616. In some embodiments, the blade 612 may be spring-loaded with a spring 618. The shank 614 may pivot relative to the base 604 such that the spring 618 applies a spring force to the blade 610 and drives the blade toward a first end 604a of the base. The blade 612 may be spring-loaded such that the shank 614 may move to a final position in direction M22, and the blade may translate in direction M22′ to traverse the opening of the inlet ring 610 along the proximal-facing surface 610p of the inlet ring.

[0070] Figure 23 An inlet port cutter 700 is shown, which may include a base 702 having an opening 704 in which an inlet port 706 may be received. In some embodiments, the opening 704 may be generally C-shaped or U-shaped, such that the inlet port 706 may be inserted laterally into the opening. The shape of the opening 704 may allow non-cylindrical inlet ports (such as the inlet port 706 shown having an elliptical periphery) to be received therein. A blade 708 may extend from a shank 710, wherein the cutting edge 712 of the blade faces the opening 704 of the base 702. The shank 710 may move toward the base 702 such that the sharp tip 714 of the blade 708 may contact and pierce the inlet port 706 received within the opening 704. The cutting edge 712 of the blade 708 may traverse the opening 704 and may cut through the inlet port 706. The sharp tip 714 of the blade 708 pierces the inlet port 706 to prevent or reduce deformation of the inlet port, while the cutting edge 712 of the blade cuts through the inlet port.

[0071] Figure 24 Another embodiment of an inlet port cutter 800 is shown. The inlet port cutter 800 may include a base 802 having an opening 804 formed between a first arm 806 and a second arm 808. The opening 804 may be sized such that the inlet port (see...) Figure 1 The entry port extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axes of the first arm 806 and the second arm 808. The blade 810 may have a cutting edge 812 and is slidably received within the base 802, such that the blade can traverse the opening 804 and cut through the entry port received in the opening. More specifically, grooves 814a, 814b may be formed along substantially the entire length of each arm within the first arm 806 and the second arm 808. The first edge 810a and the second edge 810b of the blade 810 may be received within the grooves 814a, 814b of the first arm 806 and the second arm 808, respectively. One end of the blade 816 opposite the cutting edge 812 may be secured to a loading tool 818, which may be gripped by a user to insert the blade into the opening and to translate the blade within the opening in direction M24. In some embodiments, the base 802 may be designed for reuse, while the blade 810 and the loading tool 818 may be disposable.

[0072] Figure 25 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 900 is shown. The inlet port cutter 900 may have a base 902 having a first arm 902a and a second arm 902b, with an opening 904 formed between the first arm and the second arm. The first arm 902a and the second arm 902b may be separable from each other, which enlarges the opening 904 and helps to open the inlet port (see...) Figure 1 The arms 902a and 902b are then movable rearward toward each other in direction M25 and can secure the entry port within the opening 904 relative to the base 902. The shank 906 is pivotable relative to the base 902. The shank 906 is movable toward the base 902 in direction M25′, which linearly drives the blade 908 along the cutting path M25″. The blade 908 is translatable along at least a portion of the base 902 such that the blade can traverse the opening 904 and cut through the entry port received in the opening.

[0073] Figure 26 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 1950 is shown, which may have an inlet port cutter 1950 with an opening 1954 at the base 1952. In some embodiments, the opening 1954 may be substantially "C"-shaped or "U"-shaped, such that the inlet port ( Figure 1It can be inserted laterally into the opening. The blade 1956 having a cutting edge 1958 can extend from the shank 1960. The shank 1960 can move relative to the base 1952 such that the cutting edge 1958 of the blade 1956 can pass through the opening 1954 and cut through the inlet port received in the opening.

[0074] Figure 27 Another embodiment of an entry port cutter 1000 with a linkage mechanism is shown, which can be actuated to linearly drive a blade across the opening to cut the entry port 1002. More specifically, the entry port cutter 1000 may have a base 1004 having an opening 1006 extending therethrough. A gripping portion 1008 may extend laterally from a distal surface 1004d of the base 1004. A blade 1010 may extend slidably from the gripping portion 1008, wherein the cutting edge 1012 of the blade 1010 faces the opening 1006. A proximal surface 1010p of the blade 1010 may be flush with the distal surface 1004d of the base 1004. A shank 1014 may be pivotally connected to the base 1004 such that the shank 1014 may move toward the gripping portion 1008 in a direction M27. Link 1020 extends between shank 1014 and blade 1010, such that movement of shank 1014 toward gripper 1008 causes blade 1010 to translate linearly in the direction of opening 1006. Shank 1014 can close, i.e., move toward gripper 1008, which causes cutting edge 1012 to traverse opening 1006 and cut through entry port 1002 received in the opening. After cutting, waste portion 1022 of entry port 1002 can be removed proximally from base 1004.

[0075] Figures 28 to 31 Various embodiments of the inlet port cutter of this disclosure are shown, which can be operated by a user with one hand to cut the inlet port to the desired length during use. Figure 28 An access port cutter 1100 is shown, which may include a base 1102 having an opening 1104 positioned toward its proximal end 1102p. The base 1102 may have a gripping portion 1106 at its distal end 1102d, allowing a user to grasp an access port receiving within the opening 1104 (see [link to image]). Figure 1The base of the blade 1108. The blade 1108 may have a cutting edge 1110 and a shank 1112 opposite to the cutting edge. The blade 1108 may be positioned along the base 1102, wherein the cutting edge 1110 faces but is away from the opening 1104. At least a portion of the blade 1110 and the shank 1112 may extend distally from the distal end 1102d of the base. The user may grasp the shank 1112 and may move the shank toward the base 1102 in a direction M28, such that the blade 1108 may translate linearly along the base toward the proximal end 1102p of the base. The cutting edge 1110 of the blade 1108 may traverse the opening 1104 and may cut through the inlet port received in the opening. The shank 1112 may be aligned with the gripper 1106 so that the cutting edge 1110 moves completely across the opening 1104. In some embodiments, the handle 1112 may be shaped as a palm rest for a user's hand, and the gripper 1106 may extend generally perpendicular to the base 1102, allowing the user to place at least one finger on either end of the gripper.

[0076] Figure 29 An inlet port cutter 1200 is shown, which can be coupled with an inlet port cutter, except that the base 1202 of the inlet port cutter 1200 may have an upper flat surface 1202u and a lower flat surface (not visible). Figure 28 Similar to the inlet port cutter 1100, the slot 1203 extends between the upper flat surface and the lower flat surface. In addition to those discussed herein, Figure 29 The inlet port cutter 1200 and Figure 28 The features of the inlet port cutter 1100 may be identical or similar. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, descriptions of such features are omitted. The blade 1208 can be inserted into the slot 1203 of the base 1202 such that the cutting edge 1210 can face the opening 1204 and can be traversed through the opening 1204 by the forward thrust M29 applied to the blade 1208.

[0077] Figure 30 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 1300 is shown. The inlet port cutter 1300 may include a base 1302 having an opening 1304 therein, in which an inlet port can be received. Figure 1 The handle 1306 is slidably received within the base 1302 such that the cutting edge 1308 of the handle can pass through the opening 1304 and cut through the inlet port. The handle 1306 may have a gripping opening 1310 positioned toward the end of the handle 1306 opposite to the cutting edge 1308. In some embodiments, the opening 1310 may be a thumb or finger gripper. The handle 1310 is movable in direction M30 toward the opening 1304 of the base 1302 such that the cutting edge 1308 passes through the opening 1304.

[0078] Figure 31 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 1400 is shown. In some embodiments, the inlet port cutter 1400 may be small and disposable. The inlet port cutter 1400 may include a base 1402 having an opening 1404 to receive an inlet port therein. Figure 1 The base may have a first end 1402a, which may be shaped to fit the user's thumb or hand. A handle 1406 is slidably received within the base 1402 such that a cutting edge 1407 of the handle can pass through an opening 1404. In some embodiments, the handle 1406 may be inserted into the base 1402 from a side opposite to the first end 1402a, and the handle may slide along a portion of the base such that the cutting edge 1407 can move toward the first end 1402a across the opening 1404. The handle 1406 may have a first gripping opening 1408 and a second gripping opening 1410, which the user can access when the handle is received within the base 1402. In some embodiments, the first gripping opening 1408 and the second gripping opening 1410 may extend through opposite ends of the lateral portion of the handle 1406, such that one of the gripping openings 1408, 1410 can be positioned on either side of the base 1402. A user can place their thumb against the first side 1402a of the base and pass their fingers through one of the gripping openings 1408 or 1410 of the handle 1406, and can move the handle 1406 relative to the base 1402 such that the cutting edge 1407 traverses the opening 1404.

[0079] Figure 32 It shows that it can be used with Figure 31 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 1500 is similar to the inlet port cutter 1400. In addition to those described herein, similarly numbered features of the inlet port cutter 1500 may be associated with... Figure 31The features of the inlet port cutter 1400 are similar or identical. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a description of such features is omitted. The inlet port cutter 1500 may include a base 1502 having an opening 1504 therein to receive an inlet port 1501. The base 1502 may have a palm rest 1503 at a proximal end opposite the opening 1504, which may facilitate holding the base 1502 stably in the user's hand. The handle 1506 may have a cutting edge 1507 located at its distal end 1506d and a gripper 1508 located at its proximal end 1506p. The gripper 1508 may extend laterally relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle 1506. In some embodiments, the gripper 1508 may be designed such that the user can grip the gripper with one or more fingers on either side of the handle 1506 while the palm rest 1503 of the base 1502 is in the user's hand. The shank 1506 is slidably received within the base 1502, allowing the user to pull the shank proximally relative to the base 1502 (i.e., in direction M32), thereby causing the cutting edge 1507 of the shank to move proximally and cross the opening 1504.

[0080] Figure 33 A side view of another embodiment of an inlet cutter 1600 is shown, which may have a spring-loaded blade for cutting through an inlet port 1602. The inlet cutter 1600 may include a base 1604 having an opening 1606 in which the inlet port 1602 is received. A blade 1608 is slidably received within the base 1604, with the cutting edge 1610 of the blade facing the opening 1606. The blade 1608 may be spring-loaded by a spring 1612. A lever arm 1614 may have an extension 1616 at a first end 1614a of the arm. The extension 1616 may engage with a corresponding recess or opening (not shown) in the blade 1608, such that the spring 1612 is held in a compressed position and forward translation of the blade 1608 toward the opening 1606 is prevented. An upward force M33 toward the base 1604 can be applied to the second end 1614b of the lever arm, causing the extension 1616 to disengage from the blade 1608 and move away from the blade (i.e., in direction M33′). The spring 1612 can be released and extended distally to allow the blade 1608 to translate toward the opening 1606 (i.e., in direction M33″), such that the cutting edge 1610 of the blade can traverse the opening and cut through the inlet port 1602 received in the opening.

[0081] Figure 34Another embodiment of the inlet cutter 1700 is shown, which may include a base 1702 having an opening 1704 in which an inlet port 1706 can be received. A blade 1708 may extend from a shank 1710, with the cutting edge 1709 of the blade facing the opening 1704. The shank 1710 may move toward the opening 1704 in a direction M34 such that the cutting edge 1709 of the blade 1708 may traverse the opening and cut through the inlet port 1706. The shank 1710 may have a locking feature (such as a recess 1712) that can engage with a corresponding feature of the base 1702 (such as an extension 1714) to lock the shank to the base and restrict movement between them after the cutting action is completed. When the shank is in a position corresponding to the point where the cutting edge of the blade 1708 has traversed the entire surface area of ​​the opening 1704, the corresponding locking features of the shank 1710 and the base 1702 may engage with each other. This locking mechanism prevents the user from accidentally retracting the blade, which could result in injury or cause cutting debris to fall along the cutting inlet port 1706 toward the surgical site.

[0082] Figure 35 and Figure 36 An embodiment of the inlet port cutter of the present disclosure is shown, which may include a helical shank that drives a screw to cause a blade to translate linearly across the opening of the inlet port cutter. Figure 35 An inlet cutter 1800 is shown, which may include a base 1802 having an opening 1304. A threaded shaft 1806 extends from the base 1802 through a block 1808 to a shank 1810. The shank 1810 is rotatable in a first direction (e.g., clockwise as indicated by arrow M35), which causes the block 1808 to translate along the shaft 1806 toward the base 1802. A blade 1812 may have a cutting edge 1814 at a first end and an attachment member 1816 at a second end opposite the cutting edge. The attachment member 1816 may include one or more attachment features (e.g., posts 1818a, 1818b) that engage with corresponding attachment features of the block 1808 (e.g., a recess (not shown)) to securely attach the blade 1812 to the block 1808, with the cutting edge 1814 facing the opening 1804 of the base 1802. Therefore, as the block moves along axis 1808 toward base 1802, the blade 1812 can advance together with the block 1808. The block 1808 can advance toward base 1802 until the cutting edge 1814 of the blade 1812 can traverse the opening 1804 and cut through the entry port received in the opening. In some embodiments, the blade 1812 can be attached to the block 1808 such that the blade 1812 can translate across the proximal surface 1802p or the distal surface (not shown) of base 1802.

[0083] Figure 36 Another embodiment of the inlet cutter 1900 is shown, which may have a base 1902 having an opening 1904 extending through it to receive an inlet port 1901. The base 1902 may have a first portion 1902a and a second portion 1902b pivotally connected to each other. Similar to the inlet cutter 1800 described above, a threaded shaft 1906 may extend from the first portion 1902a of the base through a block 1908 to a shank 1910. The shank 1910 is rotatable, which allows the block 1908 and the blade 1912, to which it is thus fixed, to translate toward the base 1902, such that the cutting edge 1914 of the blade can traverse the opening and cut through the inlet port 1901. The first portion 1902a of the base may be connected to the second portion 1902b of the base by a hinge 1916, such that the first portion can pivot relative to the second portion of the base about an axis P. In other words, the angle of the first part 1902a relative to the second part 1902b can be adjusted around the hinge 1916 when entering or leaving. Figure 36 The orientation of the page is adjusted. As the threaded shaft 1908 extends from the first portion 1902a of the base, adjusting the angle of the first portion simultaneously adjusts the angle at which the blade 1912 can traverse the opening 1904 and cut through the entry port 1901. The hinge 1916 can be locked in place with the lock 1918, thus restricting relative movement between the first portion 1902a and the second portion 1902b. In this way, the angle at which the entry port cutter 1900 can cut the entry port 1901 can be varied based on the specific needs of the patient and / or the surgical procedure. This allows for beveling or angled cutting of the entry port to better fit within surgical sites surrounding specific patient anatomy.

[0084] Figures 37 to 40 Another embodiment of the inlet port cutter 2000 is shown. Figure 37 An embodiment of an access port 2002 for use with an access port cutter 2000 is shown. The access port 2002 may have a tubular body 2004 having one or more weak points 2006 along its length. In some embodiments, the weak point 2006 may have a smaller diameter and / or a smaller wall thickness than the rest of the tubular body 2004. Figure 38 and Figure 39A perspective view of an access port cutter 2000, which may have a base 2008 with an access port opening 2010, is shown. The opening 2010 may be configured to receive an access port 2002 therein, and more specifically, to receive a weak point 2006 of the port. For example, in some embodiments, a lip 2012 may have geometry corresponding to the weak point 2006 of the access port 2002 and may protrude into the opening 2010 such that the lip can be aligned with the weak point of the access port. The access port cutter 2000 may include a spring-loaded button mechanism 2014 that extends through the base 2008. Figure 40 A button 2016 of the mechanism 2014 can be pressed toward the base 2008 (i.e., in direction M38) so that the spring 2018 can apply a spring force to the blade 2020. The spring 2018 can drive the blade 2020 through the opening 2022 in the base 2008 and into the inlet port opening 2010, so that the cutting edge 2021 of the blade can traverse the inlet port opening and cut through the inlet port 2004 received in the inlet port opening.

[0085] Figure 41A , Figure 41B and Figure 42 Another embodiment of an entry port cutter 2100 capable of cutting entry port 2102 at multiple angles is shown. The entry port cutter 2100 can cut the entry port 2102 with straight cutting, i.e., such that the cutting surface of the entry port extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the entry port, or with bevel cutting, i.e., the cutting surface 2102s' of the entry port 2102' extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 2102l' of the entry port, such as... Figure 41B As shown. The entry port 2102' with the inclined surface 2102s' can be cut at a specific tilt angle to take into account variations in patient anatomy at the surgical site or along the surgical pathway. For example, the inclined surface 2102' can be cut at a certain angle to better fit the skeletal anatomy of the spinal surgical site.

[0086] The access port cutter 2100 can be placed or mounted on a workbench or hard surface located in an operating room or surgical field. Mounting the access port cutter 2100 allows for the use of a larger lever arm to cut through the access port, which can increase the thickness and / or rigidity of the access port that can be cut. Figure 41A A perspective view of the inlet port cutter 2100 is shown, and Figure 42 It shows Figure 41AThe inlet port cutter 2100 is shown in a top-down view. The inlet port cutter 2100 may include a base 2104 having a flat surface 2106 and a cutting surface 2108. The cutting surface 2108 may be perpendicular to the flat surface 2106, such that a cutting plane 2108P (flush with the cutting surface 2108) is formed. Figure 43 and Figure 44 It can also extend perpendicular to the flat surface 2106.

[0087] The center retainer 2110 may be integrally formed with or otherwise fixed to the flat surface 1906. The center retainer 2110 may be a hollow structure having a proximal surface 2110p, a distal surface 2110d, and an inner cavity 2110L extending between the proximal and distal surfaces. The proximal surface 2110p may face away from the cutting plane 2108P, and the distal surface 2110d may face the cutting plane and be flush with it. The inner cavity 2110L may extend through the proximal surface 2110p and the distal surface 2110d of the center retainer 2110, and the cavity may be sized to receive an inlet port 2102 passing through it. The longitudinal axis A of the inner cavity 2110L may extend perpendicular to the cutting plane 2108P. Figure 42 ).

[0088] In some embodiments, the access port guide 2111 may extend proximally from the center retainer 2110 along the longitudinal axis A of the cavity 2110L. The guide 2111 may include a tubular body 2113 that receives the access port 2102 when the access port is placed in the center retainer 2110. A knob 2115 is rotatable to adjust the length of the tubular body 2113 extending proximally from the center retainer 2110. A support 2117 may extend proximally from the flat surface 2106 of the base 2104 and retain at least one of the access port 2102, the knob 2115, or the tubular body 2113 such that the longitudinal axes of the access port, the tubular guide 2111, and the center retainer 2110 are collinear. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the tubular body 2113 may include an external thread 2119 that engages with a corresponding internal thread (not shown) of the center retainer 2110 and facilitates adjustment of the guide 2111 relative to it. The outer surface of the tubular body 2113 may include one or more visual markers 2121 that indicate to the user the distance from a specific point on the tubular body to the distally facing surface 2110d of the center retainer (i.e., to the cutting plane 2108P). Therefore, the access port guide 2111 can be used to assist in placing and adjusting the access port 2102 within the center retainer 2110 such that the desired length of the access port extends proximally from the cutting plane 2108P.

[0089] The inlet port cutter 2100 may also include one or more angled retainers, such as a first angled retainer 2112a, a second angled retainer 2112b, a third angled retainer 2112c, and a fourth angled retainer 2112d. Each angled retainer 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d may be integrally formed with or otherwise fixed to the flat surface 2106 of the base 2104. In some embodiments, each angled retainer 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d may have generally flat components 2114a, 2114b, 2114c, 2114d having proximal sides 2116a, 2116b, 2116c, 2116d that may face away from the cutting plane 2108P, distal sides 2118a, 2118b, 2118c, 2118d that may face the cutting plane, and an opening (not shown) extending from the first side through the second side. The flat components 2114a, 2114b, 2114c, 2114d of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d may extend perpendicularly to the flat surface 2106 and may be positioned such that the central longitudinal axes AA, AB, AC, AD of the openings of the angled retainers may extend at inclination angles α1, α2, α3, α4 relative to the cutting plane 2108P. In some embodiments, each of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d may be positioned such that each angled retainer may extend at different inclination angles α1, α2, α3, α4 relative to the cutting plane 1908P. For example, the first angled retainer 2112a may extend at an angle α1, which may be smaller than the angle α2 of the second angled retainer 2112b. Additionally, in some embodiments, the third angled retainer 2112c may extend at an angle α3, which is a mirror image of the angle α2 of the second angled retainer 2112b, and the fourth angled retainer 2112d may extend at an angle α4, which is a mirror image of the angle α1 of the first angled retainer 2112a. The tubular extensions 2120a, 2120b, 2120c, and 2120d may define the openings of the flat members 2114a, 2114b, 2114c, and 2114d and may extend distally therefrom to the cutting plane 2108P, such that the distal surface of the tubular extension is flush with the cutting plane. The dimensions and shapes of the openings of the flat members 2114a, 2114b, 2114c, and 2114d and the tubular extensions 2120a, 2120b, 2120c, and 2120d may be respectively configured to receive the entry port 2102 therein.

[0090] Figure 43A perspective view of an inlet cutter 2100 with a rolling cutter-type cutting assembly 2200 is shown. The cutting assembly 2200 may include a shank 2202 with a gripper 2204. The shank 2202 may have a blade 2206 with a cutting edge 2208. The shank 2202 may be attached to a base 2104 of the inlet cutter 2100 such that the shank is pivotable relative to the base and the blade 2206 is movable along a cutting plane 2108P to the cutting surface 2108. The blade 2206 may extend along the length of a lower portion of the shank 2202 such that the cutting edge 2208 is movable along the cutting plane 2108P, which is flush with the distally facing surfaces of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d and the center retainer 2110. More specifically, the user can move the gripper 2204 from an initial position toward the cutting surface with a movement M43, causing the shank, blade, and cutting edge to move toward the cutting surface along the cutting plane 2108P. In this initial position, the shank 2202, blade 2206, and cutting edge 2208 are positioned above, i.e., away from, the cutting surface 2108. The shank 2202 can be moved such that the cutting edge 2208 of the blade 2206 can cut through the inlet port 2102, which can be received in either the central retainer 2110 or any of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, and 2112d.

[0091] Figure 44 A perspective view of an inlet cutter 2100 with a sliding cutting assembly 2300 is shown. The sliding cutting assembly 2300 may have a shuttle 2302 that can receive a blade holder 2304 in which a blade 2306 is located. In some embodiments, the blade holder 2304 and the blade 2306 may be similar to or the same as the blade holder 200 and blade 112 described above. The shuttle 2302 is slidably attached to the inlet cutter 2100 such that the cutting edge 2308 of the blade 2306 can translate along a cutting plane 2108P, which is flush with the distally facing surface of each of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d and the central retainer 2110. A gripper 2308 may extend from the shuttle 2302 and can be used to drive the shuttle 2302 along the cutting plane 2108P. For example, a user can grip and move the gripper 2308 in the cutting direction M44 to drive the shuttle 2302 and thus drive the blade 2302 across one or more of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d and the center retainer 2110 along the cutting plane 2108P, and can cut through the entry port 2102 received in one of the angled retainers and the center retainer.

[0092] In use, the access port 2102 can be inserted into any of the center retainer 2110 or the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d until the desired length of the access port can be extended proximally from the distal surface of the respective center retainer or angled retainer along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the center retainer 2110 can be used to cut the access port 2102 to the desired length with a straight cut. The access port 2102 can then be inserted into one of the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d such that the distal end of the access port 2102 can be cut into a bevel with a desired angle. In other embodiments, the access port 2102 can initially be placed into the angled retainers 2112a, 2112b, 2112c, 2112d. The cutting assemblies 2200 and 2300 can then be operated as described above, such that the cutting edges 2208 and 2308 of the blades 2206 and 2306 can traverse the cutting plane 2108P, which is flush with the distal-facing surface of each of the central retainer and the angled retainers. Therefore, the inlet port 2102 can be cut to the desired length using a single movement M43 and M44 of the blades 2206 and 2306, regardless of which retainer the inlet port is received in.

[0093] The instruments disclosed herein can be constructed from any of a variety of known materials. Such materials include those suitable for surgical applications, including metals (such as stainless steel, titanium, nickel, cobalt-chromium, or alloys and combinations thereof), polymers (such as PEEK, carbon fiber), etc. The various components of the instruments disclosed herein can have varying degrees of rigidity or flexibility to suit their use. The device dimensions can also vary considerably depending on the intended use and the anatomy of the surgical site. Furthermore, specific components may be formed from materials different from other components. One or more components or portions of the instrument may be formed from radiopaque materials to facilitate visualization under fluoroscopic examination and other imaging techniques, or from radiolucent materials (such as carbon fiber and / or high-strength polymers) so as not to interfere with the visualization of other structures.

[0094] The devices and methods disclosed herein can be used in minimally invasive and / or open surgical procedures. Although the devices and methods disclosed herein are generally described in the context of surgery on human patients, it should be understood that the methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in any of a variety of surgical procedures on any human or animal subject, or in non-surgical procedures.

[0095] The device disclosed herein may be designed for single-use disposal or for multiple-use applications. However, in either case, the device can be repaired and reused after at least one use. Repair may include any combination of disassembly of the device, subsequent cleaning or replacement of specific parts, and subsequent reassembly steps. Specifically, the device is detachable, and any number of specific parts or components of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. After cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use at a repair facility or by a surgical team just before surgery. Those skilled in the art will understand that various techniques can be used for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly of the device. The use of such techniques and the resulting repaired device are within the scope of this application.

[0096] While specific embodiments have been described above, various variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the described concept. For example, although the apparatus and methods disclosed herein are generally described as manually operable, in some embodiments the inlet cutter disclosed herein may be operated, for example, by a robot, motor, hydraulic actuator, etc. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the described embodiments, but has the full scope defined by the language of the claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A surgical instrument, comprising: a base having an opening configured to receive a surgical access port therein along a longitudinal axis; a blade configured to linearly translate along at least a portion of the base; and an actuation mechanism, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to linearly translate the blade along at least a portion of the base such that the blade traverses the opening to cut through a surgical access port received within the opening, wherein the blade linearly translates within a channel of the base, the channel of the base formed between a proximal planar surface and a distal planar surface, the blade a portion of a blade carriage slidably received within the channel of the base, the opening extending through the proximal planar surface and the distal planar surface, wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises a handle pivotally connected to the base, the handle extending proximally from a distal portion of the base parallel to the longitudinal axis of the opening, and wherein pivoting the handle relative to the base linearly translates the blade.

2. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the handle comprises a first engagement feature and the blade comprises a second engagement feature, wherein the first engagement feature is configured to engage with the second engagement feature to linearly translate the blade along the at least a portion of the base.

3. The surgical instrument of claim 2, wherein the first engagement feature is a pinion gear and the second engagement feature is a rack gear.

4. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the blade carriage comprises a retention feature configured to retain the blade away from the opening.

5. The surgical instrument of claim 1, further comprising a locking feature to prevent operation of the actuation mechanism.

6. The surgical instrument of claim 5, wherein the locking feature is a bi-directional lockout pin extending through the actuation mechanism.

7. The surgical instrument of claim 1, further comprising an extension bounding the opening and extending proximally therefrom.

8. The surgical instrument of claim 7, wherein the extension comprises at least one interference feature configured to engage waste material of an access port body received within the opening.

9. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the longitudinal axis of the opening extends at an oblique angle relative to the portion of the base along which the blade translates such that the blade traverses the opening to obliquely cut through the surgical access port.

10. A surgical system, comprising: a surgical instrument according to any one of claims 1-9, the surgical instrument being an access port cutter having a blade, an actuation mechanism, and at least one opening configured to receive an access port therein; and an access port having a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to linearly translate the blade to cut through the access port received within the opening.

11. The surgical system of Claim 10, wherein the at least one opening of the access port cutter comprises a plurality of openings.

12. The surgical system of Claim 11, wherein a first opening of the plurality of openings has a central longitudinal axis extending at a first angle relative to a cutting surface of the access port cutter, and a second opening of the plurality of openings has a central longitudinal axis extending at a second angle relative to the cutting surface of the access port cutter, the second angle being different than the first angle.

13. The surgical system of Claim 10, wherein the access port cutter opening comprises a feature to apply force on the access port.

14. The surgical system of Claim 10, wherein the access port has a non-circular shape.

15. The surgical system of Claim 10, wherein the blade is configured to cut through the access port at an oblique angle relative to a central longitudinal axis of the access port.

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