Biopsy system and coupler device for use therewith

Abstract

A coupler device (16) for interfacing between a biopsy driver (12) and an intraosseous device (14) includes a drive body having a distal drive receptacle. The drive body is rotatable about a longitudinal axis. The distal drive receptacle is configured to be drivingly coupled to a drive portion of the intraosseous device. A distal coupler portion is coupled to the drive body and is configured to operate a distal latching member. The distal latching member latches the drive body to the intraosseous device when the distal coupler portion is in a distal coupler latched position. The distal coupler portion has a distal housing portion that is movable in either a distal direction or a proximal direction. The distal coupler portion has a distal release position and a proximal release position. The distal housing portion is configured to move the distal coupler portion to the release position to operate the distal latching member.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] none Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a biopsy system, and more particularly to a biopsy system having a connector device for docking between the drive shaft of a biopsy actuator and the drive portion of an intraosseous device. Background Technology

[0004] Bone biopsy surgical procedures involve using surgical devices to provide access to a patient's bone tissue, such as cortical bone or bone marrow. Such surgical devices may include a handheld motorized drill that uses an electric or pneumatic motor to rotate the cutting elements of an intraosseous device (e.g., a biopsy needle). In some applications, a device may be provided for releasably connecting the biopsy needle to the drive shaft of the motorized drill. One such device is unidirectionally operable to release the biopsy needle from the motorized drill, facilitating needle replacement during the bone biopsy procedure.

[0005] What is needed in the art is a biopsy system having a connector device for docking between the drive shaft of a biopsy actuator and the drive portion of an intraosseous device, wherein the connector device can be configured to facilitate bidirectional (push-pull) release of the intraosseous device from the biopsy actuator. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a biopsy system and a connector device for docking between the drive shaft of a biopsy actuator and the drive portion of an intraosseous device are provided, wherein the connector device can be configured to facilitate bidirectional (push-pull) release of the intraosseous device from the biopsy actuator.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to a connector device for docking between the drive shaft of a biopsy actuator and the drive portion of an intraosseous device. The connector device includes a drive body, a distal latching member, and a distal connector portion. The drive body has a longitudinal axis and a distal drive receiving portion. The drive body is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The distal drive receiving portion is configured to be drivably coupled to the drive portion of the intraosseous device. The distal latching member is coupled to the drive body. The distal connector portion is coupled to the drive body and configured to operate the distal latching member. The distal connector portion is associated with the distal drive receiving portion. The distal latching member is configured to latch the drive body to the intraosseous device when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latched position. The distal connector portion has a distal housing portion movable in either a distal or proximal direction. The distal connector portion is configured to have a distal release position and a proximal release position. The distal housing portion is configured to move in the distal direction to move the distal connector portion to the distal release position to operate the distal latch member.

[0008] Similarly, the distal housing portion is configured to move in the proximal direction to move the distal connector portion to the proximal release position to operate the distal latch member.

[0009] According to another embodiment, the present invention relates to a biopsy system. The biopsy system includes a biopsy actuator, an intraosseous device, and a connector device of the present invention mentioned herein for connecting the biopsy actuator to the intraosseous device.

[0010] The advantage of this invention is that the connector device facilitates bidirectional (push-pull) release of the intraosseous device from the biopsy actuator.

[0011] Another advantage is that the distal housing portion can pivot about the longitudinal axis, allowing the external operating arm connected to the distal housing portion to be positioned to accommodate right-hand or left-hand operation of the distal connector portion. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention, and their implementations, will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the following description of embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a biopsy system having a biopsy actuator, an intraosseous device, and a connector device having a proximal connector portion and a distal connector portion, both of which are shown in their respective latched positions.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side view of the biopsy system, in which the connector device is disengaged from each of the biopsy actuator and the intraosseous device.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the connector device.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 1-3 A side view of the connector assembly, wherein each of the proximal connector portion and the distal connector portion is shown in its respective latched position, and the release position of the proximal connector portion is further depicted by dashed lines.

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 1-4 The connector device from Figure 4 The orientation shown is rotated 90 degrees around the longitudinal axis in another side view, where each of the proximal and distal connector portions is shown in its respective latched position, and the release position of the proximal connector portion is further depicted by dashed lines.

[0018] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly taken from line 6-6, in which the components of each of the proximal and distal connector portions are in their respective latching positions.

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figure 1-6 A side view of the connector assembly, wherein the proximal connector portion is in the latched position and the distal connector portion is in the distal released position.

[0020] Figure 8 It is the connector device from Figure 7 The orientation shown is rotated 90 degrees around the longitudinal axis in another side view, with the proximal connector portion in the latched position and the distal connector portion in the distal release position.

[0021] Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly taken from line 9-9, where the components of the proximal connector section are in the latched position, while the components of the distal connector section are in the distal released position.

[0022] Figure 10 yes Figure 1-6 A side view of the connector assembly, wherein the proximal connector portion is in the latched position and the distal connector portion is in the proximal release position.

[0023] Figure 11 It is the connector device from Figure 10 The orientation shown is rotated 90 degrees around the longitudinal axis in another side view, with the proximal connector portion in the latched position and the distal connector portion in the proximal release position.

[0024] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the connector assembly taken from line 12-12, in which the components of the proximal connector portion are in the latched position, while the components of the distal connector portion are in the proximal released position.

[0025] Figure 13 yes Figure 1-6 A side view of a portion of the connector assembly, wherein the proximal and distal housing portions are removed and oriented to show a proximal wedge member of the proximal release sleeve positioned on the drive body of the connector assembly, and wherein the proximal release sleeve and the proximal latching member are in the latched position.

[0026] Figure 14 yes Figure 1-6 Part of the connector device from Figure 13 The side view shown is rotated 180 degrees, with the proximal and distal housing portions removed and oriented to show a bidirectional wedge member of the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion positioned on the drive body of the connector device, and wherein the distal release sleeve and the distal latching member are in the latched position.

[0027] Throughout these views, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding components. The examples described herein illustrate at least one embodiment of the invention, and such examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Refer to the attached diagram, and especially refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 A biopsy system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The biopsy system 10 includes a biopsy actuator 12, an intraosseous device 14, and a connector device 16. The biopsy actuator 12 has a drive shaft 12-2-1. The intraosseous device 14 has a drive portion 14-1. The connector device 16 is configured to mate between the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 and the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14, such that the intraosseous device 14 can be coupled to the biopsy actuator 12 via the connector device 16 so that the intraosseous device 14 can be rotatably driven by the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12.

[0029] Especially references Figure 2The biopsy actuator 12 is configured to be handheld, i.e., held by a user's hand, and may include an actuator housing 12-1, a motor 12-2, a motor controller circuit 12-3, and a trigger 12-4, wherein the motor, motor controller circuit, and trigger are coupled to the actuator housing 12-1. The motor 12-2 and motor controller circuit 12-3 are mounted within the actuator housing 12-1. The trigger 12-4 is movably coupled to the actuator housing 12-1, for example, by sliding or pivoting. The motor 12-2 may be, for example, a direct current (DC) motor, and the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the motor 12-2 may be configured as a polygonal arrangement having a drive surface 12-5, wherein the polygonal arrangement may be, for example, hexagonal. The drive shaft 12-2-1 includes an annular groove 12-6 intersecting with the region of the polygonal arrangement of the drive surface 12-5.

[0030] The onboard battery power supply 12-7 is electrically connected to the motor 12-2, the motor controller circuit 12-3, and the trigger 12-4. Power can be supplied to the motor 12-2, the motor controller circuit 12-3, and the trigger 12-4 via the onboard battery power supply 12-7. In this embodiment, the onboard battery power supply 12-7 includes a battery 12-8, such as a permanent battery, or alternatively a replaceable and / or rechargeable battery. Alternatively, a non-onboard power source (e.g., an AC wall socket) can supply power to the biopsy driver 12.

[0031] The trigger 12-4, for example, can be a sliding rheostat, for supplying user input commands to the motor controller circuit 12-3. The motor controller circuit 12-3 includes processing circuitry and power supply circuitry to receive and process user input commands from the trigger 12-4, execute pre-installed program instructions, and supply power and operating signals to the motor 12-2. The program instructions may include processor instructions to process the user input commands received from the trigger 12-4 to select a desired rotational speed for the motor 12-2 with drive shaft 12-2-1, and optionally, to select a motor acceleration and / or torque curve. The drive shaft 12-2-1 includes an annular groove 12-6.

[0032] In this embodiment, the intraosseous device 14 is in the form of a bone biopsy needle assembly having a biopsy needle portion 14-2 connected to a drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14. The drive portion 14-1 may be configured with an arrangement of wavy driven surfaces 14-3 (e.g., a generally polygonal arrangement). In this embodiment, the arrangement of the wavy driven surfaces 14-3 consists of alternating curved peaks and curved valleys surrounding the periphery 14-4 of the drive portion 14-1.

[0033] refer to Figure 1-3In this embodiment, the connector device 16 includes a drive body 18, a proximal latching member 20, a distal latching member 22, a proximal connector portion 24, and a distal connector portion 26. The distal connector portion 26 includes a distal housing portion 28. Each of the proximal connector portion 24 and the distal connector portion 26 is coupled to the drive body 18. The proximal connector portion 24 and the distal connector portion 26 of the connector device 16 are configured to be operatively and structurally independent, although when used together, they provide an additional functional aspect to accommodate the pivoting indexing of the proximal connector portion 24 relative to the distal connector portion 26.

[0034] The drive body 18 has a longitudinal axis 30, about which it is rotatable. The drive body 18 has a proximal drive receiving portion 18-1, a distal drive receiving portion 18-2, a distal end portion 18-3, a central annular recess 18-4, a central lip 18-5, and a proximal lip 18-6. The central annular recess 18-4 is partially defined by the central lip 18-5. The central lip 18-5 of the drive body 18 also defines a spring engagement surface 18-7. Thus, the central lip 18-5 is located between the central annular recess 18-4 and the spring engagement surface 18-7.

[0035] Also refer to Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 The distal drive receiving portion 18-2 is located on the longitudinal axis 30 within the distal cylindrical portion 18-8 of the drive body 18. The exterior of the distal cylindrical portion 18-8 of the drive body 18 includes a plurality of longitudinally extending guide protrusions 18-9. The exterior of the distal cylindrical portion 18-8 of the drive body 18 also includes a proximal surface 18-10, which may, for example, be positioned (formed) at the proximal ends of the plurality of longitudinally extending guide protrusions 18-9.

[0036] The proximal drive receiver 18-1 is associated with the proximal connector portion 24, and the distal drive receiver 18-2 is associated with the distal connector portion 26. The proximal drive receiver 18-1 is configured, for example, in size and shape as a polygonal arrangement of drive surface 12-5 of drive shaft 12-2-1 of biopsy actuator 12, driven in an engaging manner. The distal drive receiver 18-2 is configured, for example, in size and shape as an arrangement of wavy driven surface 14-3 of drive portion 14-1 of intraosseous device 14, driven in an engaging manner (e.g., slidably receiving).

[0037] Special Reference Figure 3The drive body 18 also includes a proximal slotted region 32 and a distal slotted region 34. The distal slotted region 34 is longitudinally spaced from the proximal slotted region 32 in the distal direction 36, and similarly, the proximal slotted region 32 is longitudinally spaced from the distal slotted region 34 in the proximal direction 38. The distal slotted region 34 is located on the distal cylindrical portion 18-8 of the drive body 18.

[0038] The proximal slotted region 32 extends inward from the outer surface of the drive body 18 to the proximal drive receiving portion 18-1. The proximal slotted region 32 can be configured as a pair of diametrically opposed slots 32-1 (e.g., parallel vertical slots in the orientation shown). The proximal slotted region 32 slidably receives the proximal latching member 20 to axially constrain the proximal latching member 20 relative to the drive body 18 and to facilitate the proximal latching member 20 rotating in unison with the drive body 18.

[0039] Similarly, the distal slotted region 34 extends inward from the outer surface of the drive body 18 to the distal drive receiving portion 18-2. The distal slotted region 34 can be configured as a pair of diametrically opposed slots 34-1 (e.g., parallel vertical slots in the orientation shown). The distal slotted region 34 slidably receives the distal latching member 22 to axially constrain the distal latching member 22 relative to the drive body 18 and facilitate the distal latching member 22 to rotate in unison with the drive body 18.

[0040] Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4-6 Each of the figures shows a proximal connector portion 24 and its corresponding component in the proximal connector latch position 40, and also shows a distal connector portion 26 and its corresponding component in the distal connector latch position 42. The proximal connector portion 24 is coupled (e.g., slidably coupled) to the drive body 18 and is configured to operate the proximal latch member 20. The distal connector portion 26 is coupled (e.g., slidably coupled) to the drive body 18 and is configured to operate the distal latch member 22.

[0041] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4-6 As depicted, the proximal latching member 20 is configured to latch the drive body 18 to the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 when the proximal connector portion 24 is in the proximal connector latch position 40. (See also: Special Reference) Figure 4-5The proximal latch member 20 is configured to release the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 when, for example, the proximal connector portion 24 is moved relative to the drive body 18 in the distal direction 36 to the first release position 52 (depicted by dashed lines), so as to facilitate the removal of the connector device 16 from the biopsy actuator 12.

[0042] Refer again Figure 3 The proximal latching member 20 is a proximal U-shaped member having a head 44 and a pair of legs 46 (respectively identified as legs 46-1 and legs 46-2). For convenience, the proximal U-shaped member will be referred to as proximal U-shaped member 20 below. The pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 are configured, for example, in size and shape to be received in a pair of diameter-opposing slots 32-1 in the proximal slotted region 32 of the drive body 18.

[0043] The pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 have an inner surface 46-3, wherein the inner surface 46-3 is a surface on the proximal U-shaped member 20 located between legs 46-1 and legs 46-2. In this embodiment, the pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 are parallel, that is, legs 46-1 are parallel to legs 46-2, or at least substantially parallel.

[0044] Combination Figure 4 refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 When the proximal connector portion 24 is in the proximal connector latch position 40, a pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 extend into the proximal drive receiving portion 18-1 of the drive body 18 (see also...). Figure 6 The leg 46-2 is shown, and is thus configured to engage the annular groove 12-6 on the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 (see...). Figure 2 ), so as to latch the connector device 16 to the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy driver 12.

[0045] Refer again Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4-6 The distal latching member 22 is configured to latch the drive body 18 to the intraosseous device 14 when the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal connector latch position 42. (See again) Figure 3 In this embodiment, the distal latching member 22 is a distal U-shaped member. For convenience, the distal U-shaped member 22 will be referred to as the distal U-shaped member 22 below. The distal U-shaped member 22 has a head 48 and a pair of legs 50 (each designated as leg 50-1 and leg 50-2).

[0046] The pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 have an inner surface 50-3, wherein the inner surface 50-3 is a surface on the distal U-shaped member 22 located between legs 50-1 and legs 50-2. In this embodiment, the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 are parallel, that is, legs 50-1 are parallel to legs 50-2, or at least substantially parallel. The pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 are configured, for example, in size and shape to be received in a pair of diameter-opposing slots 34-1 in the distal slotted region 34 of the drive body 18.

[0047] Combination Figure 4 refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 When the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal connector latch position 42, a pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 extend into the distal drive receiving portion 18-2 of the drive body 18 (see also...). Figure 6 (See leg portion 50-2). Thus, the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 are configured to engage the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 when the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal connector latch position 42 (see...). Figure 2 ), so as to latch the connector device 16 to the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14.

[0048] The distal connector portion 26, having the distal housing portion 28, is movable in either the distal direction 36 or the proximal direction 38. In other words, the distal connector portion 26 is bidirectionally operable. The distal connector portion 26 has a distal release position 54 (see...). Figure 7-9 ) and proximal release position 56 (see Figure 10-12 (See reference for details) Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4-6 The distal connector portion 26, depicted in the distal connector latch position 42, has a distal housing portion 28 that is movable in the distal direction 36 to move the distal connector portion 26 to the distal release position 54 (see [link]). Figure 7-9 This allows the distal latching member 22 (e.g., the distal U-shaped member 22) to be released from the intraosseous device 14. Conversely, the distal housing portion 28 is movable in the proximal direction 38 to move the distal connector portion 26 to the proximal release position 56 (see [link to original text]). Figure 10-12 The distal connector portion 26 is operable in both directions, for example by moving the distal housing portion 28 proximally or distally, to release the distal latching member 22 (e.g., the distal U-shaped member 22) from the intraosseous device 14, so as to facilitate the removal of the intraosseous device 14 from the connector device 16.

[0049] refer to Figure 9 In this embodiment, when the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal release position 54, the distal end 26-1 of the distal connector portion 26 extends axially beyond the distal end 18-3 of the drive body 18 along the distal direction 36. Furthermore, referring to… Figure 3 and Figure 9 When the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal release position 54, although the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 remain engaged with the pair of diametrically opposed slots 34-1 of the drive body 18 (see... Figure 9 Legs 50-2 are shown passing through one of the pair of diametrically opposed slots 34-1, but the pair of legs 50 on the distal U-shaped member 22 ( Figure 9 The legs 50-2 shown retract radially from the distal drive receiving portion 18-2 of the drive body 18. Therefore, when the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal release position 54, the distal U-shaped member 22 (more specifically, the pair of legs 50) is configured to disengage from the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2 This facilitates the removal of the intraosseous device 14 from the distal connector portion 26 of the connector device 16.

[0050] refer to Figure 12 In this embodiment, when the distal connector portion 26 is in the proximal release position 56, the distal end 26-1 of the distal connector portion 26 retracts in the distal direction 36 relative to the distal end 18-3 of the drive body 18. Furthermore, referring to… Figure 3 and Figure 12 When the distal connector portion 26 is in the proximal release position 56, although the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 remain engaged with the pair of diametrically opposed slots 34-1 of the drive body 18 (see... Figure 12 The legs 50-2 are shown passing through one of a pair of diametrically opposed slots 34-1, but the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 are radially retracted from the distal drive receiving portion 18-2 of the drive body 18. Therefore, when the distal connector portion 26 is in the proximal release position 56, the distal U-shaped member 22 (more specifically, the pair of legs 50) is configured to disengage from the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2 This facilitates the removal of the intraosseous device 14 from the distal connector portion 26 of the connector device 16.

[0051] Refer again Figure 3-6The proximal connector portion 24 includes a proximal retainer member 58, a proximal housing portion 60, a proximal release sleeve 62, and a proximal partial spring 64. The proximal housing portion 60, the proximal release sleeve 62, and the proximal partial spring 64 are axially inserted between the proximal retainer member 58 and the intermediate lip 18-5 of the drive body 18.

[0052] The proximal retainer member 58 includes a neck 58-1 and an annular retaining lip 58-2. The neck 58-1 has an outer peripheral surface 58-3. The annular retaining lip 58-2 extends radially inward toward the longitudinal axis 30. The annular retaining lip 58-2 is configured to engage axially with the proximal lip 18-6 of the drive body 18, and the two cooperate to retrain the proximal connector portion 24 onto the drive body 18 in the proximal direction 38.

[0053] The proximal housing portion 60 includes a collar portion 60-1, a cylindrical extension 60-2, and an annular lip 60-3. The annular lip 60-3 is located at the junction of the collar portion 60-1 and the cylindrical extension 60-2. The proximal housing portion 60 is engaged proximally by a proximal retainer member 58, for example, through the engagement of the annular retaining lip 58-2 of the proximal retainer member 58 with the annular lip 60-3 of the proximal housing portion 60. The proximal housing portion 60 is configured, for example, in size and shape to radially surround the proximal release sleeve 62 and the proximal latching member 20. More specifically, the cylindrical extension 60-2 of the proximal housing portion 60 is configured, for example, in size and shape to radially surround the proximal release sleeve 62 and the proximal latching member 20.

[0054] refer to Figure 6 The collar portion 60-1 has an inner peripheral surface 60-4. In some embodiments, the driver receiving bag can be mounted to the proximal connector portion 24 by inserting a portion of the driver receiving bag (not shown; for receiving the biopsy driver 12) between the inner peripheral surface 60-4 of the collar portion 60-1 of the proximal housing portion 60 and the outer peripheral surface 58-3 of the neck 58-1 of the proximal retainer member 58.

[0055] refer to Figure 6 ,refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2At least one of the neck 58-1 of the proximal retainer member 58 and / or the collar portion 60-1 of the proximal housing portion 60 may be configured, for example, in size and shape to engage the actuator housing 12-1 (e.g., in a face-to-face contact manner) to prevent the proximal connector portion 24 of the connector device 16 from rotating relative to the actuator housing 12-1 of the biopsy actuator 12. For example, the inner circumferential surface 60-4 of the collar portion 60-1 of the proximal housing portion 60 may be configured, for example, in size and shape to engage the distal outer portion 12-1-1 of the actuator housing 12-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 in a face-to-face contact manner (see...). Figure 2 This is to prevent the proximal connector portion 24 of the connector assembly 16 from rotating relative to the driver housing 12-1 of the biopsy driver 12.

[0056] Refer again Figure 3 The cylindrical extension 60-2 of the proximal housing portion 60 includes a plurality of indexing openings 60-5 surrounding the periphery of the cylindrical extension 60-2. The plurality of indexing openings 60-5 of the cylindrical extension 60-2 of the proximal housing portion 60 can be used to rotatably index the proximal connector portion 24 to the distal connector portion 26 at a plurality of discrete angular intervals around the longitudinal axis 30. In this embodiment, the plurality of indexing openings 60-5 in… Figure 3 The two slots are represented as two diameter-opposing slots, for example, spaced 180 degrees apart. However, for some applications, it may be desirable for these two slots to be non-diameter-opposing. Additionally, for some applications, the multiple indexing openings 60-5 may include more than three slots, which may be angularly spaced around the periphery of the cylindrical extension 60-2 of the proximal housing portion 60, or alternatively, non-angularly spaced.

[0057] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 The proximal release sleeve 62 is configured, for example, in size and shape to slide axially along the drive body 18. Further reference... Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, the proximal housing portion 60 is configured to engage the proximal release sleeve 62, allowing the proximal release sleeve 62 of the proximal connector portion 24 to slide axially from the proximal connector latch position 40 to a first release position 52. This allows the proximal latching member 20 to be operated to release the drive body 18 from the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12, thereby facilitating the removal of the connector device 16 from the biopsy actuator 12. In other words, when the user applies a distal force to the proximal housing portion 60, the proximal housing portion 60 moves in the distal direction 36, which in turn causes the proximal release sleeve 62 to move in the distal direction 36, thereby operating the proximal latching member 20.

[0058] refer to Figure 3 The proximal release sleeve 62 is a generally cylindrical shape with sidewalls 62-1, wherein multiple portions are removed to define a proximal wedge member 62-2 at the sidewalls 62-1. See also... Figure 13 The proximal wedge member 62-2 includes a first tapered surface 62-3 and a second tapered surface 62-4, wherein, in the illustrated orientation, the first tapered surface 62-3 and the second tapered surface 62-4 tend to converge along the distal direction 36 and, conversely, tend to diverge along the proximal direction 38. The proximal wedge member 62-2 is configured, for example, in size and shape, such that when the proximal release sleeve 62 of the proximal connector portion 24 is axially moved along the distal direction 36 from the proximal connector latch position 40 to the first release position 52 (see also...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), towards the inner surface 46-3 of the pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 (see Figure 3 Apply an outward force to open the pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20, thereby allowing the pair of legs 46 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 to engage with the annular groove 12-6 on the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 (see...). Figure 2 ) to break away.

[0059] Therefore, refer to Figure 13 As the proximal release sleeve 62 of the proximal connector portion 24 moves axially in the distal direction 36, the distance 62-5 between the first tapered surface 62-3 and the second tapered surface 62-4 at the intersection of the proximal wedge member 62-2 and the pair of legs 46 of the proximal latch member 20 increases, thereby increasing the spacing between legs 46-1 and 46-2 of the pair of legs 46 of the proximal latch member 20. This increase in the spacing between legs 46-1 and 46-2 then causes the pair of legs 46 to extend into the proximal slotted region 32 of the drive body 18 (see...). Figure 3 And refer to Figure 6 The proximal latch member 20 moves outward in a pair of diametrically opposed slots 32-1, which in turn retracts the pair of legs 46 of the proximal latch member 20 radially from the proximal drive receiver 18-1 to facilitate removal of the connector device 16 from the drive shaft 12-2-1 of the biopsy actuator 12 (see [link]). Figure 2 ).

[0060] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 (refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5The proximal portion spring 64 is configured, for example, in size and shape, to axially bias the proximal release sleeve 62 of the proximal connector portion 24 toward the proximal connector latch position 40 along the proximal direction 38. The proximal portion spring 64 may be, for example, a helical spring having a proximal end 64-1 and a distal end 64-2. In this embodiment, the proximal portion spring 64 is inserted between the proximal release sleeve 62 of the proximal connector portion 24 and the intermediate lip 18-5 of the drive body 18 to bias the proximal release sleeve 62. More specifically, in this embodiment, the proximal portion spring 64 is inserted between the spring engagement surface 18-7 of the drive body 18 and the proximal release sleeve 62 to bias the proximal release sleeve 62 toward the proximal connector latch position 40 along the proximal direction 38.

[0061] Furthermore, the proximal housing portion 60 is axially moved from the proximal connector latch position 40 to the first release position 52 (see, for example, see...). Figure 4 and Figure 5 The proximal release sleeve 62 is able to move axially in the distal direction 36 against the biasing force applied by the proximal portion spring 64 in order to actuate the release of the proximal latch member 20 (i.e., having a pair of legs 46) (see...). Figure 3 This facilitates the removal of the connector device 16 from the biopsy driver 12.

[0062] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 When the proximal connector portion 24 is assembled and connected to the drive body 18, the proximal spring 64 is axially restricted, for example, distally, through engagement of the distal end 64-2 of the proximal spring 64 with the intermediate lip 18-5 of the drive body 18, and is axially restricted in the proximal direction 38 through engagement of the annular retaining lip 58-2 of the proximal retainer member 58 with the proximal lip 18-6 of the drive body 18. The proximal release sleeve 62 and the proximal spring 64 are radially surrounded by the proximal housing portion 60, which is axially movable relative to the drive body 18, and wherein the proximal release sleeve 62 and the proximal spring 64 are inserted between the intermediate lip 18-5 of the drive body 18 and the proximal retainer member 58 of the proximal connector portion 24.

[0063] Refer again Figure 1-5In this embodiment, the distal connector portion 26 includes a distal housing portion 28 optionally having an external operating arm 70. The external operating arm 70 is fixedly connected to, for example, an integral part of, the housing sidewall 28-1 of the distal housing portion 28. The external operating arm 70 is an elongated member that extends cantileveredly from the housing sidewall 28-1 in a proximal direction 38 (in the illustrated orientation). The length of the external operating arm 70 can be selected such that the free end portion 70-1 of the external operating arm 70 extends proximally to the proximal side of the proximal housing portion 60 of the proximal connector portion 24 for user access. The free end portion 70-1 is configured, for example, in size and shape to facilitate push-pull operation of the distal connector portion 26. For example, the free end portion 70-1 may include a flared end portion 70-2 forming a side grip to help the user grip during a pulling operation, and the flared end portion 70-2 may include an end gripping feature 70-3 (e.g., a ridge or knurling) to help grip during a pushing operation.

[0064] refer to Figure 3-6 In this embodiment, the distal connector portion 26 further includes a distal release sleeve 72, a washer 74, a distal portion spring 76, a distal retainer member 78, and an intermediate retaining ring 80. Each of the distal housing portion 28, the distal release sleeve 72, the washer 74, the distal portion spring 76, the distal retainer member 78, and the intermediate retaining ring 80 radially surrounds the drive body 18. The washer 74 and the distal portion spring 76 are axially inserted between the distal release sleeve 72 and the distal retainer member 78. The distal retainer member 78 is coupled to the distal housing portion 28, for example, via a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0065] The distal housing portion 28 is a generally cylindrical structure having a housing sidewall 28-1, a distal end region 28-2, and a proximal end region 28-3. The distal end region 28-2 of the distal housing portion 28 includes an annular bearing member 28-4. The proximal end region 28-3 of the distal housing portion 28 includes multiple snap-fit ​​grooves 28-5 (see...). Figure 4-6 These snap-fit ​​grooves are arranged annularly around the periphery of the housing sidewall 28-1 to facilitate connection to the distal retainer member 78. The distal housing portion 28 radially surrounds the distal release sleeve 72, the washer 74, and the distal portion spring 76.

[0066] refer to Figure 3 The distal retainer member 78 is an annular ring member having multiple locking tabs 78-1 and multiple longitudinal slots 78-2. (See reference) Figure 4 and Figure 5 Multiple locking tabs 78-1 are configured to engage multiple snap-fit ​​grooves 28-5 at the proximal end region 28-3 of the distal housing portion 28 in order to connect the distal retainer member 78 to the distal housing portion 28.

[0067] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 The intermediate retaining ring 80 includes an annular retaining lip 80-1 and a plurality of indexing protrusions 80-2. The annular retaining lip 80-1 extends radially inward toward the longitudinal axis 30. The annular retaining lip 80-1 is configured, for example, in size and shape, for engaging with the intermediate annular recess 18-4 of the drive body 18. The plurality of indexing protrusions 80-2 are located around the outer periphery 80-3 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 and extend outward from the outer periphery of the intermediate retaining ring. The annular retaining lip 80-1 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 is configured, for example, in size and shape, to engage the intermediate annular recess 18-4 of the drive body 18 in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0068] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 The intermediate retaining ring 80 has multiple indexing protrusions 80-2 that longitudinally engage with corresponding multiple longitudinal slots 78-2 on the distal retainer member 78, wherein the distal retainer member 78 is axially slidable relative to the intermediate retaining ring 80.

[0069] refer to Figure 3 At the inner periphery 80-5 of the intermediate retaining ring 80, the intermediate retaining ring 80 may further include an internal pawl member 80-4. The internal pawl member 80-4 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 of the distal connector portion 26 is configured, for example, in size and shape, to selectively engage one of the plurality of indexing openings 60-5 of the cylindrical extension 60-2 of the proximal connector portion 24 when the distal connector portion 26 pivots relative to the proximal connector portion 24, so as to rotatably index the distal connector portion 26 to one of a plurality of discrete intervals around the longitudinal axis 30, the plurality of discrete intervals being defined by the positions of the plurality of indexing openings 60-5 of the cylindrical extension 60-2 of the proximal connector portion 24.

[0070] Refer again Figure 7-12 The distal release sleeve 72 is configured, for example, in size and shape, to slide axially along the drive body 18 and rotate in unison with the drive body 18. In this embodiment, the distal housing portion 28 is operably engaged with the distal release sleeve 72 (e.g., axially) to allow the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 to slide axially relative to the drive body 18 in either the distal direction 36 or the proximal direction 38, so as to actuate the distal latching member 22 from the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see also...). Figure 2Release the drive body 18 to facilitate the removal of the intraosseous device 14 from the connector device 16. The distal release sleeve 72 is axially movable relative to the proximal surface 18-10 of the drive body 18.

[0071] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 14 The distal release sleeve 72 is a generally cylindrical shape with sidewalls 72-1, wherein multiple portions are removed to define a bidirectional wedge-shaped section 72-2. The bidirectional wedge-shaped section 72-2 is configured, for example, in size and shape to operate the distal latch member 22. The distal release sleeve 72 also has a distal end portion 72-3 and a proximal end portion 72-4. The distal end portion 72-3 includes an annular bearing channel 72-5.

[0072] The interior of the sidewall 72-1 of the distal release sleeve 72 includes a plurality of longitudinally extending channels 72-6. The distal release sleeve 72 is received on the distal cylindrical portion 18-8 of the drive body 18, and a plurality of longitudinally extending guide protrusions 18-9 of the drive body 18 are received in the plurality of longitudinally extending channels 72-6 of the distal release sleeve 72. Thus, the distal release sleeve 72 is axially movable relative to the drive body 18, and the distal release sleeve 72 rotates in unison with the drive body 18.

[0073] The annular bearing member 28-4 of the distal housing portion 28 is configured, for example, in size and shape to be received in the annular bearing channel 72-5 of the distal release sleeve 72, such that the distal release sleeve 72 moves axially in unison with the distal housing portion 28, and the distal release sleeve 72 rotates in unison with the drive body 18 in the distal housing portion 28. For example, when the distal release sleeve 72 rotates in unison with the drive body 18, the distal housing portion 28 may be rotationally stationary.

[0074] The distal connector portion 26 and the proximal connector portion 24 may include pawl features to provide tactile feedback to the user regarding the corresponding right-hand and left-hand positions of the distal housing portion 28. In this embodiment, for example, the internal pawl member 80-4 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 of the distal connector portion 26 may be selectively positioned in one of the plurality of indexing openings 60-5 of the proximal housing portion 60 of the proximal housing portion 24 by rotating the distal connector portion 26 relative to the proximal connector portion 24.

[0075] Thus, the distal housing portion 28 can pivot (may pivot) by, for example, 180 degrees relative to the distal release sleeve 72 about the longitudinal axis 30 to selectively position the external manipulator 70 on either side of the opposite side of the diameter of the longitudinal axis 30, i.e., on either side of the opposite side of the actuator housing 12-1 of the biopsy actuator 12, so as to accommodate either right-handed or left-handed use of the distal connector portion 26 for the biopsy actuator 12.

[0076] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6-9 The distal connector portion 26 is configured for bidirectional operation such that when, for example, the distal housing portion 28 having the external operating arm 70 moves toward the intraosseous device 14 in the distal direction 36, the distal release sleeve 72 moves from the distal connector latch position 42 to the distal release position 54, such that the bidirectional wedge-shaped portion 72-2 of the distal release sleeve 72 (see also...) Figure 14 ) Operate the distal latching member 22 to facilitate the insertion of the intraosseous device 14 (see Figure 2 Removed from the distal drive receiving portion 18-2 of the drive body 18. Similarly, refer to... Figure 3 and Figure 10-12 The distal connector portion 26 is configured such that when, for example, the distal housing portion 28 having the external operating arm 70 moves in the proximal direction 38 toward the biopsy actuator 12, the distal release sleeve 72 moves from the distal connector latch position 42 to the proximal release position 56, such that the bidirectional wedge-shaped section 72-2 of the distal release sleeve 72 (see also...) Figure 14 ) Operate the distal latching member 22 to facilitate the insertion of the intraosseous device 14 (see Figure 2 Removed from the distal drive housing 18-2 of the drive body 18.

[0077] Also refer to Figure 14 The bidirectional wedge-shaped section 72-2 of the distal release sleeve 72 includes a first wedge member 82 and a second wedge member 84. The first wedge member 82 is configured, for example, in size and shape, to engage the distal release sleeve 72 from the distal connector latch position 42 along the distal direction 36 (see...). Figure 4-6 ) Move axially to the distal release position 54 (see also) Figure 7-9 When, towards the distal U-shaped member 22, the inner surfaces 50-3 of the pair of legs 50 (see) Figure 3 An outward force is applied to open the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22, thereby allowing the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 to engage with the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2Disengagement. Similarly, the second wedge member 84 is configured, for example, in size and shape, to allow the distal release sleeve 72 to move axially along the proximal direction 38 from the distal connector latch position 42 to the proximal release position 56 (see also...). Figure 10-12 When, towards the distal U-shaped member 22, the inner surfaces 50-3 of the pair of legs 50 (see) Figure 3 An outward force is applied to open the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22, thereby allowing the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 to engage with the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2 ) to break away.

[0078] Refer again Figure 14 The first wedge member 82 of the distal release sleeve 72 is axially opposed to the second wedge member 84 of the distal release sleeve 72. The first wedge member 82 is connected to the second wedge member 84 at an intersecting plane 86, wherein, when the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22 (see also...) Figure 3 When located at the intersecting plane 86, the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal connector latch position 42 (see...). Figure 4-6 And the connector device 16 is latched to the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0079] The first wedge member 82 includes a first tapered surface 82-1 and a second tapered surface 82-2, wherein, in the indicated orientation, the first tapered surface 82-1 and the second tapered surface 82-2 tend to converge along the distal direction 36 and, conversely, tend to diverge along the proximal direction 38. The first wedge member 82 is configured, for example, in size and shape, such that when the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal direction 36 from the distal connector latch position 42 (see...) Figure 4-6 ) Move axially to the distal release position 54 (see Figure 7-9 When, towards the distal U-shaped member 22, the inner surfaces 50-3 of the pair of legs 50 (see) Figure 3 Apply an outward force to open the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22, thereby allowing the pair of legs 50 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 to engage with the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2 ) to break away.

[0080] Therefore, refer to Figure 14 As the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 moves axially along the distal direction 36, a pair of legs 50 of the first wedge member 82 and the distal latch member 22 (see...) Figure 3At the intersection of the first tapered surface 82-1 and the second tapered surface 82-2, the distance 82-3 between them increases, thereby increasing the spacing between legs 50-1 and 50-2 of the pair of legs 50 of the distal latch member 22. This increase in the spacing between legs 50-1 and 50-2 then causes the pair of legs 50 to... Figure 3 and Figure 10 The pair of diameter-opposing slots 34-1 of the distal latching member 22 are moved outward, which in turn causes the pair of legs 50 of the distal drive receiving portion 18-2 to be radially retracted, so as to facilitate the insertion of the intraosseous device 14 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 Remove from the distal connector portion 26 of the connector assembly 16.

[0081] The second wedge member 84 includes a first tapered surface 84-1 and a second tapered surface 84-2, wherein, in the indicated orientation, the first tapered surface 84-1 and the second tapered surface 84-2 tend to converge along the proximal direction 38 and, conversely, tend to diverge along the distal direction 36. The second wedge member 84 is configured, for example, in size and shape, such that when the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 is in the proximal direction 38 from the distal connector latch position 42 (see... Figure 4-6 ) Move axially to the distal release position 54 (see Figure 10-12 When, towards the distal U-shaped member 22, the inner surfaces 50-3 of the pair of legs 50 (see) Figure 3 Apply an outward force to open the pair of legs 50 of the distal U-shaped member 22, thereby allowing the pair of legs 50 of the proximal U-shaped member 20 to engage with the annular groove 14-5 on the drive portion 14-1 of the intraosseous device 14 (see...). Figure 2 ) to break away.

[0082] Therefore, refer to Figure 14 As the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 moves axially in the proximal direction 38, a pair of legs 50 of the second wedge member 84 and the distal latch member 22 (see...) Figure 3 At the intersection of the first tapered surface 84-1 and the second tapered surface 84-2, the distance 84-3 between them increases, thereby increasing the spacing between legs 50-1 and 50-2 of the pair of legs 50 of the distal latch member 22. This increase in the spacing between legs 50-1 and 50-2 then causes the pair of legs 50 to... Figure 3 and Figure 12The pair of diameter-opposing slots 34-1 of the distal latching member 22 are moved outward, which in turn causes the pair of legs 50 of the distal drive receiving portion 18-2 to be radially retracted, so as to facilitate the insertion of the intraosseous device 14 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 Remove from the distal connector portion 26 of the connector assembly 16.

[0083] The distal portion spring 76 is inserted between the assembly of the plurality of indexing protrusions 80-2 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 and the distal retainer member 78, and the distal release sleeve 72. The distal portion spring 76 is configured, for example, in size and shape to axially bias the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 to the distal connector latch position 42. More specifically, in this embodiment, the distal portion spring 76 is inserted between the assembly of the plurality of indexing protrusions 80-2 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 and the distal retainer member 78, and the washer 74. Both the proximal surface 18-10 of the drive body 18 and the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 are located distal to the distal portion spring 76.

[0084] refer to Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 Washer 74 is positioned to surround drive body 18. In this embodiment, washer 74 has a T-shaped profile in cross-section. Washer 74 is inserted between the proximal surface 18-10 of drive body 18 and the distal portion of spring 76. Washer 74 is also inserted between the distal release sleeve 72 of distal connector portion 26 and the distal portion of spring 76.

[0085] refer to Figure 6 The distal connector portion 26 is configured such that when the distal connector portion 26 is in the distal connector latch position 42 (see also...) Figure 4-5 When the washer 74 contacts both the proximal surface 18-10 of the drive body 18 and the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26, the washer 74 contacts both the proximal surface 18-10 of the drive body 18 and the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26.

[0086] refer to Figure 9 When moved distally through the distal housing portion 28 (e.g., a pushing action; see also...) Figure 7-8When the distal connector portion 26 moves axially in the distal direction 36 from the distal connector latch position 42 toward the distal release position 54, the following events occur: the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 moves toward the distal release position 54 and the distal release sleeve 72 separates from the washer 74, the washer 74 contacts the proximal surface 18-10 of the drive body 18 to prevent the washer 74 from moving in the distal direction 36, and the distal portion spring 76 is compressed against the washer 74 by the movement of the distal retainer member 78 in the distal direction 36 together with the movement of the distal housing portion 28 in the distal direction 36.

[0087] Furthermore, the distal connector portion 26 is configured such that when the distal connector portion 26 is released from movement in the distal direction 36, the distal portion spring 76 biases the distal release sleeve 72 to the distal connector latch position 42 via the proximal movement of the distal housing portion 28 (see [link]). Figure 6 ).

[0088] Additionally, refer to Figure 12 The distal connector portion 26 is configured such that when moved proximally via the distal housing portion 28 (e.g., a pulling action; see also...) Figure 10-11 And so that the distal connector portion 26 moves along the proximal direction 38 from the distal connector latch position 42 (see...) Figure 4-6 When the distal release sleeve 72 of the distal connector portion 26 moves axially toward the proximal release position 56, the following events occur: the washer 74 separates from the proximal surface 18-10 of the drive body 18, and as the distal retainer member 78 moves along the proximal direction 38 together with the distal housing portion 28 moving along the proximal direction 38, the distal portion spring 76 is compressed against the plurality of indexing protrusions 80-2 of the intermediate retaining ring 80 by the movement of the washer 74 along the proximal direction 38.

[0089] Furthermore, when the distal connector portion 26 (e.g., the distal housing portion 28) is released from movement along the proximal direction 38, the distal portion spring 76 biases the distal release sleeve 72 to the distal connector latch position 42 (see [link to original text]). Figure 6 ).

[0090] Although Figure 1-14 The embodiment of the connector device 16 depicted includes both a distal connector portion 26 and a proximal connector portion 24. However, it should be understood that, optionally, aspects of the invention associated with the distal connector portion 26 may be implemented individually or in combination with alternatives to the proximal connector portion 24. Similarly, optionally, aspects of the invention associated with the proximal connector portion 24 may be implemented individually or in combination with alternatives to the distal connector portion 26.

[0091] The following items are also related to this invention:

[0092] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a connector device (for a bone biopsy device) for docking between the drive shaft of a biopsy actuator and the drive portion of an intraosseous device. The connector device may include a drive body, a distal latching member, and a distal connector portion. The drive body may have a longitudinal axis and a distal drive reception portion. The drive body may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The distal drive reception portion may be configured to be drivably coupled to the drive portion of the intraosseous device. The distal latching member may be coupled to the drive body. The distal connector portion may be coupled to the drive body and configured to operate the distal latching member. The distal connector portion may be associated with the distal drive reception portion. The distal latching member may be configured to latch the drive body to the intraosseous device when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latched position. The distal connector portion may have a distal housing portion movable in either a distal or proximal direction. The device can be configured such that the distal connector portion can be configured to have a distal release position and a proximal release position, wherein the distal housing portion can be configured to move in a distal direction to move the distal connector portion to the distal release position in order to operate the distal latch member.

[0093] In any embodiment, the device may be configured such that the distal housing portion may be configured to move in a proximal direction to move the distal connector portion to a proximal release position in order to operate the distal latch member.

[0094] In some embodiments, the connector device may include a proximal latching member and a proximal connector portion. The proximal latching member may be coupled to a drive body. The proximal connector portion may be coupled to the drive body and may be configured to operate the proximal latching member. The proximal latching member may be configured to latch the drive body to the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator when the proximal connector portion is in the proximal connector latched position. The proximal latching member may be configured to release the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator when the proximal connector portion is in a first released position. The drive body may have a proximal drive reception associated with the proximal connector portion. The proximal drive reception may be configured to engage with the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator in a drive-engaged manner.

[0095] In embodiments having a proximal connector portion, the proximal connector portion may include a proximal release sleeve capable of sliding axially along the drive body. A proximal housing portion may radially surround the proximal release sleeve, wherein the proximal housing portion may be configured to engage the proximal release sleeve to axially slide the proximal release sleeve of the proximal connector portion from a proximal connector latch position to a first release position, thereby actuating the proximal latch member to release the drive body from the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator, thereby facilitating removal of the connector device from the biopsy actuator.

[0096] In embodiments with a proximal connector portion, the drive body may have a proximal slotted region. The proximal slotted region may be configured to axially restrict a proximal latching member. The proximal latching member may be a proximal U-shaped member with a pair of legs. The pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member may be configured to engage the proximal slotted region on the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator when the proximal connector portion is in the proximal connector latched position, thereby latching the connector device to the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator. The proximal release sleeve may have a proximal wedge member configured to apply an outwardly pointing force to the inner surface of the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member when the proximal release sleeve of the proximal connector portion moves axially from the proximal connector latched position to a first release position, thereby opening the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member to disengage the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member from the proximal slotted region on the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator.

[0097] In embodiments with a proximal release sleeve, the drive body may have a spring engagement surface, and the connector device may further include a proximal portion spring inserted between the spring engagement surface of the drive body and the proximal release sleeve. This (device) may be configured such that the proximal portion spring can be configured to axially bias the proximal release sleeve of the proximal connector portion to a proximal connector latch position.

[0098] In any embodiment, the distal connector portion may include a distal release sleeve slidable axially along the drive body. The device may be configured such that the distal housing portion may be configured to radially surround the distal release sleeve, wherein the distal housing portion may be operatively engaged with the distal release sleeve to allow the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion to slide axially relative to the drive body to operate a distal latching member to release the drive body from the drive portion of the intraosseous device, thereby facilitating removal of the intraosseous device from the connector device. The device may be configured such that the distal connector portion may be configured such that: when the distal housing portion moves distally toward the intraosseous device, the distal release sleeve moves from a distal connector latching position to a distal release position to facilitate removal of the intraosseous device from the distal drive reception portion of the drive body; and when the distal housing portion moves proximally toward the biopsy actuator, the distal release sleeve moves from a distal connector latching position to a proximal release position to facilitate removal of the intraosseous device from the distal drive reception portion of the drive body.

[0099] In any embodiment, the drive body may have a distal slotted region. The distal slotted region may be configured to axially restrict the distal latching member. The distal latching member may be a distal U-shaped member having a pair of legs. The device may be configured such that the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member may be configured to engage a groove on the drive portion of the intraosseous device when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latch position, so as to latch the connector device to the drive portion of the intraosseous device. The distal release sleeve may include a first wedge member and a second wedge member. The device may be configured such that the first wedge member may be configured to apply an outwardly pointing force to the inner surface of the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member when the distal release sleeve is axially moved in the distal direction from the distal connector latch position to the distal release position, to open the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member, thereby disengaging the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member from the groove on the drive portion of the intraosseous device. The device can be configured such that the second wedge member can be configured to apply an outward force to the inner surface of a pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member when the distal release sleeve moves axially in the proximal direction from the distal connector latch position to the proximal release position, thereby opening the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member and disengaging the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member from the groove on the drive portion of the intraosseous device.

[0100] In the embodiments described in the preceding paragraph, the first wedge member of the distal release sleeve may be axially opposed to the second wedge member of the distal release sleeve, the first wedge member may be connected to the second wedge member at the intersecting plane, and (the device may be configured such that the first wedge member of the distal release sleeve) is configured such that when a pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member are located at the intersecting plane, the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latch position and the connector device is latched to the drive portion of the intraosseous device.

[0101] In any embodiment, the distal connector portion may further include a distal retainer member and a distal portion spring. The distal retainer member may be coupled to the distal housing portion. The distal portion spring may be inserted between the distal retainer member and the distal release sleeve. The distal portion spring may be configured such that it axially biases the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion to the distal connector latch position.

[0102] In any embodiment, the drive body may have a proximal surface, and both the proximal surface of the drive body and the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion may be located distal to the distal portion of the spring. The distal release sleeve may be configured to be axially movable relative to the proximal surface of the drive body. The distal connector portion may include a washer positioned around the drive body and configured such that the washer is inserted between the proximal surface of the drive body and the distal portion of the spring, and wherein the washer is inserted between the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion and the distal portion of the spring.

[0103] In the embodiments described in the preceding paragraph, the (device) can be configured such that the distal connector portion can be configured such that when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latch position, the washer contacts both the proximal surface of the drive body and the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion simultaneously.

[0104] In an embodiment with a washer, the distal connector portion can be configured such that when the distal connector portion moves axially in the distal direction from the distal connector latch position toward the distal release position by moving the distal housing portion distally, the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion moves toward the distal release position and separates from the washer, the washer contacts the proximal surface of the drive body to prevent the washer from moving in the distal direction, and the distal portion is spring-compressed against the washer by the movement of the distal retainer member in the distal direction.

[0105] In the embodiments described in the preceding paragraph, the (device) can be configured such that the distal connector portion can be configured such that when the distal connector portion is released from movement in the distal direction, the distal portion spring biases the distal release sleeve to the distal connector latch position.

[0106] In an embodiment with a washer, the distal connector portion can be configured such that when the distal connector portion moves axially in the proximal direction from the distal connector latch position toward the proximal release position by moving the distal housing portion toward the proximal side, the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion moves toward the proximal release position, the washer separates from the proximal-facing surface of the drive body, and the distal portion spring is compressed by the movement of the washer in the proximal direction.

[0107] In the embodiments described in the preceding paragraph, the (device) can be configured such that the distal connector portion can be configured such that when the distal connector portion is released from movement in the proximal direction, the distal portion spring biases the distal release sleeve to the distal connector latch position.

[0108] In some embodiments, the device may be configured such that the distal connector portion is configured such that the distal end of the distal connector portion can move axially in the distal direction beyond the distal end of the drive body.

[0109] In some embodiments, the drive body may include a distal cylindrical portion having a plurality of longitudinally extending guide protrusions. A distal release sleeve may have a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. The device may be configured such that the distal release sleeve can be received on the distal cylindrical portion, and the plurality of longitudinally extending guide protrusions of the drive body can be received in the plurality of longitudinally extending channels of the distal release sleeve, wherein the distal release sleeve is axially movable relative to the drive body, and wherein the distal release sleeve rotates in unison with the drive body.

[0110] In some embodiments, the distal release sleeve may have an annular bearing channel, the device being configured such that the distal release sleeve is configured to rotate in unison with the drive body; and the device being configured such that the distal housing portion may have an annular bearing member configured to be received in the annular bearing channel of the distal release sleeve, such that the distal release sleeve moves axially in unison with the distal housing portion, and the distal housing portion may be rotationally stationary when the distal release sleeve rotates in unison with the drive body.

[0111] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the external manipulator arm may be coupled to the distal housing portion, wherein the distal connector portion may be configured to pivot about a longitudinal axis relative to the proximal connector portion for selectively positioning the external manipulator arm on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis diameter to accommodate either right-handed or left-handed use of the distal connector portion.

[0112] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a biopsy system. The biopsy system may include a biopsy actuator having a drive shaft, an intraosseous device having a drive portion, and a connector device for docking between the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator and the drive portion of the intraosseous device. The connector device may be constructed according to any of the foregoing embodiments in any of the preceding paragraphs

[0091] to

[00110] .

[0113] As used in this article, “basically,” “roughly,” “slightly,” and other degree words are relative modifiers intended to indicate permissible variations from the characteristic so modified. They do not imply limitation to the absolute value or characteristic they modify, but rather the possession of more physical or functional characteristics than their opposite, and approximation or closeness to such physical or functional characteristics.

[0114] Moreover, as used herein, the term “link” and its derivatives are intended to encompass any operational functional connection, whether direct or indirect.

[0115] While the invention has been described with respect to at least one embodiment, further modifications can be made to the invention within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this application is intended to cover any variations, applications, or modifications of the invention using its general principles. Furthermore, this application is intended to cover deviations from this disclosure that fall within the known or customary practice in the field to which this invention pertains and fall within the limitations of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A coupling device for mating between the drive shaft of a biopsy actuator and the drive portion of an intraosseous device, comprising: A drive body having a longitudinal axis and a distal drive receiving portion, the drive body being rotatable about the longitudinal axis, the distal drive receiving portion being configured to be drivably connected to the drive portion of the intraosseous device; A distal latching member, the distal latching member being connected to the drive body; as well as A distal connector portion, coupled to the drive body and configured to operate the distal latching member, is associated with the distal drive receiving portion. The distal latching member is configured to latch the drive body to the intraosseous device when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latched position. The distal connector portion has a distal housing portion movable in either a distal or proximal direction. The distal connector portion is configured to have a distal release position and a proximal release position, wherein the distal housing portion is configured to move along the distal direction to move the distal connector portion to the distal release position in order to operate the distal latch member.

2. The connector device according to claim 1, wherein, The distal housing portion is configured to move along the proximal direction to move the distal connector portion to the proximal release position in order to operate the distal latch member.

3. The connector device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, comprising: A proximal latching member, the proximal latching member being connected to the drive body; as well as A proximal connector portion, coupled to the drive body and configured to operate the proximal latching member, the proximal latching member being configured to latch the drive body to the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator when the proximal connector portion is in the proximal connector latched position, and the proximal latching member being configured to release the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator when the proximal connector portion is in a first released position. The drive body has a proximal drive receiving portion associated with the proximal connector portion, the proximal drive receiving portion being configured to be connected to the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator in a drive engagement manner.

4. The connector device according to claim 3, wherein, The proximal connector portion includes: A proximal release sleeve, the proximal release sleeve being slidable along the axial direction of the drive body; and A proximal housing portion, the proximal housing portion radially surrounding the proximal release sleeve, wherein: The proximal housing portion is configured to engage the proximal release sleeve to axially slide the proximal release sleeve of the proximal connector portion from the proximal connector latch position to the first release position, so as to operate the proximal latch member to release the drive body from the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator, thereby facilitating the removal of the connector device from the biopsy actuator.

5. The connector device according to claim 4, wherein: The drive body has a proximal slotted region, which is configured to axially restrict the proximal latching member; The proximal latching member is a proximal U-shaped member having a pair of legs, the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member being configured to engage the proximal slotted area of ​​the drive body and the annular groove on the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator when the proximal connector portion is in the proximal connector latched position, so as to latch the connector device to the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator. and The proximal release sleeve has a proximal wedge member configured to apply an outwardly pointing force to the inner surfaces of the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member when the proximal release sleeve of the proximal connector portion moves axially from the proximal connector latch position to the first release position, thereby opening the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member and disengaging the pair of legs of the proximal U-shaped member from the proximal slotted area of ​​the drive body and the annular groove on the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator.

6. The connector device according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein, The drive body has a spring engagement surface, and the connector device further includes a proximal portion spring inserted between the spring engagement surface of the drive body and the proximal release sleeve, the proximal portion spring being configured to axially bias the proximal release sleeve of the proximal connector portion to the proximal connector latch position.

7. The connector device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The distal connector portion includes: A distal release sleeve, the distal release sleeve being slidable along the axial direction of the drive body; and The distal housing portion is configured to radially surround the distal release sleeve, wherein: The distal housing portion is operably engaged with the distal release sleeve to allow the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion to slide axially relative to the drive body to operate the distal latching member to release the drive body from the drive portion of the intraosseous device, thereby facilitating removal of the intraosseous device from the connector device. The distal connector portion is configured such that: As the distal housing portion moves distally toward the intraosseous device, the distal release sleeve moves from the distal connector latch position to the distal release position to facilitate removal of the intraosseous device from the distal drive receiver of the drive body. As the distal housing portion moves toward the biopsy actuator along the proximal direction, the distal release sleeve moves from the distal connector latch position to the proximal release position to facilitate the removal of the intraosseous device from the distal drive housing of the drive body.

8. The connector device according to claim 7, wherein: The drive body has a distal slotted region configured to axially restrict the distal latching member; The distal latching member is a distal U-shaped member having a pair of legs, the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member being configured to engage a groove on the drive portion of the intraosseous device when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latching position, so as to latch the connector device to the drive portion of the intraosseous device; and The distal release sleeve includes a first wedge-shaped member and a second wedge-shaped member, wherein: The first wedge-shaped member is configured to apply an outwardly pointing force to the inner surfaces of the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member when the distal release sleeve moves axially along the distal direction from the distal connector latch position to the distal release position, thereby opening the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member and disengaging the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member from the groove on the drive portion of the intraosseous device. The second wedge member is configured to apply an outwardly pointing force to the inner surface of the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member when the distal release sleeve moves axially in the proximal direction from the distal connector latch position to the proximal release position, so as to open the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member and thereby disengage the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member from the groove on the drive portion of the intraosseous device.

9. The connector device according to claim 8, wherein, The first wedge member of the distal release sleeve is axially opposed to the second wedge member of the distal release sleeve, wherein the first wedge member is connected to the second wedge member at an intersecting plane, wherein when the pair of legs of the distal U-shaped member are located at the intersecting plane, the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latch position and the connector device is latched to the drive portion of the intraosseous device.

10. The connector device according to claim 7, wherein, The distal connector portion also includes: The distal retainer member is coupled to the distal housing portion; and A distal portion spring is inserted between the distal retainer member and the distal release sleeve, and the distal portion spring is configured to axially bias the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion to the distal connector latch position.

11. The connector device according to claim 10, wherein: The drive body has a proximal surface, and both the proximal surface of the drive body and the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion are located distal to the distal portion spring. The distal release sleeve is configured to be axially movable relative to the proximal surface of the drive body. The distal connector portion further includes a washer positioned around the drive body, wherein the washer is inserted between the proximal surface of the drive body and the distal portion of the spring, and wherein the washer is inserted between the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion and the distal portion of the spring.

12. The connector device according to claim 11, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured such that when the distal connector portion is in the distal connector latch position, the washer contacts both the proximal surface of the drive body and the distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion simultaneously.

13. The connector device according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured such that when the distal housing portion moves axially in the distal direction from the distal connector latch position toward the distal release position via distal movement, The distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion moves toward the distal release position, and the distal release sleeve separates from the washer. The washer contacts the proximal surface of the drive body to prevent the washer from moving in the distal direction, and The distal portion of the spring is compressed and pressed against the washer by the movement of the distal retainer member along the distal direction.

14. The connector device according to claim 13, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured such that when the distal connector portion is released from movement in the distal direction, the distal portion spring biases the distal release sleeve to the distal connector latch position.

15. The connector device according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured such that when the distal housing portion moves axially in the proximal direction from the distal connector latch position toward the proximal release position via the proximal movement of the distal connector portion, The distal release sleeve of the distal connector portion moves toward the proximal release position. The washer separates from the proximal surface of the drive body, and The distal portion of the spring is compressed by the movement of the washer along the proximal direction.

16. The connector device according to claim 15, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured such that when the distal connector portion is released from movement in the proximal direction, the distal portion spring biases the distal release sleeve to the distal connector latch position.

17. The connector device according to claim 7, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured such that the distal end of the distal connector portion can move axially in the distal direction beyond the distal end of the drive body.

18. The connector device according to claim 7, wherein: The drive body includes a distal cylindrical portion having multiple longitudinally extending guide protrusions, and The distal release sleeve has multiple longitudinally extending channels. The distal release sleeve is received on the distal cylindrical portion, and the plurality of longitudinally extending guide protrusions of the drive body are received in the plurality of longitudinally extending channels of the distal release sleeve, wherein the distal release sleeve is axially movable relative to the drive body, and wherein the distal release sleeve rotates in unison with the drive body.

19. The connector device according to claim 7, wherein: The distal release sleeve has an annular bearing channel, and the distal release sleeve is configured to rotate in sync with the drive body; and The distal housing portion has an annular bearing member configured to be received in the annular bearing channel of the distal release sleeve, such that the distal release sleeve moves axially in unison with the distal housing portion, and the distal housing portion is rotationally stationary when the distal release sleeve rotates in unison with the drive body.

20. The connector device of claim 3, comprising an external operating arm coupled to the distal housing portion, wherein, The distal connector portion is configured to pivot about the longitudinal axis relative to the proximal connector portion for selectively positioning the external manipulator on the opposite side of the diameter of the longitudinal axis to accommodate either right-handed or left-handed use of the distal connector portion.

21. A biopsy system, comprising: A biopsy actuator with a drive shaft; Intraosseous device with a driving component; as well as A connector device for mating between the drive shaft of the biopsy actuator and the drive portion of the intraosseous device, the connector device being configured as a connector device according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

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