Rotatable medical device

Abstract

Medical devices and related methods are described. The medical device may include a shaft, a handle receiving a proximal portion of the shaft, and a lock having a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration of the lock, the shaft may rotate about a longitudinal axis of the shaft relative to the handle, and in the second configuration of the lock, the shaft may be stationary relative to the handle.

Description

This application is a divisional application of invention patent application 202080097737.3. Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 958,788, filed January 9, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a medical device having an axis that rotates relative to a handle. More particularly, at least some embodiments of the present invention relate to a medical device having a locking mechanism that can be unlocked to allow rotation of the medical device axis or locked such that the axis is stationary. Background Technology

[0003] In certain medical procedures, physicians and / or technicians need to control a duodenoscopy (or other endoscopes or medical devices) and other medical accessories. Depending on the patient's position relative to the physician, the physician controlling the device may need to twist and / or rotate their wrists and / or body to adjust and position the medical device toward the intended target site. Therefore, physicians may face an increased risk of ergonomic injuries to their hands, wrists, and back. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one example, a medical device may include a shaft, a handle receiving a proximal portion of the shaft, and a lock having a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein in the first configuration of the lock, the shaft is rotatable relative to the handle about a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and in the second configuration of the lock, the shaft is stationary relative to the handle.

[0005] In one example, the shaft may further include a collar and a plurality of deflectors, wherein the plurality of deflectors surround a proximal portion of the shaft, wherein the collar surrounds the plurality of deflectors and the proximal portion of the shaft, and wherein rotation of the collar in one direction locks in a first configuration, and rotation of the collar in the opposite direction locks in a second configuration. In the first configuration, the collar may be spaced apart from the plurality of deflectors, thereby allowing radial movement of the plurality of deflectors between the collar and the shaft, and in the second configuration, the collar abuts against the shaft to push the plurality of deflectors such that the shaft remains stationary relative to the handle.

[0006] In another example, the lock may include a lever external to the handle, a spring connecting the distal end of the lever to the handle, a lug connected to the proximal end of the lever, and a pivot point about which the lever pivots. The lug portion is received within the handle and positioned to engage one of a plurality of recesses arranged around the axis. The lock may be defaulted to a second configuration, and by pressing down the distal end of the lever, the lock can be placed in a first configuration, thereby compressing the spring and pivoting both the proximal end of the lever and the lug away from the handle, causing the lug to disengage from one of the recesses.

[0007] In another example, the lock may include a pin and a spindle housed within a spindle housing, the spindle's central axis being spring-loaded, and both the spindle and the spindle housing being housed within a handle. The pin is positioned to engage or disengage the spindle when the pin is pushed forward or retracted by pressure, and the central axis is positioned to engage or disengage one of a plurality of recesses arranged around the periphery of the spindle when the spindle is radially pushed forward or retracted by the engaging or disengaging pin, respectively. The lock may alternate between a first and a second configuration via pressure of the pin. In the first configuration, the spindle may engage with one of the recesses, and in the second configuration, the spindle may disengage from one of the recesses.

[0008] In another example, the lock may include a collar surrounding a portion of a shaft, wherein the collar includes a first flange, a second flange, and a pin driven by the first and second flanges, wherein one end of the pin is coupled to a lock handle configured to rotate relative to the pin, and the other end of the pin is coupled to a stop configured to prevent the pin from slipping off both the first and second flanges. The lock may alternate between a first and a second configuration by pivoting the lock handle. In the first configuration, the first and second flanges may be spaced apart by a gap, and in the second configuration, the first and second flanges may be in contact.

[0009] According to another example, the lock may include at least one spring coupled to a bearing, wherein one end of the spring is coupled to the inner wall of the handle and the other end of the spring is coupled to the bearing, and wherein the bearing is positioned to engage with one of a plurality of recesses arranged around the periphery of the shaft via spring force. The shaft can be rotated from a second configuration by applying a torsional force greater than the spring force pressing against one of the recesses against the bearing.

[0010] In another example, the medical device may also include a motor, a cam coupled to the motor, and a switch configured to turn the motor on / off, wherein the cam engages with one of a plurality of notches arranged around the periphery of the shaft by rotation of the motor.

[0011] In another example, the medical device may also include a housing configured to rotate with the shaft, wherein the housing receives a proximal portion of the shaft and is adjacent to a handle, and the housing includes a stop configured to engage with a lock. The lock may include a ring surrounding the proximal portion of the shaft. The ring may include a plurality of slots, each of which is configured to receive a portion of the stop, thereby anchoring the stop to the slot.

[0012] According to another example, a medical device may include a shaft comprising a distally facing surface and a proximally facing surface; a handle comprising a distally facing surface and a proximally facing surface; and a spring positioned between the proximally facing surface of the shaft and the distally facing surface of the handle, wherein in a compressed state, the shaft is rotatable relative to the handle about a longitudinal axis of the shaft, and in an extended state, the shaft is stationary relative to the handle. In the compressed state, the shaft can be pulled distally relative to the handle. The distally facing surface of the handle may be a flange extending radially outward relative to the handle, and the distally facing surface of the handle may abut the proximally facing surface of the shaft in the extended state of the spring.

[0013] According to another example, a method for positioning an axis of a medical device may include inserting the distal end of the axis of the medical device into the body of a subject, and after the insertion step, unlocking a handle from the axis, rotating the axis relative to the handle about a longitudinal axis of the axis, and locking the handle to the axis. The method may also include rotating the handle relative to the axis about a longitudinal axis of the handle. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments.

[0015] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of a medical device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 1B According to one embodiment Figure 1A A three-dimensional view of a part of a medical device.

[0017] Figures 1C to 1D for Figure 1A A top-view cross-section of a part of a medical device.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3B yes Figure 3AA top-view cross-section of a part of a medical device.

[0021] Figures 3C to 3F yes Figure 3A A perspective view of an exemplary lock for a medical device.

[0022] Figures 4A to 4D This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a medical device according to other embodiments.

[0023] Figures 4E to 4F This is a side view of a portion of an example medical device including a longitudinal lock according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0025] Figures 5B to 5C yes Figure 5A A top-view cross-section of a part of a medical device.

[0026] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0027] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A top-view cross-section of a part of a medical device.

[0028] Figure 6C This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0029] Figure 7A This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0030] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A A top-view cross-section of a part of a medical device.

[0031] Figure 8A This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0032] Figures 8B to 8D yes Figure 8A A three-dimensional view of a part of a medical device.

[0033] Figure 8E yes Figure 8A A three-dimensional diagram of the internal lock of a medical device.

[0034] Figure 8F yes Figure 8A A top-view cross-sectional view of the medical device.

[0035] Figure 8G yes Figure 8AAnother 3D view of the interior of the medical device.

[0036] Figures 9A to 9B This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment.

[0037] Figure 9C yes Figures 9A to 9B A cross-sectional view of a medical device.

[0038] Figure 9D yes Figures 9A to 9C A three-dimensional diagram of the resistance characteristics of a medical device.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a portion of a medical device according to another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Reference will now be made in detail to various aspects of the invention, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. The term "distal" refers to the part furthest from the user when the device is introduced into the body of a subject (e.g., a patient). Conversely, the term "proximal" refers to the part closest to the user when the device is placed into the body of a subject.

[0041] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and illustrative of the claimed features, and not restrictive. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “containing,” “having,” “including,” or other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive contents such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or not inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. In this invention, relative terms such as, for example, “about,” “substantially,” “roughly,” and “about” are used to indicate possible variations of ±10% in the values ​​or characteristics described.

[0042] This invention addresses one or more of the limitations in the art. However, the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, not by the ability to solve a particular problem. The invention relates to medical devices including an axis, such as a duodenoscope, which may be rotatable. In embodiments, the axis of such a medical device rotates relative to the handle of the medical device. This rotation can depend on different forms of locks included in the medical device. For example, such locks may include forms in which the axis can rotate freely relative to other parts of the medical device (including the handle), and another form in which the axis remains stationary and cannot rotate relative to those other parts. This medical device can provide the user with the option to rotate the axis during surgery by any suitable means, such as by hand, mechanically, electrically, etc., and the option to keep the axis stationary relative to the rest of the device in its current rotated position. Thus, regardless of the patient's position relative to the user, the user of the device can comfortably access and view the intended target location via rotation of the axis without twisting or contorting their wrists or other parts of their body.

[0043] Figure 1A A schematic illustration of an exemplary medical device 1a according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Medical device 1a may be a duodenoscope as shown, or any other similar medical device, such as an endoscope, colonoscope, ureteroscope, bronchoscope, etc., or other medical devices having a shaft and a handle. Medical device 1a may include a handle 11 and a shaft 12 coupled to the distal end of the handle 11. The handle 11 of medical device 1a may have one or more cavities (not shown) communicating with the cavity of the shaft 12. The handle 11 also includes an actuation mechanism 114 and at least one port 116 opening to one or more cavities of the handle 11. The at least one port 116 is sized and shaped to receive one or more instruments (not shown), such as any suitable medical device of a medical system. For example, medical devices may include, but are not limited to, guidewires, cutting or grasping forceps, biopsy devices, snares, injection needles, cutting blades, scissors, retractable baskets, retrieval devices, ablation and / or electrophysiological catheters, stent placement devices, surgical suture devices, balloon catheters, laser emitting devices, and / or any other suitable instruments.

[0044] The handle 11 also includes a lock 15a, which is rotatable relative to the handle 11 and the rest of the shaft 12, and rotation of the lock 15a allows rotation of the shaft 12 relative to the handle 11, and vice versa. The rotatable lock 15a and its relationship to the handle 11 are described in more detail below.

[0045] The shaft 12 of the medical device 11 may include a tube of sufficient flexibility such that the shaft 12 is configured to selectively bend, rotate, and / or twist when inserted into and / or traversing the patient's tortuous anatomy to reach a target treatment site. The treatment site may include a body cavity, including, for example, any gastrointestinal cavity (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine). The shaft 12 may have one or more cavities (not shown) extending through it, including, for example, a working cavity for receiving instruments. In other embodiments, the shaft 12 may include additional cavities, such as a control line cavity for receiving one or more control lines, a fluid cavity for delivering fluid, an illumination cavity for receiving at least a portion of an illumination assembly (not shown), and / or an imaging cavity for receiving at least a portion of an imaging assembly (not shown).

[0046] Still referencing Figure 1A The actuation mechanism 114 of the medical device 1a is positioned on the handle 11 and may include one or more knobs, buttons, levers, switches, and / or other suitable actuators. The actuation mechanism 114 is configured to control at least one of the following: deflection of the shaft 12 (including deflection of a hinged joint at the distal end of the shaft 12 via actuation of one or more first control lines), actuation of a second control line (e.g., a lifter for the distal tip), delivery or removal of fluid or other materials, emission of illumination, and / or various imaging functions. The distal tip 124 of the device 1a may include devices for illumination (e.g., LEDs) and imaging (e.g., a camera), a lifter for guiding instruments away from the distal tip, and openings for flushing and suction. A connector / cord 118 is connected to a controller, which may include a processor and memory for controlling various functions at the distal tip. The medical device 1a according to embodiments of the invention may include more or fewer structures and functions than those described above.

[0047] Figures 1B to 1D An embodiment of a portion of the medical device 1a is shown in more detail. As shown, a handle 11 accommodates the proximal portion of a shaft 12. The handle 11 includes a lock 15a having a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration of the lock 15a, the shaft 12 is rotatable relative to the handle 11 about its longitudinal axis. In the second configuration of the lock 15a, the shaft 12 is fixed relative to the handle 11.

[0048] Shaft 12, particularly its proximal portion, includes a proximal flange 14 and a distal flange 13. For example... Figures 1B to 1D As shown, the proximal flange 14 is circular (see the top view shown). Figures 1C to 1DAnd located at the nearest end of shaft 12. Alternatively, shaft 12 may extend further proximally through proximal flange 14. Distal flange 13 is spaced distally from proximal flange 14 by a suitable distance. In some embodiments, distal flange 13 also has a circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, distal flange 13 and proximal flange 14 have the same diameter. Between distal flange 13 and proximal flange 14 is a portion of shaft 12 having a smaller diameter than distal flange 13 and proximal flange 14. The portion of shaft 12 distal to distal flange 13 has a smaller diameter than distal flange 13 and may have the same diameter as the portion of shaft 12 between distal flange 13 and proximal flange 14. In other embodiments, distal flange 13 and proximal flange 14 may have other suitable shapes and diameters.

[0049] The handle 11 has a proximal portion 11a and a distal portion 11b. The proximal portion 11a and the distal portion 11b can be separate components longitudinally separated by a space (occupied by the lock 15a). The distal portion 11b receives the proximal portion of the shaft 12. Specifically, the distal portion 11b includes an inner wall 11b1 that defines a cavity surrounding the proximal portion of the shaft 12, allowing minimal radial and longitudinal movement of the proximal portion 12. The cavity defined by the inner wall 11b1 surrounds a portion of the shaft 12 having a smaller diameter, and a groove 11b2 defined by the inner wall 11b1 surrounds the distal flange 13. Because the inner wall 11b1 and the groove 11b2 surround the shaft 12, the shaft 12 is prevented from leaving the distal portion 11b via an opening from which the remaining portion of the shaft 12 exits the handle 11. However, shaft 12 can rotate within the distal portion 11b because the inner wall 11b1 and groove 11b2 provide sufficient clearance from shaft 12 to allow for minimal radial movement and rotation of shaft 12. It should also be noted that handle 11 can rotate relative to shaft 12 via the same mechanism described herein.

[0050] The proximal portion 11a and the distal portion 11b are connected together in the space between them by an internal deflector 15a1. The deflector 15a1 extends longitudinally from the proximal portion 11a to the distal portion 11b. Figures 1C to 1D As shown, each deflector 15a1 can have a triangular cross-sectional shape. Figures 1C to 1DFour deflectors 15a1 are shown, circumferentially evenly spaced around the proximal flange 14. However, the number of deflectors 15a1 is not particularly limited, and more or fewer deflectors 15a1 may be present in other medical device embodiments. Furthermore, the shape and spacing / distribution of the deflectors 15a1 are not particularly limited, and the deflectors 15a1 can have any suitable shape and / or distribution. The deflectors 15a1 are longitudinally rigid and radially outward and inward flexible. Each deflector 15a1 is connected to the proximal portion 11a at proximal connection points 11c1 and 11c2, and to the distal portion 11b at distal connection points 11c3 and 11c4.

[0051] As previously described, the handle 11 includes a lock 15a. The lock 15a includes a collar 15a2 and the aforementioned deflector 15a1. The collar 15a2 is located in the space between the proximal portion 11a and the distal portion 11b of the handle 11. The collar 15a2 is annular in shape, having an opening. Furthermore, the collar 15a2 has a circular outer shape, but is not limited thereto. The bottom end of the proximal portion 11a may have the same diameter as the adjacent surface of the collar 15a2, i.e., the top surface, and similarly, the top end of the distal portion 11b may have the same diameter as the adjacent surface of the collar 15a2, i.e., the bottom surface. Therefore, the dimensions of the distal portion 11b, the collar 15a2, and the proximal portion 11a can be configured such that their radially outer surfaces are flush with each other. The collar 15a2 rotates about the longitudinal axis of the handle 11 relative to the proximal portion 11a and the distal portion 11b. The collar 15a2 can be made of any suitable rigid material.

[0052] The collar 15a2 includes a protruding portion 15a3 that projects radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the collar 15a2 toward the longitudinal axis of the handle 11. For example... Figures 1C to 1D As shown, each protruding portion 15a3 may have a triangular cross-sectional shape. Figures 1C to 1D Four protrusions evenly spaced around the inner circumferential surface of the collar 15a2 are shown. However, the number of protrusions 15a3 is not particularly limited, as the collar 15a2 may include more or fewer protrusions 15a3. Furthermore, the protrusions 15a3 can be randomly spaced as needed. Regarding the shape of the protrusions 15a3, they can have any shape configured to engage with the deflector 15a1. For example, Figures 1C to 1D A protruding portion 15a3 with a surface complementary to the surface of the deflector 15a1 is shown, regardless of the rotation direction of the collar 15a2.

[0053] The number of protruding parts 15a3 can correspond to the number of deflecting parts 15a1, and such a number can specify the degree of rotation that the collar 15a2 can rotate. For example, as Figures 1C to 1DAs shown, there are four protruding portions 15a3 and four inner deflectors 15a1. Because the protruding portions 15a3 and the inner deflectors 15a1 are evenly arranged around the circumference of the proximal flange 14, the collar 15a2 can be rotated 90° clockwise or counterclockwise to loosen or tighten the lock 15a. In other embodiments, the lock 15a may include six protruding portions 15a3 and six inner deflectors 15a1, which are evenly distributed around the proximal flange 14. In such an embodiment, the collar 15a2 can be rotated 60° clockwise or counterclockwise to loosen or tighten the lock 15a. Therefore, any suitable number of protruding portions 15a3 and inner deflectors 15a2 can be used, and the invention is not limited to the above examples.

[0054] Figure 1C A top cross-sectional view of the proximal flange 14 and lock 15a in the released state / configuration is shown. In this released configuration, the collar 15a2 is in the released position relative to the deflector 15a1 and the proximal flange 14. Specifically, the collar 15a2 and its protruding portion 15a3 are spaced apart from or disengaged from the inner deflector 15a1, thereby allowing the inner deflector 15a1 to maintain its natural, unbiased state within the handle 11. In this configuration, the protruding portion 15a3 does not exert force on the deflector 15a1, and in this released configuration, the shaft 12 is rotatable relative to the handle 11 about its longitudinal axis. The handle 11 can also rotate relative to the shaft 12 and the collar 15a2 about its longitudinal axis.

[0055] The protrusion 15a3 is positioned relative to the deflector 15a1 such that a counterclockwise rotation of the collar 15a2 will result in engagement between the complementary surfaces of the protrusion 15a3 and the deflector 15a1. Due to the radially inward force component applied by the protrusion 15a3 to the deflector 15a1, this engagement will cause the deflector 15a1 to buckle radially inward toward the proximal flange 14.

[0056] On the contrary, Figure 1DA top cross-sectional view is shown with the proximal flange 14 and lock 15a in a tightened state / configuration. In this configuration, the collar 15a2 has been rotated counterclockwise, causing the protrusion 15a3 to engage with and apply force to the deflector 15a1. Due to this force, the deflector 15a1 is pressed / flexed radially inward toward the longitudinal axis of the handle and shaft, causing the deflector 15a1 to then push against the proximal shaft flange 14. This engagement of the deflector 15a1 with the proximal shaft flange 14 provides sufficient friction to keep the shaft 12 stationary relative to the handle 11. This friction can withstand normal surgical movements and adjustments of the shaft 12 and prevent its rotation. In some embodiments, the protrusion 15a3, deflector 15a1, and / or proximal flange 14 can provide friction, for example, with any suitable friction material or including materials with rough surfaces for enhanced friction, such that the friction generated by their respective engagement helps maintain engagement until the lock 15 is released. In other embodiments, any of the additional locks described in more detail below can be applied to the medical device 1a to further prevent further rotation of the shaft 12. To return the lock 15a from the tightened position to the loosened position, the collar 15a2 can be rotated in the opposite direction, for example, clockwise. Therefore, the lock 15a of the medical device 1a can include both a loosened and a tightened position.

[0057] refer to Figures 1A to 1CThe following further discusses examples of how medical device 1a can be used. The distal end of shaft 12 of medical device 1a can be delivered into the body of a subject, adjacent to the intended target site. Imaging associated with medical device 1a via any suitable image processing device can help locate the distal end of shaft 12. Depending on the position of the subject and / or the intended target site relative to medical device 1a and / or the user of medical device 1a, the user can choose to rotate shaft 12 relative to handle 11. If lock 15a is in the previously described tightened position, the user can loosen collar 15a2 by rotating collar 15a2 clockwise. This rotation disengages or separates the protruding portion 15a3 of collar 15a2 from the inner deflector 15a1 to place lock 15a in the loosened position. When lock 15a is in the loosened position, the user can rotate shaft 12 about its longitudinal axis relative to handle 11, thereby better positioning shaft 12 relative to the intended target site and / or allowing the user to be in an ergonomic position. Alternatively, the user can rotate the handle 11 relative to the shaft 12 to allow the user to handle the handle 11 in a more ergonomic position or for various other reasons. The user can rotate either the shaft 12 or the handle 11 relative to the other by any selected or predetermined angle. The user can then place the lock 15 into a tightened position by rotating the collar 15a2 counterclockwise. This rotation causes the protrusion 15a3 to engage and compress the deflector 15a1, causing the deflector 15a1 to bend radially inward toward the proximal flange 14. The user can continue to tighten the collar 15a2 by its rotation until the collar 15a2 can no longer be rotated and the deflector 15a1 compresses the proximal flange 14. The manner in which the collar 15a2 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise is not particularly limited. As described above, in some other embodiments, the user can actuate another suitable lock to ensure that the shaft 12 is stationary relative to the handle 11.

[0058] like Figure 2 The medical device 1b shown is similar to device 1a in many respects. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The differences between device 1a and device 1b will be described below. In device 1b, the proximal flange 14' includes a plurality of recesses 24 arranged circumferentially around the outer surface of the proximal axial flange 14'. The recesses 24 may be recesses distributed on the outer circumferential surface of the proximal axial flange 14'. The recesses 24 may have a suitable depth to adequately engage or lock 15b, which will be described. While the number of recesses 24 is not particularly limited, it should be noted that the number of recesses corresponds to the number of rotational positions / degrees at which the shaft 12 can be locked into place.

[0059] Lock 15b includes a lever 15b1, a spring 15b2, a lug 15b3, and a pivot 15b4. The lever 15b1 is not particularly limited in its shape and structure, as long as it is suitable for user pressure. The lever 15b1 is located outside the handle 11. The spring 15b2 connects the distal end of the lever 15b1 to the outer surface of the handle 11. The spring 15b2 may have sufficient spring force to withstand manipulation during routine procedures of the medical device 1b, but also allows for compression via force applied by the user to the lever 15b1. The lug 15b3 is attached to the proximal portion of the lever 15b1 facing the handle 11 and can partially enter or exit the handle 11 via a suitable opening in the handle 11. The lug 15b3 can enter or exit the handle 11 to engage or disengage with one of the recesses 24. It should be noted that the lug 15b3 can have any suitable shape or size that can engage or lock one of the recesses 24. Pivot 15b4 connects a portion of lever 15b1 below lug 15b3 to the outer surface of handle 11. Thus, pivot 15b4 allows lever 15b1, together with lug 15b3, to pivot about pivot 15b4 via compression or extension of spring 15b2.

[0060] In the default position of lock 15b, spring 15b2 is fully extended, thereby pushing the distal end of lever 15b1 outward via pivot 15b4. In this pivoted position, lug 15b3 engages one of the recesses 24. Engagement may include an inwardly projecting lug 15b3 that is locked in a recess of one of the recesses 24. Due to this engagement, shaft 12 remains stationary relative to handle 11 and is prevented from rotating in this locked configuration.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown by the directional arrows, pressing the distal end of lever 15b1 with sufficient force compresses spring 15b2 and pivots both the proximal end of lever 15b1 and lug 15b3 away from handle 11. The force used to press down the distal end of lever 15b1 can be applied by any suitable means, e.g., by hand, mechanically, or electrically. This causes lug 15b3 to disengage from one of the notches 24. During disengagement, shaft 12 can rotate relative to handle 11 about its longitudinal axis until lever 15b1 is released and lock 15b returns to its default locked position. Handle 11 can also rotate relative to shaft 12 about its longitudinal axis during disengagement. Because the locking position requires lug 15b3 to engage one of the notches 24, shaft 12 can rotate and lock only in multiple degrees of rotation / positions where the notches 24 and lug 15b3 are aligned.

[0062] Medical device 1b can be used in a similar manner to medical device 1a, except that the user can press or release the distal end of lever 15bl to unlock or lock the rotation of shaft 12 relative to handle 11, rather than tightening or loosening the collar. Furthermore, the user can rotate and lock shaft 12 by a selected or predetermined degree of rotation by pressing one of the notches 24 that aligns with lug 15b3.

[0063] like Figures 3A to 3B The medical device 1c shown is similar to device 1b in many respects. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The differences between device 1b and device 1c will be described below. Lock 15c is a locking mechanism that can be pressed inward and clicked to switch between locked and unlocked states. Lock 15c includes a button 15c1 connected to pin 15c2, a spindle 15c3, a spindle housing 15c4, and a spring 15c5. Button 15c1 is located outside handle 11. Button 15c1 has any suitable size or shape so that a user can press or click button 15c1 toward handle 11. Pin 15c2 is connected at one end to the surface of button 15c1 facing handle 11. Pin 15c2 is configured to partially enter or exit handle 11 via a suitable opening on handle 11 when button 15c1 is pressed. Therefore, button 15c1 and pin 15c2 are configured such that when button 15c1 is pressed toward handle 11, pin 15c2 is radially inwardly advanced within handle 11. At the other end, pin 15c2 includes a guide 15c12 that travels along the length of pin 15c2 (substantially parallel to the axis of pin 15c2) and a contact 15c22 adjacent to guide 15c12. Guide 15c12 is a slot extending longitudinally from the end of pin 15c2 to approximately the midpoint of pin 15c2, but is not limited to this in other examples. Guide 15c12 is end-open at its end spaced apart from button 15c1 and may have dimensions suitable for receiving a portion of spindle housing 15c4, as described in further detail below. The end surface of contact 15c22 is angled relative to (transverse to) an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of pin 15c2, thus forming an angled edge. The contact 15c22 may have a length, width, and shape suitable for partial engagement with the mandrel 15c3, as described in further detail below. The pin 15c2 is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments may have any suitable size or shape for engagement with the mandrel 15c3 and the mandrel housing 15c4 and its portions.

[0064] Both the spindle 15c3 and the spindle housing 15c4 are supported and housed within the handle 11 and adjacent to the proximal flange 14'. The spindle 15c3 is cylindrical in shape. The spindle 15c3 includes a flange 15c43 that is configured to engage one of the recesses 24 and projects radially outward at approximately the middle of the spindle 15c3, and another end that includes a rotatable cam 15c13. The flange 15c43 has a diameter larger than the rest of the spindle 15c3 but smaller than the diameter of the spindle housing 15c4, such that the spindle 15c3 can be linearly advanced and retracted within the housing 15c4. The rotatable cam 15c13 includes a plurality of teeth 15c23 and a plurality of channels 15c33 circumferentially distributed around the rotatable cam 15c13. Specifically, they are distributed such that each pair of two adjacent teeth 15c23 has a channel 15c33 located between them, for example, a pair, a channel, a pair.

[0065] The tooth 15c23 has angled edges, specifically angled such that when two edges contact each other, the edges of the tooth 15c23 are complementary, for example, substantially parallel to the edge of the contact 15c22. Furthermore, the space between adjacent teeth can accommodate the contact 15c22. The channel 15c33 extends longitudinally from the cam end of the spindle 15c3 to the portion of the spindle 15c3 preceding the flange 15c43. The channel 15c33 is open at the end and may have dimensions suitable for receiving a portion of the spindle housing 15c4, as described in further detail below.

[0066] The spindle housing 15c4 is tubular and tapered inward at one end, such that the tapered end contains the spring 15c5. However, the housing 15c4 is not limited to this and can be any tubular shape with both ends open. The housing 15c4 can have any suitable dimensions to accommodate the spindle 15c3 and the pin 15c2, and allow the spindle 15c3 and the pin 15c2 to linearly advance or retract within the housing 15c4. The housing 15c4 includes a support member 15c14. The support member 15c14 is a guide rail projecting inward from the inner surface of the housing 15c4 and is configured to ride within the guide 15c12 of the pin 15c2 and the channel 15c33 of the spindle 15c3. Thus, the support member 15c14 can be an extension fitted within both the guide 15c12 and the channel 15c33. The support member 15c14 travels longitudinally a suitable distance from one end of the housing 15c4 toward the other end of the housing 15c4. In some embodiments, the length of the support 15c14 may be equal to or approximately equal to the length of the channel 15c33. The end of the support 15c14 adjacent to the spindle 15c3 includes an end angled at a degree equal to or substantially the same as that of the contact 15c22. Therefore, like the contact 15c22, the angled edge of the support 15c14 may serve as a complement, for example, may be substantially parallel to the angled surface of the tooth 15c23, and may also be supported within the space between adjacent teeth 15c23.

[0067] Spring 15c5 can be wound around the end of mandrel 15c3 closest to notch 24. Furthermore, spring 15c5 can be positioned between the end of housing 15c4 and flange 15c43, thus forming a spring-loaded mandrel 15c3. Therefore, mandrel 15c3 can be pushed inward radially by the compression of spring 15c5 and retracted radially outward by the release of spring 15c5. Spring 15c5 is not particularly limited and can be any suitable spring.

[0068] Still referencing Figures 3A to 3BThe relative positions of the lock 15c components are further described below. Pin 15c2 is positioned relative to spindle 15c3 and housing 15c4 such that pin 15c2 engages spindle 15c3 when spindle 15c3 is radially inwardly advanced within housing 15c4. Guide 15c12 of pin 15c2 rides along support 15c14 of housing 15c4 to advance or retract within housing 15c4. Engagement between pin 15c2 and spindle 15c3 causes spindle 15c3 to then be radially inwardly advanced toward proximal flange 14'. Therefore, spindle 15c3 can be positioned such that it engages with one of the recesses 24 when it is radially inwardly advanced. The distance between the mandrel 15c3 and the proximal flange 14' allows the mandrel 15c3 to engage with the recess 24 when it is fully extended inward, but not when it is retracted toward the housing 15c4. Furthermore, the distance between the housing 15c4 and the proximal flange 14' prevents the housing 15c4 from becoming stuck in one of the recesses 24.

[0069] refer to Figures 3C to 3F The unlocking and locking states of lock 15c are further described. In the unlocked state, both pin 15c2 and spindle 15c3 are fully retracted. In this retracted position, contact 15c22 is supported in the space between adjacent teeth 15c23, and support 15c14 is within channel 15c33 (see [reference]). Figure 3C When button 15c1 ( Figures 3C to 3F When pressed or clicked by any suitable force (not shown), contact 15c22 compresses one of the teeth 15c23 of cam 15c13, thereby compressing spring 15c5 (not shown) and extending spindle 15c3 radially inward, such that support 15c14 is outside channel 15c33 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3D Because the support 15c14 is no longer anchored within the channel 15c33, and the spring force of the spring 15c5 causes the contact 15c22 and the cam 15c13 to press against each other, the angled edges of the contact 15c22 and the support 15c14 ride along one of the teeth 15c23, thereby initiating the rotation of the cam 15c13, so that the adjacent teeth 15c23 support both the support 15c14 and the contact 15c22 (see...). Figure 3E When button 15c1 is released, pin 15c2 retracts to a certain extent, so that contact 15c22 is outside the space between adjacent teeth 15c23, thereby further rotating cam 15c3 so that support 15c14 is anchored only between adjacent teeth 15c23, and contact 15c22 rests on one of the teeth 15c23 (see...). Figure 3F This prevents the rotating spindle 15c3 from returning to its original retracted position. Therefore, as... Figure 3FAs shown, the mandrel 15c3 is relative to its original position ( Figure 3C The mandrel 15c3 extends to a certain extent, such that it engages with one of the recesses 24 of the proximal flange 14' (not shown). This engagement between the mandrel 15c3 and one of the recesses 24 prevents the shaft 12 from rotating and holds the shaft 12 in a stationary position. Therefore, this position of the lock 15c can be described as a locked configuration.

[0070] By pressing or "clicking" button 15c1 again, pin 15c2 re-engages the spring-loaded spindle 15c3 and cam 15c13, causing spindle 15c3 to extend and rotate simultaneously within housing 15c4 again. When button 15c1 is released, cam 15c13 rotates, causing support 15c14 of housing 15c4 to fall into channel 15c33 of cam 15c13, causing spring 15c5 to extend to its default position, and spindle 15c3 to return to its original retracted position. Figure 3C (As shown in the diagram). In this state, the spindle 15c3 retracts to a certain extent, causing the spindle 15c3 to disengage from one of the notches 24, and the lock 15c returns to its unlocked position.

[0071] Repeated switching of the clickable button 15c1 will cause the lock 15c to alternate between the aforementioned unlocked and locked states. It should be noted that if the spring-loaded spindle 15c3 fails to engage with one of the recesses 24, additional rotation of the shaft 12 may be necessary so that the spindle 15c3 can engage with either of the recesses 24 and place the lock 15c in the locked state. Therefore, the medical device 1c can be used in the same manner as the medical device 1b, except that the user can press or "click" the button 15c1 to unlock or lock the rotation of the shaft 12, instead of pressing and releasing the lever. Furthermore, the user can rotate and lock the shaft 12 by a selected or predetermined degree of rotation aligned with one of the recesses 24 that is aligned with the spindle 15c3.

[0072] refer to Figures 4A to 4B Another embodiment of the medical device 1d1 is described below. Similar to the previously described medical device embodiments, the medical device 1d1 includes a handle 11' and a shaft 12'. The handle 11', specifically its distal portion, includes a distally facing surface, such as a proximal flange 21a, and a proximal facing surface, such as a distal flange 21b. The distal flange 21b is spaced distally from the proximal flange 21a by a suitable distance. Furthermore, both the proximal flange 21a and the distal flange 21b project radially outward and are both circular cross-sectional in shape. The distal flange 21b has a smaller diameter than the proximal flange 21a. However, both the distal flange 21b and the proximal flange 21a have a larger diameter than the portion of the handle 11' between the flanges 21a, 21b and the other remaining portions of the handle 11'.

[0073] Shaft 12' also includes a proximal surface, such as shank 15d1, and a distal surface, such as flange 15d2. Shank 15d1 surrounds at least the proximal portion of shaft 12'. Shank 15d1 has a diameter larger than the distal portion of shaft 12' because shank 15d1 projects radially outward relative to those distal portions and is tapered in the distal direction. The proximal portion of shank 15d1 has the same diameter as the proximal flange 21a of handle 11'. The proximal end of shank 15d1 includes flange 15d2.

[0074] The shaft flange 15d2 is annular in shape and projects radially inward. The annular shaft flange 15d2 includes an opening for receiving the distal portion of the handle 11'. Specifically, the opening has a diameter sufficient to surround the portion of the handle 11' between the proximal flange 21a and the distal flange 21b. The shaft flange 15d2 projects radially inward a distance such that the proximal end of the shaft shank 15d1 can be flush with the proximal flange 21a, while also allowing minimal radial movement of the handle 11' within the shaft shank 15d.

[0075] Spring 15d3 is positioned between shaft flange 15d2 and distal handle flange 21b. Spring 15d3 can be any suitable spring and is not particularly limited thereto. Spring 15d3 can have a spring force sufficiently greater than other forces associated with manipulation during ordinary surgery of medical device 1d. Spring 15d3 is positioned such that it is parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle 11'. Due to this configuration, when the spring is in its default extended position, shaft flange 15d2 abuts handle flange 21a and distal handle flange 21b abuts shaft 12'. Figure 4A The default configuration of the medical device 1d is shown. In this default state, the spring 15d3 abuts against the proximal handle flange 21a, pushing the shaft flange 15d2, and abuts against the shaft 12', pushing the distal flange 21b, thereby locking the shaft 12' to the handle 11'. Furthermore, the abutment surfaces of the shaft flange 15d2 and the proximal flange 21a, as well as the flange 21b and the shaft 12', can provide friction, for example, by using a friction material or including a material with a rough surface for enhanced friction, thereby further strengthening the locking between the shaft 12' and the handle 11'. Therefore, in its default locking configuration, the lock 15d prevents the shaft 12' from rotating relative to the handle 11' and holds the shaft 12' in a stationary position.

[0076] Figure 4BThe unlocked configuration of the medical device 1d1 is shown. The medical device 1d1 is positioned in this configuration when the shaft 12' is pulled distally relative to the handle 11' or when the handle 11' is pulled proximally relative to the shaft 12' by any suitable means. This causes the spring 15d3 to compress, thereby disengaging, for example, separating, the shaft flange 15d2 from the proximal handle flange 21a and the flange 21b from the shaft 12'. As a result of this disengagement, the shaft 12' can rotate relative to the handle 11 about the longitudinal axis of the shaft 12 while in this unlocked configuration. The handle 11 can also rotate relative to the shaft 12' about the longitudinal axis of the handle 11'. It should be noted that the force necessary to actuate this disengagement must be greater than the force normally generated by the manipulation of the shaft 12' during surgery. To restore the medical device 1d1 to its default interlocked state, the shaft 12' can be released from any pulling force, allowing the spring 15d3 to extend naturally and again push the shaft flange 15d2 against the proximal handle flange 21a and the shaft flange 21b against the shaft 12'.

[0077] In another embodiment, the outer surface of the handle 15d1 may have a frictional or rough material to help the user grip the handle 15d1 and pull or push the shaft 12'. The medical device 1d1 can be used in the same manner as the medical device 1a, except that the user can pull the shaft 12' distally to unlock or interlock the rotation of the shaft 12, rather than tightening or loosening the collar.

[0078] Figures 4C to 4D An alternative embodiment of medical device 1d2 is shown, which is similar in structure and operation to medical device 1d1. Further details are provided below. Figures 4A to 4B The difference between device 1d2 and device 1d1 is shown in the figure.

[0079] exist Figures 4C to 4DIn the design, the handle 11” includes a proximal flange 21a and a distal flange 21b. Both the proximal flange 21a and the distal flange 21b project radially inward and are annular in shape. The annular distal flange 21b has an opening configured to receive a proximal portion of the shaft 12”. This opening has a diameter sufficient to surround the proximal portion 15b1 of the shaft 12” while also allowing minimal radial movement of the shaft 12” within the opening. The shaft 12” includes a shaft flange 15d2 at its proximal end. The shaft flange 15d2 projects radially outward and is circular in shape. Therefore, the shaft flange 15d2 has a diameter larger than that of the remaining portion of the shaft 12”. The outer diameter of the shaft flange 15d2 is larger than the inner diameters of the proximal flange 21a and the distal flange 21b, such that the shaft flange 15d2 is fixed between the proximal flange 21a and the distal flange 21b of the handle 11". The outer diameter of the shaft flange 15d2 is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the portion of the handle 11” between flanges 21a and 21b, thereby allowing minimal radial movement of the shaft 12” within the handle 11”. The spring 15d3 may be identical and may be positioned in the same manner as the previously described device 1d1. Thus, the spring 15d3 forces the shaft flange 15d2 to move against the proximal flange 21a and uses its friction surface to fix the shaft 12” to the handle 11”. Therefore, the medical device 1d2 may alternate between a default interlocked mode and an unlocked mode in the same manner and mechanism as the medical device 1d1.

[0080] In some other embodiments, the spring 15d3 may be positioned such that it pushes the handle 11” and the shaft 12” away from each other. Thus, a force can be applied proximally toward the handle 11” to disengage the shaft 12” from the handle 11” and allow the shaft 12” to rotate. In other embodiments, the lock 15d may also include a locking ring to ensure that the shaft flange 15d2 and the handle flange do not disengage during surgery. The locking ring is not particularly limited and can be any mechanism or component that prevents the shaft 12” from being pulled away from the handle 11” and vice versa, such as a press-fit ring. In other embodiments, the lock 15d may include a longitudinal locking mechanism instead of a radial locking ring. In one example, the longitudinal locking mechanism can engage and disengage with the pulled-out or pushed-back handle or shaft to separate the locking interface (e.g., Figures 4A to 4B 15d1 or 21b and 15d2 or 21a in the middle, and Figures 4C to 4D (as per 15d2 or 21a). The locking interface may include a square notch or a square notch with a rounded apex to guide the locking interface during engagement.

[0081] refer to Figure 4E and 4FThe following describes another example of a device including a longitudinal locking mechanism. Device 1d can be similar to devices 1d1 and 1d2 described above. The handle 11 and shaft 12 of device 1d can be interlocked in the same or similar manner as devices 1d1 and 1d2. Therefore, shaft 12 can also be pulled distally to unlock itself from the interlocked state, and rotated relative to handle 11 about the longitudinal axis of shaft 12. To ensure unintended unlocking / disengagement from the engaged state, device 1d includes a longitudinal lock 50, a handle ring 71, a first shaft collar 61, and a second shaft collar 62.

[0082] Lock 50 is a single piece (although it can also be multiple connecting pieces) fitted within and / or around the proximal portion of shaft 12. Lock 50 includes a base ring 52, a longitudinal body 51, and a head 53. Ring 52 may be the portion of lock 50 fitted around shaft 12. The diameter of the space within ring 52 allows ring 52 to rotate and / or slide linearly relative to device 1d when fitted around shaft 12. The diameter of base ring 52 may be any suitable diameter to allow longitudinal body 51 to extend toward handle ring 71 without being obstructed by the proximal surface of handle 11. To avoid such obstruction, in some embodiments, ring 52 may be fitted around shaft shank abutting handle 11, such as... Figures 4A to 4B The proximal portion of the shaft handle 15d1 is flush with the shaft. The longitudinal body 51 can be fixed to the outer edge or circumference of the ring 52. The body 51 can extend proximally toward the handle ring 71. The shape of the body 51 can be any suitable shape, such as linear, radially outwardly curved, etc., to allow the body 71 to extend proximally on the outer surface of the handle 11. In some exemplary embodiments, the body 51 can be formed such that the distal end (attached to the ring 52) is closer to the central axis of the shaft than the head 53, which is relatively farther away from the central axis of the shaft. Therefore, the shape of the body 51 can be adjusted to avoid interference with the distal end of the handle when the user rotates between the locked and unlocked positions. Alternatively, the body 51 can be spaced at a distance from the central axis, and the handle 11 can have a slit to accommodate the body 51 when it rotates between the locked and unlocked positions. The body 51 can have any suitable length sufficient to allow the head 53 to reach and engage with the ring 71. The body 51 can be made of any suitable material capable of withstanding the tension against the shaft 12 during ordinary surgery. Furthermore, the body 51 can be positioned on the ring 52 such that it can be received within the gap 72 of the handle ring 71 (described further below). The head 53 can have any suitable shape or size to pass through the gap 72 of the ring 71. In addition, the head 53 can protrude in a direction toward the recess 73 of the ring 71, and can protrude by an appropriate length such that it can rest and be held on the recess 73.

[0083] A handle ring 71 may be secured around all or part of the outer surface of the handle 11. The ring 71 may include a break along its circumference, forming a gap 72. The gap 72 may have any suitable width allowing the head 53 and body 51 of the ring 52 to pass through. The end of the ring 71 facing the head 53 may also include a recess 73 as described above. The recess 73 may be a depression on the aforementioned end of the ring 71 that receives the head 53 for anchoring. A first shaft ring 61 and a second shaft ring 62 may be secured to the shaft 12. Rings 61 and 62 may be positioned along a proximal portion of the shaft 12. Rings 61 and 62 may be positioned proximal and distal to the ring 52, respectively, defining a space within which the ring 52 can slide linearly. The defined space may have a distance consistent with the distance required for the head 53 to pass through the gap 72 and reach the recess 73. The ring 61 may also function as a catch / stop against the ring 52, preventing the shaft 12 from being pulled distally away from the handle 11.

[0084] Given the above, lock 50 can have two states: an unlocked state (e.g., ...). Figure 4E (as shown) and locked state (as shown) Figure 4F (As shown). In the unlocked state, ring 52 can rest against the second collar 62, and thus head 53 can be on the distal side of gap 72. In this state, shaft 12 can be pulled distally to unlock itself from the interlocked state, and rotated relative to handle 11 about the longitudinal axis of shaft 12. To convert lock 50 to the locked state, ring 52 can slide / translate linearly in the proximal direction, such that the proximal portion of head 53 and body 51 can pass through gap 72. To reach a sufficient distance for head 53 to engage with recess 73, ring 52 can slide linearly until it abuts the first collar 61. Ring 52 can then be rotated, as indicated by the directional arrow, so that head 53 meets and rests on recess 73, thereby anchoring lock 50 to handle collar 71. Thus, pulling shaft 12 distally away from handle 11 can be prevented. Therefore, lock 50 can switch between unlocked and locked states as needed by the user.

[0085] like Figures 5A to 5C Medical device 1e is similar to device 1a in many respects. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The differences between devices 1a and 1e will be described below. Handle 11 includes lock 15e. Lock 15e includes a collar 15e1 surrounding a portion of a shaft 12 between a distal flange 13 and a proximal flange 14. Specifically, collar 15e1 is positioned between the inner wall 11b1 and the proximal flange 14. Collar 15e1 can be made of any suitable flexible material, such as plastic, rubber, etc.

[0086] The collar 15e1 includes a first flange 15e2 and a second flange 15e3. The first flange 15e2 and the second flange 15e3 project radially outward from the handle 11 through an opening on one side of the handle 11. The first flange 15e2 and the second flange 15e3 may be laterally spaced apart by a gap, or may contact each other to close the gap. (Referring to...) Figures 5B to 5C These two forms will be discussed in more detail later. In addition, the first flange 15e2 and the second flange 15e3 each include an opening that is aligned with the opening of the other.

[0087] The collar 15e1 also includes a locking pin 15e6 driven via its respective openings through a first flange 15e2 and a second flange 15e3. The pin 15e6 can have any suitable width or length, and can be fitted into and remain in the openings when the first flange 15e2 and the second flange 15e3 are spaced apart. The flanges 15e2 and 15e3 can also slide laterally on the pin 15e6 due to the lateral force exerted against them. The locking pin 15e6 includes a stop 15e4 attached to one end of the pin 15e6. Specifically, the stop 15e4 is attached to the first end of the pin 15e6 closest to the first flange 15e2. The stop 15e4 has a diameter larger than that of the flange openings of the pin 15e6 and the flange 15e2 through which the pin 15e6 is driven. Therefore, the stop 15e4 prevents the pin 15e6 from falling out or sliding out of the first flange 15e2.

[0088] The collar 15e1 also includes a locking handle 15e5. The locking handle 15e5 can be of any form suitable for user actuation. The locking handle 15e5 is coupled to a second end of a pin 15e6 adjacent to the second flange 15e3. The handle 15e5 is configured to pivot about a pivot pin 15e7, which can be offset from the center of the handle 15e5. Specifically, the handle 15e5 is configured to pivot along the plane of the collar 15e1, such that the handle can be pulled toward or away from the collar 15e1 (see [link to details]). Figures 5B to 5C (Directional arrow).

[0089] like Figure 5B As shown, the first flange 15e2 and the second flange 15e3 are spaced apart along the pin 15e6, thus leaving an open, spaced-apart, and loose collar 15e1. This is the natural, unbiased shape of the collar 15e1, as... Figure 5B As shown. This configuration of lock 15e can be described as an unlocked configuration. In this state, collar 15e1 is loosened to the extent that it allows radial movement of shaft 12 within collar 15e1. Therefore, in this loosened state, shaft 12 can move relative to handle 11 (in... Figure 5B(Not shown) Rotates about the longitudinal axis of shaft 12. Handle 11 can also rotate relative to shaft 12 about its longitudinal axis. It should be noted that in this unlocked configuration, handle 15e5 is away from collar 15e1. However, as indicated by the directional arrows, pivoting handle 15e5 by pulling it toward collar 15e1 will cause collar 15e1 to tighten onto shaft 12. This results in lock 15e being placed in the locked configuration, as further described below.

[0090] Figure 5C The lock 15e is shown in a locked configuration. In this configuration, the collar 15e1 is tightened onto the shaft 12, thereby preventing any radial or rotational movement of the shaft 12. Specifically, the first flange 15e2 and the second flange 15e3 are in contact with each other, thereby closing any previous gap between the flanges (although flanges 15e2 and 15e3 do not necessarily need to be in contact so that the collar 15e1 contacts the shaft 12). This is due to the handle 15e5 being pivoted toward the collar 15e1. Pivoting the handle 15e5 toward the collar 15e1 about the pin 15e7 results in a cam action. Specifically, as the handle 15e5 pivots about the pivot pin 15e7, the outer surface of the handle 15e5 presses against the outer surface of the flange 15e3 in the cam action, thereby forcing the flange 15e3 to move toward the flange 15e2. The gap between flanges 15e2 and 15e3 continues to close until collar 15e1 contacts shaft 12 and closes around shaft 12, restricting any radial or longitudinal movement of shaft 12. This tightening on shaft 12 places lock 15e in a locked position. Therefore, to alternate between unlocking and locking lock 15e, handle 15e5 is pivoted, causing it to be pulled away from or toward collar 15e1. Medical device 1e can be used in the same manner as medical device 1a, except that the user can pivot the locking handle 15e5 as described above to unlock or lock rotation of shaft 12 instead of rotating collar.

[0091] like Figures 6A to 6C The medical device 1f shown is similar to device 1b in many respects. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The differences between devices 1b and 1f will be described below. The inner wall of the handle 11 includes a plurality of spacers 15f. The spacers 15f are distributed circumferentially along the inner wall of the handle 11 and are evenly spaced. The spacers 15f surround the proximal flange 14' and are configured to engage each of the recesses 24.

[0092] Each of the spacers 15f includes a spring 15f1 and a bearing 15f2. The spring 15f1 is attached at one end to the inner wall of the handle 11. The bearing 15f2 is attached to the opposite end of the spring 15f1. The bearing 15f2 can be any suitable form configured to engage the recesses 24, each of the recesses 24 being of a specific predetermined size capable of receiving the bearing 15f2. The spring 15f1 can be any suitable spring of sufficient length to allow the bearing 15f2 to engage each of the recesses 24. Furthermore, the spring 15f1 can have sufficient spring force so that manipulation during routine surgery of the medical device 1f does not cause the bearing 15f2 to unnecessarily disengage from the recesses 24.

[0093] The engagement of bearing 15f2 with recess 24 places lock 15f in a locked state. However, the aforementioned spring force is also within the user's ergonomic capabilities and can be overcome by the torsional force applied to shaft 12 by the user. Therefore, the user can rotate shaft 12 to disengage bearing 15f2 from recess 24 until bearing 15f2 re-engages with adjacent recess 24. Even after re-engagement, shaft 12 can continue to rotate until bearing 15f2 re-engages recess 24 at a selected or predetermined rotational position of shaft 12. Thus, medical device 1f can be used in the same manner as medical device 1b, except that the user can directly rotate shaft 12 by applying torsional force to shaft 12 in any suitable manner.

[0094] Other embodiments may also include an additional handle on shaft 12 to assist the user in applying sufficient torsional force to rotate shaft 12. In some other embodiments, the rotatable turntable 26 may be integrated into handle 11, such as... Figure 6C As shown. The handle 26 can be fixed to the shaft 12, for example at the proximal flange 13, so that the user can clamp and rotate the turntable 26 instead of clamping and rotating the shaft 12.

[0095] In some other medical device embodiments, there may be no lock or locking mechanism, and such embodiments may rely on friction between the shaft and the handle to maintain their relative positions. This friction can be applied by any suitable means or mechanism, for example, by radial force or by frictional fit created by the attractive properties of the material.

[0096] like Figures 7A to 7BThe medical device 1h shown is similar in many respects to the previously described embodiment. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. However, the rotation of the shaft 12 of the medical device 1h is motorized, and the actuator for rotating the shaft 12 can also function as a lock. The actuator 15h includes a switch 15h1 coupled to a servo motor 15h2. A portion of the switch 15h1 is external to the handle 11 and can be actuated by the user, while another portion of the switch 15h1 extends through an opening in the handle 11 into the handle 11. The servo motor 15h2 is housed within the handle 11. The servo motor 15h2 is coupled to a cam 15h3, which is configured to rotate and engage with a notch 24 of the proximal flange 14'. The servo motor 15h2 can be started or stopped by actuation of the switch 15h1, which can be of any suitable form.

[0097] The rotation of cam 15h3 is achieved by operating servo motor 15h2, while cam 15h3 remains engaged with recess 24, causing the proximal flange 14' to rotate, thereby rotating shaft 12 relative to handle 11 about the longitudinal axis of shaft 12. Conversely, when servo motor 15h2 is not operating, stationary cam 15h3 can lock shaft 12 in the proper position because cam 15h3 remains engaged with recess 24, thus preventing further rotation of shaft 12. Therefore, medical device 1h can be used in the same manner as the aforementioned medical device embodiments, except that the user can turn drive 15h on / off via switch 15h1 to rotate or hold shaft 12 in place.

[0098] like Figures 8A to 8B The medical device 1i shown is similar in many respects to the previously described device 1f. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The differences between device 1i and device 1f will be described below. Medical device 1i includes a handle 11 coupled to a shaft 12a and a shaft housing 12b. Specifically, the housing 12b accommodates the distal portion of the handle 11. The shaft 12a and housing 12b are rotatable relative to the handle 11 about the longitudinal axis of the shaft 12a, as... Figure 8A and 8C As shown.

[0099] Handle 11 and housing 12b include arrows indicating the starting point of rotation of shaft 12 relative to handle 11 (see [link]). Figure 8A (Center-aligned arrow). In other embodiments, the handle 11 and housing 12b may include any other suitable markings on their outer surfaces. Reference Figure 8B , 8DIn models 8E and 8G, the inner surface of the distal end of handle 11 also includes a lock 15i. Lock 15i includes a ring 15i1 and a post 15i3. The ring 15i1 is annular and includes a plurality of slots 15i4 evenly spaced around its circumference. Specifically, the slots 15i4 are spaced at 45° intervals. The slots 15i4 are rectangular in shape and extend from the proximal end of the ring 15i1 to approximately the midpoint between the proximal and distal ends of the ring 15i1. The slots 15i4 have sufficient width to assemble / anchor the ball 15i5 of the shaft housing 12, which will be described in more detail later. However, it should be noted that the ring 15i1 is not limited to those described and may include more or fewer slots, different spacing, and different slot shapes. For example, as... Figure 8E and 8G As shown, the slots 15i4 may not be distributed across the entire circumference of the ring 15i1. The post 15i3 is a cylindrical protrusion attached to the distal portion of the ring 15i1. However, the post 15i3 is not limited to being cylindrical and may have any suitable shape and / or size that can ride within the channel of the housing 12b, as further described below.

[0100] refer to Figure 8B and 8D The proximal portion of shaft 12a is received and secured to housing 12b. Shaft 12a can be secured to housing 12b by any suitable means, such as adhesive bonding or overmolding, and is not particularly limited thereto. Thus, shaft 12a and housing 12b rotate in unison relative to handle 11. Shaft 12a exits housing 12b via an opening at the distal end of housing 12b. The distal end of housing 12b may also be connected to a housing or stress-relieving member 12c, which also covers the proximal portion of shaft 12a and from which shaft 12a can exit.

[0101] like Figure 8A and 8C As shown, housing 12b includes an arrow mark on its outer surface, around its proximal end. This arrow can be used as a reference to indicate the rotational position of housing 12b and shaft 12a relative to handle 11 and its corresponding mark.

[0102] The proximal end of the housing 12b also includes a channel 15i2 and a stop 15i6. The channel 15i2 is an annular / ring-shaped channel within the proximal portion of the housing 12b. The channel 15i2 has no inner surface and circumferentially surrounds the outer surface of the distal end of the ring 15i1, such that the channel 15i2 accommodates the post 15i3. Therefore, when the post 15i3 rotates with the ring 15i1 via the rotation of the handle 11, the post 15i3 can ride within the channel 15i2, or the channel 15i2 can rotate above the post 15i3 via the rotation of the housing 12b.

[0103] In some embodiments, the channel 15i2 further includes a break or cut within its annular shape, such that a complete ring is not formed (see...). Figure 8E and 8G The break can be described as a molded stop 15i7 because it prevents the post 15i3 from riding beyond either end of the break. For example, stop 15i7 can limit the rotation of stop 15i6 relative to handle 11, and vice versa, up to 175° in each rotational direction, to prevent damage to the internal structure. Because stop 15i6 is prevented from rotating beyond a selected or predetermined angle, an additional slot 15i4 on ring 15i1 may be unnecessary and therefore not present for a portion of ring 15i1, such as... Figure 8E and 8G As shown. This break, namely the molded stop 15i7, may be filled or occupied by other wires, components, etc. in some cases.

[0104] like Figure 8B and 8D As shown, the stop 15i6 is fixed to the inner surface of the proximal portion of the housing 12b such that when the housing 12b rotates, the stop 15i6 also rotates. The stop 15i6 is a cylindrical housing that extends radially from this inner surface around or near the ring 15i1 of the handle 11. The stop 15i6 accommodates a ball 15i5 (such as...). Figure 8E As shown), the ball 15i5 partially protrudes from the end of the housing 15i6 adjacent to the ring 15i1. Therefore, the ball 15i5, which can be spring-loaded within the stop 15i6, can engage with the slot 15i4 of the ring 15i5. The stop 15i6 is positioned proximal to the adjacent channel 15i2.

[0105] A ball 15i5 is partially received in the end of a stop 15i6 adjacent to a ring 15i1, such that the ball 15i5 can partially protrude from that end. The ball 15i5 can have any suitable size or shape that can engage with or anchor within a slot 15i4. Furthermore, the ball 15i5 can be spring-loaded, such that when the stop 15i6 is positioned above the outer surface of the ring 15i5 via rotation of the handle 11 or the shaft housing 12b, the ball 15i5 retracts via compression of a spring (not shown). When the stop 15i6 is positioned above one of the slots 15i4, the ball 15i5 can protrude from the end of the stop 15i6 via an extension of the spring, such that the ball 15i5 can be anchored within the slot 15i4. This anchoring of the stop ball 15i5 can be described as a locking configuration of the device 1i. In this locking configuration, further rotation of the shaft 12a and housing 12b is prevented until sufficient rotational force is applied relative to the handle 11 against the shaft 12b. Therefore, the medical device 1i can be used in the same manner as the previously described medical device embodiment 1f, except that the rotation of the shaft 12a and handle 12b may be limited to a selected or predetermined rotation angle due to the stop 15i7.

[0106] like Figures 9A to 9C The illustrated medical device 1j is similar in many respects to the previously described embodiments. The same reference numerals refer to the same parts. As discussed in the previous embodiments, the handle 11 may be rotatably coupled to the shaft 12 such that the handle 11 can rotate relative to the shaft 12 about the longitudinal axis of the device 1j, and vice versa. The manner in which the handle 11 and the shaft 12 are rotatably coupled is not particularly limited. For example, in some embodiments, the proximal portion 121 of the shaft 12 may include a channel or recess 36 extending along the circumference of the shaft 12. Figure 9B (as shown in the diagram). Channel 36 may receive a radially inwardly extending protrusion (not shown) within the distal portion of handle 11, which may ride within channel 36 when handle 11 or shaft 12 rotates relative to the other.

[0107] In addition to the handle 11 and the shaft 12, the medical device 1j also includes a rotating feature 20, which includes a resistance member 80, a locking member 30, and a handle 40. The device 1j includes two resistance members 80, a first spring 81, and a second spring 82 (see, for example...). Figure 9D However, it should be noted that the number of resistance components is not particularly limited, for example, one, three, four, etc. Springs 81 and 82 can both be helical springs defining a central opening 520. Furthermore, each of the two springs 81 and 82 includes a post 510 at both ends, which extends radially outward from spring 81 and 82. The size and number of coils in springs 81 and 82 are not particularly limited and can be based on the amount of torque transmitted via springs 81 and 82. Figure 9A and9B As shown, springs 81 and 82 can be frictionally fitted around the distal portion 110 of the handle 11 via a central opening 520. Therefore, based on this configuration, the force applied against the inner surface 512 of the post 510 (the surface closest to the adjacent post 510) pushes the posts 510 away from each other, reducing the size of the central opening 520 and causing the springs 81 and 82 to coil more tightly around the distal portion 110, thereby increasing the amount of torque that can be driven via this connection. Conversely, the force applied against the outer surface 514 of the post 510 (the surface furthest from the adjacent post 510) pushes the posts 510 towards each other, increasing the size of the central opening 520 and causing the springs 81 and 82 to unfold, thereby causing the springs 81 and 82 to release and slide on the distal portion 110. It should be noted that the orientation of the post 510 of spring 81 relative to the post 510 of spring 82 is not particularly restricted and can depend on the positioning of the lugs 32 and 34, as discussed further below.

[0108] The locking member 30 may be an annular member including a central opening, a first lug 32, a second lug 34, and a channel 36. The central opening may have a sufficient diameter or width to receive the opening of the shaft 12 such that the surface defining the central opening is flush with the outer surface of the shaft 12. The first and second lugs 32, 34 may be features extending proximally from the edge of the member 30. The first and second lugs 32, 34 are configured to engage with springs 81 and 82. Therefore, the lugs 32, 34 may have sufficient width to engage within the gap between the posts 510 of springs 81 and 82, such as... Figure 9C As shown. Furthermore, lugs 32 and 34 can have a width that minimizes the gap between the inner surface 512 of the post 510 and the lugs 32 and 34. For example... Figures 9B to 9C As shown, lugs 32 and 34 can be located on opposite sides of the locking member 30 (approximately 180° apart), but are not limited thereto. Furthermore, it should be noted that the locking member 30, through its central opening, can be immovably fixed around the proximal portion 121 of the shaft 12. The manner in which the locking member 30 is immovably fixed to the shaft 12 is not particularly limited (e.g., glue, adhesive, welding, etc.).

[0109] The handle 40 is a grippable feature that encloses the proximal portion of the shaft 12, the locking member 30, and the springs 81, 82. The handle 40 includes a proximal opening 42, a distal opening (not shown), and a cavity defined therebetween. The proximal opening 42 is configured to receive the locking member 30 and the springs 81, 82. The proximal opening 42 is shaped to accommodate the locking member 30 and the springs 81, 82, such that the locking member 30 and the springs 81, 82 can be keyed into the handle 40. Therefore, portions of the opening 42 and the cavity of the handle 40 can surround the contours of the locking member 30 and the springs 81, 82, as... Figures 9B to 9CAs shown. The handle 40 can surround the locking member 30 and the springs 81, 82, while minimizing the gap between the inner surface of the handle 40 and the outer surface 514 of the post 510, as... Figure 9C As shown. However, it should be noted that the handle 40 can rotate relative to the shaft 12, such that the inner surface of the handle 40 can abut against the outer surface of the post 510. The handle 40 also includes a distal opening (not shown) through which the shaft 12 extends distally. This distal opening can have any suitable diameter that allows for frictional engagement around the shaft 12, so that the handle 40 can maintain its position along the length of the shaft 12.

[0110] Given the above configuration, by default, when the user does not apply any rotational force relative to each other on the handle 11, shaft 12, or grip 40, the shaft 12 can be locked in a rotational position. Any clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the shaft 12 relative to the handle 11 causes the lugs 32 and 34 of the locking member 30 to apply force to the inner surface 512 of the post 510. This force, caused by the natural movement of the handle 11 applying torque to the shaft 12, causes the springs 81 and 82 to coil more tightly around the distal portion 10 of the handle 11. This effectively locks the rotation of either the handle 11 or the shaft 12 relative to the other. To adjust the rotational position of the handle 11 relative to the shaft 12, and vice versa, the handle 40 can be adjusted or held in a position such that the inner surface of the handle 40 can apply force to the outer surface 514 of the springs 81 and 82. This force causes the springs 81 and 82 to unfold around the distal portion 110 of the handle 11, thereby allowing the handle 11 to rotate relative to the shaft 12 (and vice versa). After the desired rotational position is reached, the handle 40 can be released, causing the springs 81 and 82 to return to their natural bias, thereby holding the shaft 12 in the new position relative to the handle 11. Thus, the locking member 30 can be naturally "locked" by the release of the handle 40. Therefore, the medical device 1j can be used in the same manner as the aforementioned medical device embodiments, except that the user can hold the handle 40 while adjusting the rotational position of the handle 11 relative to the shaft 12 (or vice versa).

[0111] It should be noted that in another exemplary embodiment, a helical spring, such as springs 81 and 82, may be frictionally fitted around the shaft 12, wherein the post 510 interacts with features of the handle 11 and the grip 40. This feature of the handle 11 may be similar in shape and function to the lugs 32 and 34 of the locking member 30. Such an embodiment can function in a similar manner to device 1j, except that the shaft 12 can be rotated / operated relative to the grip 40.

[0112] Resistance element 80 is not limited to helical springs 81 and 82, such as Figures 9A to 9CAs shown. In other exemplary embodiments, the spring may include radially inwardly extending posts, or the spring wire may have a square or rectangular cross-section. Furthermore, the spring may be any number of wholly or partially wound such that friction increases when pressure is applied to the posts 510 in one direction (e.g., against surface 512) and decreases when applied to the posts 510 in another direction (e.g., against surface 514). Posts 510 at each end of the spring may also appear at wound points less than or greater than 360°. Additionally, other similarly functional resistance components may be used instead of springs 81, 82, such as hose clamps. However, some functionally similar resistance components may require adjustments to the above-described configuration of the rotation feature 20 to ensure the device functions in the same manner. For example, depending on how the alternative resistance component is tightened or loosened, it may be fitted onto the handle in different ways, or a locking component of a different shape may be required.

[0113] Figure 10 An embodiment of the medical device 1 is shown, wherein the shaft 12” includes incremental markings to help the user determine the rotational position of the shaft 12” relative to the handle 11. In other embodiments, the handle 11 may also, or alternatively, include markings to help the user measure the rotational position of the shaft 12. Figure 10 The markings indicate the numerical degree of rotation relative to the arrow markings located at the distal end of the handle 11. However, the markings are not limited to... Figure 10 Examples of the settings are provided. The markings are not particularly limited and may include various combinations of numbers, letters, or words to indicate rotation of shaft 12” relative to handle 11, and vice versa. It should be noted that such markings may also be applied to any of the previously described medical device embodiments.

[0114] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on consideration of the description and practice of the invention disclosed herein. The description and examples are intended to be illustrative only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A medical device comprising: A shaft, comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion; A housing positioned about a proximal portion of the shaft, wherein the shaft is fixed to the housing to allow the shaft to rotate in unison with the housing, the housing including a stop and a channel; A handle, the handle including a proximal portion and a distal portion, the distal portion of the handle being received within the housing, wherein the shaft and the housing are rotatable relative to the handle, wherein the handle includes a ring with a plurality of slots; and A lock having a first form and a second form; wherein, in the first form, the shaft and the housing are rotatable relative to the handle; and in the second form, the shaft is stationary relative to the handle.

2. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the stop is located proximal to the channel.

3. The medical device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the channel is an annular channel extending radially outward from the inner opening of the channel to the outer wall of the channel relative to the axis.

4. The medical device of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the lock is located on the distal portion of the handle, and wherein the ring constitutes at least a portion of the lock.

5. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the ring includes a protrusion extending radially outward relative to a longitudinal axis of the shaft, wherein the protrusion is received within a channel of the housing such that rotation of the ring causes the protrusion to move within the channel.

6. The medical device of claim 5, wherein rotating the ring in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction causes the protrusion to slide within the channel.

7. The medical device of claim 5, wherein the channel includes a stop block configured to restrict rotation of the ring relative to the housing.

8. The medical device according to any one of claims 5-7, wherein the rotation angle of the ring in each direction is limited to a maximum of 175 degrees.

9. The medical device according to any one of claims 1-2 or 5-7, wherein the plurality of slots are uniformly distributed along the circumference of the ring.

10. The medical device according to any one of claims 1-2 or 5-7, wherein each of the plurality of slots includes an opening on the nearest side of the ring and includes a closed distal end such that each slot extends distally from the opening into the ring.

11. The medical device according to any one of claims 1-2 or 5-7, wherein each of the plurality of slots extends along the proximal-distal axis of the ring from the proximal end of the ring to the midpoint of the ring.

12. The medical device according to any one of claims 1-2 or 5-7, wherein each of the plurality of slots comprises a rectangle.

13. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the stop, relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, comprises: (1) It has a radial inner end of a ball; And (2) the radial outer end.

14. The medical device of claim 13, wherein in the second configuration, the ball engages with one of the plurality of slots to prevent the housing and the shaft from rotating relative to the handle, and wherein the ball is retractable to change the lock from the second configuration to the first configuration.

15. The medical device of claim 14, wherein the ball is spring-loaded within the stop, causing the ball to be biased toward engaging the slot.

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