Tools and methods for vaginal access

Abstract

To provide a dilator with stages, the dilator being used with a trocar kit for providing an abdominal cavity access through a recess of the body.SOLUTION: A trocar component is configured to provide access into an abdominal cavity through an intestinum rectum uterus cave, to a surgical tool, and in arbitrary selection, includes one or more surgical robot members. The surgical tool has a diameter of 5 mm or more in arbitrary selection. A cannula part has a lumen sized to provide simultaneous transvaginal access into the abdominal cavity through the intestinum rectum uterus cave to the multiple surgical tools, and has a discission which sized to receive a distal opening of the cannula, and uses in arbitrary selection, one or two dilators. The dilator is formed sized to form a long circular shaped opening, and the long circular shaped opening is configured so that, a width of a large diameter is at least twice of a width of a short diameter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 549,097, filed August 23, 2017, Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 549,078, filed August 23, 2017, Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 558,460, filed September 14, 2017, and Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 558,469, filed September 14, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] This application is also part of the following series of co-filed, co-pending and co-assigned applications: U.S. Patent Application Entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74919) PCT Patent Application Entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74918) Canadian patent application entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74920) U.S. Patent Application Entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74927) Canadian patent application entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74928) U.S. Patent Application Entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74926) U.S. Patent Application Entitled "TOOLS AND METHODS FOR VAGINAL ACCESS" (Attorney Docket No. 74924) All of these disclosures are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT ART The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to the field of intraperitoneal surgery, and more particularly to devices and methods for laparoscopic access to the intraperitoneal space.

[0004] Pelvic endoscopy is an endoscopic procedure performed to inspect the rectal uterine pouch and pelvic organs by introduction of a pelvic endoscope through the posterior vaginal wall. The pelvic endoscope can be a modified laparoscope. A trocar is first inserted through the vagina into the posterior vaginal fornix, the space behind the cervix, which then allows the entry of the pelvic endoscope. The patient's position moves the intestines away from the pelvic organs, which can then be inspected. Conditions that can be diagnosed with pelvic endoscopy include tubal adhesions (causing infertility), ectopic pregnancy, and salpingitis. Pelvic endoscopy allows the performance of relatively simple procedures such as tubal sterilization.

[0005] Summary of the Invention According to some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a stepped dilator for use with a trocar kit for providing intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, the stepped dilator comprising a dilator body, a first tapered region of the dilator body, and a second tapered region of the dilator body, the dilator body having a longitudinal axis in a proximal to distal direction, the first tapered region of the dilator body narrowing toward a distal end of the dilator body, and the second tapered region of the dilator body narrowing in a distal direction, the second tapered region of the dilator body proximally relative to the first tapered region and separated from the first tapered region by a separation region.

[0006] A region of constant cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis extending between the first tapered region and the second tapered region is provided.

[0007] The separation region comprises a region including a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the region having no cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis in any direction greater than the maximum cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first tapered region.

[0008] In some embodiments, the separation region is at least 3 mm in length.

[0009] In some embodiments, the separation region is no longer than 20 mm in length.

[0010] In some embodiments, the separation region is between 5 and 15 mm in length.

[0011] In some embodiments, the entire taper range of at least one of the first tapered region and the second tapered region tapers over a longitudinal distance of 15 mm or less between a cross-section having a smallest cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a cross-section having a largest cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0012] In some embodiments, the diameter of the stepped dilator perpendicular to the longitudinal axis increases by at least 7.5 mm through the tapered extent of at least one of the first tapered region and the second tapered region.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first tapered region has a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that has a maximum cross-sectional area having at least one axis that is about 10 mm or greater in length.

[0014] In some embodiments, the distal tip of the first tapered region is 4 mm 2 and extending distally from the front opening through a radius of curvature of at least 2.5 mm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the front opening is a lumen opening sized to allow a trocar needle having a diameter of about 2 mm or less to be advanced partially longitudinally through the opening.

[0016] In some embodiments, a cross-section of the first tapered region perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and having a maximum cross-sectional area has at least one axis no greater than about 7.5 mm.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a kit comprising the above-described stepped dilator, together with a handle and a trocar needle, the stepped dilator and handle together defining a lumen sized to accommodate passage of the trocar needle from a proximal end of the handle to a distal tip of the stepped dilator.

[0018] In some embodiments, the trocar needle comprises a handle that extends at least 5 cm beyond the proximal end of the handle when the distal tip of the trocar needle is advanced 5 mm beyond the distal tip of the stepped dilator.

[0019] In some embodiments, the trocar needle comprises a blunt tip and internally spring loaded stylet to function as a Veress needle that can have an extended position and a collapsed position, where in the extended position the stylet has a blunt end that extends beyond the sharp tip of the trocar needle to prevent the sharp tip from damaging tissue, and when sufficient longitudinal force is applied the stylet moves to a collapsed position such that the stylet no longer extends beyond the sharp tip, allowing the sharp tip to operate to penetrate tissue.

[0020] In some embodiments, the distal tip of the trocar needle comprises a stopper device configured to prevent advancement of more than 5 mm beyond the distal tip of the stepped dilator.

[0021] In some embodiments, a cross-section of the second tapered region perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and having a maximum cross-sectional area has at least one axis that is greater than or equal to about 21 mm in length.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a cannula for providing intraperitoneal access across a wall of a body cavity, the cross-section of the lumen of the cannula across the longitudinal axis of the cannula having a major axis and a minor axis, the major axis being at least twice as long as the minor axis.

[0023] In some embodiments, the minor axis of the cross section is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0024] In some embodiments, the major axis of the cross section is between 10 mm and 30 mm.

[0025] In some embodiments, the lumen wall defining a transverse cross-section of the cannula includes non-curved (straight) portions on opposite sides of said transverse cross-section.

[0026] In some embodiments, the non-curved portions are interconnected through curved portions.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cannula is at least 5 cm in length.

[0028] In some embodiments, the ends defining the opening at the distal end of the cannula include a first end extending along one side of the opening and a second end extending along another side of the opening, the first end extending further distally along the longitudinal axis than the second end.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first and second ends extend along opposite sides of the opening.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first end and the second end extend along a major axis of the cross-section.

[0031] In some embodiments, the cannula comprises a handle extending at least 10 cm from the proximal end of said cannula.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a cannula for use with a trocar to provide intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, the ends defining an opening at a distal end of the cannula including a first end extending along one side of the opening and a second end extending along another side of the opening, the first end extending along a more distal side along a longitudinal axis than the second end.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first end is positioned at least 5 mm more distally than the second end.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first end and the second end each include a non-curved (straight) portion.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method of using a cannula to provide intraperitoneal access to a body cavity via a body cavity, the method comprising inserting a distal end of the cannula via transvaginal access into an enlarged opening of a recto-uterine pouch, the end defining the opening of the distal end of the cannula having a first end extending along one side of the opening and a second end extending along an opposing side of the opening, the first end being positioned along the cannula more distally from the enlarged opening than the second end, and the cannula being inserted such that the opening of the distal end of the cannula is oriented to open towards the second end and faces against the rectum adjacent the recto-uterine pouch.

[0036] In some embodiments, the method includes inserting a flexible robotic arm through the cannula and into the recto-uterine pouch in a direction directed away from the rectum and out of the opening.

[0037] In some embodiments, inserting the distal end of the cannula into the recto-uterine pouch includes sliding the cannula over an outer dilator having a tapered distal insertion end that is sized and shaped to slide over an inner dilator having a tapered distal insertion end with a rounded tip, and the cannula sliding over the outer dilator, and at least the outer dilator being inserted into the recto-uterine pouch via transvaginal access.

[0038] In some embodiments, the method comprises sliding the cannula over the outer dilator while the inner dilator remains within the outer dilator.

[0039] In some embodiments, inserting the distal end of the cannula into the recto-uterine pouch comprises sliding the cannula over a stepped dilator, the stepped dilator including a tapered distal insertion end with a rounded tip, a second tapered region, and a separation region between the second tapered region and the tapered distal insertion end, the cannula being appropriately slid over the stepped dilator and the dilator being inserted into the recto-uterine pouch via transvaginal access.

[0040] In some embodiments, the rounded tip has a hole sized to allow passage of a trocar needle having a diameter of about 2 mm or less.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a kit for providing intraperitoneal access via a body cavity, the kit comprising a cannula, a stepped dilator and a trocar needle, the transverse cross-section of the lumen of the cannula transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cannula having a sufficient longitudinal length to allow for simultaneous insertion of at least two cylindrical members, each of which is at least 8 mm in diameter, the stepped dilator having a dilator body having a first tapered region of the dilator body that is narrower tapered towards a distal end of the dilator body and a second tapered region of the dilator body that is narrower tapered in the distal direction and is located proximally to the first tapered region and separated from the first tapered region by a separation region, the trocar needle comprising a handle region that extends beyond the proximal end of the inner dilator when a distal tip of the trocar needle is advanced to the distal tip of the inner dilator.

[0042] In some embodiments, the major axis of the transverse cross-section of the cannula lumen is at least 21 mm.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cannula has a minor cross-sectional axis, said major cross-sectional axis being at least twice as long as said minor cross-sectional axis.

[0044] In some embodiments, the kit includes arm sheaths for multiple robotic arms, the arm sheaths sized to fit within the cannulas, the cannulas having a minimum diameter of about 10 mm and a maximum diameter at least twice the minimum diameter.

[0045] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method of gaining intra-abdominal access via a body cavity, the method comprising the steps of inserting a first stage of a stepped dilator into the rectouterine pouch to widen an opening in a wall of the rectouterine pouch, and inserting a second stage of the stepped dilator into the rectouterine pouch to widen the opening, the first and second stages of the stepped dilator each having a narrower tapered region in a distal direction, the first and second stages of the dilator being separated by a separation region at least 3 mm in length.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of transvaginally inserting a stepped dilator into a wall of the recto-uterine pouch and advancing a trocar needle from within the stepped dilator to form an opening in the wall of the recto-uterine pouch.

[0047] In some embodiments, the lumen of the cannula has at least one cross-sectional axis of at least 20 mm.

[0048] In some embodiments, the lumen of the cannula has at least one cross-sectional axis of less than about 12 mm.

[0049] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a method for gaining intra-abdominal access through a body cavity is provided, comprising inserting a camera into an intra-abdominal space having a wall of the recto-uterine pouch within a field of view of the camera, illuminating the wall of the recto-uterine pouch with an illumination device positioned within the abdominal cavity, selecting a location for an opening for the wall of the recto-uterine pouch based on light from the illumination device visible from outside the recto-uterine pouch, advancing a trocar needle from outside the recto-uterine pouch to press against the selected location of the wall of the recto-uterine pouch, confirming the position of the trocar needle based on one or more images from the camera within the intra-abdominal space, and puncturing the recto-uterine pouch through the opening with the trocar needle.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a kit for positioning a robotic arm system along a longitudinal axis of a cannula to be inserted into a body opening, the robotic arm system comprising a motor unit and at least one robotic arm, the at least one robotic arm extending distally from the motor unit along the longitudinal axis when positioned, the kit comprising a cannula and an assembly, the cannula including a cannula body configured for insertion into the body opening and a mounting block configured for attachment to the cannula, the assembly attached to the mounting block and including a spacing arm and an aligning arm, movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the deployed position of the assembly positions an element of the aligning arm in a position where the element of the aligning arm indicates a predetermined position along the longitudinal axis.

[0051] In some embodiments, the mounting block is attached to the cannula by a process of connecting it to an access device, the access device having an internal lumen sized to properly receive the cannula therein.

[0052] In some embodiments, the spacing arm and the aligning arm deploy by being hinged about a plurality of stalled hinges, each stalled hinge defining at least a stalled deployed position and a stalled stowed position.

[0053] In some embodiments, the kit further comprises a motor unit and at least one robotic arm, the at least one robotic arm extending distally from the motor unit a predetermined distance from a stopper receiving portion of the motor unit, a distal end of the at least one robotic arm aligned with a distal end of the cannula when the at least one robotic arm is inserted into the cannula, and a stopper portion of the aligning arm contacts the stopper receiving portion of the motor unit to prevent longitudinal advancement of the motor unit.

[0054] In some embodiments, the kit comprises an arm sheath having an internal lumen sized to receive at least one robotic arm and an outer surface sized to fit within the cannula.

[0055] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided an inner dilator for use with a trocar kit for providing intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, the inner dilator having a distal insertion end that tapers over a longitudinal distance of 15 mm or less between the distal tip and a fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator, the fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator having at least one axis of about 10 mm or more, and the distal tip of the insertion end tapers over a longitudinal distance of about 4 mm or less between the distal tip and a fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator. 2 and a front opening having a diameter of about 1.5 mm or less, the distal tip of the insertion end flaring from the front opening in a taper direction through a radius of curvature of at least 2.5 mm, the front opening being an opening of the lumen sized to permit a trocar needle having a diameter of about 2 mm or less to be advanced partially longitudinally through the opening.

[0056] In some embodiments, the fully expanded cross section of the inner expander has at least one axis of about 7.5 mm or less.

[0057] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a kit is provided comprising the above-described inner dilator, the kit having a trocar needle, the inner dilator being at least 17 cm in length, and the trocar needle comprising a handle that extends at least 5 cm beyond the proximal end of the inner dilator when the distal tip of the trocar needle is advanced 5 mm beyond the distal tip of the inner dilator.

[0058] In some embodiments, the trocar needle is equipped with a blunt-tipped, internally spring-loaded stylet to function as a Veress needle, which in its extended position prevents the sharp tip of the needle from damaging tissue, but collapses so that the sharp tip is operable to penetrate tissue when sufficient longitudinal force is applied.

[0059] In some embodiments, a stopper device is included and is configured to prevent the distal tip of the trocar needle from advancing more than 5 mm beyond the distal tip of the inner dilator.

[0060] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a kit is provided comprising the inner dilator described above, the kit having an outer dilator having a distal insertion end tapered over a longitudinal distance of 15 mm or less between a distal opening and a fully expanded cross section of the outer dilator, the fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator having at least one axis of about 21 mm or more.

[0061] In some embodiments, the distal opening has a lumen that is sized to adequately surround the fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator.

[0062] In some embodiments, the kit comprises a stopper configured to prevent the distal tip of the outer dilator from advancing more than 15 mm beyond the distal tip of the inner dilator.

[0063] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a trocar kit for providing intraperitoneal access via a body cavity, the trocar kit comprising a cannula, an inner dilator, a trocar needle, and an outer dilator; a transverse cross-section of the lumen of the cannula transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cannula has a major axis of sufficient length to permit simultaneous insertion of at least two cylindrical members, each of which is at least 8 mm in diameter; The inner dilator is at least long enough to be fully inserted into the body opening for a length of 7 cm while leaving an external handle area of ​​approximately 10 cm, and 4 mm 2a distal insertion end that is tapered over a longitudinal distance short enough to achieve a first stage of full expansion within 15 mm or less of the travel between a distal tip having an area of ​​less than 15 mm and a fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator, the fully expanded cross section of the inner dilator having at least one axis that is approximately half the length of the long axis of the cannula cross section; the trocar needle includes a handle region that extends beyond the proximal end of the inner dilator when the distal tip of the trocar needle is advanced to the distal tip of the inner dilator; The outer dilator has a distal insertion end that tapers over a longitudinal distance of 15 mm or less between a distal opening that is sized to adequately surround the fully expanded cross-section of the inner dilator and the fully expanded cross-section of the outer dilator, the fully expanded cross-section of the outer dilator being sized to be adequately surrounded by the lumen of the cannula.

[0064] In some embodiments, the major axis of the cross-section of the cannula lumen is at least 21 mm.

[0065] In some embodiments, the cannula has a minor cross-sectional axis and a major cross-sectional axis that is at least twice as long as the minor cross-sectional axis.

[0066] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a trocar kit for providing intraperitoneal access via a body cavity, the trocar kit comprising an inner dilator, an outer dilator, and a cannula, the outer dilator being sized and shaped to properly nest onto the inner dilator, the cannula being sized and shaped to properly nest onto the outer dilator, the inner dilator having a rounded distal tip having a hole sized for longitudinal passage of a trocar needle portion having a diameter of about 2 mm or less, the cannula lumen having at least one cross-sectional axis of at least 20 mm, and the cannula lumen having at least one cross-sectional axis of less than about 12 mm.

[0067] In some embodiments, the inner and outer dilators each taper from their respective narrower distal insertion ends within 15 mm along the longitudinal axis to their respective full sized cross sections.

[0068] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of gaining intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, the method comprising: inserting an inner dilator transvaginally into the wall of the rectal pouch; advancing a trocar needle through the inner dilator to form an opening in the wall of the recto-uterine pouch; inserting an inner dilator into the recto-uterine pouch no more than 15 mm to widen the opening; inserting the outer dilator no more than 15 mm into the recto-uterine pouch by sliding the outer dilator over the inner dilator and across the opening while holding the opening open with the inner dilator; inserting a distal end of the cannula into the recto-uterine pouch by sliding the cannula over the outer dilator across the opening while holding the opening open with the outer dilator; The lumen of the cannula has at least one cross-sectional axis of at least 20 mm.

[0069] In some embodiments, the lumen of the cannula has at least one cross-sectional axis of less than about 12 mm.

[0070] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of gaining intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, the method comprising: inserting a camera into the intraperitoneal space having a wall of the recto-uterine pouch within the field of view of the camera; illuminating a wall of the recto-uterine pouch with an illumination device disposed within the abdominal cavity; selecting a location for an opening in a wall of the recto-uterine pouch based on light from an illumination device visible from outside the recto-uterine pouch; advancing a trocar needle from outside the recto-uterine pouch to press against a selected location of the wall of the recto-uterine pouch; confirming the position of the trocar needle based on one or more images from the camera within the intraperitoneal space; and The method includes the step of puncturing the recto-uterine pouch through an opening using a trocar needle.

[0071] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a kit for setting a longitudinal position of a robotic arm system along a longitudinal axis of a cannula to be inserted into a body orifice is provided, comprising: The robotic arm system includes a motor unit and at least one robotic arm extending distally from the motor unit along a longitudinal axis; The kit includes a cannula, a mounting block, a motor unit stopper and an assembly, The cannula includes a cannula body configured for insertion into a body orifice, a cannula handle extending proximally along a longitudinal axis of the cannula, the mounting block includes a block body and a clamp configured to clamp the cannula handle at a selected longitudinal position relative to the block body; the motor unit stopper includes a longitudinally extending member attached to the block body and movable between a first position extending a predetermined length from the block body to a proximal end of the motor unit stopper and a second position; a proximal end of the motor stopper unit in the first position is positioned to contact and impede longitudinal advancement of the motor unit when the at least one robotic arm is inserted into the cannula, thereby defining a predetermined longitudinal position of the robotic arm system relative to the cannula; The second position of the motor unit stopper removes the motor unit stopper proximal end from a position that prevents longitudinal advancement of the motor unit from the predetermined longitudinal position.

[0072] In some embodiments, the motor unit stopper is attached to the block body by a hinge, the first position having an orientation of the motor unit stopper along a longitudinal axis of the cannula, and movement between the first position and the second position includes rotation of the motor unit stopper on the hinge.

[0073] In some embodiments, the motor unit stopper is movable between a first position and a second position without disturbing the position of either the cannula or the motor unit when the at least one robotic arm is inserted into the cannula.

[0074] In some embodiments, the kit further comprises a motor unit and at least one robotic arm, the at least one robotic arm extending distally from the motor unit a predetermined distance from a stopper receiver of the motor unit, such that when the at least one robotic arm is inserted into the cannula, a distal end of the at least one robotic arm is aligned with a distal end of the cannula and a motor unit stopper contacts the stopper receiver of the motor unit and prevents longitudinal advancement of the motor unit.

[0075] In some embodiments, the kit comprises a plurality of extensions, each comprising a tube having a lumen cross-section sized to receive a robotic arm having a cross-sectional axis of at least 7 mm and a length sized to extend longitudinally from a proximal end of the stopper to a position distal to the longitudinal position of the block body.

[0076] In some embodiments, the block body includes slots adapted to receive a plurality of extensions at locations and orientations that allow for guidance of a robotic arm into the opening of the cannula body along the longitudinal axis.

[0077] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a kit is provided, the kit comprising: an inner dilator having a distal tip sized to partially dilate the incision; and an outer dilator sized to slide distally over the inner dilator to further dilate the incision with the distal tip of the outer dilator; a total expansion of the inner and outer dilators is at least sufficient to permit simultaneous insertion of at least two cylindrical members each having a diameter of at least about 8 mm, while the longitudinal distance along each of the inner and outer dilators over which expansion occurs is less than about 20 mm; At least one of the inner dilator and the outer dilator includes at least a mark near a proximal end indicating the relative position in which the two dilators are positioned and indicating the alignment of the distal ends of the two dilators, the mark indicating the difference in the longitudinal position of one dilator compared to the other dilator having the longitudinal distance over which expansion occurs.

[0078] In some embodiments, both the inner and outer dilators are marked with a distance scale indicating the distance along each dilator to its distal end.

[0079] In some embodiments, the distance scales of the inner and outer dilators are numerically aligned when their respective distal ends are aligned.

[0080] In some embodiments, the kit comprises an indexer configured to vary the force required to longitudinally translate the inner and outer dilators relative to one another depending on the relative longitudinal positions of the inner and outer dilators.

[0081] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are merely illustrative and are not necessarily intended to be limiting. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0082] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With particular reference to the drawings in detail, it is emphasized that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion. In this regard, the description taken together with the drawings will make apparent to one skilled in the art how embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the human female pelvic anatomy to which reference is made in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic representation of a kit of trocar components according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic representation of a distal portion of a component in a kit of trocar components according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 3A-3H] 3A-3H are schematic illustrations of a method of establishing intraperitoneal access through the recto-uterine pouch or another body wall using a trocar component, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3I] FIG. 3I illustrates a schematic representation of the cannula configuration of FIG. 3H along with an inserted tool, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3J] FIG. 3J is a schematic flow chart outlining preparation for a laparoscopic procedure using a trocar, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3K]FIG. 3K is a schematic flow chart illustrating a method of dilating and cannulating an access incision in the recto-uterine pouch, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3L] FIG. 3L generally depicts a wider view (compared to FIG. 3H) of the positioning of the cannula relative to the anatomical structures of the female lower abdominal / pelvic region, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic representation of a dual verification method for identifying the location of an incision for providing transvaginal access to the recto-uterine pouch, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A-5C] 5A-5C generally depict various stopper mechanisms for use in trocar components, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Fig. 5D-5F] 5D-5F are schematic illustrations of needles, needle holders, and needle handles according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Fig. 5G-5I] 5G-5I generally illustrate mechanisms for controlling the relative positioning of the inner dilator, outer dilator, and needle, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5J] FIG. 5J is a flow chart that illustrates generally a method of establishing and maintaining a known penetration depth of a trocar needle, dilator, and / or cannula component using indicators, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5K] FIG. 5K illustrates an example of a manufacturing dilation and cannula kit including components as described and illustrated in, for example, FIGS. 3A-3I and 5D-5I, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 6A-6E] 6A-6E are schematic illustrations of dilation using a single dilator trocar kit, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A-7B] 7A-7B are images taken from inside a gas-inflated abdomen of a robotic arm inserted through a cannula in a configuration similar to that of FIG. 3I, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A-8B]8A-8B are diagrams illustrating scale features of the outer and inner expanders according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A-9D] 9A-9D include diagrams depicting an instrument holder for a cannula and its use, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the instrument holder including a motor unit stopper for use in setting an initial robotic arm position. [Figure 10A-10C] 10A-10C are schematic diagrams illustrating a folding instrument holder for a cannula and its configuration for use in setting an initial robotic arm position relative to the cannula, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Fig. 10D-10E] 10D-10E are schematic diagrams illustrating a folding instrument holder for a cannula and its configuration for use in setting an initial robotic arm position relative to the cannula, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Fig. 10F-10J] 10F-10J generally depict components of a folding instrument holder according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 11A-11E] 11A-11E are schematic representations of a stepped dilator, a dilator handle, and a trocar needle, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figures 12A-12C] 12A-12C illustrate generally a duckbill gasket used to seal access to a proximal opening of an access device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0083] Description of Specific Embodiments of the Invention The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to the field of intraperitoneal surgery, and more particularly to devices and methods for laparoscopic access to the intraperitoneal space.

[0084] overview A broad aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to a trocar component (provided in separate and / or kit form) configured to provide access to the intraperitoneal space via the recto-uterine pouch for surgical tools, optionally including one or more surgical robotic members (herein "robotic arms"). For example, compared to umbilical entry into the intraperitoneal space, recto-uterine pouch access to the peritoneal cavity offers potential advantages with respect to reduced invasiveness, reduced patient trauma, reduced visible scarring, and / or speed of surgery.

[0085] An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to a cannula having an oval cross-sectional lumen and configured to simultaneously receive two or more substantially cylindrical tools extending side-by-side along the lumen.

[0086] In some embodiments, a cannula part is provided that has a longitudinal length sufficient to extend between the walls of the recto-uterine pouch and a location near the entrance to the vagina, for example, between about 7 and 15 cm in length. Optionally, the cannula is used with additional parts (e.g., trocar parts that are telescopically matable) to selectively extend the intravaginal length of cannulation (e.g., between 7 and about 15 cm). Alternatively, in some embodiments, a selection of cannula lengths is provided (e.g., a length range of 7 to 15 cm, e.g., at least three cannulas in this range, optionally with cannula sizes that increase in length by about 1 cm or 2 cm from each other). This provides a potential advantage of avoiding the possibility of being pinched between two telescopic cannula parts.

[0087] Optionally, the cannula lumen cross section has a diameter of about 8.6 mm and is sized to provide simultaneous, parallel intraperitoneal access for two substantially cylindrical (e.g., tubular) tools. In some embodiments, the substantially cylindrical tool includes a tubular shaped robotic arm. The cannula lumen cross section, in some embodiments, has a longest axis that is at least twice as long as the shortest axis. Optionally, the cannula cross section is sized to also provide room for a third tool having a cross section with a maximum axial length of about 6 mm or less. Compared to such a circular cross section sized to allow passage of more than one cylindrical tool, such an oval cross section offers the potential advantage of allowing a smaller overall circumference of the cannula and a correspondingly smaller incision required to accommodate the cannula.

[0088] In some embodiments, the cannula has a distal opening that is angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the cannula such that when inserted into the recto-uterine pouch, it opens toward the intraperitoneal space, which can help provide room for robotic members and / or other tools to bend and enter the intraperitoneal space.

[0089] Optionally, the cannula is constructed from stainless steel or another material that can be sterilized and resterilized to standards for surgical use. Optionally, the cannula is disposable and provided sterile.

[0090] Aspects of some embodiments of the invention relate to dilator geometries configured to achieve incision dilation while maintaining short and / or controlled longitudinal advancement distances to avoid trauma to delicate tissues near the recto-uterine pouch, and dilation methods tailored to dilator geometries.

[0091] A significant potential complication of performing a recto-uterine pouch incision into the intraperitoneal space is injury to the rectum. Injury may be due to excessive penetration, causing puncture, abrasion, and / or collapse, for example, during initial puncture and / or extension of the incision. In some embodiments, constraints on the maximum extent of longitudinal advancement are set by the width of the recto-uterine pouch and the need to reduce the likelihood of accidental injury to nearby viscera (e.g., the rectum).

[0092] In some embodiments of the invention, features of the trocar kit and / or method of use thereof may act to reduce the risk of injury from over-penetration during cannulation. In particular, in some embodiments, the target insertion depth (e.g., minimum depth at full expansion) is kept small (e.g., a maximum expansion of about 7.5-15 mm occurs over a longitudinal insertion depth of about 10-20 mm (e.g., 13 mm, 15 mm, 17 mm, 19 mm, or 20 mm). In some embodiments, expansion occurs over an insertion depth of up to about 30 mm, 40 mm, or 50 mm.

[0093] After the dilation itself is complete, the total insertion depth of the dilator is optionally somewhat greater than this (e.g., up to about 2-5.5 cm), but application of potentially damaging forces is particularly likely during the dilation phase when the dilator extensions are advancing through the incision, as this is the phase of normal dilator operation where overcoming resistance through the use of additional force is expected.

[0094] Optionally, excessive depth of insertion during the expansion phase of the procedure is treated as having a higher risk of inducing damage (e.g., due to internal proximity of delicate tissue) in itself than the increased maximum insertion force that could result from the reduced mechanical advantage of shorter expansion depths.

[0095] In some embodiments, the dilator is provided as a pair of dilators. In some embodiments, the pair of dilators comprises a first dilator and a second dilator, the first dilator having a smaller cross-section than the second dilator. Optionally, the first dilator is provided as an "inner" dilator relative to a second, larger, "outer" dilator. The inner and outer dilators are configured to slide longitudinally relative to one another.

[0096] In some embodiments, the expander is provided as a single expander that expands using multiple stepwise expander expansions (eg, two or three).

[0097] In some embodiments, each expander or expander stage advances longitudinally within a range of about 15 mm for each stage to provide expansion from the initial incision width (smallest cross-sectional area of ​​the expansion stage) to the final incision width (largest cross-sectional area of ​​the expansion stage). Optionally, expansion occurs from within another longitudinal advancement distance, such as within a range of about 10-20 mm (e.g., 13 mm, 15 mm, 17 mm, 19 mm, or 20 mm).

[0098] The amount of spread over the travel of the expansion stages is optionally itself in the range of about 7.5-15 mm (e.g., about 7.5 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 12.5 mm, or 15 mm). This fairly rapid rate of expansion as a function of longitudinal advancement allows for a loss of mechanical advantage in exchange for a reduction in the insertion depth required to complete the expansion. The total insertion depth during expansion can be approximately the length of one step stage (optionally adding a few millimeters beyond the expansion portion of the expander, e.g., adding 5-10 mm) when multiple expanders are used, where the subsequent expander is nested above the preceding expander. When a single (step-expanding) expander is used, the insertion depth during expansion can be the sum of the lengths of the individual expansion stages, optionally adding a separation region between the expansion stages having a length of, e.g., about 5-15 mm, optionally adding a few millimeters beyond the expansion portion of the expander (e.g., 5-10 mm). For example, the total insertion depth can be about 50 mm. In some embodiments, the separation region is at least 3 mm in length. Additionally or alternatively, the separation region is less than about 20 mm in length.

[0099] In this regard, the inventors have realized that the tissue mechanical properties (e.g., resistance to tearing and / or stretching) of the pouch wall related to resistance to dilation may be more tolerant of a lower mechanical advantage than the mechanical properties of the walls of other intraperitoneal access locations (e.g., the mechanical properties of the skin, fat, and / or muscle layers of the umbilicus region). This allows the use of a dilator design with less mechanical advantage (lower performance) in exchange for potential benefits such as shorter dilator insertion depth and / or fewer dilation stages.

[0100] Splitting the dilation into stages (e.g., using multiple dilators and / or multiple separate dilation stages) may provide intermediate dilation stopping points, which may allow for greater control of the dilation, which may reduce the chance of uncontrolled rupture during dilation, and / or allow for probing of the initial dilation to ensure there is no unintended damage (e.g., excessive bleeding) that may be exacerbated by further dilation.

[0101] In some embodiments, the first dilator and / or dilator stage has a blunt, rounded, distal-most portion. The distal-most portion optionally has a port through which a trocar needle can be extended. Optionally, the distal-most portion curves proximally, expanding in both width and height through a radius of at least about 2.5 mm, and then expanding primarily in width to form a wide oval cross-section about 15 mm proximal to the distal-most portion (or another distance, e.g., in the range of about 10-20 mm).

[0102] In some embodiments, the second dilator and / or dilator stage has a distal-most portion that defines a lumen that is sized to slide appropriately over the first dilator. The circumference of the distal-most cross section is only slightly larger than the elliptical cross section of the proximal end of the expanded cross section region of the first dilator. From there, the cross section of the second dilator also expands proximally by about 15 mm (or another distance, e.g., in the range of about 10-20 mm). The maximum further expansion is, for example, about 5 mm, 7.5 mm, 10 mm, or 12.5 mm. Optionally, there is a greater expansion along one axis of the cut cross section than along another axis. For example, there may be a relative expansion factor of about 1:1.5, 1:2, or 1:3.

[0103] In some embodiments, the cannula is sized to slide appropriately over the second dilator until its distal opening reaches a position where it is inserted into the rectal pouch.

[0104] In some embodiments, the trocar needle used with the first dilator includes both a holder and / or handle that are sized such that the maximum distal advancement of the trocar needle is limited by interference between the handle and / or holder. In some embodiments, the dilators include stops and / or indicator indexers that allow tracking of their relative positions and / or block, indicate and / or prevent over-advancement of one dilator relative to the other.

[0105] Optionally, the dilator, dilator handle, holder, and / or trocar needle are constructed of stainless steel or another suitable material, which can be sterilized and resterilized (e.g., by autoclaving) to surgical use standards. Optionally, one or more of these components are disposable and provided in a sterile condition.

[0106] An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to the safety performance of the expander being maintained and / or enhanced by feedback features and / or methods that aid in monitoring the advancement of the expander.

[0107] In some embodiments, the possibility of losing control of position (e.g., sudden accidental over-advancement when tissue collapses and / or reaching the end of the dilator's expansion region) is reduced by moving each dilator relative to a fixed reference (e.g., clamped to the patient's operating table). For example, a first dilator is moved relative to its initial position and / or an already inserted needle, and / or a second dilator is moved relative to the inserted position of the first dilator. Monitoring the position relative to a fixed reference position may encourage the user of the dilator to ease up on the force when approaching the dilator's target position.

[0108] In some embodiments, the placement of the stop changes (e.g., increases) the sliding resistance to relative movement between the two components as the target advancement limit of the expander is approached and / or reached. The change can indicate to the user that the target location has been reached and / or mechanically resist advancement beyond the target location.

[0109] An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to a method of cannulating the recto-uterine pouch wall while monitoring the entry using information transmitted across the recto-uterine wall. In some embodiments, the initial entry into the recto-uterine pouch (e.g., using a trocar needle) is visualized from using a camera and / or light source already inserted into the intraperitoneal space from another location (e.g., the umbilicus). Once the needle makes contact, the recessed area may be observed internally before the actual puncture. Alternatively or additionally, transillumination of the recto-uterine pouch wall by a light source placed in the abdominal cavity is observed from outside the pouch (recto-uterine pouch) to aid in the placement of the needle used for the initial penetration. This method has potential advantages when the recto-uterine wall is both an area that is difficult to access directly (due to its deep location in the vagina) and is close to sensitive internal structures that may cause surgical complications if damaged during cannulation. Dual needle position verification, from inside to outside and outside to inside, allows confirmation from the outside (with illumination) that the target port location (where the needle is aimed to create the initial opening) is in the correct location relative to the internal structures to be targeted / avoided, and then verifies that the actual port location that the needle creates is indeed in the desired location.

[0110] It should be noted that the method described for the recto-uterine pouch can be adapted to cannulation of other regions, where the initial introduction of the camera and light source is from a first port into the body space, and the cannulation is performed to create another port in a region that possibly offers some advantages (e.g., is more suitable to receive a larger incision required for larger tools, and / or provides a preferred direction and / or location of access by the tool), but may also have a greater risk of complications during its creation (e.g., because it is in a region that is more difficult to target externally and / or is associated with certain safety risks if performed improperly).More generally, in some embodiments, when multiple ports are used, after the camera and lighting are established in the first port, the second and subsequent ports may be opened under bilateral observation.

[0111] An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to achieving reliable, and preferably rapid, initial positioning of a robotic arm relative to a cannulated surgical accessway. The cannula serves to provide access to the interior as well as to surgical working areas that are located at the end of a confined tunnel. The robotic arm itself can be articulated along its length such that the outcome of a commanded movement will differ depending on exactly what the starting position of the robotic arm is relative to the cannula and / or potential limitations on movement presented by the internal geometry of the body space in which the robotic arm operates.

[0112] Two parameters of particular importance are the longitudinal advancement distance of the robotic arm or arms through the lumen of the cannula and the approach angle of the robotic arm or arms. An incorrect longitudinal advancement distance can lead to unexpected restriction of motion (e.g., because an articulated arm portion does not advance out of the cannula as far as expected) or even damage (e.g., collision with body tissue due to excessive advancement). An incorrect approach angle can impose torque on the robotic arm or cannula due to interference as the robotic arm advances. In more extreme cases, this can lead to difficulty in advancing the robotic arm and / or misalignment of the cannula. Even if the alignment is correct enough to achieve a safe introduction of the robotic arm into the surgical work area, the robotic arm may not function as expected due to lateral interference forces. Such forces can be difficult to determine by visual inspection to allow correction or compensation.

[0113] These concerns may apply to one or both of robotic arm movements entirely under direct surgeon guidance and at least partially under automated control. Furthermore, it may be difficult to determine the angle of approach and initial longitudinal advancement distance required for the intended device manipulation, resulting in a repetitive and / or laborious set-up period before surgery can begin.

[0114] In some embodiments of the invention, apparatus elements attached to the cannula are deployed to provide an indication of where the robotic arm device should be placed. In some embodiments, these elements include spacing devices and / or guides that, when deployed, provide a clear indication of whether the robotic arm-cannula alignment is correct and / or help prevent improper alignment.

[0115] Before describing at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings as the invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0116] Dilators and cannulas for recto-uterine pouch access Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a schematic illustration of a portion of the female pelvic anatomy to which reference is made in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0117] Of particular reference by the description herein is the recto-uterine pouch 19, which includes a portion of the recto-uterine pouch wall 3 that is accessible from the vagina 17. Also shown in FIG. 1 is the bladder 15, uterus 13, and rectum 11. As shown, the uterus 13 is in an anteverted position (i.e., tilted forward toward the bladder). In a significant number of patients, the uterus 13 may be retroverted (i.e., tilted backward) or in another position. In some embodiments, the retroverted uterus can be manipulated, for example, by use of a uterine manipulator, into a position that improves intra-abdominal access via the recto-uterine pouch 3.

[0118] Reference is made to FIG. 2A, which illustrates a schematic representation of a kit of trocar components 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0119] In some embodiments, the trocar component 200 is sized and shaped to open an intraperitoneal opening of the uterine rectal pouch 19 transvaginally through the vagina 17 .

[0120] In some embodiments, the trocar component 200 includes a trocar needle 207, an inner dilator 205, an outer dilator 203, and / or a cannula 201, 1010. The components are optionally sized and shaped such that when arranged in sequence, one nests within the next. Optionally, the advancement distance of the trocar components 200 along their longitudinal axis is indicated and / or limited by the use of a stopper and / or an indicating indexer (e.g., a leaf spring device 503 or another device), as described, for example, with respect to Figures 5A-5C herein.

[0121] Reference is now made to Figure 2B, which generally illustrates a distal portion of a component in a kit of trocar components 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Reference is also made to Figures 3A-3H, which generally illustrate a method of establishing intraperitoneal access through the recto-uterine pouch wall 3 or another body wall using the trocar component 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0122] 3A-3H show a two dilator dilation procedure, it should be understood that more dilators (e.g., 3, 4, 5, or more) are optionally used. The use of more dilators can be optionally combined with steeper dilator tip designs (i.e., less dilation per mm of advancement) to help reduce insertion resistance. Optionally, only one dilator is used (e.g., as described in connection with FIGS. 6A-6E herein). The inventors have found that two dilators, each expanding along a longitudinal distance of about 15 mm, are apparently sufficient to reach a fully expanded size of about 30 mm×10 mm without increasing the risk of using excessive insertion force and / or injuring the patient. In particular, 15 mm appears to be a safe distance to penetrate directly through the vaginal wall 3 into the recto-uterine pouch 19 and does not pose a significant risk of accidental injury to the adjacent rectum 19.

[0123] In Figure 3A, the distal end of the inner dilator 205 is shown advanced to the wall 3 of the recto-uterine pouch 19, e.g., with the blunt (round) tip 215 positioned in contact with the wall 3. In some embodiments, advancement is performed transvaginally. The vagina 17 is not shown in the sequence of Figures 3A-3H, but can be understood to surround the distal portion of the trocar component near the recto-uterine pouch wall 3.

[0124] In FIG. 3B, the sharpened tip 217 of the trocar needle 207 is advanced out of the distal port 216 of the inner dilator 205 sufficiently to puncture the wall 3 and enter the recto-uterine pouch 19 .

[0125] Optionally, the trocar needle 207 is 2 mm or less in diameter (the distal port 216 is large enough to allow passage of the trocar needle 207; for example, the distal port 216 can be approximately 2.1 mm in diameter to allow passage of a 2 mm diameter trocar needle 207). This diameter restriction may help to reduce the risk of serious complications arising from accidental entry into the rectum 11. Optionally, the trocar needle 207 comprises a Veress needle with a blunt, spring-loaded central stylet that, in its extended position, prevents the sharp tip of the needle from damaging tissue, but can collapse upon application of sufficient longitudinal force such that the sharp tip is operable to puncture tissue. Such a needle may help to prevent unintentional damage (e.g., puncture into the rectum 11) during puncture of the wall 3 of the recto-uterine pouch 19.

[0126] In some embodiments, the trocar needle 207 is limited by a stopper device (e.g., a stopper and / or an indexer) to protrude no more than a few millimeters (e.g., about 3 mm, 5 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm or less) from the distal tip of the inner dilator 205. The limited protrusion may reduce the chance of the needle causing damage by penetrating too far into the outer tissue wall for dilation or by traumatizing the inner tissue surface. The selected puncture distance (e.g., 5 mm) may be short enough to prevent any puncture of deeper tissue layers beyond the outer tissue wall, while at the same time being sufficient to allow the trocar needle 207 to extend and puncture the outer tissue wall with the tissue against which the inner dilator 205 is pressed. Methods for positioning the trocar needle 207 for puncture are described, for example, in connection with FIG. 4 herein.

[0127] In the position of FIG. 3C, the inner dilator 205 is advanced through the hole made by the trocar needle 207, near the wide cross section 219 of the distal region of the inner dilator 205. During advancement, the blunt (round) tip 215 of the inner dilator 205 is initially forced into the hole in the wall 3 formed by the needle 207. Further advancement of the dilator 205 widens the hole in the wall 3 as the tip expands through the tapered region 218 of the dilator 205 between the rounded tip 215 and the wide cross section 219. In some embodiments, the first (distal) expansion stage of the stepped dilator 1100 (i.e., the portion of the dilator 1100 comprising the distal tapered region 1121) is used for these operations.

[0128] In some embodiments, the total distance between the wide cross section 219 and the most distal profile (distal port 216) of the rounded tip 215 is about 15 mm. This distance may be short enough to prevent damage to the wall of the recto-uterine pouch 19 opposite the wall 3 pierced by the inner dilator 205 (e.g., short enough to prevent damage to the rectum). However, providing some expansion distance may provide a mechanical advantage in that the dilator tip is tapered and the tissue at the puncture is gradually widened during insertion. In some embodiments, dilator tips of other lengths (e.g., about 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm, or 18 mm) are used.

[0129] In some embodiments, the rounded tip 215 is rounded back from a substantially flat distal most profile with a radius of curvature of about 2.5 mm. While the rounded profile may provide a high initial resistance to advancement of the inner dilator 205, the rounded tip profile has the potential advantage of reducing the possibility of damage to the wall of the recto-uterine pouch 19 opposite the wall 3 that the inner dilator 205 pierces (e.g., being short enough to prevent rectal damage).

[0130] Optionally, cross section 219 is about 20 mm across its longest axis and about 10 mm across its shortest axis. Optionally, the longest axis of inner dilator 205 at cross section 219 is, for example, about 15 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 19 mm, or 20 mm. Optionally, the shortest axis of cross section 219 is, for example, about 5 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, or 13 mm. Optionally, the ratio of the longest axis to the shortest axis is, for example, about 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5. In some embodiments, expansion of one or both of the longest and shortest axes of cross section 219 uses the entire available length of the dilator tip. In some embodiments, proximal expansion across the shortest cross section axis occurs over a distance of longitudinal travel of, for example, about 2.5 mm, 3 mm, or 4 mm, and then levels off. Optionally, the proximal expansion across the longest cross-sectional axis occurs over a distance of, for example, about 8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 15 mm, or 18 mm.

[0131] Optionally, the expansion of the longest cross-sectional axis through the tapered region 218 is substantially linear as a function of the longitudinal distance of the portion of the inner dilator 205 that leads to the wide cross-section 219. Optionally, the expansion is non-linear, e.g., curved to expand faster and / or slower as the circumference of the entry hole into the wall 3 increases. For example, a relatively rounded tip may take advantage of elastic tissue compliance around an initially small entry incision, while a more gradual cross-sectional expansion is used when inelastic expansion (e.g., due to tearing) dominates.

[0132] Optionally, the rate of expansion (gradient) gradually increases as one moves further proximally. This may allow the rate of hole perimeter stretching to be maintained at a lower initial value as a function of longitudinal advancement than would be produced by a more linear expansion over the same distance. This may reduce resistance to insertion and risk of trauma. Optionally, either linear or non-linear expansion is used via the tapered region 213 of the outer expander 203.

[0133] In some embodiments, the needle 207 is retracted before and / or as the inner dilator 205 advances, potentially reducing the risk of damage to the opposing wall. In some embodiments, the advancement distance of the inner dilator 205 is controlled by recording the position of the inner dilator 205 at the time of needle puncture and comparing that position to a more advanced position. Optionally, a stop is positioned after the initial puncture by the needle 207 and locked into position relative to the patient (e.g., locked to the operating table by a positioning arm) to allow no more than a predetermined total advancement distance (e.g., 15 mm).

[0134] In FIG. 3D, the outer dilator 203 is shown advanced longitudinally over the inner dilator 205 until it reaches the wall 3 of the recto-uterine pouch 19 (e.g., such that the distal end 212 of the outer dilator 203 contacts the wall 3). In FIG. 3E, the outer dilator 203 is advanced further, to the level of the wide profile 214 of the outer dilator 203. Note that the advancement in FIG. 3E shows the distal end 212 of the outer dilator 203 to be at the same longitudinal position as the most distal profile of the inner dilator 205. In some embodiments, the second (proximal) expansion stage of the stepped dilator 1100 (i.e., the portion of the dilator 1100 of FIGS. 11A-11E that includes the proximal tapered region 1117) is used for these operations. However, instead of advancing over the inner dilator, the proximal tapered region 1117 follows the distal tapered region 1121, optionally followed by an intervening separation region 1119, as described herein in connection with Figures 11A-11E.

[0135] 3A-3D show inserting the inner dilator 205 first, then inserting the outer dilator 203 over the inner dilator 205. In some embodiments, the outer dilator 203 is optionally used as the first dilator inserted (or inserted along with the inner dilator 205), followed by puncture with the trocar needle 203, dilation with the inner dilator 205 sliding distally from within the outer dilator 203, and finally dilation with the outer dilator 203 sliding distally over the inner dilator 205. This provides a potential advantage, for example, in the location of the puncture target location of the needle 207, where the location is visible through the relatively open lumen of the outer dilator 203 upon transillumination of the wall 3 of the rectal pouch 19. Different insertion orders may also affect the placement of stopper / indicating indexers used to determine the relative distances of the various dilation components during insertion and / or dilation (e.g., as described in connection with FIGS. 5A-5F).

[0136] Optionally, the distal opening 220 of the outer dilator 203 is sized to adequately fit the wider cross section 219 of the inner dilator 205. The circumference of the distal end 212 may be only slightly larger than the distal opening 220 (i.e., the distal end 212 is optionally sharp). Optionally, the distal end 212 is not sharp and / or is rounded, e.g., having an initial wall thickness (or diameter, in the case of a rounded end) of about 100 μm, 200 μm, 500 μm, or 1 mm.

[0137] In some embodiments, the distance between the distal end 212 and the wide profile 214 is about 15 mm. In particular, the distance is optionally any distance described in connection with the distance between the most distal profile of the inner dilator 205 and the wide cross section 219. Optionally, these two distances are approximately the same. Optionally, the distance of the outer dilator 203 is slightly shorter (e.g., about 0.5 mm, 1 mm, or 1.5 mm shorter), which may reduce the possibility of injury due to tissue contact with the distal end 212. Optionally, the advancement distance of the outer dilator 203 relative to the inner dilator 205 is controlled by the use of a stopper and / or an indexer, e.g., as described herein in connection with FIGS. 5A-5C.

[0138] Optionally, the longest axis of the wide cross section 214 is, for example, about 20 mm, 23 mm, 25 mm, 27 mm, 33 mm, or 35 mm. Optionally, the shortest axis of the wide cross section 214 is, for example, about 5 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, or 13 mm. Optionally, the ratio of the longest axis to the shortest axis is, for example, about 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5. The dimensional descriptions also apply to the angled distal opening 209 of the cannula 201, 1010 and the internal lumen of the cannula 201, 1010, which is sized (e.g., having a relative dimensional tolerance of about 1 mm or less) to slide in proper coordination over the outer dilator 203. The interior lumen of the cannula 201, 1010 is sized to receive multiple (typically tubular, tubular-coated and / or cylindrical) tools arranged side-by-side (e.g., two tools with diameters of 8 mm or greater and one tool with diameters of about 5-6 mm or greater). In some embodiments, the cross-section of the cannula 201, 1010 and dilators 203, 205 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2B and 5K) is substantially rectangular (e.g., rounded such that the short side is substantially formed as a portion of a circular arc) with rounded ends.

[0139] Rounded end shapes have the potential advantage of enclosing multiple side-by-side cylindrical tools, allowing the outermost tool sides to pack against the outside of the cross section while minimizing wasted corner space. (The "waste" with respect to the interior of the cannula is less important than the "waste" with respect to the possibility of the incision hole being made larger than necessary.) Rounded corners (as opposed to sharp corners) also provide a potential advantage during insertion, helping to distribute forces that would otherwise tend to concentrate the cut against the corners, thereby reducing unpredictable dilation and / or incisions that heal more unpredictably. Straight (non-curved) sections between the arcuate ends (as used in some embodiments) have the potential advantage of maintaining an outer profile suitable for keeping full circumferential contact with the dilated tissue around it (e.g., maintaining a tension seal) without the extra expansion that would create space that the inner cylindrical tool does not need to use. In some embodiments, there is a slight outward curvature along the long side of the cross section (e.g., less than 1 mm curvature per 5 mm circumference), potentially increasing the tension contact between the dilators and / or cannulas and the edge of the opening in the tissue wall through which they enter.

[0140] In the examples shown herein (e.g., FIGS. 2B, 5K), the cross sections of the dilators and cannulas shown exhibit mirror symmetry about both the major and minor axes. However, in some embodiments, the cross-sectional shapes need not have a particular symmetrical arrangement and can be other shapes (e.g., irregular triangles with rounded corners) to accommodate an arrangement of tools of various sizes.

[0141] In Fig. 3F, the vaginal cannula 201 is shown with its distal most end 211 at the wall 3. In Fig. 3G, the cannula 201 is shown advanced into the recto-uterine pouch 19 so that the distal most end 211 is approximately even with the distal most portion of the outer dilator 203. Fig. 3H shows the cannula 201 with the inner dilator 203 and the outer dilator 205 removed. Optionally, the inner dilator 205 can be removed any time after the outer dilator 203 is placed. Optionally, the two dilators 203, 205 are removed together.

[0142] In some embodiments, the lumen cross-section of the cannula 201 is sized to slide properly over the portion of the outer dilator 203 that is sized for the wide cross-section 214. Optionally, advancement of the cannula 201 is performed through the use of a handle 202. Optionally, the maximum advancement of the cannula 201 relative to the outer dilator 203 is controlled through the use of a stopper and / or an indicating indexer.

[0143] In some embodiments, the lumen of cannula 201 is about 7 cm, or is long enough (e.g., up to about 15 cm) to span between a distal-most location in the recto-uterine pouch and a proximal location at or outside the vaginal opening. Optionally, a flange 221 is provided at the proximal end of the lumen of cannula 201. Although cannula 201 (with handle 202, described next) is shown in Figures 3F-3I, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the above description of cannula 201 also applies to use of cannula 1010 of Figure 10B.

[0144] In some embodiments, the handle 202 of the cannula 201 is long enough to extend beyond either of the dilators 203, 205 while they are being inserted, and more than long enough to provide a gripping area (e.g., about a 10 cm gripping area, with an overall length optionally at least about 37 cm). In some embodiments, the inner dilator 205 is at least long enough to reach a fully inserted position (e.g., about 17 cm overall), while providing a handle, and the outer dilator 203 is at least another 10 cm longer (e.g., about 27 cm overall).

[0145] 3L, which diagrammatically illustrates in a wider perspective (compared to FIG. 3H) the positioning of the cannula 201, 1010 relative to the anatomical structures of the female lower abdominal / pelvic region, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Among the anatomical structures shown are the uterus 15, vagina 17, bladder 15, rectum 11, and recto-uterine pouch 19, as also shown in FIG. 1. Not shown are the handles of the cannulas 201, 1010 and any associated devices, such as a vent seal that may be provided at the vaginal opening and / or a trocar piece that may be telescopically attached to extend the length of the cannulas 201, 1010.

[0146] In some embodiments, the beveled distal opening 209 of the cannula 201, 1010 is beveled at an angle between the leading most distal end 211 and the trailing more proximal end 210. In some embodiments, the longitudinal distance between the most distal end 211 and the most proximal end 210 is about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the distance is about 10 mm, 12 mm, 14 mm, 16 mm, or 18 mm, for example. A potential advantage of the beveling of the distal opening 209 is that the end of the cannula can be relatively recessed on the unprotected side of the cannula that may otherwise be positioned to inadvertently injure the rectum 11. With respect to the more protruding leading end side of the opening 211, (1) upon insufflation, tissue is generally lifted from the rectum, reducing the contact risk posed by this end side, and (2) the robotic arm generally curves along the plane of the leading end as it reaches deeper into the peritoneal cavity as it exits the cannula. This may prevent the leading end from contacting delicate internal tissue. The position of the robotic arm can be seen, for example, in Figures 7A-7B herein.

[0147] Referring to Figure 3I, Figure 3I is a schematic representation of the cannula configuration of Figure 3H with an inserted tool, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring also to Figures 7A-7B, Figures 7A-7B are images of a robotic arm (from a perspective inside the gas-inflated abdomen) inserted through a cannula 201 in a configuration similar to that of Figure 3I, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The discussion of cannula 201 in Figures 3I and 7A-7B also applies to cannula 1010 in Figure 10B.

[0148] 3I , the lumen of cannula 201 is shown occupied by two substantially cylindrical members, e.g., a robotic arm 305 (e.g., having a diameter of about 8.6 mm) and another cylindrical (e.g., tubular) member comprising a tool 307 (e.g., a laparoscopic illuminator, a camera, a clamp, a cutter, and / or another tool). In some embodiments, the lumen cross-section of cannula 201 is sized to accommodate a plurality of substantially cylindrical members (e.g., robotic arms), each having a diameter of at least about 8 mm, and optionally another tool operating through a tube having a diameter of at least about 5 mm.

[0149] As shown in Figure 3I, tools exiting the angled distal opening 209 of the cannula 201 positioned within the recto-uterine pouch 19 are optionally oriented to curve downward and exit the opening into the remaining peritoneal cavity where the laparoscopic procedure will be performed (e.g., clipping of ligaments in preparation for a hysterectomy). Optionally, this orientation is aided by an angled slot in the distal opening 209 described in connection with Figures 3F-3H herein.

[0150] 7A-7B, the robotic arms 305 include a surgical tool 704 disposed at the distal end of each robotic arm 305. The robotic arms 305 are shown entering the gas-inflated abdominal cavity through the angled distal opening 209 from the cannula 201. The images also show the dilated incision 702 through which the cannula 201 enters the abdominal cavity.

[0151] Reference is now made to Figure 3J, which is a schematic flow chart outlining preparation for a laparoscopic procedure using a trocar 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The procedure shown represents the setup portion of a larger procedure (e.g., a hysterectomy) and includes elements of the method described in connection with Figures 3A-3I.

[0152] Optionally, in some embodiments, at block 110, a laparoscopically mounted camera is inserted into the peritoneal cavity, for example through the umbilicus. Optionally, the camera is provided with an illumination source. Optionally, a separately mounted illumination source is also inserted through the umbilicus.

[0153] In block 112, in some embodiments, the peritoneal cavity is inflated with gas, for example, by inflating with CO. Inflation with gas is performed to improve access and visibility during the procedure.

[0154] At block 114, in some embodiments, a sleeve is inserted transvaginally. The sleeve may help maintain insufflation pressure (pseudoperitoneum) used for visualization and / or access during the remainder of the procedure. The sleeve may be, for example, an Alexis® nylon sleeve (Applied Medical Resources Corporation), or part of the GelPOINT® Path transanal access platform (Applied Medical Resources Corporation). In some embodiments, the sleeve is inserted at a later stage (e.g., just prior to attaching the sealing unit at block 122).

[0155] At block 116, in some embodiments, a speculum is inserted into the vagina to aid in visualization (optionally or additionally, a tenaculum is used).

[0156] At block 118, in some embodiments, a uterine manipulator is inserted transvaginally into the uterus. The uterine manipulator can be, for example, a Karl Storz uterine muscle manipulator. The uterine manipulator is used to move the uterus during the procedure, for example, to help provide room to manipulate other instruments and / or to move the uterus away from the rectum for increased safety. If a tenaculum was used, it can be removed at this point.

[0157] At block 120, in some embodiments, dilation and introduction of a cannula is performed, for example, as described herein with respect to Figures 3A-3G, 3K, 6A-6E, and / or 11A-11E. The speculum can be removed during or after dilation, for example, if the speculum becomes obstructive to dilation.

[0158] At block 122, in some embodiments, a sealing unit is attached to the cannula 201 (or to the cannula 1010, for example, as described herein in connection with FIGS. 10A-10C herein). The sealing unit optionally comprises elements of the GelPOINT® system, optionally combined with elements specifically adapted for use with the cannula 201. Optionally, the uterine manipulator is repositioned to pass through the sealing unit.

[0159] In some embodiments, fixation is performed in block 124. Fixation includes securing the cannula and / or sealing unit to a platform (such as a surgical table) that is stationary relative to the patient.

[0160] At block 125, in some embodiments, one or more robotic arms are aligned with the cannula 201, 1010 in preparation for introduction into the cannula 201, 1010, for example, as described herein in connection with Figures 9A-9D, or Figures 10C-10J.

[0161] At block 126, in some embodiments, one or more robotic arms and / or other tools are introduced through the cannula 201, 1010, for example as described herein in connection with FIG. 3H.

[0162] Reference is now made to Fig. 3K, which is a schematic flow chart illustrating a method of dilating and cannulating an access incision to the recto-uterine pouch, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, in which the method of Fig. 3K details the operations of block 120 of Fig. 3J.

[0163] A brief overview of this method is provided below, with additional details regarding the operation of Figure 3K being described herein in conjunction with Figures 3-3G.

[0164] At block 130, in some embodiments, the inner dilator 205 (or in some embodiments, the stepped dilator 1100 of FIGS. 11A-11E) is inserted transvaginally to reach the wall 3 of the recto-uterine pouch 19 (e.g., as described herein in connection with FIG. 3A). At block 132, in some embodiments, the tip of a needle (inserted through the inner dilator 207) is positioned where an access incision will be made (e.g., as detailed in connection with FIG. 4). At block 134, in some embodiments, the recto-uterine pouch is punctured (e.g., as described in connection with FIG. 3B). At block 136, in some embodiments, the pouch wall 3 intersects with a first dilator stage, e.g., the tip of the inner dilator 205 (e.g., as described in connection with FIG. 3C). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the pouch wall 3 intersects with the first (distal) dilation stage of the stepped dilator 1100. At block 138, in some embodiments, the pouch wall 3 intersects with a second dilator stage, such as the outer dilator 203 (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 3D-3E). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the pouch wall 3 intersects with a second (proximal) dilator stage of the stepped dilator 1100. At block 140, in some embodiments, the pouch wall intersects with the cannula 201, 1010 (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 3F-3G). At block 142, in some embodiments, the dilator 203, 205 and / or the trocar needle 207 are removed and the flow chart ends.

[0165] Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which illustrates generally a dual verification method for identifying the location of an incision to provide transvaginal access to the uterine rectal pouch 19, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0166] 4 shows a schematic diagram of a rectal dilatation cavity 19, including the vaginal wall 3 thereof, which is approached by an inner dilator 205, and a trocar needle 207 in a partially extended state. Also shown is a camera 402 and an illumination source 401 inserted into the abdominal cavity (e.g., through the umbilicus). The camera 402 and the illumination source 401 are shown on the same laparoscopic instrument 400. Optionally, they are provided separately. The camera 402 has an associated field of view 402A, and the illumination source 401 has an associated illumination field of view 401A.

[0167] In some embodiments, the tip of needle 207 is positioned prior to puncture against a region of wall 3, the region being selected based on external observation of light from illuminator 401 that is externally visible (e.g., as viewed transvaginally, optionally using a speculum and / or uterine manipulator to enhance visibility). Optionally, the selected region is one in which the light intensity of the transillumination is observed to be relatively strong compared to the surrounding regions. Such a well transilluminated wall region may be among the thinnest, most easily penetrated portions of wall 3 accessible to needle 207.

[0168] In some embodiments, as the needle 207 is pressed against the wall 3 to puncture it, the camera 402 is used to visualize the results. In the camera image, for example, protrusions, other tissue distortions, and / or other changes (e.g., color change due to pressure on the tissue) may be first visible at the puncture site (e.g., distortions visible from the side of the wall 3 opposite the side contacting the needle), and then the needle itself may be visible. Optionally, the visualization helps to confirm that the intended area has been punctured (e.g., that the area being penetrated is suitable for providing intraperitoneal access) and / or helps to identify and / or prevent an impending rectal puncture or another insertion error. Complications could potentially be avoided by using visual cues transmitted across the rectal wall 3 even before the wall 3 itself is punctured.

[0169] Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A-5C, which generally depict various stoppers and / or moving interference devices for use with a trocar component 200, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0170] 5A shows a schematic of the stopper-and-shoulder of the stopper device. In this embodiment, the outer dilator 203 is inserted first or together with the inner dilator 205. The view in FIG. 5A shows a portion of the outer dilator 203 cut away to reveal the connection between the inner dilator 205 and the proximal stopper 501.

[0171] The proximal stop 501 is placed at a position along the inner dilator 205 where surface 501A abuts the proximal surface of the outer dilator 203 (cut off in FIG. 5A) and where the inner dilator 203 is a distance away from the outer dilator 205 that it should be allowed to move away from (e.g., the most distal part of the inner dilator 205 is placed 15 mm in front of the most distal part of the outer dilator 203). Then, as the outer dilator 203 makes its way through the turns it is advanced, the distance between surface 501A and the proximal surface of the outer dilator 203 can be measured to determine the advancement distance. Optionally, another stop device (e.g., the stop device of FIGS. 5B and / or 5C) prevents and / or directs distal over-advancement of the outer dilator 203 relative to the inner dilator 205.

[0172] 5B shows a leaf spring based stopper and / or movement interference device. The device comprises a bracket 504 attached to the distal portion of the outer dilator 203, which in turn supports a leaf spring 505 configured to press down on the body of the inner dilator 205. This interaction is optionally set to a force sufficient to prevent the inner dilator 205 from freely sliding (e.g., due to gravity) relative to the outer dilator 203.

[0173] Optionally, the inner dilator 205 includes a receiving feature 505A (hidden by the leaf spring 505) arranged to contact the leaf spring 505 and impede further longitudinal movement of the outer dilator 203 relative to the inner dilator 205. The stopper device can be used to prevent either or both of the inner dilator 205 and the outer dilator 203 from advancing too far relative to each other. Note that there may be multiple different receiving features 505A and they may be arranged in different ways. Although called a "stopper," the stopper device of FIG. 5B is optionally configured with interfering features and / or surface friction to resist, rather than completely prevent, further longitudinal movement. The stopper device of FIG. 5B in such an embodiment may alternatively be described as an indexer. Optionally, an indicating indexer indicates the relative position of the expanders by its position, which is a position that resists further longitudinal movement and / or a position that clicks when the two expanders reach a predetermined position (as indicated via audible and / or tactile feedback).

[0174] The interference occurs at one or more relative longitudinal positions of the two dilators 203, 205 (e.g., when the two are positioned with their distal-most portions aligned, as shown in FIG. 3E). The receiving feature 505A can, for example, comprise an insert portion into which the leaf spring 505 enters when the two parts are aligned. Additionally or alternatively, the receiving feature 505A comprises a ridge. In this case, the lumen of the outer dilator 203 may be shaped such that the leaf spring 505 passes through the ridge portion of the receiving feature 505A until it meets it. Alternatively, the lumen of the outer dilator 203 may be shaped to prevent the passage of the receiving feature, thereby acting as a kind of stopper-and-shoulder arrangement type. It should be understood that while the device is shown with two nested dilators, it may alternatively or additionally be implemented between the cannula and the dilators.

[0175] FIG. 5C depicts various leaf spring based stop devices. In this example, multiple leaf springs 503 are optionally provided attached to the body of the outer dilator 203. The inner dilator 205 has a receiving feature (not shown) somewhere along its length, which includes a depression and / or a ridge that contacts the leaf spring 503 at a specific location relative to the length of the two dilators 203, 205 (e.g., when the two are positioned with their most distal portions aligned, as shown in FIG. 3E). The leaf spring device of FIG. 5C can be located at any suitable location along the body of the outer dilator 203, but is preferably located at a location that remains outside the body cavity during use. Multiple such devices can be provided on the outer dilator 203 and / or multiple receiving features can be provided on the inner dilator 205. Optionally, a leaf spring device is provided on the inner dilator 205, with the outer dilator comprising a suitable receiving feature.

[0176] In some embodiments, the stopper and / or movement interference device replaces the leaf spring with another mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, a plunger is provided (e.g., a spring-loaded biasing member such as a ball bearing, as described in connection with FIGS. 8A-8B ). The plunger is forced downwards and holds two nested parts (e.g., two dilators, a dilator and a cannula) in relative position and / or indicates when a particular relative position has been reached by frictional force and / or interference between the plunger and one or more stopper / indicating index features and / or release of such interference and / or friction.

[0177] Reference is now made to Figures 5D-5F, which diagrammatically illustrate a needle 207, a needle pass-through dilator handle 510, and a needle handle 511, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0178] In FIG. 5D, the needle 207 is shown partially inserted into the hollow body of the dilator handle 510. Optionally, the dilator handle 510 serves as a handle for the inner dilator 205, for example, attached via threads or other attachment means. The proximal end 512 of the needle 207 is adapted to attach to the needle handle 511 of FIG. 5E, for example, as shown in FIG. 5F. In some embodiments, the relative lengths of the needle 207 and the dilator handle 510 (and the relative position of the handle 511 on the needle 207) are configured to help control the maximum distance of distal advancement of the needle 207 relative to the inner dilator 205 (e.g., as described in connection with FIGS. 5G-5I).

[0179] 5G-5I, which diagrammatically illustrate a device for controlling the relative positioning of the inner dilator 205, the outer dilator 205, and the needle 207, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Also referring to Figures 8A-8B, which illustrate scale features of the outer dilator 203 and the inner dilator 205, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0180] In Fig. 5G and Fig. 8A-8B, the outer dilator 203 is shown with an integrated scale window 515. The scale window 515 optionally comprises at least one fiducial mark along a longitudinal window formed in a portion of the outer dilator 203 (e.g., cut into the proximal end). In some embodiments, the outer dilator 203 is used to define a fiducial position that allows an estimation of the current position of the wall 3 of the recto-uterine pouch 19. The outer dilator can be inserted as far as it can go. Since it is not too sharp to puncture the wall 3, it will usually stop when its most distal end touches the wall 3. This can be confirmed, for example, by observation using a speculum.

[0181] In some embodiments, a distance scale is marked on one or both of the inner dilator 205 and the outer dilator 203 (e.g., in centimeter increments from the distal end), such as, for example, scale 811 on the outer dilator 203 and scale 813 on the inner dilator 205 (FIGS. 8A-8B).

[0182] Also shown in FIGS. 8A-8B is a ball stop device 815, which is an example of an indexer. In some embodiments, the ball stop device 815 comprises a spring-loaded ball bearing configured to protrude outward from near the proximal end of the inner dilator 205 under elastic pressure. The lumen of the outer dilator 203 is sized so that it can be pushed inward and slide forward along the ball stop device 815. During this action, the ball of the ball stop device 815 is pushed inward. This acts to help center the outer dilator 203 on the inner dilator 205 (by continuing to push outward) and, optionally, to resist spontaneous relative translation (sliding) of the two dilators (e.g., due to the weight of the outer dilator 205). When the outer dilator 203 is fully advanced, the ball stop device 815 may release from the proximal side of the outer dilator 203, producing a tactile and / or audible click and / or causing a change in the mechanical handling of the dilators 203, 205 to indicate to the user that the outer dilator 203 is fully advanced. Optionally, the outer dilator 203 includes one or more indentations and / or ridges along its lumen at a location where the ball stop device 815 changes the force resisting relative longitudinal translation of the dilators 203, 205. It should be appreciated that the ball stop device 815 may alternatively be provided on the outer dilator 203 at a location where it slidingly interacts with the inner dilator 205 (and optionally its ridges and / or indentations). Indicating indexers are optionally provided for indication and / or control of the relative longitudinal position of other pairs of trocar kit elements (e.g., between the inner dilator 205 and needle 207, and / or between the outer dilator 203 and cannula 201, 1010). In some embodiments, a ball stop is provided that, when locked, controls the relative movement between the stepped dilator 1100 and the cannula 201, 1010. In some embodiments, a ball stop is provided that, when locked, controls the relative movement between the cannula 1010 and the access device 1001 (FIG. 10A).

[0183] In Figure 8B, the ball stop device 815 is still compressed by the outer dilator 203. In Figure 8A, the ball stop device is not compressed. When the ball stop device 815 is no longer compressed and released, the ball is pushed outward through its entire range of travel, resulting in increased resistance to accidentally pushing the inner dilator 205 distally against the dilator 203 (when contacting the proximal surface 817 of the outer dilator 203).

[0184] 5H shows the inner dilator 205 partially inserted into the outer dilator 203. Scale markings 517 on the inner dilator 205 allow for monitoring of the distal advancement of the inner dilator 205 relative to the outer dilator 203, for example, to a position distally coextensive with the distal end of the outer dilator 203 (in preparation for needle puncture) and / or to a position several millimeters (e.g., 15 mm) advanced distally beyond the outer dilator 205 during initial expansion.

[0185] 5H also shows the needle 207 only partially advanced relative to the handle 510 and dilators 203, 205. In some embodiments, the dilator handle 510 fits (e.g., threads) into a socket in the inner dilator 205 and is held a predetermined distance from the distal end of the inner dilator 205.

[0186] In FIG. 5I, the relative positions of the components shown may occur immediately after the needle 207 punctures the wall 3 of the recto-uterine pouch 19 .

[0187] The distal most end of the inner dilator 205 has advanced the same distance as the distal most end of the outer dilator 203, as monitored by the relative positions of the scale window 515 and the markings 517. The handle 511 has been pushed forward against the proximal end of the dilator handle 510, preventing further advancement of the needle 207. The lengths of the needle 207, inner dilator 203, and dilator handle 510 are set so that the needle 207 protrudes a predetermined amount beyond the front face of the inner dilator 203, the predetermined amount being determined to be within a sufficient distance to penetrate the wall 3 of the rectal pouch 19, but avoid the risk of puncturing the wall of the rectum 11.

[0188] Optionally, the distal most end of the inner dilator 205 remains longitudinally (e.g., distally) spaced a distance from the distal most end of the outer dilator 203 to control the maximum advancement of the needle 207. Optionally, maximum advancement of the needle 207 relative to the inner dilator 205 is performed first before advancement to pierce the wall 3. This provides a potential advantage of allowing the marked relative positions of the window 515 and scale 517 to detail the advancement distance of the needle.

[0189] During dilation, in some embodiments, distal advancement of the outer dilator 203 relative to the inner dilator 205 can disrupt the longitudinal frame of reference that the outer dilator 203 initially establishes. In some embodiments, the frame of reference is maintained by clamping the inner dilator 205 in place as the outer dilator advances into the rectal dilator cavity.

[0190] Reference is now made to FIG. 5K, which illustrates an example of a dilation and cannulation kit including components as described and illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3I and 5D-5I, for example, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Items are scaled relative to one another and are shown along their entire length, except for needle 207, which has the right (pointed, distal) side cut off. Shown from top to bottom are: · A needle 207 including a handle 511. A cannula 201 including a handle 202 and an angled distal opening 209, the angled distal opening 209 including a proximal end 210 and a distal-most end 211. An outer dilator 203 including a scale window 515, a distal end 212, a tapered region 213, and a wide profile 214 proximal to the tapered region 213. An inner dilator 205 including a distal port 216 disposed at a blunt tip 215, a tapered region 218, and a wider section 219 proximal to the tapered region 218. A dilator handle 510, which may optionally be attached (eg, threadedly attached) to the inner dilator 205 and function as its proximal handle.

[0191] Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A-6E, which generally depict dilation using a single dilator trocar kit, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0192] FIG 6A shows a schematic diagram of a body cavity (e.g., vagina 17) with an access device 601 optionally used, for example, to help maintain insufflation pressure. In FIG 6B, a uterine manipulator 603 is optionally added (shown partially inserted) which may be manipulated to improve visibility of the trocar target area (which may be wall 3 of the uterine rectal pouch 19, not shown). In FIG 6C, a cannula 605 (optionally configured as described herein in connection with cannula 201 or cannula 1010) is inserted into the target area. Cannula 605 includes a handle 605A that allows manipulation of the luminal area of ​​the cannula 605.

[0193] In FIG. 6D , a dilator 607 is optionally inserted into the cannula 605 using handle 607A. The tip of the dilator 607 is optionally shaped to begin its distal-most longitudinal position at a cutting tip. Alternatively, the tip of the dilator 607 is rounded (e.g., shaped like the tip of the inner dilator 205). Optionally, the dilator 607 allows distal passage of a trocar needle through the opening. Optionally, an initial puncture is made separately, for example by a needle threaded through the lumen (not shown) of the cannula 605, before the dilator 607 is inserted.

[0194] In some embodiments, the tip of the dilator 607 expands to any suitable cross-sectional size (e.g., any cross-section described in connection with the wide cross-section 219). Optionally, the longitudinal distance between the most distal position and the tip of the cross-section of maximum expansion is about 15 mm or other suitable distance (e.g., as described in connection with the dilator tips of the dilators 203, 205). Compared to using two or more dilators, one-step expansion over the same maximum dilator tip distance may be simpler in terms of component replacement and manipulation. However, there may be a tradeoff in terms of increased puncture length (e.g., if the expansion angle is maintained) and / or increased puncture resistance (e.g., if the expansion angle is increased).

[0195] In Figure 6E, the tip of the dilator 607 has been maximally advanced and dilation is complete. To complete trocarization, the cannula 605 may be advanced through the dilation opening and the dilator 607 removed.

[0196] Reference is now made to FIG. 5J, which is a flowchart outlining a method for temporarily establishing and maintaining a known insertion depth of a trocar needle 207, dilator 203, 205, and / or cannula 201, 1010 component using indicators, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0197] At block 551, in some embodiments, the first dilator (e.g., the inner dilator 205) is positioned so that its rounded tip abuts the outer wall of the recto-uterine pouch. This position can be established, for example, by direct visualization (e.g., using a speculum), by noting where resistance to insertion occurs, and / or indirectly, for example, by shining a light through the dilator lumen and monitoring the spot of projected light passing through the recto-uterine pouch wall (e.g., where the spot reaches its smallest, most clearly outlined shape) using a camera placed in the intraperitoneal space. Optionally, the first dilator is held clamped in place, for example, by a clamp arm attached to the platform. Optionally, at block 552, the depth of puncture relative to the natural ostium opening is recorded to provide a total vaginal length (TVL) that can be used separately from the transitive method of establishing the position of the trocar piece and / or to verify the insertion depth set by the transitive method.

[0198] At block 553, in some embodiments, the trocar needle 207 is inserted into the dilator 205, for example via the holder 210. As long as the holder 210 itself is sized for insertion into a predetermined longitudinal position relative to the first dilator, the amount of visible shaft of the trocar needle 207 optionally provides an indication of where the needle tip is positioned relative to the distal end of the first dilator. This can be used to control the advancement distance of the trocar needle 207, optionally in conjunction with a stop device (such as a shoulder stop) to prevent over-advancement of the trocar needle 207. Optionally, the needle remains in place at least until the first dilator has been advanced over it.

[0199] At block 555, in some embodiments, a second dilator (e.g., outer dilator 203) is advanced over the first dilator until a portion of the second dilator (e.g., its proximal end, or an index mark) is properly aligned with a portion of the second dilator (e.g., an index mark on a scale). If an index scale is used, it can be on either or both of the first and second dilators. For purposes of the method description, the distal ends of the first and second dilators are assumed to be aligned with each other in an aligned position. Optionally, they are offset by some known amount. Additionally or alternatively, the insertion depth of the second dilator relative to the overall length of the vagina is used to verify the longitudinal positioning and / or location of the second dilator.

[0200] At this stage, the longitudinal positions of the distal ends of both the first and second dilators are known relative to the position of the recto-uterine pouch wall to be dilated. Optionally, either dilator can be advanced or retracted relative to the other in any suitable sequence and their positions relative to the recto-uterine pouch wall will remain known as long as the sequence and distance of movement are tracked.

[0201] For example, in some embodiments, at block 557, the second dilator remains fixed (e.g., clamped) and the first dilator is advanced into the recto-uterine pouch. The relative movement is optionally monitored by viewing the movement of scale markings on the proximal ends of the dilators. At block 559, once the first dilator has been advanced sufficiently (e.g., 15 mm) to achieve full first stage dilation, the second dilator is advanced (e.g., restoring the original relative positioning of the two). Additionally or alternatively, the change in insertion depth is controlled / monitored relative to the overall length of the vagina.

[0202] Additionally or alternatively (at blocks 558 and / or 560 ), the forward distance is controlled by reference to the TVL determined at block 552 .

[0203] From this position, the first dilator (and trocar needle 207 if not already withdrawn) can be removed in block 561. The second dilator can then remain as a longitudinal positioning reference for positioning the cannula 201 in block 563. Optionally, the cannula 201 has a handle long enough to support a scale and / or reference mark that aligns with some visible portion of the second dilator (scale mark, distal end, or indicator mark) when the cannula 201 is placed in a particular location. Additionally or alternatively, the cannulation depth is controlled / monitored relative to the entire length of the vagina.

[0204] At block 565, the second dilator is removed. The cannula 201 is now positioned across the rectal wall and at a known longitudinal depth relative to the rectal wall.

[0205] Optionally, the stepped expander 1100 of Figures 11A-11E is used in this manner, with the insertion of Figure 6E optionally occurring in two stages, corresponding to distal taper region 1121 and proximal taper region 1117, respectively, optionally with a pause between the two stages, allowing the physician to sense the change in insertion resistance at the transition from distal taper region 1121 to separation region 1119.

[0206] Fixation of the cannula and alignment of the robot to the cannula Freely configurable alignment system 9A-9D, which include diagrams illustrating an instrument holder 900 for cannula 201 and its mode of use, where the instrument holder 900 includes a motor unit stopper 902 for use in setting an initial robotic arm position, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0207] 9A shows a schematic of an instrument holder 900 with a mounting block 901 and a stopper arm 902. In some embodiments, the stopper arm 902 is hinged on a hinge 904 to rotate in different orientations relative to the mounting block 901.

[0208] 9B shows cannula 201 and associated handle 202 attached to a mounting block 901. In some embodiments, the attachment process involves positioning the proximal end of handle 202 in a well-defined location relative to mounting block 901, such as flush with a luminal opening 903 in block 901 that is sized and shaped to receive handle 202. Fixation of cannula 201 to block 901 is optionally ensured by tightening clamping handle 905.

[0209] FIG. 9C shows the entire mounting arm assembly 910, which includes a table mounting block 911 (e.g., configured with a clamp and tightening handle to aid in secure mounting to a table or other stabilizing surface) and a joint arm 912 extending distally from the mounting block 911 to a distal attachment to the mounting block 901.

[0210] 9D shows an instrument holder 900 with a motor unit stop 902 configured to set an initial operating distance for the motor unit 930. The motor unit stop 902 is sized such that, when positioned to protrude laterally from the block 901, its distal end marks a fixed distance that should be set (e.g., at the distal end of the cannula) such that when the motor unit 930 is positioned relative to the mounting block 901 as shown in FIG. 9B (the cannula is not shown in FIG. 9D), the motor unit 930 will reach a defined (and safe) initial most distal position with its arm within the cannula 201 (the arm itself having a known, predetermined length). A robotic arm 305 (not shown) passes distally from the motor unit 930 through the extension 920. Extension 920 comprises a tube having a lumen sized to pass robotic arm 305 (e.g., at least a 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, or 10 mm lumen). Extension 920 can also be adjusted in position (e.g., to be positioned within slot 921 in FIG. 9B) to guide robotic arm 305 into cannula 201.

[0211] By properly positioning the parts in the marked predetermined locations, a kit comprising the cannula 201, the handle 202, and the instrument holder 900 including the motor unit stopper 902 (which optionally includes an extension 920 and / or a motor unit 930 and associated arm 305) can be useful in achieving a quick and reproducible initial setup that provides a clearly defined initial relationship between the distal end of the cannula 201 and the distal end of the robotic arm 305 (e.g., alignment of the two ends).

[0212] To allow for the initiation of movement of the robot arm in the distal direction, the motor unit stop 902 can be swung away from its lateral position (e.g., downwards) to allow the motor unit 930 to advance distally without interference. Preferably, the attachment of the motor unit stop 902 to the block 901 is configured to allow it to be switched between a first position that prevents advancement of the motor unit 930 and a second position that allows advancement of the motor unit 930 without disturbing the positions of the structures on either side of it (e.g., without disturbing the positions of the cannula 201 or the motor unit 930). The attachment is not necessarily hinged (e.g., the stop 902 can be telescopic, slidable within the block 901, or otherwise movable). The hinge offers a potential advantage by allowing for a reproducible longitudinal stopper position when the stopper is in a horizontal (oriented toward the longitudinal axis of the cannula) position, while at the same time allowing for easy conversion to a non-stop position without applying longitudinal force to slide the stopper 902 or torquing the catch to release the stopper 902.

[0213] Lock position adjustment system Reference is now made to Figures 10A-10E, which show schematic diagrams illustrating a folded instrument holder 1000 relative to a cannula 1010 and its configuration for use in setting an initial robotic arm position relative to the cannula 1010, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring also to FIGS. 10F-10J, FIGS. 10F-10J generally depict components of a folded instrument holder 1000, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, with reference to FIGS. 12A-12C, FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate generally a duckbill gasket 1050 used to seal access to a proximal opening of an access device 1001, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0214] Figure 10A shows an access device 1001 configured for insertion into a gel seal 1003 (e.g., in the position shown in Figures 10B-10C). During use, the gel seal 1003 is placed at the entrance to the vagina to provide protected access, such that elements positioned to the right of the gel seal 1003 are placed inside the vagina during the procedure and elements positioned to the left are placed outside the vagina.

[0215] The transseal region 1001A of the access device 1001 is flanged on both sides and sits within the gel membrane of the gel seal 1003. The exterior (proximal) side 1001B of the access device 1001 (also referred to herein as the "trocar") is provided with an attachment protrusion 1002 in some embodiments. The lumen 1004 of the access device 1001 is sized to accommodate the insertion of a stepped dilator 1100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10B) or optionally a separate dilator / dilator system (e.g., a two-piece dilator comprising an inner dilator 205 and an outer dilator 203). Also shown in FIG. 10B is the needle handle 511 and dilator handle 510 of the needle 207 assembled with the stepped dilator 1100.

[0216] The lumen 1004 of the access device 1001 is also sized to allow insertion of the cannula 1010 over the stepped dilator 1100 (or other dilation system). In some embodiments, once inserted into the lumen 1004, the cannula 1010 is properly received in the access device 1001 and optionally locked therewith. The cannula 1010, in some embodiments, includes a body having an elongated (e.g., oval) cross-section with a tapered distal opening 209, and a flange 221 on its proximal side, as described, for example, in connection with FIG. 3L. In some embodiments, the flange 221 includes a receiving recess for a ball stop 1006 on the access device 1001 that controls the relative movement between the cannula 1010 and the access device 1001 when locked.

[0217] In some embodiments, after the cannula 1010 is positioned, a two-seal "duckbill" gasket 1050 (shown in FIG. 10C and FIGS. 12A-12C) is inserted into the proximal opening of the access device 1001. When nothing is inserted into the cannula 1010, the first seal member 1050A of the gasket 1050 is normally sealed (two opposing faces pressed together). Upon insertion of the robot arm guide 1032 (further described in connection with FIGS. 10D-10E), the first seal member 1050A is forced open while the second seal member 1050B, which is normally open, is shaped to seal around the robot arm guide 1032. The seal members 1050A, 1050B are made of a soft elastic material, e.g., silicone rubber. In some embodiments, the gasket body 1050C comprises a rigid polymeric or metallic material that supports the sealing members 1050A, 1050B and helps maintain the overall shape of the gasket 1050. In some embodiments, the sealing members 1050A, 1050B are each shaped to have a major axis and a minor axis, the major axis being at least twice as long as the minor axis.

[0218] The arrangement of the above elements generally corresponds, in some embodiments, to the operations of block 120 (dilating and introducing the cannula) and block 122 (sealing the unit) of FIG. 3J.

[0219] In some embodiments, securing, corresponding to operation of block 124 in FIG. 3J, includes attaching mounting protrusion 1002 to mounting block 1020. Mounting block 1020 itself may be attached, for example, to a platform (e.g., a surgical table) that is stationary relative to a patient. In some embodiments, attachment includes inserting mounting protrusion 1002 into receiving opening 1061 (shown in FIG. 10J) of mounting block 1020. In some embodiments, a notch 1005 or another shape of mounting protrusion 1002 engages a lock in receiving opening 1061. Optionally, button 1021 is pressed to assist and / or initiate engagement and / or release of mounting protrusion 1002 from the lock.

[0220] The mounting block 1020 is a component of the instrument holder 1000. The instrument holder 1000 attached to the mounting block 1020 additionally comprises a spacing arm 1024 and an alignment arm 1030. In some embodiments, the spacing arm 1024 is attached to the mounting block 1020 by a stopped hinge 1022, and the align arm 1030 is in turn attached by a stopped hinge 1028. In some embodiments, the spacing arm 1024 is telescopic (can be reversibly extended and retracted). Optionally, release and / or locking of the telescopic is controlled by a button 1026 or other control member.

[0221] The use of the stopped hinges 1022, 1028 and button 1026 to position the spacing arm 1024 and aligning arm 1030 is further shown in Figures 10D-10E.

[0222] In some embodiments of the invention, a cannula 1010 is used to provide intraperitoneal access for one or more robotic arms, such as robotic arm 305 described in connection with Figures 31 and 7A-7B. As also described in the Summary herein, it is a potential advantage to be able to position these robotic arms so that they start at a known longitudinal advancement distance through the cannula 1010 and at a known approach angle (typically the approach angle 1010 is axially aligned with the cannula).

[0223] 10D-10E, spacing arm 1024 and aligning arm 1030 comprise an assembly shown fully deployed (in a deployed position) to aid in setting the starting position of the robotic arm introduced into cannula 1010. In some embodiments, this includes: Rotating the spacing arm 1024 90° from its vertically downward stowed position (see FIG. 10C) to a horizontally deployed position. Pressing button 1026 to extend spacing arm 1024 to set the spacing distance and expose pull-out telescoping arm portion 1024A. Rotating the align arm 130 relative to the spacing arm 1024 (as in FIG. 10C) from a stowed position to a vertically deployed position.

[0224] Optionally, spacing arm 1024 and aligning arm 1030 return to a stowed position after use to properly position the robotic arm. A potential advantage of stowage after use is that it does not impede further movement of the robotic arm (e.g., advancing deeper into the abdominal cavity).

[0225] 10F-10J show these components in more detail. 10F-10H show spacing arm 1024 in a folded (unextended) configuration. The stalled hinges 1022, 1028 can be seen, including the details of any of these embodiments. For example, in the case of stalled hinge 1022, each of the projections 1063 (optionally four) are spaced around the circumference of stalled hinge 1022. Each projection 1063 extends into a respective notch in plate 1022A. The projections 1063 are fixed in orientation to block 1020 (FIG. 10J), which in turn is fixed to spacing arm 1024. Thus, as long as projections 1063 engage the notches in plate 1022A, spacing arm 1024 is fixed in orientation. When button 1062 is actuated, protrusions 1063 are retracted from their notches, allowing spacing arms 1024 to rotate freely. Optionally, protrusions 1063 are held in place by plate 1022A when the notches move out of alignment with the protrusions, so button 1022A can be released while spacing arms 1024 continue to move freely.

[0226] Once spacing arms 1024 are fully deployed 90°, the notch and protrusion 1063 in plate 1022A return to their aligned position and protrusion 1063 can spring back to its original position, locking spacing arms 1024 in the new orientation. This mechanism has the potential advantages of (1) allowing only one deployment orientation for spacing arms 1024, and (2) being strong enough to hold the horizontally deployed weight of spacing arms 1024 and aligning arms 1030 without collapsing.

[0227] In some embodiments, the stalled hinge 1028 includes a similar mechanism, including a protrusion 1065, a button 1067, and a notched plate 1066. The notched plate 1066 is again fixed to the spacing arm 1024, and the protrusion 1065 is fixed towards the aligning arm 1030.

[0228] 10D-10E, the horizontal bar 1068 (FIG. 10I) of the align arm 1030 acts to set the elevation of the robot arm to pass horizontally to be level with the longitudinal axis of the cannula 1010 while aiming at the cannula 1010. Similarly, the robot arm should pass through the space between the vertical bars 1064 to approach the cannula 1010 along its central longitudinal axis. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the motor unit or other housing that holds the robot arm in position is in place when a designated portion of the motor unit (the "stop receptacle") is pressed against a portion of the align arm 1030 that acts as a stop (e.g., when pressed against the vertically extending main bar 1069 of the align arm 1030).

[0229] 10D-10E, in some embodiments, the robotic arm 305 is sheathed (e.g., two round arms side-by-side) using an arm sheath 1032 prior to passing through the cannula 1010 (e.g., when performing the operation of block 126 of FIG. 3J). In some embodiments, the arm sheath 1032 comprises a lumen sized to allow at least two robotic arms to pass therethrough, with a minimum outer diameter of about 8.6 mm. In some embodiments, for example, the minimum diameter of the lumen of the arm sheath 1032 is about 9 mm, 10 mm, or 11 mm.

[0230] A potential advantage of the sheath 1032 is to ensure that the arm is straight and that no part of the arm is accidentally caught while entering and passing through the cannula 1010. In some embodiments, a gasket 1034 is further provided, the gasket comprising holes adapted to allow each of the two robotic arms to pass through the gasket. The gasket 1034 is suitably attached to the proximal end of the arm sheath 1032 and acts as another protective seal. Optionally, the arm sheath 1032 is constructed of stainless steel. Optionally, the gasket 1034 is manufactured from a flexible polymer, such as silicone rubber.

[0231] Stepped expander 11A-11E, which diagrammatically depict a stepped dilator 1100, a dilator handle 510, and a trocar needle 207, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. reference

[0232] The dilator handle 510 and trocar needle 207, in some embodiments, are substantially as described with respect to Figures 5D-5F, 5H, 5I, and 5K, for example.

[0233] In some embodiments, the stepped dilator 1100 includes distal and proximal tapered regions 1121 and 1117 along a single dilator distal working end 1115 (FIGS. 11B, 11C). In some embodiments, the distal and proximal tapered regions 1121, 1117 are substantially shaped as described for the embodiment of tapered regions 213 and 218 of the two dilator combination described herein, for example, in connection with Figures 2A-3I and 5K, however, for clarity, some specific details of the shape of the tapered regions are repeated here.

[0234] In some embodiments, the distal (first) tapered region 1121 has a blunt, distal-most portion that optionally has a port through which the trocar needle 207 can extend. Optionally, the distal-most portion curves proximally and expands in both width and height through a radius of about 2.5 mm, expanding primarily in width to form a wide oval cross-section about 15 mm proximally to the distal-most portion (or another distance, e.g., in the range of about 10-20 mm).

[0235] In some embodiments, the non-expanding separation region 1119 extends longitudinally between the distal and proximal taper regions. Preferably, the separation region 1119 is long enough to allow the inserting physician to sense a decrease in insertion resistance as he passes proximal to the distal taper region 1121 and to correspondingly decrease insertion force so that expansion is paused. This distance is optionally in the range of about 5-15 mm. In some embodiments, the separation region 1119 has a constant cross-section that extends proximally from the distal side of the separation region 1119 until it reaches the distal side of the proximal taper region 1117. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the separation region 1119A (FIG. 11C) comprises a constriction (e.g., a tapered constriction) with respect to the proximal cross-section of the distal taper region 1121, which can act as a detente that accentuates the sensation of decreased insertion resistance to the physician. The constriction may also allow the physician to sense by feel the difference between initial dilation (where the periphery of the dilated tissue remains elastic after the initial dilation (tending to reclose the dilated opening)) and rupture-induced dilation, reducing the tendency of the dilator to exert an inward force on the dilated opening.

[0236] In some embodiments, the proximal (second) tapered region 1117 has a distal-most cross section that originates from the proximal-most portion of the separation region 1119. From there, the second expander cross section extends proximally for about 15 mm (or another distance, e.g., in the range of about 10-20 mm). The maximum further extension is, for example, about 5 mm, 7.5 mm, 10 mm, or 12.5 mm of extension. Optionally, the extension along one axis of the cut cross section may be greater than the extension along another axis, e.g., a relative expansion factor of about 1:1.5, 1:2, or 1:3.

[0237] In some embodiments, the body 1111 of the expander 1100 is constructed of a sterilizable and resterilizable (e.g., autoclavable) material (e.g., stainless steel). Optionally, an insertion region 1113 is provided on one or both sides of the body 1111. This may reduce the weight of the expander 1100 (e.g., in embodiments in which the body 1111 is constructed of a solid piece of metal).

[0238] In some embodiments, the dilator 1100 has an overall length of at least 17 cm without the handle 510. In some embodiments, the threaded region 1102A is threaded to receive the threads of the handle 510. The length of the handle 510 is optionally at least 20 cm long.

[0239] General As used herein in reference to an amount or value, the term "about" means "within ±10% thereof."

[0240] The terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "having" and variations thereof mean "including" and not "limiting."

[0241] The term "consisting of" means "including and limited to."

[0242] The term "consisting essentially of" means that a composition, method, or structure may include additional ingredients, steps, and / or components, provided that the additional ingredients, steps, and / or components do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method, or structure.

[0243] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly requires otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" can include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0244] The words "example" and "exemplary" are used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance or illustration." An embodiment described as "example" or "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and / or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.

[0245] The word "optionally" is used herein to mean "is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments." Any particular embodiment may include more than one "optional" feature, except where such features conflict.

[0246] The term "method" as used herein refers to methods, means, techniques, and procedures for accomplishing a given task, and includes, but is not limited to, methods, means, techniques, and procedures known to practitioners in the fields of chemistry, pharmacology, biology, biochemistry, and medicine, or methods, means, techniques, and procedures that are readily developed from means, techniques, and procedures known to practitioners in the fields of chemistry, pharmacology, biology, biochemistry, and medicine.

[0247] As used herein, the term "treating" includes arresting, substantially inhibiting, slowing or reversing the progression of a condition, substantially ameliorating the clinical or cosmetic symptoms of a condition, or substantially preventing the appearance of clinical or cosmetic symptoms of a condition.

[0248] Throughout this application, embodiments of the present disclosure may be presented with reference to a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all possible subranges and individual numerical values ​​within that range. For example, a description of a range such as "1-6" should be considered to have specifically disclosed each numerical value within that range (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6), as well as subranges such as "1-3", "1-4", "1-5", "2-4", "2-6", "3-6", etc. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0249] When a numerical range is given herein (e.g., a pair of numbers joined by "10-15," "10 to 15," or another such range designation), the numerical range is meant to include any number (decimal or integer) within the limits of the stated range, including the limits of the range, unless the surrounding text clearly dictates otherwise. The phrases "range / ranging / ranges" between a first stated numerical value and a second stated numerical value, and "range / ranging / ranges" from a first stated numerical value to a second stated numerical value (to, up to, until, or through), are used interchangeably herein and are meant to include the first and second stated numerical values ​​and all decimals and integers therebetween.

[0250] While the present invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0251] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

[0252] It will be understood that certain features that are described, for clarity, in the context of separate embodiments within this disclosure may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described for brevity in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or in any other described embodiment of this disclosure, as appropriate. Certain features that are described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiments are inoperable without those elements.

Claims

1. 1. A surgical access kit for providing intraperitoneal access via a body cavity, comprising: a. a stepped dilator, b. a trocar needle, and c. a cannula; a. the stepped dilator comprises: a dilator body extending along a longitudinal axis; a first tapered region narrowing toward a blunt distal end of the dilator body, the distal end having a port configured for insertion of a trocar needle; a second tapered region located proximal to the first tapered region, the second region tapering distally; and a separation region disposed between the first and second tapered regions, the separation region having a length of at least 3 mm and comprising a tapered waist; Equipped with b. the trocar needle is shaped and dimensioned to pass through the port in the distal end of the stepped dilator with the distal tip of the needle extending from the port; c. the cannula is configured to slide over the stepped dilator, the cannula comprising: a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end, said lumen having an oval cross section in a plane perpendicular to said longitudinal axis and having a long axis sufficient to permit the simultaneous passage of at least two cylindrical members, each at least 8 mm in diameter; a sloped distal opening defined by a first edge located more distally along the longitudinal axis than a second edge located on an opposite side of the opening; A surgical access kit comprising:

2. A surgical access kit as described in claim 1, the trocar needle further comprises a handle region; a handle region extending proximally beyond the proximal end of the first tapered region of the dilator body when the distal tip of the trocar needle is advanced to the distal tip of the first tapered region of the dilator body; 3. A surgical access kit for providing intraperitoneal access via a body cavity, comprising: a. a stepped dilator, b. a trocar needle, and c. a cannula; a. the stepped dilator comprises: a dilator body extending along a longitudinal axis; a first tapered region narrowing toward a blunt distal end of the dilator body, the distal end having a port configured for insertion of a trocar needle; a second tapered region located proximal to the first tapered region, the second region tapering distally; and a separation region disposed between the first and second tapered regions, the separation region having a length of at least 3 mm; Equipped with b) the trocar needle is shaped and dimensioned to pass through the port at the distal end of the stepped dilator with a distal tip of the needle extending from the port, the trocar needle comprising a handle region that extends proximally beyond the proximal end of the first tapered region of the dilator body when the distal tip of the needle is advanced to the distal tip of the first tapered region; c. the cannula is configured to slide over the stepped dilator, the cannula comprising: a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end, the lumen having an oval cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the oval cross-section having a major axis sufficient to permit simultaneous passage of at least two cylindrical members, each at least 8 mm in diameter; a sloped distal opening defined by a first edge located more distally along the longitudinal axis than a second edge located on an opposite side of the opening; A surgical access kit comprising:

4. A surgical access kit as described in claim 3, wherein the separation region of the stepped expander has a tapered waist.

5. A surgical access kit as described in claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the cannula is positioned so as to be engageable and slidable on the stepped dilator.

6. A surgical access kit as described in claim 1 or claim 3, further comprising an access device defining an inner cavity configured to mateably hold and lock onto the cannula.

7. A surgical access kit as described in claim 1 or claim 3, further comprising a sheath shaped and dimensioned to fit within the lumen of the cannula, the sheath having a diameter large enough to receive at least one robotic arm therein.

8. A surgical access kit as described in claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the trocar needle is configured to be telescopically inserted within the stepped dilator, and the stepped dilator is configured to be telescopically inserted within the cannula.

9. A surgical system for providing intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, comprising: a. stepped dilator, b. trocar needle, c. cannula, d. mounting block, and e. alignment assembly; a. the stepped dilator comprises: a dilator body extending along a longitudinal axis; a first tapered region narrowing toward a blunt distal end of the dilator body, the distal end having a port configured for insertion of a trocar needle; a second tapered region located proximal to the first tapered region, the second region tapering distally; and a separation region disposed between the first and second tapered regions, the separation region having a length of at least 3 mm; Equipped with b. the trocar needle is shaped and dimensioned to pass through the port in the distal end of the stepped dilator with the distal tip of the needle extending from the port; c. the cannula is configured to be placed over the stepped dilator, the cannula comprising: a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end, the lumen having an oval cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the oval cross-section having a major axis sufficient to permit simultaneous passage of at least two cylindrical members, each at least 8 mm in diameter; a sloped distal opening defined by a first edge located more distally along the longitudinal axis than a second edge located on an opposite side of the opening; Equipped with d. the mounting block is attached to the cannula; e. the alignment assembly is mounted to the mounting block and includes a spacing arm and an align arm, the alignment assembly being movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, wherein in the deployed position, the align arm is positioned to indicate a predetermined position along the longitudinal axis of the cannula; Surgical system.

10. A surgical system as described in claim 9, wherein the separation region of the stepped expander has a tapered constriction.

11. A surgical system for providing intraperitoneal access through a body cavity, comprising: a. a stepped dilator, b. a trocar needle, and c. a cannula; a. the stepped dilator comprises: a dilator body having a longitudinal axis in a proximal to distal direction; a first tapered region of the dilator body that tapers narrower toward the distal end of the dilator body, the first tapered region having a blunt distal-most portion with a port; a second tapered region of the dilator body located proximal to the first tapered region, the second tapered region narrowing in a distal direction, the second tapered region comprising a tapered waist in a cross section proximal to the first tapered region, the second tapered region being separated from the first tapered region by a separating intervening region having a length of at least 3 mm; Equipped with b. the trocar needle passes through the port at the distal-most portion of the first tapered region of the dilator body of the stepped dilator, with the needle tip extending from the port; c. the cannula is placed over the stepped dilator; a distal opening angled relative to a longitudinal axis of the cannula, the edges of the opening including a first edge extending along one side of the opening and a second edge extending along another side of the opening, the first edge extending along a side more distal along the longitudinal axis of the cannula than the second edge; Surgical system.

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