Multi-Diameter Cannula Depth Limiter

Abstract

A depth limiter configured to couple with a first trocar cannula and a second trocar cannula having different diameters. The depth limiter includes a first body portion and a second body portion. The first body portion and the second body portion each include a first gripping surface and a second gripping surface. The first body portion and the second body portion are pivotally coupled together and are movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula. In the closed configuration, the first gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula. In the closed configuration, the second gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the second trocar cannula.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Priority) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 018,601, entitled "Multi-Diameter Cannula Depth Limiter," filed May 1, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Some surgical procedures may require a clinician to access a surgical site through a patient's abdominal cavity. To gain such access, an opening is first made through the abdominal wall tissue overlying the abdominal cavity. In some surgical procedures (referred to as "laparoscopic" or "endoscopic" procedures), a relatively small opening is made through the abdominal wall tissue and then the surgical site is accessed with an elongated instrument inserted through an access device, commonly referred to as a "trocar," positioned within the opening. A conventional trocar generally includes a cannula assembly and an obturator that is removably received within a working channel of the cannula assembly. In use, the obturator is mated with the cannula assembly and the combined structure (i.e., the trocar) is directed by the clinician downward through the patient's abdominal wall such that the distal end of the obturator and cannula assembly extend into the abdominal cavity. The clinician then withdraws the obturator from the cannula assembly so that a surgical instrument may be directed downward through the working channel of the cannula assembly to access the surgical site.

[0003] Trocars, merely exemplary variations of their components, and other types of surgical access devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,981,092, entitled "Vibratory Trocar," issued on July 19, 2011; U.S. Pat. No. 8,226,553, entitled "Access Device with Insert," issued on July 24, 2012; U.S. Pat. No. 8,251,900, entitled "Surgical Access Devices and Methods Providing Seal Movement in Predefined Paths," issued on August 28, 2012; U.S. Pat. No. 8,579,807, entitled "Absorbing Fluids in a Surgical Access Device," issued on November 12, 2013; U.S. Pat. No. 8,568,362, entitled "Surgical Access Device with Sorbents," issued on October 29, 2013; U.S. Pat. No. 8,579,807, entitled "Surgical Access Device with Sorbents," issued on January 28, 2014; No. 8,636,686 entitled "Gas Jet Fluid Removal in a Trocar" which issued on April 8, 2014, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0000496 entitled "Method of Suturing a Trocar Path Incision," which published on January 3, 2019. The disclosures of each of the above-cited U.S. patents and U.S. patent application publications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] While many different types of surgical instruments, including surgical access devices and end effectors, and other related components have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the present inventors has made or used the invention as set forth in the appended claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary trocar with a cannula assembly and obturator shown in an assembled state. [Diagram 2] 2 illustrates a side elevational view of the cannula assembly and obturator of FIG. 1 in a disassembled state. [Figure 3A] 2 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the trocar of FIG. 1 being manipulated by a clinician through a tissue layer of the abdominal wall. [Figure 3B] 3B illustrates an enlarged side cross-sectional view of the trocar of FIG. 1 showing the distal end of the trocar received within the abdominal cavity of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] 3B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the cannula assembly of FIG. 1 , showing the cannula assembly remaining positioned within the abdominal wall of FIG. 3A after disengagement and removal of the obturator. [Figure 3D] 3B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the cannula assembly of FIG. 1 being withdrawn proximally from the abdominal wall of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary trocar having a cannula assembly and obturator shown in an assembled state, where the cannula assembly includes a cannula tube. [Diagram 5] 5 is a perspective view of the cannula assembly and obturator of FIG. 4 in an exploded state, showing the reusable cannula and the disposable seal assembly of the cannula assembly separated from one another, and showing the obturator in an exploded state. [Figure 6] 5 illustrates a perspective view of the trocar and first exemplary depth limiter of FIG. 4, where the depth limiter is in a closed configuration that limits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to a cannula tube of a cannula assembly of the trocar. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the depth limiter of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the depth limiter and cannula tube of FIG. 6 taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6. [Figure 9A] 8 illustrates a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 7 and an exemplary cannula tube shown in cross section, the depth limiter in an open configuration that allows axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube when actuated by a user. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a top view of the depth limiter and cannula tube of FIG. 9A, but with the depth limiter in a closed configuration. [Figure 9C] 9B illustrates a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 9A and another exemplary cannula tube, with the depth limiter in a closed configuration. [Figure 9D] 9B shows a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 9A and the cannula tube of FIG. 5, with the depth limiter in a closed configuration. [Figure 9E] 9B shows a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 9A in a closed configuration. [Figure 10] 1 shows a perspective view of a second exemplary depth limiter. [Figure 11A] 11 is a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 10 coupled with an exemplary cannula tube, the depth limiter in an open configuration that allows axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube when actuated by a user. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows a top view of the depth limiter and cannula tube of FIG. 11A with the depth limiter in a closed configuration limiting axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube. [Figure 11C] 11B illustrates a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 11A and another exemplary cannula tube, with the depth limiter in a closed configuration that limits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube, and an open configuration shown in phantom. [Figure 11D] 11B illustrates a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 11A and the cannula tube of FIG. 5, with the depth limiter in a closed configuration that limits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube, and an open configuration shown in phantom. [Figure 12] 13 shows a perspective view of a third exemplary depth limiter. [Figure 13]13 shows a perspective view of a fourth exemplary depth limiter including four legs. [Figure 14A] 14 shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter of FIG. 13 coupled with a cannula tube of the cannula assembly of the trocar of FIG. 1 , with the legs of the depth limiter in a non-deployed configuration when the distal end of the trocar is received within the abdominal cavity. [Figure 14B] 14 shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter of FIG. 13 coupled with the cannula tube of the cannula assembly of FIG. 1 after disengagement and removal of the obturator, with the legs of the depth limiter in a deployed configuration with the distal end of the cannula tube received within the abdominal cavity. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a fifth exemplary depth limiter including two legs. [Figure 16] 13 shows a perspective view of a sixth exemplary depth limiter including three legs. [Figure 17] 13 shows a perspective view of a seventh exemplary depth limiter including a hub with a notch. [Figure 18A] 18 illustrates a top view of the depth limiter of FIG. 17 coupled with the cannula tube of the cannula assembly of FIG. 5, with the hub of the depth limiter in a movable configuration. [Figure 18B] 18 illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view of the depth limiter of FIG. 17 coupled with the cannula tube of the cannula assembly of FIG. 5 after disengagement and removal of the obturator, with the legs of the depth limiter in a fixed configuration. [Figure 19A] 18 illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view of the depth limiter of FIG. 17 coupled with a cannula tube of the cannula assembly of FIG. 5, with the legs of the depth limiter in a deployed configuration. [Figure 19B] 18 illustrates a partial cross-sectional side view of the depth limiter of FIG. 17 coupled with the cannula tube of the cannula assembly of FIG. 5 after disengagement and removal of the obturator, with the legs of the depth limiter in a deployed configuration. [Figure 20] 13 shows a top cross-sectional view of an eighth exemplary depth limiter including a fluid chamber and four legs.

[0006] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any manner, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in other various ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. It will be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] The following description of a specific embodiment of the present invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other embodiments, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the present invention by way of example. As will be understood, the present invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, none of which departs from the present invention. Thus, the drawings and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive.

[0008] For clarity of this disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein relative to a surgeon or other operator grasping a surgical device. The term "proximal" refers to the location of an element disposed closer to the surgeon, and the term "distal" refers to the location of an element disposed further away from the surgeon. Also, to the extent that spatial terms such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," and the like are used herein with reference to the drawings, it will be understood that such terms are used for illustrative descriptive purposes only and are not intended to be limiting or absolute. In that regard, it will be understood that surgical instruments such as those disclosed herein may be used in a variety of orientations and positions, not limited to those shown and described herein.

[0009] Additionally, terms such as "about," "approximately," and the like, as used herein in connection with any numerical value or range of numerical values, are intended to encompass the exact value referenced, as well as a suitable tolerance that enables the referenced feature, or combination of features, to function for the intended purpose described herein.

[0010] I. Exemplary Single-Use and Reusable Trocars 1-5 illustrate exemplary surgical access devices in the form of a single-use first trocar (10) and a reusable second trocar (110), each configured to provide access to a surgical site in a laparoscopic surgical procedure. Each trocar (10, 110) includes a cannula assembly (12, 112) having a working channel (14, 114) and an obturator (16, 116) configured to be coaxially inserted into the working channel (14, 114) so ​​that the assembled trocar (10, 110) may be directed distally through a patient's abdominal wall, for example, as described below in connection with Figures 3A-3D.

[0011] A. Exemplary Single-Use Trocar As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the cannula assembly (12) of the single-use trocar (10) includes a cannula (20) and a seal housing (30). The cannula (20) and the seal housing (30) cooperate to define a working channel (14) extending longitudinally along a central axis (A) of the trocar (10). In particular, the working channel (14) is defined by a lumen of the cannula (20) that communicates with a hollow interior of the seal housing (30). The cannula assembly (12) is configured to receive an elongated surgical instrument distally through the working channel (14) to provide access to a surgical site within the patient's abdominal cavity. As described in more detail below, the seal housing (30) houses a pair of seal structures that define a seal assembly configured to maintain insufflation of the patient's abdominal cavity while permitting passage of surgical instruments and tissue fragments along the working channel (14).

[0012] The cannula (20) of this variation may include a bell-shaped hub (not shown) at its proximal end and an elongated cylindrical tube (22) extending distally from the hub and terminating in an angled cannula tip (24). The exterior surface of the cannula tube (22) includes a plurality of tissue-gripping features in the form of annular ribs (26) disposed axially along an interior portion of the cannula tube (22). The ribs (26) are configured to grasp a layer of abdominal wall tissue through which the cannula (20) is inserted, thereby assisting in axially and radially stabilizing the cannula (20) while it is positioned within an opening formed in a patient's abdominal wall.

[0013] More specifically, the tissue gripping ribs (26) of this embodiment are formed as annular scallops in the sidewall of the cannula tube (22) such that each rib (26) tapers radially inwardly in a distal direction from the radially outermost edge of the rib (26). Thus, the radially outermost edge of the rib (26) is generally flush with the non-ribbed proximal and distal portions of the cannula tube (22). The resulting configuration of the ribs (26) facilitates advancement of the cannula tube (22) through the tissue layers in a distal direction and resists retraction of the cannula tube (22) through the tissue layers in a reverse proximal direction. Advantageously, this configuration protects against unintentional withdrawal of the cannula tube (22) from the abdominal wall of the patient during a surgical procedure. However, it will be understood that the cannula tube (22) may include various other types of tissue gripping features in other variations of the trocar (10). For example, cannula tube (22) may include tissue gripping features in the form of one or more helical ribs extending around at least an inner portion of cannula tube (22) and which may be scalloped similar to ribs (26).

[0014] The seal housing (30) of the cannula assembly (12) includes a proximal housing portion (32) and a distal housing portion (34) to which the proximal housing portion (32) is removably attached. The proximal housing portion (32) includes a proximal head (36) and a distal base (38) secured together. The distal housing portion (34) includes a distal shroud (40) that surrounds a proximal hub (not shown) of the cannula (20), a cap plate (42) secured to a proximal end of the distal shroud (40), and a latch ring (44) rotatably disposed therebetween and having radially outwardly projecting tabs (46). The latch ring (44) is selectively rotatable via the tabs (46) about the central axis (A) of the trocar (10) between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the latch ring (44) locks the proximal housing portion (32) to the distal housing portion (34). In the unlocked position, the latch ring (44) allows the proximal housing portion (32) to be separated from the distal housing portion (34), for example, to directly access a distal seal structure (not shown) contained within the distal housing portion (34). In some variations, the distal shroud (40) may be integrally formed with the proximal end of the cannula tube (22), such that the distal shroud (40) is a component of the cannula (20).

[0015] Although not shown, the proximal housing portion (32) houses a proximal (or "outer") seal structure and the distal housing portion (34) houses a distal (or "inner") seal structure, both disposed along the central axis (A) of the trocar (10). The proximal and distal seal structures cooperate to define a seal assembly that allows passage of surgical instruments and tissue fragments along the working channel (14) while maintaining insufflation of the patient's abdominal cavity during a surgical procedure. For example, the proximal seal structure may include an annular seal member configured to sealingly engage a shaft of a laparoscopic surgical instrument directed through the working channel (14). The distal seal structure may include a duckbill seal member configured to maintain the described sealed working channel (14) in the absence of a surgical instrument shaft.

[0016] Cannula assembly (12) further includes an insufflation port (50) operably coupled to the proximal end of cannula (20) and having an adjustable valve in the form of a stopcock (52). Insufflation port (50) is configured to direct an insufflation fluid, such as carbon dioxide, from a fluid source (not shown) distally through working channel (14) and into the patient's abdominal cavity, thereby distending (or "insufflating") the cavity with the fluid. This distension of the abdominal cavity creates additional space for performing laparoscopic surgical procedures with improved ease.

[0017] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the obturator (16) of the trocar (10) includes a proximal head (60), an elongated cylindrical shaft (62) extending distally from the head (60), and a tapered distal tip (64). The obturator shaft (62) is configured to be received within the working channel (14) of the cannula assembly (12) such that the obturator tip (64) extends distally through the cannula tip (24). The obturator head (60) includes a dome-shaped upper body (66), a base plate (68), and an actuatable latch member (70) including a pair of latch arms (72) and a corresponding pair of latch buttons (74). The latch arms (72) are configured to be captured within respective slots (not shown) formed in an upper surface of the seal housing head (36) to couple the obturator (16) with the cannula assembly (12). The latch button (74) is operable to release the latch arms (72) from the slots, thereby permitting separation of the obturator (16) from the cannula assembly (12). The obturator (16) further includes a central passage (76) extending longitudinally through the obturator head (60) and the obturator shaft (62) and configured to receive an endoscope (not shown) therein to provide visualization during insertion of the trocar (10) through the patient's abdominal wall. A clamp lever (78) on the obturator head (60) is pivotable to selectively secure the endoscope within the central passage (76). The central passage (76) and clamp lever (78) are merely optional features and may be omitted from the obturator (16) in other variations.

[0018] Cannula assembly (12) and obturator (16) may be constructed to be disposed of after a single use with a patient. In other variations, one or more components of trocar (10) may be suitably constructed to withstand sterilization and multiple reuses, for example, as described in more detail below in connection with trocar (110) of Figures 4-5.

[0019] B. Exemplary deployment of trocars within the patient's abdominal cavity. 3A-3D illustrate an exemplary method of accessing a patient's abdominal cavity (1) through the patient's abdominal wall (2) using the trocar (10) described above. It will be understood that the abdominal wall (2) includes an outer superficial layer and an inner deep layer. The superficial layer generally includes an outer layer of skin (3) and an inner layer of fat (4), while the deeper layers include an alternative layer of muscle (5) and fascia (6), which is more tensile, fibrous and flexible than the superficial layers.

[0020] With the obturator (16) received within the cannula assembly (12) and connected to the seal housing (30), as shown in FIG 3A, the clinician manipulates the trocar (10) via the obturator head (60) and seal housing (30) to press the obturator tip (64) inwardly against the skin (3) and toward the abdominal cavity (1) while rotating the trocar (10) back and forth. Continued inward pressure on the trocar (10) further directs the obturator tip (64) and cannula tip (24) distally through the layer of fat (4) and fascia (5) and into the cavity (1). As mentioned above, this process may be facilitated by visualization provided by an endoscope (not shown) mounted within the obturator (16). Once the cannula (20) has reached the desired insertion depth into the cavity (1), the clinician releases the obturator head (60) from the seal housing (30) via depression of the latch button (74) and then withdraws the obturator (16) proximally from the cannula assembly (12), as shown in FIG. 3C. This clears the working channel (14) of the cannula assembly (12) to receive surgical instruments distally therethrough to perform a laparoscopic surgical procedure. As mentioned above, the tissue engaging ribs (26) provided on the cannula tube (22) grip the layers of tissue (3, 4, 5) of the abdominal wall (2), thus providing at least a minimal degree of stability to the cannula assembly (12) relative to the abdominal wall (2). Upon completion of the laparoscopic surgical procedure, the clinician grasps the seal housing (30) and withdraws the cannula assembly (12) proximally from the abdominal wall (2), as shown in FIG. 3D.

[0021] C. An exemplary reusable trocar having a disposable seal assembly In some cases, it may be desirable to configure a trocar so that one or more components of the trocar can be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures, while one or more other components can be easily and economically disposed of and replaced after each procedure. Figures 4-5 show another exemplary trocar (110) configured in such a manner, which is similar in structure and function to the trocar (10) described above, except as otherwise described below.

[0022] Similar to trocar (10), trocar (110) includes a cannula assembly (112) having a working channel (114) and an obturator (116) configured to be inserted into the cannula assembly (112) coaxially along the working channel (114). Cannula assembly (112) includes a cannula (120) having a bell-shaped hub (122) at a proximal end of the cannula (120) and an elongated cylindrical tube (124) extending distally from the hub (122) and terminating in an angled cannula tip (126). The exterior surface of cannula tube (124) includes a plurality of tissue-grasping features in the form of annular ribs (128) disposed axially along an inner portion of cannula tube (124) that are similar to ribs (26) described above.

[0023] The cannula assembly (112) further includes a seal assembly (130). Unlike the seal assembly defined by the seal housing (30) of the trocar (10), the seal assembly (130) is constructed as a modular, replaceable unit configured to releasably mate with the proximal hub (122) of the cannula (120). As best shown in FIG. 5, the seal assembly (130) of this embodiment generally includes an upper frame member (132), an intermediate frame member (134), and a lower frame member (136) secured to one another in a coaxial arrangement. Although not shown, a proximal (or "outer") seal structure is supported within the upper frame member (132) and a distal (or "internal") seal structure is supported within the lower frame member (136). Such seal structures may be similar in structure and function to the proximal and distal seal structures of the trocar (10) described above. The seal assembly (130) further includes an insufflation port (140) having an adjustable valve in the form of a stopcock (142).

[0024] A lower portion of seal assembly (130) distal to insufflation port (140) is configured to seat within proximal hub (122) of cannula (120) such that an annular seal member (144) disposed circumferentially about the lower portion is in sealing engagement with an inner surface of cannula hub (122). In this manner, the interior of seal assembly (130) is in fluid communication with the opening of cannula (120) to define a working channel (114) of cannula assembly (112) through which insufflation fluid, surgical instruments, and tissue fragments may be directed in the manner generally described above in connection with trocar (10). The seal assembly (130) may be further configured according to one or more of the teachings of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0090905, entitled "Trocar Seal Assemblies," published on March 28, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, and / or U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0380742, entitled "Asymmetric Shaft Seal," published on December 19, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0025] As best shown in FIGURE 5, the obturator (116) of the trocar (110) includes a proximal head (150), an elongated cylindrical shaft (152) extending distally from the head (150), and a tapered tip (154) at the distal end of the shaft (152). The obturator head (150) includes a dome-shaped upper body (156), a base plate (158), and an actuatable latch member (160) including a pair of downwardly extending latch arms (162) and a corresponding pair of latch buttons (164). The latch arms (162) are configured to be captured within respective slots (138) formed in an upper surface of the upper frame member (132) of the seal assembly (130) for coupling the obturator (116) with the cannula assembly (112). The latch button (164) is operable to release the latch arm (162) from the slot (138), thereby permitting separation of the obturator (116) from the cannula assembly (112).

[0026] The cannula (120) and obturator (116) of this embodiment are suitably constructed of robust materials, such as surgical steel, so that they may be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures. In contrast, as discussed above, the seal assembly (130) is constructed as a disposable unit that is intended to be separated from the cannula (120) and replaced after each procedure. For example, the seal assembly (130) may be constructed of a variety of polymeric materials, including plastic and rubber, such that the seal assembly (130) may be easily manufactured and sold at a price that makes the seal assembly (130) suitable for disposal, similar to the trocar (10) discussed above.

[0027] II. Exemplary Depth Limiters In some cases, a clinician may wish to limit the depth to which a single-use or reusable trocar (10, 110) may travel into the abdominal wall (2) (e.g., after inserting the trocar (10, 110) into a desired location). Limiting the depth to which the trocar (10, 110) may travel into the abdominal wall (2) may help prevent the obturator (16, 116) of the cannula assembly (12, 112) and / or the distal tip (64, 154) of the cannula tip (24, 126) from inadvertently advancing deeper into the abdominal cavity (1) than desired. Preventing insertion of the trocar (10, 110) may reduce undesired contact of the distal tip (64, 154) and / or the cannula tip (24, 126) with anatomical structures contained within the abdominal cavity (1).

[0028] Alternatively, or in addition to limiting the depth to which a single-use or reusable trocar (10, 110) may travel into the abdominal wall (2), a clinician may wish to stabilize the trocar (10, 110) relative to the abdominal wall (2) (e.g., after inserting the trocar (10, 110) into a desired location in the abdominal cavity (1). The clinician may stabilize the trocar (10, 110) relative to the abdominal wall (2) by ducking under insertion of the trocar (10, 110). Stabilizing the trocar (10, 110) relative to the abdominal wall (2) after insertion into the abdominal wall (2) may help prevent the trocar (10, 110) from inadvertently pivoting about its insertion point in the abdominal wall (2) after the clinician releases the trocar (10, 110). The stabilizing trocar (10, 110) maintains the cannula tip (24, 126) and thus the entry point of the surgical instrument into the abdominal cavity (1) at a desired position and / or orientation relative to the abdominal cavity (1).

[0029] As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1-5, the obturator (16, 116) is configured to be removably coupled to the cannula (20, 120) along a central axis (shown as trocar central axis (A) in FIGS. 1-2) to facilitate insertion of a surgical access device through a patient's body cavity wall (shown as abdominal wall (2)). The cannula (20, 120) includes a working channel (14, 114) and tissue gripping features (shown as ribs 26, 128). The working channel (14, 114) is configured to guide a surgical instrument (not shown) along the central axis of the cannula (20, 120). The tissue gripping features are intended to include non-helical features (e.g., ridges and annular scallops, etc.) and helical threads (e.g., overlapping or non-overlapping threads). The tissue gripping features may extend along only a portion of the length of the cannula tube (124). As previously mentioned, the ribs (26, 128) are formed as annular scallops. The ribs (26, 128) may be disposed along an outer surface of the cannula (20, 120). As shown in Figures 3A-3D, the ribs (26, 128) may be configured to stabilize the cannula (20, 120) against the patient's abdominal wall (2) as the cannula (20, 120) is inserted distally through the abdominal wall (2).

[0030] To reduce over-insertion and / or under-insertion of the trocar (10, 110), the exemplary depth limiters (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410) may be selectively coupled to the cannula tubes (22, 124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of the cannulas (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314). The depth limiters (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410) are described in detail below with reference to Figures 6-20 and may be used alone or in combination with another depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410) as desired. For example, the depth limiters (210, 310, 410) may be fixedly held cannulas including, but not limited to, cannulas having a diameter of 5 mm, a diameter of 8 mm, a diameter of 10 mm, and a diameter of 12 mm. The depth limiters (1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410) may be scaled to fit a variety of different sized cannula tubes including, but not limited to, cannulas having a diameter of 5 mm, a diameter of 8 mm, a diameter of 10 mm, and a diameter of 12 mm.

[0031] Depth limiter 210 is shown with respect to cannula tubes 124, 216, 218 of trocar 110 and cannulae 120, 212, 214 of Figures 4-5. Depth limiter 310 is shown with respect to cannula tubes 124, 216, 218 of cannulae 120, 212, 214 of Figures 4-5. Additionally, depth limiters 1010, 1110, 1210 are shown with respect to trocar 10, cannula 20, and cannula tube 22 of Figures 1-3. Depth limiters 1310, 1410 are shown with respect to trocar 110 of Figures 4-5. However, it is envisioned that the depth limiters (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410) may be used with a variety of other trocars, cannula assemblies, and obturators, including the trocars (10, 110) and cannula tubes (22, 124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of the cannulas (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314).

[0032] A. First Exemplary Depth Limiter 6-9E illustrate a first exemplary depth limiter (210) for a surgical access device (designated as trocar (110)) including a cannula assembly (112) and an obturator (116), as described above. The depth limiter (210) is movable between an open configuration (see FIG. 9A) and a closed configuration (see FIGS. 9B-9E). In particular, FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the trocar (110) of FIG. 4 with the depth limiter (210) in a closed configuration that limits axial movement of the depth limiter (210) along a longitudinal axis (A1) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112).

[0033] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the depth limiter (210) of FIG. 6. As shown, the depth limiter (210) includes a housing (220). The housing (220) may be longer and / or wider to provide additional stability to the depth limiter (210). The housing (220) may include a body portion (shown as arms (222, 224)) and a flexible hinge (shown as living hinge (226)). As shown, the living hinge (226) is disposed between the arms (222, 224). The arms (222, 224) may be pivotally coupled together between an open configuration and a closed configuration using the living hinge (226) at a pivot point (P). The living hinge (226) may provide a desired clamping force on the outer diameter of the cannula tube (124, 216, 218). The depth limiter (210) may mate with an engagement feature, such as rib (128), on the cannula tube (124, 216, 218). The depth limiter (210) may be used repeatedly during surgery.

[0034] Arm (222) may include a user-contacting portion (shown as outer surface (228)) and gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234). Gripping surface (230) of arm (222) may be spaced from gripping surface (232) of arm (222) by connecting portion (236), and gripping surface (232) of arm (222) may be spaced from gripping surface (234) of arm (222) by connecting portion (238). Similarly, arm (224) may include a user-contacting portion (shown as outer surface (240)) and gripping surfaces (242, 244, 246). Gripping surface (242) of arm (224) may be spaced from gripping surface (244) of arm (224) by connecting portion (248), and gripping surface (244) of arm (224) may be spaced from gripping surface (246) of arm (224) by connecting portion (250). Similarly, connecting portion (258) may be disposed between gripping surface (234) and outer surface (228) of arm (222), and connecting portion (260) may be disposed between gripping surface (246) and outer surface (240) of arm (224). Although not shown, at least one of outer surfaces (228, 240) may include a textured surface for enhanced grip by a user.

[0035] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (210) and cannula (124) of Figure 6 taken along line 8-8 of Figure 6. The gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246) can be smooth, non-smooth, or a combination of smooth and non-smooth. As shown, the gripping surfaces of the arms (222, 224) can both be smooth and configured to frictionally engage engagement features (e.g., ribs (128)) of the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120) in the closed configuration and not frictionally engage the ribs (128) of the cannula (120) in the open configuration.

[0036] The non-smooth surface of one or more of the gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246) may include one or more features for lockingly engaging the cannula tube (124). Although not shown, at least one gripping surface (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246) of the arms (222, 224) may include an engagement feature (e.g., a ridge) for lockingly engaging with a tissue gripping feature (e.g., rib (128)) disposed along the outer surface of the cannula tube (124, 216, 218) in the closed configuration and not lockingly engaging with a rib (128) of the cannula (120) in the open configuration. Depth limiter (210) may use engagement features on cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) to counter normal forces applied when depth limiter (210) contacts a body wall (e.g., abdominal wall (2)). The engagement features (e.g., ridges) may closely mate with ribs (128) on cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) to facilitate force transfer. Gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246) are shown to be arcuate and continuous. However, gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246) may vary in shape.

[0037] Figures 9A-9E show the depth limiter (210) receiving and coupled with separate cannula tubes having various diameters. For example, the arms (222, 224) may be pivotally coupled together using a living hinge (226) between an open configuration configured to receive the cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) of the cannulas (120, 212, 214) and a closed configuration configured to couple with the cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) of the cannulas (120, 212, 214). Figure 9A shows the depth limiter (210) in an open configuration, and Figures 9B-9E show the depth limiter (210) in a closed configuration.

[0038] 9A shows a top view of the depth limiter (210) of FIG. 7 with the cannula tube (216) of the cannula (212) shown in cross section. In the open configuration, the depth limiter (210) may allow axial movement of the depth limiter (210) relative to the cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) of the cannulas (120, 212, 214). For example, a user may pinch two points to increase the effective diameter between opposing gripping surfaces (230, 242), between opposing gripping surfaces (232, 244), and between opposing gripping surfaces (234, 246). As shown, the outer surfaces (228, 240) are configured to be actuated by a user using a thumb and index finger. However, a user may depress exterior surfaces (228, 240) in other ways (e.g., using one or more fingers and the palm of the hand). In Figure 9A, cannula tube (216) of cannula (212) is shown passing through connecting portion (236) of arm (222) and connecting portion (248) of arm (224). As shown, cannula tube (216) of cannula (212) has already passed through connecting portions (238, 258) of arm (222) and connecting portions (250, 260) of arm (224).

[0039] Figure 9B is a top view of the depth limiter (210) and cannula tube (216) of cannula (212) of Figure 9A, but with the depth limiter (210) in a closed configuration. Once the desired cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) of cannulas (120, 212, 214) are aligned, the user may release the outer surfaces (228, 240) to reduce the effective diameter between the opposing gripping surfaces (230, 242), between the opposing gripping surfaces (232, 244), and between the opposing gripping surfaces (234, 246). This transitions the depth limiter (210) to a closed configuration in which the depth limiter (210) is secured (e.g., clamped) to the cannula tube (216). Gripping surfaces (230) of arms (222) together with gripping surfaces (242) of arms (224) collectively form an opening (252) having a first effective diameter (ED1) configured to selectively mate with a cannula tube (216) of cannula (212). In the closed configuration, gripping surfaces (230) of arms (222) are spaced apart by a gap from gripping surfaces (242) of arms (224). Arms (222, 224) may be biased inwardly to capture the cannula tube (216), as compared to FIG. 9E.

[0040] FIG 9C shows a top view of the depth limiter (210) and cannula tube (218) of FIG 9A with the depth limiter (210) in a closed configuration. The gripping surfaces (244) of the arms (224) together with the gripping surfaces (232) of the arms (222) collectively form an opening (254) having a second effective diameter (ED2) configured to selectively couple with the cannula tube (218) of the cannula (214). The second effective diameter (ED2) is greater than the first effective diameter (ED1). The arms (222, 224) can be biased inwardly to capture the cannula tube (218) as compared to FIG 9E.

[0041] FIG. 9D shows a top view of the depth limiter (210) of FIG. 9A and the cannula tube (124) of FIG. 5, with the depth limiter (210) in a closed configuration. The gripping surfaces (246) of the arms (224) together with the gripping surfaces (234) of the arms (222) collectively form an opening (256) having a third effective diameter (ED3) configured to selectively couple with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The third effective diameter (ED3) is greater than either the first effective diameter (ED1) or the second effective diameter (ED2). As shown, the openings (252, 254, 256) are separate and distinct from one another. The arms (222, 224) are biased inwardly compared to the rest configuration of FIG. 9E. 9B-9D, in the fixed configuration, the depth limiter (210) is configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter (210) relative to the cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) of the cannulas (120, 212, 214). For example, the first effective diameter (ED1) may be approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter (ED2) may be approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter (ED3) may be approximately 12 millimeters.

[0042] The depth limiter (210) may be reusable or disposable. In some variations, the arms (222, 224) and the living hinge are integrally formed together. The depth limiter may be formed entirely of a polymeric material. The depth limiter (210) may be injection molded for disposable models. Alternatively, the depth limiter (210) may be stamped, machined, and / or metal injection molded for reusable models. In some variations, the depth limiter (210) is formed entirely of metal. The depth limiter (210) may include an easy to operate pinch-to-release control.

[0043] B. Second Exemplary Depth Limiter 10-11D show a second exemplary depth limiter (310) associated with a surgical access device (e.g., trocar 10, 110). In particular, FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a depth limiter (310) that is movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. As shown, the depth limiter (310) includes a housing (320). The housing (320) may be longer and / or wider to provide additional stability to the surgical access device. The housing (320) may include a body portion (shown as arms (322, 324)) and a biasing feature (shown as a torsion spring (326)). Other suitable springs are also envisioned, including, but not limited to, a leaf spring. As shown, the torsion spring (326) is disposed between the arms (322, 324). The torsion spring (326) may be fixably attached to the arms (322, 324) using a friction fit and / or adhesive. The arms (322, 324) may be pivotally coupled together between the open and closed configurations at a pivot point (P) using the torsion spring (326). As shown, the arms (322, 324) are separate and distinct. However, the arms (322, 324) may be connected. The torsion spring (326) may provide a desired clamping force to the outer diameter of the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318). Although not shown, the depth limiter (310) may include a living hinge similar to the living hinge (226). The depth limiter (310) may be coupled to cannula tubes having different diameters (e.g., the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318)). Depth limiter (310) may be repeatedly transitioned between closed and open configurations during surgery. Cannula tube (316) may be sized similarly to cannula tube (216), and cannula tube (318) may be sized similarly to cannula tube (218).

[0044] Arm 322 may include a user-contacting portion (shown as outer surface 328) and gripping surfaces 330, 332, 334. Gripping surface 330 of arm 322 may be spaced from gripping surface 332 of arm 322 by connecting portion 336, and gripping surface 332 of arm 322 may be spaced from gripping surface 334 of arm 322 by connecting portion 338. Similarly, arm 324 may include a user-contacting portion (shown as outer surface 340) and gripping surfaces 342, 344, 346. Gripping surface (342) of arm (324) may be spaced from gripping surface (344) of arm (324) by connecting portion (348), and gripping surface (344) of arm (324) may be spaced from gripping surface (346) of arm (324) by connecting portion (350). Similarly, connecting portion (358) may be disposed between gripping surface (330) and outer surface (328) of arm (322), and connecting portion (360) may be disposed between gripping surface (342) and outer surface (340) of arm (324). Although not shown, at least one of outer surfaces (328, 340) may include a textured surface for enhanced grip by a user.

[0045] The gripping surfaces (330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346) may be smooth, textured, or a combination of smooth and textured. The textured surfaces may include one or more features for lockingly engaging the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318). For example, at least one of the gripping surfaces of the arms (322, 324) may include an engagement feature (shown as a ridge (359)) for lockingly engaging with tissue gripping features (e.g., ribs (128)) disposed along the outer surface of the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) in the closed configuration and not lockingly engaging with ribs (128) of the cannula (120) in the open configuration. Depth limiter (310) may use engagement features on cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) to counter normal forces applied when depth limiter (310) contacts a body wall (e.g., abdominal wall (2)). Engagement features (shown as ridges (359)) may closely mate with ribs (128) on cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) to facilitate force transfer. Gripping surfaces (330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346) are shown to be arcuate and continuous. However, gripping surfaces (330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346) may vary. Although not shown, the gripping surfaces of arms (322, 324) may be smooth and configured to frictionally engage with engagement features (e.g., ribs (128)) of cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) of cannulas (120, 312, 314) in the closed configuration and not frictionally engage with ribs (128) of cannula (120) in the open configuration.

[0046] 11A-11D show how the depth limiter (310) can receive and couple with cannula tubes having different diameters. The arms (322, 324) can be pivotally coupled together using a torsion spring (326) between an open configuration configured to receive the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) of the cannulas (120, 312, 314) and a closed configuration configured to couple with the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) of the cannulas (120, 312, 314). FIG. 11A shows a top view of the depth limiter (310) of FIG. 10 with the cannula tube (316) of the cannula (312) shown in cross section. In the open configuration, the depth limiter (310) may allow axial movement of the depth limiter (310) relative to the cannula tube (124, 316, 318) of the cannula (120, 312, 314). For example, a user may pinch two points to increase the effective diameter between the opposing gripping surfaces (330, 342), between the opposing gripping surfaces (332, 344), and between the opposing gripping surfaces (334, 346). As shown, the outer surfaces (328, 340) are configured to be actuated by a user using a thumb and index finger. However, a user may depress the outer surfaces (328, 340) in other ways (e.g., using one or more fingers and the palm of the hand).

[0047] Figure 11B is a top view of the depth limiter (310) and cannula tube (316) of cannula (312) of Figure 11A, but with the depth limiter (310) in a closed configuration. Once the desired cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) of cannulas (120, 312, 314) are aligned, the user may release the outer surfaces (328, 340) to reduce the effective diameter between the opposing gripping surfaces (330, 342), between the opposing gripping surfaces (332, 344), and between the opposing gripping surfaces (334, 346). This transitions the depth limiter (310) to a closed configuration in which the depth limiter (310) is secured (e.g., clamped) to the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318). As shown in FIG. 11B, gripping surfaces (330) of arms (322) together with gripping surfaces (342) of arms (324) collectively form an opening (352) having a first effective diameter (ED1) configured to selectively mate with a cannula tube (316) of cannula (312). In the closed configuration, gripping surfaces (330) of arms (322) may be spaced apart by a gap from gripping surfaces (342) of arms (324). Arms (322, 324) may be biased inwardly to capture and retain cannula tube (316) as compared to the rest configuration of FIG.

[0048] FIG 11C illustrates a top view of the depth limiter (310) of FIG 11A and the cannula tube (318) of the cannula (314) with the depth limiter (310) in a closed configuration. As shown, the gripping surfaces (344) of the arms (324) together with the gripping surfaces (332) of the arms (322) collectively form an opening (354) having a second effective diameter (ED2) configured to selectively couple with the cannula tube (318) of the cannula (314). The second effective diameter (ED2) is greater than the first effective diameter (ED1). The arms (322, 324) can be biased inwardly to capture the cannula tube (318) as compared to the rest configuration of FIG 9E. Additionally, FIG. 11C shows an open configuration in phantom lines that allows for insertion of cannula tube (318) of cannula (314) into opening (356).

[0049] FIG. 11D shows a top view of the depth limiter (310) of FIG. 11A and the cannula tube (124) of FIG. 5, with the depth limiter (310) in a closed configuration. The gripping surfaces (346) of the arms (324) together with the gripping surfaces (334) of the arms (322) collectively form an opening (356) having a third effective diameter (ED3) configured to selectively couple with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The third effective diameter (ED3) may be greater than either the first effective diameter (ED1) or the second effective diameter (ED2). The openings (352, 354, 356) are separate and distinct from one another. The arms (322, 324) may be biased inwardly compared to the rest configuration of FIG. 10. Additionally, FIG. 11D shows an open configuration in phantom lines that allows for insertion of cannula tube (318) of cannula (314) into opening (356).

[0050] 11B-11D, in the fixed configuration, the depth limiter (310) is configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter (310) relative to the cannula tubes (124, 316, 318) of the cannulas (120, 312, 314). For example, the first effective diameter (ED1) may be approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter (ED2) may be approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter (ED3) may be approximately 12 millimeters.

[0051] The depth limiter (310) may be reusable or disposable. The depth limiter (310) may be formed entirely of a polymeric material. The depth limiter (310) may be injection molded for disposable models. Alternatively, the depth limiter (310) may be stamped, machined, and / or metal injection molded for reusable models. In some variations, the depth limiter (310) is formed entirely of metal. The depth limiter (310) may include an easy to operate pinch-and-release control.

[0052] C. Third Exemplary Depth Limiter FIG. 12 illustrates a third exemplary depth limiter (410) for a surgical access device. Similar to the depth limiters (210, 310), the depth limiter (410) is movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. As shown, the depth limiter (410) includes a housing (420). The housing (420) may be integrally formed together as a single piece. In some variations, the housing (420) may be a thin metal ribbon formed into a desired shape. The thickness (T) of the housing (420) affects the force required to transition the depth limiter (410) between the open and closed configurations. The housing (420) may be longer and / or wider to provide additional stability. The thin metal ribbon allows the housing (420) to be efficiently and effectively sterilized. The housing (420) may include body portions (shown as arms (422, 424)) and a living hinge (426). The living hinge (426) may provide a desired clamping force on the outer diameter of the cannula tube (124, 216, 218, 316, 318). The living hinge (426) may also have a thickness (T). The depth limiter (210) may accommodate multiple cannula tubes (124, 216, 218) and may be used repeatedly during surgery.

[0053] Similar to arms (222, 322), arm (422) may include a user-contacting portion (shown as outer surface (428)) and gripping surfaces (430, 432, 434). Gripping surface (430) of arm (422) may be spaced from gripping surface (432) of arm (422) by connecting portion (436), and gripping surface (432) of arm (422) may be spaced from gripping surface (434) of arm (422) by connecting portion (438). Similar to arms (224, 324), arm (424) may include a user-contacting portion (shown as outer surface (440)) and gripping surfaces (442, 444, 446). Gripping surface (442) of arm (424) may be spaced from gripping surface (444) of arm (424) by connecting portion (448), and gripping surface (444) of arm (424) may be spaced from gripping surface (446) of arm (424) by connecting portion (450). Similarly, connecting portion (458) may be disposed between gripping surface (430) and outer surface (428) of arm (422), and connecting portion (460) may be disposed between gripping surface (442) and outer surface (440) of arm (424).

[0054] Gripping surfaces (430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446) may be smooth, textured, or a combination of smooth and textured. As shown, the gripping surfaces of arms (422, 424) may be smooth and configured to frictionally engage with engagement features (e.g., ribs (128)) of cannula tubes (124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of cannulas (120, 412, 414) in the closed configuration and not frictionally engage with ribs (128) of cannula (120) in the open configuration. The textured surfaces may include one or more features for lockingly engaging the cannula tube (124). Although not shown, at least one of the gripping surfaces of arms (422, 424) may include an engagement feature (e.g., a ridge similar to ridge (359)) for lockingly engaging tissue gripping features (e.g., ribs (128)) disposed along the exterior surface of cannula tube (124, 216, 218, 316, 318) in the closed configuration and not lockingly engaging ribs (128) of cannula (120) in the open configuration. Grip surfaces (430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446) are shown as arcuate and continuous. However, gripping surfaces (430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446) may vary.

[0055] Similar to depth limiter (210) with reference to Figures 9A-9E and depth limiter (310) with reference to Figures 11A-11D, a user may pinch two points to increase the effective diameter between opposing gripping surfaces (430, 442), between opposing gripping surfaces (432, 444), and between opposing gripping surfaces (434, 446). As shown, outer surfaces (428, 440) are configured to be actuated by a user using a thumb and index finger. However, a user may depress outer surfaces (428, 440) in other ways (e.g., using one or more fingers and the palm of the hand). Once the desired cannula tubes (124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of cannulas (120, 412, 414) are aligned, the user may release outer surfaces (428, 440) to reduce the effective diameter between opposing gripping surfaces (430, 442), between opposing gripping surfaces (432, 444), and between opposing gripping surfaces (434, 446). This transitions depth limiter (410) to a closed configuration in which depth limiter (410) is secured (e.g., clamped) to cannula tubes (124, 216, 218, 316, 318).

[0056] Gripping surfaces (430) of arms (422) together with gripping surfaces (442) of arms (424) collectively form an opening (452) having a first effective diameter (ED1) configured to selectively mate with cannula tube (416) of cannula (412). Similarly, gripping surfaces (432) of arms (422) together with gripping surfaces (444) of arms (424) collectively form an opening (454) having a second effective diameter (ED2) configured to selectively mate with cannula tube (418) of cannula (414). The second effective diameter (ED2) is greater than the first effective diameter (ED1). The gripping surfaces (446) of the arms (424) together with the gripping surfaces (434) of the arms (422) collectively form an opening (456) having a third effective diameter (ED3) configured to selectively couple with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The third effective diameter (ED3) may be greater than either the first effective diameter (ED1) or the second effective diameter (ED2). The openings (452, 452, 456) are separate and distinct from one another. In the fixed configuration, the depth limiter (410) is configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter (410) relative to the cannula tube (124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of the cannula (120, 412, 414). For example, the first effective diameter (ED1) may be approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter (ED2) may be approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter (ED3) may be approximately 12 millimeters.

[0057] The depth limiter (410) may be reusable or disposable. The depth limiter (410) may be formed entirely of a polymeric material. The depth limiter (410) may be injection molded for disposable models. Alternatively, the depth limiter (410) may be stamped, machined, and / or metal injection molded for reusable models. In some variations, the depth limiter (410) is formed entirely of metal. The depth limiter (410) may be made in a single piece where the spring-like properties of metal allow the depth limiter (410) to move between a fixed configuration and an open configuration without including a separate biasing feature (e.g., a leaf spring or torsion spring). The depth limiter (410) may include a pinch-to-release control that is easy to operate.

[0058] D. Fourth Exemplary Depth Limiter 13 illustrates a perspective view of a fourth exemplary depth limiter (1010). The depth limiter (1010) includes a hub (1012) and a plurality of legs (1014). The depth limiter (1010) may be used in combination with the depth limiters (210, 310, 410) described above. Although the hub (1012) is shown to be generally square in shape, other shapes for the hub (1012) are envisioned. As shown, the hub (1012) includes an aperture (1016) extending completely therethrough. The aperture (1016) may include a gripping surface (1018). The gripping surface (1018) may extend parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by the cannula tube (22) of the cannula (20). Although FIGS. 13-14B illustrate the depth limiter 1010 with reference to the cannula tube 22 of the trocar 10 of FIG. 1, other cannula tubes (e.g., cannula tube 124) may also be used. The gripping surface 1018 may be smooth or non-smooth. As shown in FIG. 13, the gripping surface 1018 includes a smooth surface that may frictionally engage a portion of the cannula 20, such as the rib 26. Alternatively, the gripping surface 1018 may include a non-smooth surface that may include one or more features for lockingly engaging the cannula tube 22. In other words, the depth limiter 1010 may be secured to the cannula 20 with a mating thread (such as a nut) or secured to a scalloped cannula with an appropriate amount of interference fit. Such threads of depth limiter (1010) may be helical or non-helical (e.g., scalloped). For example, gripping surface (1018) may include at least one tooth configured for locking engagement with at least one of ribs (26) of cannula (20).

[0059] The legs (1014) may have a constant cross-sectional area moving radially away from the hub (1012). However, the legs (1014) may have a non-uniform cross-section. For example, one or more ends of the legs (1014) may include a cup-shaped portion (1020) to distribute the downward force. As shown, the legs (1014) are separated by approximately 90 degrees. More or fewer legs (1014) are also envisioned.

[0060] The depth limiter (1010) may provide additional stability to the trocar (10) to resist tip drag. The depth limiter (1010) may be configured to limit sudden tilt using the legs (1014), thereby stabilizing the cannula (20). The depth limiter (1010) is configured to prevent accidental over-insertion into the body, but also limits the displacement and / or rate of off-axis tilt of the trocar (10) to stabilize the trocar (10). This stabilization may be achieved using the mechanical spring effect of each leg (1014). The legs (1014) may have a reduced mass that allows the legs (1014) to flex outward, allowing a variable amount of spring resistance in each direction of the trocar (10). For example, legs 1014 may have reduced mass (e.g., living hinge portions) and / or may rely on an inherent spring force in legs 1014. Legs 1014 may contact the patient's body wall to prevent or at least slow the upward tip of cannula 20.

[0061] 14A-14B show a depth limiter (1010). However, the teachings of FIG. 14A-14B may also be applied to the depth limiters (1110, 1210) described in detail below. FIG. 14A shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1010) of FIG. 13 coupled with the cannula tube (22) of the cannula assembly (12) of the trocar (10) of FIG. 1, with the legs (1014) of the depth limiter (1010) in an undeployed configuration when the distal end of the trocar (10) is received within the abdominal cavity (1). In the undeployed configuration (e.g., rest configuration) of FIG. 14A, the legs (1014) may be curved downward. As the depth limiter (1010) presses against the abdominal wall (2), the legs (1014) bend flatter, providing a reactive spring force against the abdominal wall (2) and the cannula (20). The degree to which the legs (1014) bend flatter can be controlled by the user. For example, additional force (e.g., downward hand pressure by the user) can cause the legs (1014) to bend flatter until the depth limiter (1010) is disposed adjacent the abdominal wall (2). As the flatness of the legs (1014) increases, the amount of reactive force against the cannula (20) can also increase, thereby increasing the locking force. For example, when the user presses the depth limiter (1010) partially (but not completely) down into a deployed configuration, the legs (1014) can have some degree of deployment. Furthermore, if the user then applies an off-axis load, one or more of the legs (1014) may be pushed down further than the other legs (1014), but upon removal of the off-axis load, the legs (1014) can even out and return to the center home position in a controlled manner.

[0062] Figure 14B shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1010) of Figure 13 coupled with the cannula tube (22) of the cannula assembly (12) of Figure 1 after disengagement and removal of the obturator (16), with the legs (1014) of the depth limiter (1010) in a deployed configuration with the distal end of the cannula tube (22) received within the abdominal cavity (1). In the deployed configuration, the legs (1014) can reduce the amount of rotational displacement / tilt that the trocar (10) can achieve, and can also reduce the speed at which the trocar (10) can achieve its tilt (i.e., preventing sudden, inadvertent movement within the body). To fully deploy the depth limiter 1010 from the cannula tube 22, the user can retract the cannula 20 from the abdominal wall 2 sufficiently to reduce the compression / clamping force of the depth limiter 1010 on the abdominal wall 2 so that the user can manually pull back the depth limiter 1010. The depth limiter 1010 can be disposable or reusable.

[0063] E. Fifth Exemplary Depth Limiter 15 illustrates a fifth exemplary depth limiter (1110) that is similar to depth limiter (1010). Depth limiter (1110) includes a hub (1112) similar to hub (1012), legs (1114) similar to legs (1014), an aperture (1116) similar to aperture (1016), and a gripping surface (1118) of aperture (1116) similar to gripping surface (1018). Legs (1114) may include a cup-shaped portion (1120) similar to cup-shaped portion (1020). Unlike depth limiter (1010) shown to include four legs (1014), depth limiter (1110) includes two legs (1114). For example, legs (1114) may be separated by approximately 180 degrees. Legs (1114) flex in a similar manner to legs (1014) shown above with reference to Figures 14A-14B.

[0064] F. Sixth Exemplary Depth Limiter 16 illustrates a sixth exemplary depth limiter (1210) similar to depth limiters (1010, 1110). Depth limiter (1210) includes a hub (1212) similar to hub (1012), legs (1214) similar to legs (1014), an aperture (1216) similar to aperture (1016), and a gripping surface (1218) of aperture (1216) similar to gripping surface (1018). Legs (1114) may include a cup-shaped portion (1220) similar to cup-shaped portion (1020). Unlike depth limiter (1010) shown as including four legs (1014), depth limiter (1210) includes three legs (1214). For example, legs (1214) may be uniformly spaced circumferentially by approximately 120 degrees around hub (1212). However, legs (1214) may be non-uniformly spaced. In some cases, the use of three or four legs (1014, 1214, 1314, 1414) may allow for additional stability and ergonomics to allow for a finger grip by the user (U). Legs (1214) may flex in a manner similar to legs (1014) shown above with reference to Figures 14A-14B.

[0065] G. Seventh Exemplary Depth Limiter 17-19B show a seventh exemplary depth limiter (1310). In particular, FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of the depth limiter (1310). As shown, the depth limiter (1310) includes a hub (1312) and a number of legs (1314) extending from the hub (1312). The depth limiter (1310) may be used in combination with any one or more of the depth limiters (210, 310, 410) described above. Although the hub (1312) is shown to be generally cylindrical, other shapes of the hub (1312) are envisioned. As shown, the hub (1312) includes an aperture (1316) and a number of notches (1318). The notches (1318) may transform the depth limiter (1310) from a movable configuration to a fixed configuration.

[0066] The aperture (1316) includes a gripping surface (1320) configured to mate with an outer surface of the cannula tube (124) in a fixed configuration. The gripping surface (1320) may extend parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The gripping surface (1320) may be smooth or non-smooth. As shown in FIG. 17, the gripping surface (1320) may include a smooth surface that frictionally engages with the ribs (128) of the cannula (120) in the fixed configuration. Alternatively, the gripping surface (1320) may include a non-smooth surface that may include one or more features for lockingly engaging the cannula tube (124). The hub (1312) of the depth limiter (1310) may be secured to the cannula (120) with mating threads (such as a nut) or may be secured to the scalloped cannula using an interference fit. The threads may be helical or non-helical (e.g., scalloped). For example, the gripping surface (1320) may include at least one tooth configured for locking engagement with at least one of the ribs (128) of the cannula (120). For example, a notch (1318) may be formed in the hub (1312) of the depth limiter (1310) such that each leg (1314) may selectively collapse when an appropriate force is applied to that leg (1314) to cause the gripping surface (1320) to clamp more tightly on the cannula (120). Thus, the depth limiter (1310) can limit the insertion depth of the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120) and provide stable control of the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120).

[0067] The legs (1314) may have a generally tapered cross-section moving radially away from the hub (1312). For example, one or more ends of the legs (1314) may include a distal pad (1322) for distributing downward force. As shown, the legs (1314) are separated by approximately 90 degrees. The legs (1314) may be separated unevenly. Additionally, more or fewer legs (1314) are envisioned (similar to those shown in FIGS. 34-35 associated with the depth limiters (1110, 1210). The depth limiter (1310) may provide additional stability to the trocar (110) for tip resistance. The depth limiter (1310) may be configured to use the legs (1314) to limit abrupt tilting, thereby stabilizing the cannula (120). The legs (1314) can contact the body wall to prevent or at least slow the upward tip of the cannula (120). Although Figures 18A-19B describe the depth limiter (1310) with reference to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110), the cannula tube (22, 416, 616) of the cannula (20, 412, 612) may also be used.

[0068] Figures 18A and 19A show the depth limiter (1310) in a movable configuration. In particular, Figure 18A shows a top view of the depth limiter (1310) of Figure 17 coupled with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of Figure 5, with the hub (1312) of the depth limiter (1310) in the movable configuration. Figure 19A shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1310) of Figure 17 coupled with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of Figure 5, with the legs (1314) of the depth limiter (1310) in the movable configuration. In the movable configuration of Figures 37A and 38A, the gripping surface (1320) defines a second effective diameter (ED2) that allows axial movement of the depth limiter (1310) relative to the outer diameter of the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). In the movable configuration, considered the rest configuration, the legs (1314) are curved downward. When pressed against the abdominal wall (2), the legs (1314) bend flatter and provide a reaction force against the abdominal wall (2) and the cannula (120).

[0069] Figures 18B and 19B show the depth limiter (1310) in a fixed configuration. In particular, Figure 18B shows a partial cross-sectional side view of the depth limiter (1310) of Figure 17 coupled with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of Figure 5 after disengagement and removal of the obturator (116) with the legs (1314) of the depth limiter (1310) in the fixed configuration. Figure 19B shows a partial cross-sectional side view of the depth limiter (1310) of Figure 17 coupled with the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of the trocar (112) of Figure 5 after disengagement and removal of the obturator (116) with the legs (1314) of the depth limiter (1310) in the fixed configuration. In the fixed configuration, the notch (1318) can be forced closed into the narrow aperture (1316). The legs (1314) can reduce the amount of rotational displacement / tilt that the trocar (110) can exhibit and can also reduce the speed at which the trocar (110) can assume that tilt (i.e., prevent sudden movement within the body). In the fixed configuration, the gripping surfaces (1320) collectively form a first effective diameter (ED1) that limits the axial movement of the depth limiter (1310) relative to the cannula (120) by directly contacting the cannula (120). The depth limiter (1310) can be disposable or reusable.

[0070] H. Eighth Exemplary Depth Limiter FIG. 20 illustrates a top cross-sectional view of an eighth exemplary depth limiter (1410). The depth limiter (1410) includes a hub (1412) and a number of legs (1414) extending from the hub (1412). The depth limiter (1410) may be used in combination with any one or more of the depth limiters (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310) described above. In some variations, the hub (1412) may be generally cylindrical in shape. As shown, the hub (1412) includes an aperture (1416) configured to receive the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). As shown, the legs (1414) may be separated by approximately 90 degrees. However, the legs (1414) may be non-uniformly separated. Additionally, more or fewer legs (1414) are envisioned, as are the depth limiters (1110, 1210) shown in Figures 15-16.

[0071] The depth limiter 1410 includes a fluid chamber 1418 that may be disposed within the hub 1412 and the legs 1414. For example, the fluid chamber 1418 may be completely enclosed by the hub 1412 and the legs 1414. The fluid chamber may include a plurality of fluid passages 1420 that include narrow portions 1422. The narrow portions 1422 may be disposed approximately between the hub 1412 and the legs 1414. The narrow portions 1422 regulate flow between the hub 1412 and the legs 1414. In other words, the fluid chamber 1418 may be incorporated into the legs 1414 with the narrow portions 1422 forming a restricted area of ​​flow at the base of each leg 1414. As shown, one or more ends of the legs (1414) may include an extension portion (1424) configured to extend from a compressed configuration (C) to an expanded configuration (E). The depth limiter (1410) may provide additional stability to the trocar (110) for tip resistance. As additional tilting forces act on each independent leg (1414), fluid may be redistributed to the other legs (1414), but the fluid may be restricted by these restricted regions (1422), thus providing a damping effect on the tilting of the trocar (110). This damping effect may regulate the rate at which the trocar (110) tilts. As a result, the depth limiter (1410) may limit the sudden tilting of the trocar (110) through the restricted fluid flow between the legs (1414), thereby stabilizing the cannula (120).

[0072] The aperture (1416) includes a gripping surface (1426) that may mate with an outer surface of the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The gripping surface (1426) may extend parallel to a longitudinal axis defined by the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The gripping surface (1426) may be smooth or non-smooth. As shown in FIG. 20, the gripping surface (1426) may include a smooth surface that frictionally engages the ribs (128) of the cannula (120). Alternatively, the gripping surface (1426) may include a non-smooth surface that may include one or more features for lockingly engaging the cannula tube (124). For example, the hub (1412) of the depth limiter (1410) may be secured to the cannula (120) using mating threads (such as a nut) or may be secured to a scalloped cannula. The threads may be helical or non-helical (e.g., scalloped). For example, the gripping surface (1426) may include at least one tooth configured for locking engagement with at least one of the ribs (128) of the cannula (120). The depth limiter (1410) may be disposable.

[0073] I. Exemplary Methods Also described is a method of inserting a surgical access device (e.g., trocar 10, 110) through a patient's body wall (e.g., abdominal wall (2)). The trocar (10, 110) may include one or more of a cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314), an obturator (16, 116), and a depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410).

[0074] The method includes coupling a cannula tube (22, 124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of a cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314) and a depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410) when in an open configuration. This coupling may be obtained by user actuation of the outer surface (228, 240, 328, 340, 428, 440) of the depth limiter (210, 310, 410) which moves the gripping surface (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246, 330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346, 430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446, 1320) from a fixed configuration to an open configuration. The openings (252, 254, 256, 352, 354, 356, 452, 454, 456) may be separate and distinct. For example, the openings (252, 352, 452) may receive a cannula tube (216, 316) having a first effective diameter (ED1), the openings (254, 354, 454) may receive a cannula tube (218, 318) having a second effective diameter (ED2), and / or the openings (256, 356, 456) may receive a cannula tube (22, 124) having a third effective diameter (ED3). For example, the first effective diameter (ED1) may be approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter (ED2) may be approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter (ED3) may be approximately 12 millimeters. However, other diameters of the cannula tube are also envisioned.

[0075] The method includes transitioning the depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1310) from an open configuration to a closed configuration to axially constrain the depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1310) relative to the cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314). In the fixed configuration, the gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246, 330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346, 430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446, 1320) may collectively form a first effective diameter (ED1) that limits axial movement of the depth limiter (210, 310, 4101310) relative to the cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314) by directly contacting the cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314). In the open configuration, the gripping surfaces (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246, 330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346, 430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446, 1320) collectively form a second effective diameter (ED2) that permits axial movement of the depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1310) relative to the cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314).

[0076] The method may include inserting at least a portion of a cannula tube (22, 124, 216, 218, 316, 318) of a cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314) into a patient. The depth limiter (210, 310, 410, 1310) may move along the cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314) when the cannula (20, 120, 212, 214, 312, 314) is within the body by the user again actuating the other outer surface (228, 240, 328, 340, 428, 440) which moves the gripping surface (230, 232, 234, 242, 244, 246, 330, 332, 334, 342, 344, 346, 430, 432, 434, 442, 444, 446) from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0077] III. Exemplary Combinations The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive methods in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of the claims that may be presented at any time in this application or any subsequent application of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be configured and applied in many other ways. It is also contemplated that certain features referred to in the following examples may be omitted in some variations. Thus, none of the aspects or features referred to below should be considered critical unless later expressly so indicated by the inventors or their successors. If the claims presented in this application or any subsequent application related to this application include additional features other than those referred to below, those additional features should not be considered added for any reason regarding patentability. EXAMPLES

[0078] A depth limiter configured to mate with a first trocar cannula and a second trocar cannula, the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula having different diameters, the depth limiter comprising: (a) a first body portion, the first body portion having (i) a first gripping surface and (ii) a second gripping surface; and (b) a second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion pivotally coupled together and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion configured to permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula. and wherein in a closed configuration, the first and second body portions are configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannulas, the second body portion comprising: (i) a first gripping surface configured, in conjunction with the first gripping surface of the first body portion, to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula in the closed configuration; and (ii) a second gripping surface configured, in conjunction with the second gripping surface of the first body portion, to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the second trocar cannula in the closed configuration. EXAMPLES

[0079] The depth limiter of Example 1, wherein the first gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion collectively form a first opening having a first effective diameter configured to selectively mate with a first trocar cannula in the closed configuration, and the second gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion collectively form a second opening having a second effective diameter configured to selectively mate with a second trocar cannula in the closed configuration, the second effective diameter being greater than the first effective diameter. EXAMPLES

[0080] 3. The depth limiter of example 2, wherein the first opening and the second opening are separate and distinct from one another. EXAMPLES

[0081] The depth limiter of any one or more of Examples 1-3, wherein the first body portion includes a third gripping surface that collectively forms, with the third gripping surface of the first body portion, a third opening having a third effective diameter configured to selectively couple with a third trocar cannula, and the third effective diameter is greater than either the first effective diameter or the second effective diameter. EXAMPLES

[0082] The depth limiter of Example 4, wherein in an open configuration, the depth limiter is configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula, the second trocar cannula, and the third trocar cannula, and wherein in a closed configuration, the depth limiter is configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula, the second trocar cannula, and the third trocar cannula. EXAMPLES

[0083] The depth limiter of any one or more of Examples 4-5, wherein the first effective diameter is approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter is approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter is approximately 12 millimeters. EXAMPLES

[0084] The depth limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising a living hinge disposed between the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the living hinge. EXAMPLES

[0085] The depth limiter of example embodiment 7, wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as a one-piece component. EXAMPLES

[0086] The depth limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 8, further comprising a spring coupled to the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the spring. EXAMPLES

[0087] A depth limiter as described in any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein a first gripping surface of the first body portion is spaced from a second gripping surface of the first body portion by a first connecting portion, and the first gripping surface of the second body portion is spaced from the second gripping surface of the second body portion by a second connecting portion. EXAMPLES

[0088] The depth limiter of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface of the first body portion is separated from the first gripping surface of the second body portion by a gap. EXAMPLES

[0089] A depth limiter as described in any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the first or second gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion includes an engagement feature for lockingly engaging with a tissue gripping feature disposed along an outer surface of the first or second trocar cannula. EXAMPLES

[0090] The depth limiter of Example 12, wherein the engagement feature of the first or second trocar cannula includes an annular rib and the tissue gripping feature includes parallel ridges configured to lockingly engage with the annular rib of the first or second trocar cannula. EXAMPLES

[0091] A depth limiter as described in any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein at least one of the first or second gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion includes a smooth surface configured to frictionally engage with the first or second trocar cannula. EXAMPLES

[0092] The depth limiter of any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the first body portion includes a first user contact portion, the second body portion includes a second user contact portion, and the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to be actuated by a user to move the depth limiter from a closed configuration to an open configuration. EXAMPLES

[0093] A depth limiter configured to couple with a first trocar cannula and a second trocar cannula, the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula having different diameters, the depth limiter comprising: (a) a first body portion; and (b) a second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion pivotally coupled together and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first or second trocar cannula, and wherein in the closed configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first or second trocar cannula. a second body portion, the body portion and the second body portion configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first or second trocar cannula; and (c) a plurality of openings defined in the first and second body portions, each opening of the plurality of openings having a different effective diameter in a closed configuration, the depth limiter configured to retain a cannula within a selected one of the plurality of openings such that the depth limiter limits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannula in the closed configuration. EXAMPLES

[0094] The depth limiter of Example 16, further comprising a living hinge disposed between the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the living hinge. EXAMPLES

[0095] 17. The depth limiter of example embodiment 16, wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as a one-piece component. EXAMPLES

[0096] The depth limiter of any one or more of Examples 16-18, further comprising a torsion spring coupled to the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the torsion spring. EXAMPLES

[0097] 1. A method of inserting a surgical access device through a body wall of a patient, the surgical access device including a cannula, the method including: (a) inserting the cannula into a first opening or a second opening of a depth limiter when the depth limiter is in an open configuration, the first opening and the second opening being separate and distinct from one another; (b) transitioning the depth limiter from the open configuration to a closed configuration to axially constrain the depth limiter relative to the cannula; and (c) inserting at least a portion of the surgical access device into the patient while using the depth limiter to prevent over-insertion of the surgical access device into the body wall of the patient.

[0098] IV.Other It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Thus, the above teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should not be considered in isolation with respect to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0099] Additionally, any one or more of the teachings herein may be incorporated by reference in U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP1] (entitled "Pinch-To-Release Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same date herewith, U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP3] (entitled "Pinch-To-Clamp Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same date herewith, U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP4] (entitled "Universal Size Multi-Walled Elastomer Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same date herewith, U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP5] (entitled "Threaded Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same date herewith, U.S. patent application Ser. No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP6] (entitled "Tilting Tang Cannula Depth Limiter"), No. [Attorney Docket No. REFERENCE NO. END9247USNP7, entitled "Two Piece Separable Obturator", U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. REFERENCE NO. END9247USNP8, entitled "Latchless Obturator with Interference Fit Feature", U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. REFERENCE NO. END9247USNP9, entitled "Balancing Feature for Reusable Trocar", U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. REFERENCE NO. END9247USNP10, entitled "Airflow Channels and Patterns in Lumen for Cannula", and / or U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. REFERENCE NO. END9247USNP11, entitled "Stabilizer for Surgical Shafts orThe present invention may be combined with any one or more of the teachings disclosed in the above-mentioned patent applications, entitled "Polymer-Based Polymeric Polymers and their Application for Use in Medical Devices," ... and the disclosures of each of these patent applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0100] It is understood that all or part of any patent, publication, or other disclosure referred to herein as being incorporated by reference is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated content does not conflict with existing definitions, opinions, or other disclosures set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures explicitly set forth herein shall take precedence over any conflicting statements incorporated herein by reference. Any content, or portions thereof, that is referred to herein as being incorporated by reference but that conflicts with current definitions, opinions, or other disclosures set forth herein shall be incorporated only to the extent that no conflict occurs between the incorporated content and the current disclosures.

[0101] Variations of the above devices may be applied not only to traditional medical procedures and surgeries performed by medical professionals, but also to robotic-assisted medical procedures and surgeries. By way of example only, the various teachings herein may be readily incorporated into robotic surgical systems such as the DAVINCI™ system by Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California). Similarly, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the various teachings herein can be readily combined with the various teachings of any of the following: U.S. Pat. No. 5,792,135, entitled "Articulated Surgical Instrument For Performing Minimally Invasive Surgery With Enhanced Dexterity and Sensitivity," issued Aug. 11, 1998, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; U.S. Pat. No. 8,783,541, entitled "Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effector System," issued July 22, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; U.S. Pat. No. 8,479,969, entitled "Drive Interface for Operably Coupling a Manipulatable Surgical Tool to a Robot," issued July 9, 2013; U.S. Pat. No. 8,479,969, entitled "Robotically-Controlled Cable-Based Surgical End Effector System," issued Aug. 12, 2014; No. 8,800,838, entitled “Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effectors” (the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference), and / or U.S. Pat. No. 8,573,465, issued on November 5, 2013, entitled “Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effector System with Rotary Actuated Closure Systems” (the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference).

[0102] The device variations described above can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. The variations, in either or both cases, can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular parts, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, some device variations can be disassembled and any number of particular portions or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and / or replacement of particular parts, some device variations can be reassembled for subsequent use at a reconditioning facility or by a user immediately prior to a procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

[0103] By way of example only, the variations described herein may be sterilized before and / or after treatment. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electron beams. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored in the sterile container for later use. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0104] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be achieved by those skilled in the art through appropriate modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. Although some of such possible modifications have been mentioned, other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the above examples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, proportions, steps, etc. are illustrative and not required. Thus, it is understood that the scope of the present invention should be considered in relation to the following claims and is not limited to the details of construction and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

[0105] [Embodiment] (1) A depth limiter configured to couple to a first trocar cannula and a second trocar cannula, the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula having different diameters, the depth limiter comprising: (a) a first body portion, (i) a first gripping surface; (ii) a first body portion having a second gripping surface; (b) a second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion pivotally coupled together and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannulas, and in the closed configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannulas, and wherein the second body portion (i) a first gripping surface configured to, in the closed configuration, cooperate with the first gripping surface of the first body portion to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula; (ii) a second gripping surface configured, in the closed configuration, together with the second gripping surface of the first body portion to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the second trocar cannula. (2) A depth limiter as described in embodiment 1, wherein the first gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion collectively form a first opening having a first effective diameter configured to selectively mate with the first trocar cannula in the closed configuration, and the second gripping surfaces of the first body portion and the second body portion collectively form a second opening having a second effective diameter configured to selectively mate with the second trocar cannula in the closed configuration, the second effective diameter being greater than the first effective diameter. (3) A depth limiter as described in embodiment 2, wherein the first opening and the second opening are separate and distinct from each other. (4) The depth limiter of embodiment 2, wherein the first body portion includes a third gripping surface, and the second body portion includes a third gripping surface that collectively forms, with the third gripping surface of the first body portion, a third opening having a third effective diameter configured to selectively couple with a third trocar cannula, and the third effective diameter is greater than either of the first effective diameter and the second effective diameter. (5) The depth limiter of embodiment 4, wherein in the open configuration, the depth limiter is configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula, the second trocar cannula, and the third trocar cannula, and wherein in the closed configuration, the depth limiter is configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula, the second trocar cannula, and the third trocar cannula.

[0106] (6) A depth limiter as described in embodiment 4, wherein the first effective diameter is approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter is approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter is approximately 12 millimeters. (7) The depth limiter of embodiment 1, further comprising a living hinge disposed between the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the living hinge. (8) The depth limiter of embodiment 7, wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as a one-piece component. (9) The depth limiter of embodiment 1, further comprising a spring coupled to the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the spring. (10) A depth limiter as described in embodiment 1, wherein the first gripping surface of the first body portion is spaced from the second gripping surface of the first body portion by a first connecting portion, and the first gripping surface of the second body portion is spaced from the second gripping surface of the second body portion by a second connecting portion.

[0107] (11) The depth limiter of embodiment 1, wherein in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface of the first body portion is spaced from the first gripping surface of the second body portion by a gap. (12) A depth limiter as described in embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the first gripping surface or the second gripping surface of the first body portion and the second body portion includes an engagement feature for lockingly engaging with a tissue gripping feature disposed along an outer surface of the first trocar cannula or the second trocar cannula. (13) The depth limiter of embodiment 12, wherein the engagement feature of the first or second trocar cannula comprises an annular rib, and the tissue gripping feature comprises parallel ridges configured to lockingly engage with the annular rib of the first or second trocar cannula. (14) The depth limiter of embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the first gripping surface or the second gripping surface of the first body portion and the second body portion includes a smooth surface configured to frictionally engage the first trocar cannula or the second trocar cannula. (15) A depth limiter as described in embodiment 1, wherein the first body portion includes a first user contact portion, the second body portion includes a second user contact portion, and the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to be actuated by a user to move the depth limiter from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0108] (16) A depth limiter configured to couple to a first trocar cannula and a second trocar cannula, the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula having different diameters, the depth limiter comprising: (a) a first body portion; (b) a second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion pivotally coupled together and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first or second trocar cannula, and the first body portion and the second body portion configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first or second trocar cannula; and (c) a plurality of openings defined in the first and second body portions, each opening of the plurality of openings having a different effective diameter in the closed configuration, the depth limiter configured to retain a cannula within a selected one of the plurality of openings such that the depth limiter limits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannulas in the closed configuration. (17) The depth limiter of embodiment 16, further comprising a living hinge disposed between the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the living hinge. (18) The depth limiter of embodiment 17, wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as a one-piece component. (19) The depth limiter of embodiment 16, further comprising a torsion spring coupled to the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the torsion spring. (20) A method of inserting a surgical access device through a body wall of a patient, the surgical access device including a cannula, the method comprising: (a) inserting the cannula into a first opening or a second opening of the depth limiter when the depth limiter is in an open configuration, the first opening and the second opening being separate and distinct from one another; (b) transitioning the depth limiter from the open configuration to a closed configuration to axially constrain the depth limiter relative to the cannula; (c) inserting at least a portion of the surgical access device into the patient while using the depth limiter to prevent over-insertion of the surgical access device into the body wall of the patient.

Claims

1. A depth limiter configured to couple with a first trocar cannula and a second trocar cannula, the first trocar cannula and the second trocar cannula having different diameters, the depth limiter comprising: (a) a first body portion, (i) a first gripping surface; (ii) a first body portion comprising a second gripping surface; and (b) a second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion pivotally coupled together and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannulas, and in the closed configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first and second trocar cannulas, and wherein the second body portion (i) a first gripping surface configured to, in the closed configuration, cooperate with the first gripping surface of the first body portion to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first trocar cannula; (ii) a second gripping surface configured, in the closed configuration, with the second gripping surface of the first body portion to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the second trocar cannula.

2. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, wherein the first gripping surfaces of the first and second body portions collectively form a first opening having a first effective diameter configured to selectively mate with the first trocar cannula in the closed configuration, and the second gripping surfaces of the first and second body portions collectively form a second opening having a second effective diameter configured to selectively mate with the second trocar cannula in the closed configuration, the second effective diameter being greater than the first effective diameter.

3. The depth limiter of claim 2 , wherein the first opening and the second opening are separate and distinct from one another.

4. 3. The depth limiter of claim 2, wherein the first body portion includes a third gripping surface and the second body portion includes a third gripping surface that collectively defines, with the third gripping surface of the first body portion, a third opening having a third effective diameter configured to selectively mate with a third trocar cannula, the third effective diameter being greater than either of the first effective diameter and the second effective diameter.

5. 5. The depth limiter of claim 4, wherein in the open configuration, the depth limiter is configured to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first, second, and third trocar cannula, and wherein in the closed configuration, the depth limiter is configured to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the first, second, and third trocar cannula.

6. 5. The depth limiter of claim 4, wherein the first effective diameter is approximately 5 millimeters, the second effective diameter is approximately 10 millimeters, and the third effective diameter is approximately 12 millimeters.

7. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, further comprising a living hinge disposed between the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the living hinge.

8. The depth limiter of claim 7 , wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as a one-piece component.

9. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, further comprising a spring coupled to the first body portion and the second body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled together between the open configuration and the closed configuration using the spring.

10. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, wherein the first gripping surface of the first body portion is spaced from the second gripping surface of the first body portion by a first connecting portion, and the first gripping surface of the second body portion is spaced from the second gripping surface of the second body portion by a second connecting portion.

11. The depth limiter of claim 1 , wherein in the closed configuration, the first gripping surface of the first body portion is spaced from the first gripping surface of the second body portion by a gap.

12. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first gripping surface or the second gripping surface of the first and second body portions includes an engagement feature for lockingly engaging with a tissue gripping feature disposed along an outer surface of the first or second trocar cannula.

13. 13. The depth limiter of claim 12, wherein the tissue gripping features disposed along the outer surface of the first or second trocar cannula include an annular rib, and the engagement features included on the at least one of the first or second gripping surfaces of the first and second body portions include a ridge configured to lockingly engage with the annular rib.

14. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first gripping surface or the second gripping surface of the first and second body portions includes a smooth surface configured to frictionally engage the first or second trocar cannula.

15. 2. The depth limiter of claim 1, wherein the first body portion includes a first user contact portion and the second body portion includes a second user contact portion, and the first body portion and the second body portion are configured to be actuated by a user to move the depth limiter from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

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