Latchless Obturator with Interference Fit Features - Patent application

Abstract

The surgical access device includes a cannula assembly and an obturator. The obturator is configured to removably couple with the cannula assembly along a central axis of the cannula assembly to facilitate inversion of the surgical access device through a patient's body wall. The obturator includes an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft, and an obturator head located at a proximal portion of the elongate shaft. The obturator head includes an interference fit feature that can inhibit proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly via frictional forces against a surface of the cannula assembly.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Priority) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 018,555, filed May 1, 2020, and entitled “Latchless Obturator with Interference Fit Feature.” [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 described 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; and U.S. Pat. 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 another perspective view of an exemplary trocar with a cannula assembly and obturator shown in an assembled state. [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] 1 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of another exemplary obturator. [Figure 7A] 7 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal end of another exemplary trocar including the obturator of FIG. 6 and the cannula assembly of FIG. 1 in a partially disassembled state. [Figure 7B] 7B illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal end of the trocar of FIG. 7A in an assembled state with the obturator of FIG. 6 and the cannula assembly of FIG. 1; [Figure 8A]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 8B] 7B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the trocar of FIG. 7A showing the distal end of the trocar received within the abdominal cavity. [Figure 8C] 8B illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the trocar of FIG. 7A showing the cannula assembly remaining positioned within the abdominal wall of FIG. 8A while the obturator is retracted proximally from the cannula assembly. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of another exemplary obturator. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the proximal end of another exemplary obturator.

[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 clinician 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 that are 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 patient's abdominal wall 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 that extend around at least an inner portion of cannula tube (22) and 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 thereto. 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 expanding (or "insufflating") the cavity with the fluid. This expansion 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 (35) (see Figure 7A) formed in an upper surface of the seal housing head (36) to couple the obturator (16) with the cannula assembly (12). Latch button (74) is operable to release latch arm (72) from slot (35), thereby permitting separation of obturator (16) from cannula assembly (12). Obturator (16) further includes a central passageway (76) extending longitudinally through obturator head (60) and obturator shaft (62) and configured to receive an endoscope (not shown) therein to provide visualization during insertion of trocar (10) through the patient's abdominal wall. Clamp lever (78) on obturator head (60) is pivotable to selectively secure the endoscope within central passageway (76). Central passageway (76) and clamp lever (78) are merely optional features and may be omitted from 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 of 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 step 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 leaves the working channel (14) of the cannula assembly (12) free to receive surgical instruments distally therethrough for performing laparoscopic surgery. As mentioned above, the tissue engaging ribs (26) on the cannula tube (22) grip the layers of tissue (3, 4, 5) of the abdominal wall (2), thus providing the cannula assembly (12) with at least a minimum degree of stability 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 with a disposable seal assembly In some cases, it may be desirable to configure a trocar so that one or more of its components 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 its proximal end 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), a middle 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 lumen 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 Application 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 Application Publication No. 2019 / 0380742, published on December 19, 2019, and entitled "Asymmetric Shaft Seal," 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 distal 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 latch arms (162) and a corresponding pair of downwardly extending 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 preferably constructed of robust materials, such as surgical steel, so that they can be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures. In contrast, as described 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), like the trocar (10) described above, can be easily manufactured and sold at a price that makes the seal assembly (130) suitable for disposal.

[0027] II. Exemplary Latchless Obturators As mentioned above, each actuatable latch member (70, 160) includes a respective pair of latch arms (72, 162) and a corresponding pair of latch buttons (74, 164). Each latch arm (72, 162) is configured to be captured within a respective slot (35, 138) of the assembled cannula assembly (12, 112) for coupling the obturator (16, 116) with the cannula assembly (12, 112). Additionally, the latch buttons (74, 164) are operable to release the latch arms (72, 162) from the slots (35, 138), thereby permitting separation of the obturator (16, 116) from the cannula assembly (12, 112).

[0028] Thus, the latch members (70, 160) may be used to couple the obturator (16, 116) to the cannula assembly (12, 112) while the trocar (10, 110) is used to access the cavity (1) in accordance with the description herein. Once the cannula (20, 120) has reached a desired insertion depth into the cavity (1), the clinician may uncouple the obturator (16, 116) from the cannula assembly (12, 112) by depressing the latch buttons (74, 164) and then withdraw the obturator (16, 116) proximally from the cannula assembly (12, 112), as shown in FIG. 3C. The clinician may depress the latch buttons (74, 164) with one hand via a pinching motion with another finger, such as the thumb and index finger. In other words, for a clinician to disengage the obturator (16, 116) from the cannula assembly (12, 112), the clinician must (A) depress the latch buttons (74, 164) to deflect the latch arms (72, 162) out of preferred engagement with the cannula assembly (12, 112), and (B) pull the obturator (16, 116) proximally relative to the cannula assembly (12, 112) while the latch buttons (74, 164) are still preferably depressed to disengage the obturator (16, 116) from the cannula assembly (12, 112).

[0029] To actuate the latch arms (72, 162) via depression of the latch buttons (74, 164) in accordance with the description herein, the latch arms (72, 162) may require a suitable geometry to facilitate relatively easy actuation of the latch arms (72, 162) via depression of the latch buttons (74, 164). The suitable geometry of the latch arms (72, 162) may include a leaf spring geometry having an aspect ratio that includes a relatively long length compared to a thickness.

[0030] In instances where the obturator (116) is configured to be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures, the long and thin geometry of the latch arm (162) for purposes of coupling and decoupling the obturator (116) with the cannula assembly (112) may render the latch arm (162) susceptible to damage during the sterilization process. Such damage may prevent the actuatable latch member (160) from functioning in accordance with the description herein. For example, a user cleaning and sterilizing a used obturator (116) may accidentally bend the latch arm (162) relative to the latch button (164) to an extent that the latch arm (162) is permanently damaged. Permanent damage to the latch arm (162) may prevent the latch button (164) from successfully coupling and decoupling the latch arm (162) with the cannula assembly (112) in accordance with the description herein.

[0031] As best seen in FIG. 5, the obturator (116) may include a base plate (158) defining a reinforced slot (155) configured to help prevent unintentional damage to the latch arm (162). The reinforced slot (155) is dimensioned to accommodate the latch arm (162). In particular, the reinforced slot (155) may allow the latch arm (162) to suitably flex in response to depression of the latch button (164), such that the latch arm (162) may couple and decouple the obturator (116) with the cannula assembly (112) in accordance with the description herein. Additionally, the reinforced slot (155) may reinforce the latch arm (162) to help prevent accidental damage during exemplary use and sterilization. For example, the reinforcing slots (155) may abut against a portion of the respective latch arm (162) in the event of accidental contact, thereby reinforcing the latch arms (162) and helping to prevent accidental damage to the latch arms (162).

[0032] However, the presence of the base plate (158) and reinforcing slots (155) may create various other problems related to proper sterilization of the obturator (116). For example, the area between the base plate (158) and the domed upper body (156) may be difficult to access for suitable sterilization. It may be difficult for fluids to properly enter or exit the interior area defined by the base plate (158) and the domed upper body (156) in order to properly sterilize all surfaces of the obturator (116) located within the interior area. As another example, foreign matter may become trapped in the interior area defined by the base plate (158) and the domed upper body (156) without suitable access for removing such matter.

[0033] Therefore, it may be desirable to have an obturator that is (A) configured to be coupled and uncoupled via a coupling assembly, and that is reusable (B) suitable for sterilization and for multiple surgical procedures while preventing unintentional damage to the coupling assembly.

[0034] FIG. 6 illustrates the proximal end of an obturator (216) that may be readily incorporated into a trocar (10, 110) in place of the obturator (16, 116) described above. The obturator (216) may be substantially similar to the obturator (116) described above, with differences that are described below. As such, the obturator (216) may be suitably constructed of a robust material, such as surgical steel, such that the obturator (216) may be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures. The obturator (216) includes a proximal head (260), an elongated cylindrical shaft (262) extending distally from the proximal head (260), and a tapered distal tip (264) (see FIGS. 8A and 8B).

[0035] The elongated cylindrical shaft (262) and tapered distal tip (264) may be substantially similar to the elongated cylindrical shaft (62, 152) and tapered distal tip (64, 154) described above. Thus, the cylindrical shaft (262) is configured to be received within the working channel (14, 114) of the cannula assembly (12, 112) such that the obturator tip (264) extends distally through the cannula tip (24, 126).

[0036] Obturator head (260) includes a dome-shaped upper body (266), a base plate (268), and an interference fit coupling assembly (270). As described in more detail below, the interference fit coupling assembly (270) of obturator (216) is configured to suitably couple obturator (216) with cannula assembly (12) to form trocar (210). As described in more detail below, coupling assembly (270) may be configured to (A) improve the robustness and / or durability of obturator (216) compared to actuatable latch member (160) of obturator (116), and (B) improve the cleanability of obturator (216) compared to obturator (116) by sealing areas that are difficult to access for sterilization purposes.

[0037] In this example, the interference fit coupling assembly (270) includes a pair of spring clips (272) and a tapered shaft surface (280) that extends from the elongated shaft (262) toward the base plate (268) such that the area of ​​the tapered shaft surface (280) closer to the base plate (268) is greater than the area of ​​the tapered shaft surface (280) extending distally from the base plate (268). As will be described in more detail below, the tapered shaft surface (280) is dimensioned to abut an angled upper surface (37) of the seal housing (30) that defines the working channel (14) to facilitate coupling of the obturator (216) with the cannula assembly (12) via a friction fit.

[0038] Each spring clip (272) includes a pair of legs (274) and a central portion (276). The proximal ends of each leg (274) extend distally from the distal surface of the base plate (268) in a tapered manner such that the distal ends of each leg (274) are closer to each other compared to the proximal ends of each leg (274). The distal ends of each leg (274) terminate in the central portion (276) such that the central portion (276) connects the distal ends of each leg (274). The central portion (276) extends from the distal ends of each leg (274) such that the distance between the distal ends of each leg (274) is closer than the distance between adjacent locations of the central portion (276) when viewed from the perspective views shown in Figures 7A and 7B.

[0039] The legs (274), central portion (276), and the distal surface of base plate (268) define a passageway (278) that is open at both ends of spring clip (272). Spring clip (272) is formed of a sufficiently resilient material such that the legs (274) and central portion (276) may flex inwardly relative to one another in response to an external compressive force, thereby changing the cross-sectional size of passageway (278). In addition, spring clip (272) is formed of a sufficiently resilient material such that the legs (274) and central portion (276) may expand to return to their original shape when the external compressive force is removed, thereby allowing passageway (278) to return to its original cross-sectional size. As described in more detail below, the spring clips (272) are sized to fit within respective slots (35) of the seal housing (30) to facilitate coupling of the obturator (216) with the cannula assembly (12) via a friction fit.

[0040] Figures 7A-8C illustrate an exemplary use of an obturator (216) and cannula assembly (12) as a trocar (210) for accessing the abdominal cavity of a patient (1) through the patient's abdominal wall (2). In particular, Figures 7A and 7B illustrate an exemplary coupling of the obturator (216) with the cannula assembly (12), while Figures 8A-8C illustrate an exemplary use of the assembled trocar (210) and the eventual decoupling of the obturator (216) from the cannula assembly (12).

[0041] Figure 7A shows elongated shaft (262) inserted into working channel (14) of cannula assembly (12) such that tapered shaft surface (280) is proximal to angled upper surface (37) of seal housing (30). In addition, spring clip (272) is proximal to slot (35) but preferably aligned with slot (35) for coupling purposes. At the moment shown in Figure 7A, obturator (216) is not preferably coupled with cannula assembly (12).

[0042] 7B, the clinician may further actuate the obturator head (260) and the cannula assembly (12) toward one another such that the tapered shaft surface (280) engages the angled upper surface (37) of the seal housing (30) and such that the spring clips (272) are driven into their respective slots (35). The engagement between the tapered shaft surface (280) and the angled surface (37), as well as the retention of the spring clips (272) within their respective slots (35), may help promote an interference fit connection between the obturator (216) and the cannula assembly (12) to form the trocar (210).

[0043] In some cases, engagement between tapered shaft surface (238) and angled surface (37) may cause deformation of tapered shaft surface (238) and / or angled surface (37). Additionally, in some cases, engagement between spring clip (272) and a portion of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35) may cause deformation of spring clip (272) and / or the portion of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35). Such deformation may further facilitate an interference fit connection between obturator (216) and cannula assembly (12).

[0044] Tapered shaft surface (280) and angled upper surface (37) of seal housing (30) may have complementary surfaces such that engagement between tapered shaft surface (280) and angled upper surface (37) promotes a frictional braking force that may prevent obturator head (260) from being actuated further distally relative to cannula assembly (12) when a clinician actuates obturator head (260) and cannula assembly (12) toward one another. The frictional braking force generated between surfaces (37, 280) by actuation of obturator head (260) and cannula assembly (12) toward one another may create a suitable interference fit coupling between surfaces (37, 280) that is strong enough to suitably prevent accidental decoupling of obturator (216) and cannula assembly (12) during exemplary use in accordance with the description herein. In other words, the frictional engagement between surfaces (37, 280) may advantageously help prevent obturator (216) from proximally decoupling from cannula assembly (12). For example, the frictional engagement between surfaces (37, 280) may be strong enough to keep trocar (210) assembled while a clinician grasps trocar (210) only by obturator head (260).

[0045] It should be appreciated that angled upper surface (37) and tapered shaft surface (280) engage one another along a plane such that the frictional resistance to movement between surfaces (37, 280) has at least a partial component that extends along the mating path between obturator (216) and cannula assembly (12). The partial component of the frictional resistance to movement between surfaces (27, 280) may be of sufficient strength to prevent obturator (216) from proximally decoupling from cannula assembly (12).

[0046] Slot (35) in seal housing (30) is defined by outer lip (39) and angled upper surface (37). Slot (35) is sized narrower as compared to the widest portion of spring clip (272). Therefore, when the clinician actuates obturator head (26) and cannula assembly (12) toward one another, spring clip (272) contacts the portion of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35). Such contact may drive opposite sides of legs (274) and central portion (276) to bend inwardly toward one another, thereby changing the cross-sectional size of passageway (278). Contact between the portion of seal housing (30) defining slot (35), which causes spring clip (237) to bend inwardly, and spring clip (272) may generate a sufficient frictional damping force strong enough to suitably prevent accidental decoupling of obturator (216) and cannula assembly (12) during exemplary use in accordance with the description herein. For example, the frictional engagement between slot (35) and spring clip (272) may be strong enough to keep trocar (210) assembled while a clinician grasps trocar (210) only by obturator head (260).

[0047] It should be appreciated that spring clip (272) and slot (35) engage one another along a plane such that the frictional resistance to movement between the surfaces of spring clip (272) and slot (35) has at least a partial component that extends along the mating path between obturator (216) and cannula assembly (12). The partial component of the frictional resistance to movement between the surfaces of spring clip (272) and slot (35) may be of sufficient strength to prevent obturator (216) from proximally decoupling from cannula assembly (12).

[0048] In addition, central portion (276) may initially deform while being inserted into slot (35) and then extend distally into slot (35) far enough that it no longer contacts the portion of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35). In such a case, the resiliency of spring clip (272) may allow central portion (276) to return toward its initial shape such that the widest portion of central portion (276) is wider than slot (35). Thus, contact between central portion (276) and the portion of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35) may further prevent accidental decoupling of obturator (216) from cannula assembly (12) during exemplary use.

[0049] In some cases, spring clip (272) may not be resilient at all, in which case spring clip (272) may be more like a downwardly extending pin that creates a frictional force with slot (35) in a manner similar to tapered shaft surface (280) and angled upper surface (37) described above.

[0050] With the obturator (216) suitably coupled with the cannula assembly (12) to form the trocar (210), the clinician may proceed to use the trocar (210) to access the abdominal cavity of the patient (1) through the patient's abdominal wall (2). As best shown in FIG. 8A, with the obturator (216) received within the cannula assembly (12) and connected to the seal housing (30), the clinician manipulates the trocar (210) via the obturator head (260) and the seal housing (30) to press the obturator tip (264) inwardly against the skin (3) and toward the abdominal cavity (1) while rotating the trocar (210) back and forth. It should be appreciated that as the clinician manipulates the trocar (210) inwardly toward the abdominal cavity (1), the spring clip (272) and tapered shaft surface (280) may be further actuated to the mating cannula assembly (12). Therefore, while the obturator tip (264) is being urged into the abdominal cavity (1), the clinician overcomes the frictional fit between the obturator (216) and the cannula assembly (12), thereby reducing the chance of inadvertently decoupling the trocar (210). Continued inward pressure of the trocar (210), as shown in FIGURE 8B, directs the obturator tip (264) and cannula tip (24) further distally through the layer of fat (4) and fascia (5) and into the cavity (1).

[0051] Next, as shown in FIGURE 8C, the clinician may pull the obturator (216) proximally relative to the cannula assembly (12) to uncouple the obturator (216) from the cannula (12). In some instances, the clinician may hold the cannula assembly (12) with one hand while pulling the obturator (216) with the other hand to overcome the friction fit while keeping the cannula assembly (12) suitably stationary within the patient's abdominal cavity (1). In other cases, the clinician may not need to hold the cannula assembly (12) with one hand, as the clinician may be able to uncouple the obturator (216) from the cannula assembly (12) by simply pulling on the obturator (216).

[0052] The clinician may actuate obturator (216) proximally relative to cannula assembly (12) with sufficient force to overcome the frictional fit between beveled top surface (37) and tapered shaft surface (280). Additionally, the clinician may actuate obturator (216) proximally relative to cannula assembly (12) to overcome the frictional fit between spring slip (272) and the surface of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35). In instances where central portion (276) extends distally within slot (35) far enough that it no longer contacts the portion of seal housing (30) that defines slot (35), the clinician may actuate obturator (216) proximally relative to cannula assembly (12) with sufficient force to deform central portion (276) so that central portion (276) is actuated proximally out of slot (35). After an exemplary use, the user may suitably sterilize the obturator (216) for another use.

[0053] Because spring clip (272) is configured to bend in response to longitudinal movement between cannula assembly (12) and obturator (216), a clinician is no longer required to provide sufficient downward force (e.g., a pinching motion) to decouple obturator (216) from cannula assembly (12). Thus, spring clip (272) may have an aspect ratio, including a smaller length-to-thickness, as compared to latch arm (162). In addition, spring clip (272) may be formed of a more robust material as compared to latch arm (162) described above. Due to the smaller length-to-thickness ratio and the more robust material, spring clip (272) may be less vulnerable to damage during a sterilization process and / or in response to accidental contact.

[0054] In addition, because spring clip (272) no longer requires lateral movement in response to sufficient downward force applied to the button on domed upper body (266), base plate (268) does not require reinforcing slots and domed upper body (266) does not require openings. Therefore, base plate (268) may be a solid plate such that the interior defined by base plate (268) and domed upper body (266) may be sealed from external fluids and substances. The lack of slots and openings may help prevent external fluids and other substances from entering the interior of obturator head (260), which may result in easier cleaning and sterilization of obturator (216) compared to obturator (116) described above.

[0055] In this example, the proximal ends of both legs (274) are secured to the distal surface of the base plate (268). However, in some cases, only one leg (274) may be secured to the distal surface of the base plate (268). In this example, the central portion (276) forms a semi-cylindrical shape, but any suitable shape may be used, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. In this example, the legs (274) terminate within the central portion (276) such that the legs (274) are not secured to one another. However, this is merely an option, as the legs (274) may taper toward one another and be secured directly to one another, such that the central portion (276) is omitted entirely. In this example, the legs (274) are formed with a substantially flat surface. However, this is merely an option, as the surface of the legs (274) may have any suitable shape, such as an undulating surface, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0056] In the present example, obturator (216) is used in combination with cannula assembly (12) to form trocar (210), however, it should be understood that obturator (216) may be configured for use with cannula assembly (112) described above such that friction coupling assembly (270) suitably mates with seal assembly (130) described above.

[0057] 9 illustrates another exemplary obturator (316) that may be used in place of the obturator (216) described above. The endoscope (316) is substantially similar to the obturator (216) described above, with differences detailed below. The obturator (316) includes a proximal head (360), an elongated cylindrical shaft (362) extending distally from the proximal head (360), and a tapered distal tip (not shown), which are substantially similar to the proximal head (260), elongated cylindrical shaft (262), and tapered distal tip (264) described above.

[0058] Obturator head (360) includes a domed upper body (366), a base plate (368), and an interference fit coupling assembly (370) that are substantially similar to the domed upper body (266), base plate (268), and interference fit coupling assembly (270) described above, except that interference fit coupling assembly (370) includes only a spring clip (372) and does not include a tapered shaft surface similar to surface (280) of obturator (216). Spring clip (372) is substantially similar to spring clip (272) described above. As such, spring clip (372) is sized to fit within respective slots (35) of seal housing (30) to facilitate coupling of obturator (316) with cannula assembly (12) via a friction fit.

[0059] 10 illustrates another exemplary obturator (416) that may be used in place of the obturator (216) described above. The endoscope (416) is substantially similar to the obturator (216) described above, with differences detailed below. The obturator (416) includes a proximal head (460), an elongated cylindrical shaft (462) extending distally from the proximal head (460), and a tapered distal tip (not shown), which are substantially similar to the proximal head (260), elongated cylindrical shaft (262), and tapered distal tip (264) described above.

[0060] The obturator head (460) includes a domed upper body (466), a base plate (468), and an interference fit coupling assembly (470) that are substantially similar to the domed upper body (266), base plate (268), and interference fit coupling assembly (270) described above, except that the interference fit coupling assembly (470) includes only a tapered shaft surface (480) and does not include a spring clip similar to the spring clips (272, 372) of the obturator (216, 316). The tapered shaft surface (480) is substantially similar to the tapered shaft surface (280) described above. As such, the tapered shaft surface (480) is dimensioned to abut the angled upper surface (37) of the seal housing (30) that defines the working channel (14) to facilitate coupling of the obturator (416) with the cannula assembly (12) via a friction fit.

[0061] 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 mentioned in the following examples may be omitted in some variations. Thus, none of the aspects or features mentioned 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 mentioned below, those additional features should not be considered added for any reason regarding patentability. EXAMPLES

[0062] A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly including: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; and (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator extending longitudinally along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of a patient. and an obturator configured to removably couple with a cannula assembly, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongated shaft dimensioned to fit within a working channel of the cannula assembly, (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongated shaft, and (iii) an obturator head located at a proximal portion of the elongated shaft, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly via a frictional force against a surface of the cannula assembly. EXAMPLES

[0063] The surgical access device of example 1, wherein the obturator head comprises a base plate and a dome-shaped body, the base plate and the dome-shaped body defining an interior area. EXAMPLES

[0064] The surgical access device of Example 2, wherein the base plate and the dome-shaped body form a seal around the interior area. EXAMPLES

[0065] The surgical access device of any one of Examples 2 to 3, wherein the interference fit feature extends distally from the base plate. EXAMPLES

[0066] The surgical access device of Example 4, wherein the interference fit feature comprises a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the base plate. EXAMPLES

[0067] The surgical access device of any one of Examples 4 and 5, wherein the cannula head comprises a seal assembly including a beveled upper surface defining a portion of the working channel. EXAMPLES

[0068] The surgical access device of Example 6, wherein the tapered surface is configured to engage the beveled upper surface to generate at least a portion of the friction force. EXAMPLES

[0069] The surgical access device of any one or more of Examples 2-7, wherein the interference fit feature comprises a downwardly extending pin coupled to the base plate. EXAMPLES

[0070] The surgical access device of Example 8, wherein the cannula head includes a seal assembly defining a slot located adjacent to the working channel, and the downwardly extending pin is configured to engage a portion of the seal assembly defining the slot to generate at least a portion of the frictional force. EXAMPLES

[0071] The surgical access device of Example 9, wherein the downwardly extending pin comprises a spring clip formed from a resilient material. EXAMPLES

[0072] The surgical access device of Example 10, wherein the spring clip comprises a pair of legs attached to the base plate. EXAMPLES

[0073] The surgical access device of Example 11, wherein the spring clip further comprises a central body attached to a distal end of each leg of the pair of legs. EXAMPLES

[0074] The surgical access device of Example 12, wherein the central body comprises a semi-tubular shape. EXAMPLES

[0075] The surgical access device of Example 13, wherein the spring clip and the base plate together define an open-ended passageway. EXAMPLES

[0076] The surgical access device of any one or more of Examples 1-14, wherein the obturator is formed from surgical steel. EXAMPLES

[0077] The surgical access device of any one or more of Examples 1-15, wherein the interference fit feature is attached to the elongate shaft. EXAMPLES

[0078] The surgical access device of any one or more of Examples 1-16, wherein the interference fit feature is spaced apart from the elongate shaft. EXAMPLES

[0079] A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly including: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula and including a first engagement surface; and (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to removably couple to the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of a patient. 14. A surgical access device comprising: an obturator configured to engage a working channel of a cannula assembly, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongated shaft dimensioned to fit within a working channel of a cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongated shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located at a proximal portion of the elongated shaft, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature, the interference fit feature comprising a second engagement surface configured to abut against the first engagement surface and generate a frictional force while the obturator is coupled with the cannula assembly, the interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula assembly. EXAMPLES

[0080] The surgical access device of Example 18, wherein the second engagement surface is attached to the elongate shaft. EXAMPLES

[0081] 1. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly including: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; and (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator, the obturator configured to removably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of a patient; 1. A surgical access device, comprising: an obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within a working channel of a cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located at a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head being configured to engage the cannula head while the obturator is coupled with the cannula assembly, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to deform itself or a portion of the cannula head to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula head via frictional engagement.

[0082] 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.

[0083] Additionally, any one or more of the teachings herein may be incorporated by reference in any one or more of the following applications: U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP1] (entitled "Pinch-To-Release Cannula Depth Limiter"), U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP2] (entitled "Multi-Diameter Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same day herewith, U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP3] (entitled "Pinch-To-Clamp Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same day herewith, U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP4] (entitled "Universal Size Multi-Walled Elastomer Cannula Depth Limiter"), filed on the same day herewith, U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP5] (entitled "Threaded Cannula Depth Limiter"). No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP6] filed on the same date herewith (entitled "Tilting Tang Cannula Depth Limiter"), U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP7] filed on the same date herewith (entitled "Two Piece Separable Obturator"), U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP9] filed on the same date herewith (entitled "Balancing Feature for Reusable Trocar"), U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP10] filed on the same date herewith (entitled "Airflow Channels and Patterns in Lumen for Cannula"), and / or U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9247USNP11] filed on the same date herewith (entitled "Stabilizer for Surgical Shafts or The present invention may be combined with any one or more of the teachings disclosed in the above-mentioned US Pat. No. 6,399,363, entitled "Patent Document 1: US Pat. No. 6,399,363" and entitled "Patent Document 2: US Pat. No. 6,399,363" or "Patent Document 3: US Pat. No. 6,399,363" which are incorporated herein by reference.The disclosure of each of these patent applications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] [Embodiment] (1) A surgical access device, comprising: (a) A cannula assembly, comprising: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly via a frictional force against a surface of the cannula assembly. (2) The surgical access device of embodiment 1, wherein the obturator head comprises a base plate and a dome-shaped body, the base plate and the dome-shaped body defining an interior area. (3) The surgical access device of embodiment 2, wherein the base plate and the dome-shaped body form a seal around the interior area. (4) The surgical access device of embodiment 2, wherein the interference fit feature extends distally from the base plate. (5) The surgical access device of embodiment 4, wherein the interference fit feature comprises a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the base plate.

[0090] (6) The surgical access device of embodiment 4, wherein the cannula head comprises a seal assembly including a sloped upper surface defining a portion of the working channel. (7) The surgical access device of embodiment 6, wherein the tapered surface is configured to engage the inclined upper surface to generate at least a portion of the frictional force. (8) The surgical access device of embodiment 2, wherein the interference fit feature comprises a downwardly extending pin coupled to the base plate. (9) The surgical access device of embodiment 8, wherein the cannula head includes a seal assembly defining a slot positioned adjacent to the working channel, and the downwardly extending pin is configured to engage a portion of the seal assembly defining the slot to generate at least a portion of the frictional force. (10) The surgical access device of embodiment 9, wherein the downwardly extending pin comprises a spring clip formed from a resilient material.

[0091] (11) The surgical access device of claim 10, wherein the spring clip comprises a pair of legs attached to the base plate. (12) The surgical access device of embodiment 11, wherein the spring clip further comprises a central body attached to a distal end of each leg of the pair of legs. (13) The surgical access device of embodiment 12, wherein the central body comprises a semi-tubular shape. (14) The surgical access device of embodiment 13, wherein the spring clip and the base plate together define an open-ended passage. (15) The surgical access device of embodiment 1, wherein the obturator is formed of surgical steel.

[0092] (16) The surgical access device of embodiment 1, wherein the interference fit feature is attached to the elongate shaft. (17) The surgical access device of embodiment 1, wherein the interference fit feature is spaced apart from the elongate shaft. (18) A surgical access device, comprising: (a) A cannula assembly, comprising: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula and including a first engagement surface; (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature having a second engagement surface configured to abut against the first engagement surface and generate a frictional force while the obturator is coupled with the cannula assembly, the interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula assembly. (19) The surgical access device of embodiment 18, wherein the second engagement surface is attached to the elongate shaft. (20) A surgical access device, comprising: (a) A cannula assembly, comprising: (i) a cannula; (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head configured to engage the cannula head while the obturator is coupled to the cannula assembly, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to deform itself or a portion of the cannula head to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula head via frictional engagement.

Claims

1. 1. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly, (i) a cannula; and (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula, the cannula head including a seal assembly defining a slot; (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient, the slot defined by the seal assembly being positioned adjacent to the working channel; (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising a base plate, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly via a frictional force against a surface of the cannula assembly, the interference fit feature comprising a downwardly extending pin coupled to the base plate, the downwardly extending pin configured to engage a portion of the seal assembly that defines the slot to generate at least a portion of the frictional force, the downwardly extending pin comprising a spring clip formed from a resilient material, the spring clip comprising a pair of legs attached to the base plate, the spring clip further comprising a central body attached to a distal end of each leg of the pair of legs, the central body comprising a semi-tubular shape.

2. The surgical access device of claim 1 , wherein the obturator head comprises a dome-shaped body, the base plate and the dome-shaped body defining an interior area.

3. The surgical access device of claim 2 , wherein the base plate and the dome-shaped body form a seal around the interior area.

4. The surgical access device of claim 2 , wherein the interference fit feature extends distally from the base plate.

5. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly, (i) a cannula; and (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; and (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising a base plate, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly via a frictional force against a surface of the cannula assembly; The surgical access device, wherein the interference fit feature comprises a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the base plate.

6. The surgical access device of claim 4 , wherein the cannula head includes a seal assembly including a beveled upper surface defining a portion of the working channel.

7. The surgical access device of claim 6, wherein the interference fit feature comprises a tapered surface extending from the shaft assembly to the base plate, the tapered surface configured to engage with the sloped upper surface to generate at least a portion of the frictional force.

8. The surgical access device of claim 5 , wherein the interference fit feature comprises a downwardly extending pin coupled to the base plate.

9. 9. The surgical access device of claim 8, wherein the cannula head includes a seal assembly defining a slot located adjacent the working channel, the downwardly extending pin configured to engage a portion of the seal assembly defining the slot to generate at least a portion of the frictional force.

10. The surgical access device of claim 9 , wherein the downwardly extending pin includes a spring clip formed from a resilient material.

11. The surgical access device of claim 10 , wherein the spring clip comprises a pair of legs attached to the base plate.

12. The surgical access device of claim 11 , wherein the spring clip further comprises a central body attached to a distal end of each leg of the pair of legs.

13. The surgical access device of claim 12 , wherein the central body comprises a semi-tubular shape.

14. The surgical access device of claim 1 or 13, wherein the spring clip and the base plate together define an open-ended passageway.

15. The surgical access device of claim 1 , wherein the obturator is formed from surgical steel.

16. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly, (i) a cannula; and (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; and (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal movement between the obturator and the cannula assembly via a frictional force against a surface of the cannula assembly; The interference fit feature is attached to the elongate shaft.

17. The surgical access device of claim 1 , wherein the interference fit feature is spaced from the elongate shaft.

18. 1. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly, (i) a cannula; and (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula and including a first engagement surface; (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising a base plate, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature comprising a resilient spring clip comprising first and second resilient legs extending distally from the base plate, each of the first and second resilient legs terminating in a distal head, the distal head coupling the first and second resilient legs, the first and second resilient legs configured to deform toward one another in response to simultaneously engaging the first engagement surface while the obturator is coupled to the cannula assembly to generate a frictional force, and the first engagement surface and both the first and second resilient legs configured to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula assembly.

19. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly, (i) a cannula; and (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula and including a first engagement surface; (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located at a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature comprising a second engagement surface configured to abut against the first engagement surface and generate a frictional force while the obturator is coupled to the cannula assembly, the interference fit feature configured to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula assembly; The second engagement surface is attached to the elongate shaft.

20. 1. A surgical access device comprising: (a) a cannula assembly, (i) a cannula; and (ii) a cannula head coupled to a proximal end of the cannula; and (iii) a working channel defined at least in part by the cannula and the cannula head and extending longitudinally along a central axis of the cannula assembly, the working channel configured to receive a surgical instrument therethrough to access a surgical site within a body cavity of a patient; and (b) an obturator configured to releasably couple with the cannula assembly along the central axis to facilitate insertion of the surgical access device through a body wall of the patient, the obturator comprising: (i) an elongate shaft extending along a longitudinal axis, the elongate shaft being dimensioned to fit within the working channel of the cannula assembly; (ii) a tapered distal tip located at a distal portion of the elongate shaft; and (iii) an obturator head located on a proximal portion of the elongate shaft, the obturator head configured to engage the cannula head while the obturator is coupled to the cannula assembly, the obturator head comprising an interference fit feature attached to the elongate shaft, the interference fit feature configured to deform itself or a portion of the cannula head to inhibit proximal translation of the obturator relative to the cannula head via frictional engagement.

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