Pinch and clamp cannula depth limiter

Abstract

A depth limiter configured to couple with a cannula tube of a trocar. The depth limiter includes a body having first and second body portions coupled together and pivotable between an open configuration and a clamping configuration. The body includes first and second inner surfaces presented by the first and second body portions. In the clamping configuration, the first and second inner surfaces form a first cross-sectional dimension sized to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube. In the open configuration, the first and second inner surfaces form a second cross-sectional dimension sized to allow axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube. The depth limiter includes first and second locking members, one of which is resiliently biased to engage with another. The locking members are configured to engage with each other to lock the body portions in the clamping configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Priority) This application claims priority to Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202011018669, entitled "Pinch-To-Clamp Cannula Depth Limiter" (filed on May 1, 2020), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] Some surgical procedures may require a clinician to access a surgical site through a patient's abdominal cavity. To obtain such access, first, an opening is formed through the abdominal wall tissue overlying the abdominal cavity. In some surgical procedures (referred to as "laparoscopic" or "endoscopic" surgeries), a relatively small opening is created 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. Conventional trocars generally include a cannula assembly and an obturator removably received within the working channel of the cannula assembly. In use, the obturator is fitted with the cannula assembly, and the combined structure (i.e., the trocar) is directed downward by the clinician through the patient's abdominal wall, such that the distal ends of the obturator and the cannula assembly extend into the abdominal cavity. The clinician then withdraws the obturator from the cannula assembly so that a surgical instrument can be directed downward through the working channel of the cannula assembly to access the surgical site.

[0003] Trocars, merely exemplary variations of its components, and other types of surgical access devices are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,981,092 entitled "Vibratory Trocar" disclosed on July 19, 2011, U.S. Patent No. 8,226,553 entitled "Access Device with Insert" issued on July 24, 2012, U.S. Patent No. 8,251,900 entitled "Surgical Access Devices and Methods Providing Seal Movement in Predefined Paths" issued on August 28, 2012, U.S. Patent No. 8,579,807 entitled "Absorbing Fluids in a Surgical Access Device" issued on November 12, 2013, U.S. Patent No. 8,568,362 entitled "Surgical Access Device with Sorbents" issued on October 29, 2013, U.S. Patent No. 8,636,686 entitled "Surgical Access Device" issued on January 28, 2014, U.S. Patent No. 8,690,831 entitled "Gas Jet Fluid Removal in a Trocar" issued on April 8, 2014, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0000496 entitled "Method of Suturing a Trocar Path Incision" published on January 3, 2019. The disclosure of each of the above-cited U.S. patents and U.S. patent application publications is hereby incorporated by reference into this specification.

[0004] Various types of surgical instruments, including surgical access devices and end effectors, and other related components have been made and used, but prior to the present inventors, no one is believed to have made or used the inventions described 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 below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

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[0006] The drawings are not intended to limit in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in various other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part thereof, illustrate some aspects of the present invention and serve to explain the principles of the present invention together with the description. However, it is understood that the present invention is not limited to the exact arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The following description of specific embodiments of the invention should not be used to limit the scope of the invention. Other embodiments, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is one of the best modes contemplated for practicing the invention by way of example. As will be understood, the invention is capable of other different and distinct aspects without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

[0008] For clarity of disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein with respect to a surgeon or other operator holding a surgical device. The term "proximal" refers to the position of an element located closer to the surgeon, and the term "distal" refers to the position of an element located farther from the surgeon. Also, to the extent that spatial terms such as "upper", "lower", "superior", "inferior", "vertical", "horizontal", etc. 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 illustrated and described herein.

[0009] Furthermore, terms such as "about", "substantially", etc. used herein in relation to any numerical value, or range of numerical values, are intended to encompass a suitable tolerance for the exact value being referenced, as well as the referenced feature, or combination of features, to be able to function for the intended purpose described herein.

[0010] I. Exemplary Single-Use and Reusable Trocars Figures 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 laparoscopic surgery. Each trocar (10, 110) includes a cannula assembly (12, 112) having a working channel (14, 114) and an obturator (16, 116) configured to be removably inserted coaxially into the working channel (14, 114), such that the assembled trocar (10, 110) can be directed distally through the patient's abdominal wall, as described below in connection with FIGS. 3A-3D, for example.

[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) that extends longitudinally along the central axis (A) of the trocar (10). In particular, the working channel (14) is defined by the lumen of the cannula (20) that communicates with the hollow interior of the seal housing (30). The cannula assembly (12) is configured to receive a distally elongate surgical instrument through the working channel (14) to provide access to a surgical site within the patient's abdominal cavity. As will be 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 allowing passage of surgical instruments and tissue fragments along the working channel (14).

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

[0013] More specifically, the tissue gripping ribs (26) of the present embodiment are formed as annular scallops in the side wall of the cannula tube (22) such that each rib (26) tapers radially inwardly in the distal direction from the radially outermost edge of the rib (26). Accordingly, the radially outermost edge of the rib (26) is generally coplanar with the non-ribbed proximal and distal portions of the cannula tube (22). The resulting configuration of the ribs (26) facilitates the advancement of the cannula tube (22) through the tissue layer in the distal direction and resists the withdrawal of the cannula tube (22) through the tissue layer in the reverse proximal direction. Advantageously, this configuration protects against the unintentional withdrawal of the cannula tube (22) from the patient's abdominal wall during surgery. However, it will be understood that the cannula tube (22) may be provided with various other types of tissue gripping features in other variants of the trocar (10). For example, the 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 the cannula tube (22) and scalloped similar to the 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) fixed together. The distal housing portion (34) includes a distal shroud (40) surrounding a proximal hub (not shown) of the cannula (20), a cap plate (42) fixed to the proximal end of the distal shroud (40), and a latch ring (44) rotatably disposed therebetween and having a radially outwardly projecting tab (46). The latch ring (44) is selectively rotatable about the central axis (A) of the trocar (10) via the tab (46) 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) housed 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 being arranged 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 the 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 sealed working channel (14) described in the absence of a surgical instrument shaft.

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

[0017] As shown in FIGS. 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 operable 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 the upper surface of the seal housing head (36) for coupling the obturator (16) to the cannula assembly (12). The latch buttons (74) are operable to release the latch arms (72) from the slots, thereby enabling separation of the obturator (16) from the cannula assembly (12). The obturator (16) further includes a central passageway (76) extending longitudinally therethrough through the obturator head (60) and the obturator shaft (62), and is configured to receive an endoscope (not shown) therein to provide visualization during insertion of the trocar (10) through the patient's abdominal wall. The clamp lever (78) of the obturator head (60) is pivotable to selectively secure the endoscope within the central passageway (76). The central passageway (76) and the clamp lever (78) are merely optional features and may be omitted from the obturator (16) in other variations.

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

[0019] B. Exemplary Deployment of a Trocar within a Patient's Abdomen Figures 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 appreciated that the abdominal wall (2) includes an outer surface layer and an inner deep layer. Generally, the surface layer includes an outer layer of skin (3) and an inner layer of fat (4). On the other hand, the deeper layer includes an alternative layer of muscle (5) and fascia (6), which is more highly tensioned, fibrous, and flexible than the surface layer.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 3A, with the obturator (16) received within the cannula assembly (12) and connected to the seal housing (30), the clinician manipulates the trocar (10) through the obturator head (60) and the seal housing (30), pressing the obturator tip (64) inwardly against the skin (3) and directed toward the abdominal cavity (1) while rotating the trocar (10) back and forth. As shown in FIG. 3B, by continuing to press the trocar (10) inwardly, the obturator tip (64) and the cannula tip (24) are further directed distally through the layers of fat (4) and fascia (5) and into the cavity (1). As described above, this step can be facilitated by visualization provided by an endoscope (not shown) mounted within the obturator (16). When the cannula (20) reaches 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. Thereby, the working channel (14) of the cannula assembly (12) becomes receptive to receive surgical instruments distally therethrough for performing laparoscopic surgery. As described above, the tissue engagement ribs (26) provided on the cannula tube (22) grip the layers of tissue (3, 4, 5) of the abdominal wall (2) and thus provide the cannula assembly (12) with at least a minimum of stability against the abdominal wall (2). At the completion of the laparoscopic surgery, 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. Exemplary Reusable Trocar with a Disposable Seal Assembly In some cases, it may be desirable to configure the trocar such 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. FIGS. 4-5 show another exemplary trocar (110) configured in such a manner and having a structure and function similar to the trocar (10) described above, except as otherwise described hereinafter.

[0022] Similar to the trocar (10), the trocar (110) includes a working channel (114) and a cannula assembly (112) having an obturator (116) configured to be coaxially inserted into the cannula assembly (112) along the working channel (114). The cannula assembly (112) includes a cannula (120) having a bell-shaped hub (122) at its proximal end and an elongate cylindrical tube (124) extending distally from the hub (122) and terminating in an angled cannula tip (126). The outer surface of the cannula tube (124) includes a plurality of tissue gripping features in the form of annular ribs (128) that are axially disposed along an inner portion of the cannula tube (124) and are similar to the 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 configured 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 the present embodiment generally includes an upper frame member (132), an intermediate frame member (134), and a lower frame member (136) coaxially arranged and fixed to each other. Although not shown, the proximal (or "outer") seal structure is supported within the upper frame member (132), and the distal (or "inner") 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 a blowing port (140) having an adjustable valve in the form of a stopcock (142).

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

[0025] As best shown in FIG. 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 domed upper body (156), a base plate (158), and an operable 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 the upper surface of the upper frame member (132) of the seal assembly (130) to couple the obturator (116) to the cannula assembly (112). The latch buttons (164) are operable to release the latch arms (162) from the slots (138), thereby enabling separation of the obturator (116) from the cannula assembly (112).

[0026] The cannula (120) and obturator (116) of the present embodiment are preferably constructed of a robust material such as surgical steel, such that they can be sterilized and reused for multiple surgical procedures. In contrast, as described above, the seal assembly (130) is configured as a disposable unit that is separated from the cannula (120) and replaced after each procedure. For example, the seal assembly (130) can be constructed of various polymeric materials including plastics and rubbers such that the seal assembly (130) can be easily manufactured and sold at a price suitable for disposing of the seal assembly (130) in the same manner as the trocar (10) described above.

[0027] II. Exemplary Pinch and Clamp Depth Limiter In some cases, a clinician may wish to limit the depth to which a single-use or reusable trocar (10, 110) can move within the abdominal wall (2) (for example, after inserting the trocar (10, 110) into a desired position). Limiting the depth to which the trocar (10, 110) can move within the abdominal wall (2) can 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 entering deeper into the abdominal cavity (1) than desired. By preventing insertion of the trocar (10, 110), unwanted contact between the distal tip (64, 154) and / or the cannula tip (24, 126) and anatomical structures contained within the abdominal cavity (1) can be reduced. Preventing over-insertion of the trocar (10, 110) can also avoid inadvertently reducing the available surgical working space within the abdominal cavity (1).

[0028] Instead of, or in addition to, limiting the depth to which a single-use or reusable trocar (10, 110) can move within the abdominal wall (2), a clinician may wish to stabilize the trocar (10, 110) relative to the abdominal wall (2) (for example, after inserting the trocar (10, 110) into a desired position within the abdominal cavity (1)). The clinician can stabilize the trocar (10, 110) relative to the abdominal wall (2) by avoiding it during insertion of the trocar (10, 110). A stabilized trocar (10, 110) relative to the abdominal wall (2) after insertion into the abdominal wall (2) can help prevent the trocar (10, 110) from inadvertently pivoting about the insertion point in the abdominal wall (2) after the clinician has released the trocar (10, 110). The stabilized trocar (10, 110) maintains 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) such that the cannula tip (24, 126), and thus the surgical instrument, can be easily directed distally through the trocar (10, 110) at a convenient, selected working angle for the clinician.

[0029] A. Exemplary Pinch-and-Clamp Depth Limiter with a Living Hinge FIG. 6 shows a first exemplary depth limiter (200) selectively clamped to the cannula tube (124) of the second trocar (110). As will be described in more detail below, the depth limiter (200) can selectively limit the depth to which the trocar (110) can move distally into the abdominal wall (2).

[0030] As best shown in FIGS. 7-8C, the depth limiter (200) includes a first body portion (202) and a second body portion (204) pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge (206) such that the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are pivotable relative to each other between at least one open configuration (e.g., FIG. 8A) and at least one clamped configuration (e.g., FIG. 8B). In the illustrated example, the first body portion (202), the second body portion (204), and the hinge (206) are integrally formed as a single piece part. For example, the first body portion (202), the second body portion (204), and the hinge (206) can be molded together as a single component, such as from a polymeric material including one or two or more plastics. Such a structure allows the depth limiter (200) to be considered a disposable unit, intended to be separated from the cannula (120) and replaced after each procedure. For example, such a structure can enable the depth limiter (200) to be easily manufactured and sold at a price suitable for disposing of the depth limiter (200) after single use, similar to the trocar (10) and seal assembly (130) described above. In other variations, one or more portions of the depth limiter (200) can be formed from surgical steel or other materials suitable for making the depth limiter sterilizable and reusable for multiple surgical procedures. In any case, the illustrated hinge (206) includes a thin portion of the same material as the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204), such that the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) can bend around it, such that the hinge (206) can be considered a "living" hinge.

[0031] In the illustrated example, the depth limiter (200) has a generally annular ring-shaped profile when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in a clamped configuration, and has a generally split ring-shaped profile when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in an open configuration.

[0032] For this purpose, the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) each include a first generally C-shaped proximal surface (210) and a second generally C-shaped proximal surface (212), a first generally C-shaped distal surface (214) and a second generally C-shaped distal surface (216), a first generally semi-circular inner surface (220) and a second generally semi-circular inner surface (222), and a first generally semi-circular outer surface (224) and a second generally semi-circular outer surface (226). Each body portion (202, 204) extends between its respective hinge end (230, 232) and its respective closure end (234, 236), such that each body portion (202, 204) has a generally C-shaped profile. The hinge (206) is positioned between the first hinge end (230) and the second hinge end (232) and at the interface between the first outer surface (224) and the second outer surface (226) such that when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in the clamped configuration, the first closure end (234) and the second closure end (236) are in contact or near contact with each other, and when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in the open configuration, the first closure end (234) and the second closure end (236) are spaced apart from each other. In this way, the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) collectively define an expandable cylindrical bore (240) that extends longitudinally along the central axis (C) of the depth limiter (200). The first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) have a relatively contracted configuration when in the clamped configuration and have a relatively non-contracted configuration when in the open configuration.

[0033] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8B, when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in the clamped configuration, the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) extend in the diametrical direction and are sized to collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension (D1) that restricts the axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110) by creating an interference state between the cannula tube (124) and the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8A, when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in the open configuration, the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) extend in the diametrical direction and are sized to collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension (D2) that allows the axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110) by allowing the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) to slide along the cannula tube (124).

[0034] The illustrated first inner surface (220) and second inner surface (222) each include one or more tube gripping features in the form of radially inwardly extending ridges (242) circumferentially disposed therearound. The ridges (242) are configured to grip the outer surface of a cannula tube (124), such as a rib (128), when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in a clamped configuration, thereby assisting in restricting the axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124). More specifically, the ridges (242) of the present embodiment extend substantially between the respective proximal surfaces (210, 212) and distal surfaces (214, 216) of the respective body portions (202, 204), such that each ridge (242) extends across and can grip a plurality of ribs (128). However, it will be appreciated that the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) may comprise various other types of tube gripping features in other variations of the depth limiter (200). In one example, the tube gripping features may be omitted such that the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) directly grip the cannula tube (124) when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in a clamped configuration.

[0035] The illustrated first outer surface (224) and second outer surface (226) each include a first finger grip (250) and a second finger grip (252) that are diametrically opposed and generally centrally positioned between the respective hinge ends (230, 232) and closure ends (234, 236). The first finger grip (250) and the second finger grip (252) are configured to be squeezed or pinched towards each other to provide the user with a visual and / or tactile indication of the location on each of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) to effectively and ergonomically move the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards a clamped configuration.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 8A - 8C, the depth limiter (200) also includes a first locking member in the form of a ratchet post or claw (260) that extends circumferentially from the first closed end (234) of the first body portion (202) towards the second closed end (236) of the second body portion (204). In the illustrated example, the claw (260) includes radially outwardly directed claw teeth (262) and terminates in a release tab (264). The claw teeth (262) include a relatively steep locking surface (266) generally facing towards the first closed end (234) and a relatively shallow cam surface (268) generally facing away from the first closed end (234). In the illustrated example, the claw (260) extends into the internal cavity (270) of the second body portion (204) through an aperture (272) provided in the second closed end (236). As will be described in more detail below, the claw (260) is elastically biased radially outwardly with respect to the central axis (C).

[0037] The depth limiter (200) further includes a second locking member in the form of a circumferentially extending ratchet catch or rack (280) positioned within the second body portion (204), including a series of alternating radially inwardly directed rack teeth (282) and rack recesses (284). Each of the rack teeth (282) includes a relatively steep locking surface (286) generally facing away from the second closed end (236) and a relatively shallow cam surface (288) generally facing towards the second closed end (236). Each rack recess (284) is sized and configured to receive a claw tooth (262) when aligned therewith.

[0038] In the illustrated example, the cam surface (288) of each rack tooth (282) is configured to engage the cam surface (268) of the pawl tooth (262) when the first finger grip (250) and the second finger grip (252) are squeezed or clamped toward each other as shown in FIG. 8A, for example, to enable movement from the open configuration to the clamp configuration of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204). More specifically, the cam surface (288) of each rack tooth (282) is configured to at least partially reorient the cam surface (268) of the pawl tooth (262) by overcoming the radially outward biasing of the pawl tooth (262) and pressing the pawl tooth (262) radially inward. This interaction enables the pawl tooth (262) to advance along the rack tooth (282), and thus enables the pawl (260) to further advance (e.g., in the clockwise direction based on the reference frame of FIG. 8A) into the internal cavity (270) such that the first closing end (234) and the second closing end (236) can pivot toward each other about the hinge (206). In this way, the pawl (260) and the rack (280) can cooperate to enable approach toward the clamp configuration of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204).

[0039] Conversely, the locking surface (286) of each rack tooth (282) is configured to engage with the locking surface (266) of the pawl tooth (262) to prevent and / or stop the movement of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards the open configuration, as shown in FIG. 8B. More specifically, the locking surface (286) of each rack tooth (282) is configured to capture or abut against the locking surface (266) of the pawl tooth (262) when the radially outward biasing of the pawl tooth (262) presses the pawl tooth (262) into the corresponding rack recess (284), seating the pawl tooth (262) firmly within the rack recess (284). Thus, the pawl tooth (262) is prevented from retreating along the rack tooth (282), and thus the pawl (260) is prevented from being withdrawn from the internal cavity (270) (e.g., in the counterclockwise direction based on the reference frame of FIG. 8B), preventing the first closing end (234) and the second closing end (236) from pivoting away from each other about the hinge (206). In this way, the pawl (260) and the rack (280) can cooperate to prevent and / or stop the movement of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards the open configuration. In the illustrated example, at least one rack recess (284) is positioned to receive the pawl tooth (262) when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in a clamped configuration where the first closing end (234) and the second closing end (236) are in contact or near contact with each other. Thus, when the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) are in the clamped configuration, the pawl (260) and the rack (280) can cooperate to selectively lock the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) in the clamped configuration. However, it will be understood that the depth limiter (200) may comprise various other types of locking members in other variations of the depth limiter (200).

[0040] The depth limiter (200) of this modification example also includes a locking release member in the form of a release button (290) provided in a local area of the second body portion (204) close to the rack (280). The release button (290) includes a flexible cantilevered overhanging portion or flange (292) adjacent to the second outer surface (226), a radially inward protruding portion (294) positioned at or near the end of the flange (292), and a third finger grip (296) positioned on the second outer surface (226) along the flange (292). The flange (292) can be biased towards the configuration shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B and can be flexible at least in a radially inward direction with respect to the configuration shown in FIG. 8C, such that the protruding portion (294) can selectively move radially inwardly towards the release tab (264) of the claw (260), as will be described in more detail below.

[0041] In the illustrated example, the protrusion (294) of the release button (290) is configured to selectively engage with the release tab (264) of the pawl (260) to enable movement of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) from a clamped configuration to an open configuration, as shown in FIG. 8C. More specifically, the protrusion (294) of the release button (290) is configured to selectively release the pawl teeth (262) from at least one of the rack recesses (284) when depressed by the flange (292) pressing the release tab (264) radially inwardly together with the pawl teeth (262) to overcome the radially outward biasing of the release tab (264). As a result, the locking surface (266) of the pawl teeth (262) disengages from the corresponding locking surface (286) of the rack teeth (282), which allows the pawl teeth (262) to at least partially retract along the rack teeth (282), and thus allows the pawl (260) to at least partially retract (e.g., counterclockwise based on the reference frame of FIG. 8C) from the internal cavity (270) such that the first closing surface (234) and the second closing surface (236) pivot away from each other about the hinge (206). The third finger grip (296) is configured to provide a visual and / or tactile indication to the user at a location on the second body portion (204) to effectively and ergonomically move the protrusion (294) towards the release tab (264) of the pawl (260) to release the pawl teeth (262) from the rack recesses (284). In this way, the release button (290) and the pawl (260) may cooperate to selectively enable movement of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) from a clamped configuration to an open configuration. However, it will be understood that the depth limiter (200) may comprise various other types of unlocking members in other variations of the depth limiter (200).

[0042] In some examples, the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) can be biased toward an open configuration. For example, the first closure end (234) and the second closure end (236) can be elastically biased against each other via a hinge (206) or a torsion spring member (not shown) incorporated into an external spring member (not shown) positioned directly between the first closure end (234) and the second closure end (236). In other examples, the hinge (206) can be configured as a living hinge having a shape and thickness suitable for imparting elastic biasing against the body portions (202, 204) at the hinge ends (230, 232). In this way, the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) can be configured to automatically move from a clamped configuration toward an open configuration in response to the pawl teeth (262) being released from the rack recess (284). Additionally, or alternatively, the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) can be configured to be manually moved toward an open configuration by a user when the pawl teeth (262) are released from the rack recess (284).

[0043] During operation, with continued reference to FIGS. 8A - 8C, the depth limiter (200) can first be positioned around the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110) such that the cannula tube (124) is received within the expandable bore (240) prior to deployment of the trocar (110) into the patient's peritoneal cavity (1). In one example, the central axis (C) of the depth limiter (200) can coincide with the central axis (not shown) of the trocar (110). During deployment of the trocar (110) into the peritoneal cavity (1), the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) can be in either an open configuration or a clamped configuration, as desired.

[0044] In some cases, a clinician may wish to allow for axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the deployed trocar (110). Thus, the clinician may choose to maintain the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) in an open configuration. By maintaining the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) in an open configuration, the cannula tube (124) may not be constricted by the expandable bore (240). More specifically, the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) may collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension (D2) to allow for axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110), as shown in FIG. 8A.

[0045] In other cases, the clinician may wish to limit the axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110) being deployed. For example, the clinician may wish to position the depth limiter (200) at a predetermined axial location along the cannula tube (124) corresponding to the desired insertion depth of the cannula (120) within the cavity (1). Thus, the clinician may choose to move the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) from the open configuration towards the clamp configuration. For this purpose, in FIG. 8A, the clinician can effectively and ergonomically move the first finger grip (250) and the second finger grip (252) towards each other via the clinician's thumb (T) and finger (F) as indicated by the first arrow (A1) and the second arrow (A2) respectively, to move the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards the clamp configuration. By moving the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards the clamp configuration, the cannula tube (124) can be constricted by the expandable bore (240). More specifically, the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) can collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension (D1) to limit the axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110) as shown in FIG. 8B. The ridge (242) can grip the outer surface of the cannula tube (124) to assist in limiting the axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube (124). The movement of the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards the clamp configuration can be enabled by the cooperation of the claw (260) and the rack (280) described above. When the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) reach the closed configuration, the claw (260) and the rack (280) can cooperate to selectively lock the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) in the clamp configuration described above so that the depth limiter (200) can apply a continuous clamping pressure to the cannula tube (124).Accordingly, while the depth limiter (200) remains securely clamped to the cannula tube (124), the clinician can release the first finger grip (250) and the second finger grip (252).

[0046] In the depth limiter (200) positioned around the cannula tube (124) in either an axially restricted or unrestricted state, the clinician can deploy the trocar (110) into the patient's abdominal cavity (1) to position the cannula (120) at a desired insertion depth in the cavity (1), as described above with respect to FIGS. 3A and 3B. At a predetermined axial location along the cannula tube (124) corresponding to the desired insertion depth of the cannula (120) in the cavity (1), when the depth limiter (200) is clamped to the cannula tube (124), the contact between the depth limiter (200) and the distal surfaces (214, 216) of the abdominal wall (2) can provide the clinician with a visual and / or tactile indication that the cannula (120) has reached the desired insertion depth in the cavity (1). In this way, the depth limiter (200) can assist in preventing the distal tip (154) of the obturator (116) and / or the cannula tip (126) of the cannula assembly (112) from inadvertently entering deeper into the abdominal cavity (1) than desired during deployment. In other cases, after the cannula (120) has been positioned at the desired insertion depth in the cavity (1), the depth limiter (200) can be clamped to the cannula tube (124).

[0047] In some cases, it may be desirable to adjust the axial location of the depth limiter (200) along the cannula tube (124) after the depth limiter (200) has already been clamped to the cannula tube (124). Thus, the clinician may choose to move the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) from the clamped configuration towards the closed configuration. For this purpose, the clinician, as indicated by the third arrow (A3) in FIG. 8C, presses the third finger rest (296) radially inwards via the clinician's finger (F), effectively and ergonomically moving the protrusion (294) towards the release tab (264) of the claw (260), thereby enabling the movement of the claw teeth (262) out of the rack recess (284) so that the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) can move from the clamped configuration towards the open configuration as described above. By moving the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards the open configuration, the cannula tube (124) may not be constricted by the expandable bore (240). More specifically, the first inner surface (220) and the second inner surface (222) may collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension (D2) to allow axial movement of the depth limiter (200) relative to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110) as shown in FIG. 8C. Thus, the clinician can adjust the axial location of the depth limiter (200) along the cannula tube (124) and then reclamp the depth limiter (200) to the cannula tube (124) as described above with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

[0048] The depth limiter (200) may remain clamped onto the cannula tube (124) during the performance of a laparoscopic surgery where the first distal surface (214) and the second distal surface (216) of the depth limiter (200) are placed against the abdominal wall (2). In this way, the depth limiter (200) may assist in preventing the cannula tip (126) of the cannula assembly (112) from inadvertently entering deeper into the peritoneal cavity (1) than desired during the performance of a laparoscopic surgery.

[0049] At the completion of a laparoscopic surgical procedure, the depth limiter (200) can be withdrawn proximally from the abdominal wall (2) together with the cannula assembly (112). The depth limiter (200) may not be clamped from the cannula tube (124) by moving the first body portion (202) and the second body portion (204) towards an open configuration, as described above with reference to FIG. 8C. In one example, the depth limiter (200) can simply be disposed of after completion of a single laparoscopic surgical procedure.

[0050] B. Exemplary Pinch-and-Clamp Depth Limiter with Fastening Mechanism In some cases, it may be desirable to provide a cannula depth limiter with a closure mechanism different from the pawl rack mechanisms (260, 280) of the depth limiter (200) described above. FIG. 9 shows a second exemplary depth limiter (300) selectively clamped to the cannula tube (124) of the second trocar (110). Similar to the depth limiter (200), the depth limiter (300) can selectively limit the depth to which the trocar (110) can move distally into the abdominal wall (2). As best shown in FIGS. 10-11B, the depth limiter (300) includes a first body portion (302) and a second body portion (304) that are coupled to each other by a hinge (306) and are pivotable between an open configuration (e.g., FIGS. 10 and 11A) and a clamped configuration (e.g., FIG. 11B).

[0051] The first body portion (302) and the second body portion (304) each include a first proximal surface (310) and a second proximal surface (312), a first distal surface (314) and a second distal surface (316), a first inner surface (320) and a second inner surface (322), a first outer surface (324) and a second outer surface (326), a first hinge end (330) and a second hinge end (332), and a first closed end (334) and a second closed end (336). The first body portion (302) and the second body portion (304) further include a first knuckle (340) and a second knuckle (342) that collectively define a hinge (306) together with a pin (344). The first inner surface (320) and the second inner surface (322) collectively define an expandable cylindrical bore (348).

[0052] The depth limiter (300) includes a male fastener (350) that includes an axially compressible flare post (352). The axially compressible flare post (352) has a proximal post portion (354) and a distal post portion (356) that are generally parallel to each other in the radial direction, overlap each other, and are flexibly coupled to the first outer surface (324) via respective proximal sidewalls (360), distal sidewalls (362), and a base wall (364). The proximal sidewall (360) and the distal sidewall (362) can be elastically biased toward the illustrated configuration. The flare post (352) can have a first effective height and can be flexible at least in the axially inward direction such that the proximal post portion (354) and the distal post portion (356) move axially inwardly toward each other to provide a second effective height of the flare post (352). The proximal post portion (354) and the distal post portion (356) each include a proximal post tooth (366) and a distal post tooth (368), and a proximal recess (370) and a distal recess (372), respectively. The post teeth (366, 368) each include a locking surface (374) and a cam surface (376).

[0053] The depth limiter (300) further includes a female fastener (380) including an aperture (382) provided in a side wall (384) of the female fastener (380) fixedly coupled to the second outer surface (326) via a base wall (386). The aperture (382) is sized and configured to selectively restrict passage of the flare post (352) therethrough when the flare post (352) has a first effective height and selectively enable passage of the flare post (352) therethrough when the flare post (352) has a second effective height. A stop ribbon (388) is positioned behind the aperture (382) relative to the male fastener (350).

[0054] The periphery of the aperture (382) is configured such that when locations diametrically opposite on the first body portion (302) and the second body portion (304) are squeezed or clamped toward each other, such as via a clinician's finger (F) and thumb (T) as indicated by the fourth and fifth arrows (A4, A5) in FIG. 11A, the cam surfaces (376) of the post teeth (366, 368) are at least partially reoriented to axially inwardly press the post teeth (366, 368). As a result, the effective height of the flare post (352) can be reduced from the first effective height to the second effective height, such that the post teeth (366, 368) can advance through the aperture (382). The periphery of the aperture (382) is configured to capture or abut the locking surfaces (374) of the post teeth (366, 368) when the axially outward biasing of the post teeth (366, 368) presses against corresponding recesses (370, 372), thereby preventing the flare post (352) from being withdrawn from the aperture (382). The proximal side wall (360) and the distal side wall (362) are configured to be clamped or squeezed toward each other to selectively axially inwardly press the post teeth (366, 368), thereby reducing the effective height of the flare post (352) from the first effective height to the second effective height and enabling the post teeth (366, 368) to retreat through the aperture (382).

[0055] The depth limiter (300) is also positioned distally with respect to the first body portion (302) and the second body portion (304), and includes a frustoconical body (392) and a cylindrical bore (394) configured to slidably receive the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110), and includes a plug or spacer (390). The spacer (390) is positioned around the cannula tube (124) between the distal surfaces (314, 316) and the abdominal wall (2), and the hinge (306) is configured to prevent inadvertent pinching of the abdominal wall (2) during pivoting of the first body portion (302) and the second body portion (304) towards or away from each other. In one example, each of the first body portion (302), the second body portion (304), the male fastener (350), the female fastener (380), and the spacer (390) can be formed separately as individual parts from one or more plastic or metallic materials, etc.

[0056] C. Third Exemplary Depth Limiter FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a third exemplary depth limiter (1010). The depth limiter (1010) includes a hub (1012) and a plurality of legs (1014). The depth limiter (1010) can be used in combination with the depth limiters (200, 300) described above. The hub (1012) is shown as having a generally square shape, although other shapes of the hub (1012) are contemplated. As shown, the hub (1012) includes an aperture (1016) that extends completely therethrough. The aperture (1016) can include a gripping surface (1018). The gripping surface (1018) can extend parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the cannula tube (22) of the cannula (20). FIGS. 12-13B illustrate the depth limiter (1010) with reference to the cannula tube (22) of the trocar (10) of FIG. 1, although other cannula tubes (e.g., cannula tube (124)) can also be used. The gripping surface (1018) can be smooth or non-smooth. As shown in FIG. 12, the gripping surface (1018) includes a smooth surface that can frictionally engage a portion of the cannula (20) such as a rib (26). Alternatively, the gripping surface (1018) can include a non-smooth surface that can include one or more features for locking engagement with the cannula tube (22). In other words, the depth limiter (1010) can be fixed to the cannula (20) using a mating screw (such as a nut) or to a scalloped cannula having an appropriate amount of interference fit. Such a screw of the depth limiter (1010) can be helical or non-helical (e.g., scalloped). For example, the gripping surface (1018) can include at least one tooth configured to lockingly engage at least one of the ribs (26) of the cannula (20).

[0057] The legs (1014) can have a constant cross-sectional area that moves radially away from the hub (1012). However, the legs (1014) can have a non-uniform cross-section. For example, one or more ends of the legs (1014) can include a cup-shaped portion (1020) for distributing downward force. As shown, the legs (1014) are separated by approximately 90 degrees. More or fewer legs (1014) are also contemplated.

[0058] The depth limiter (1010) can provide additional stability to the trocar (10) for tip resistance. The depth limiter (1010) can be configured to limit sudden tilting using 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 speed of the off-axis tilt of the trocar (10) to stabilize the trocar (10). This stabilization can be achieved using the mechanical spring effect of each leg (1014). The legs (1014) can have a reduced mass that allows the legs (1014) to bend outward and allows for a variable amount of spring resistance in each direction of the trocar (10). For example, the legs (1014) may have a reduced mass portion (e.g., a living hinge portion) and / or may rely on the inherent spring force of the legs (1014). The legs (1014) can contact the patient's body wall to prevent or at least decelerate the tip above the cannula (20).

[0059] Figures 13A - 13B illustrate a depth limiter (1010). However, the teachings of Figures 13A - 13B may also be applicable to the depth limiters (1110, 1210) described in detail below. Figure 13A shows a partial side cross - sectional view of the depth limiter (1010) of Figure 12 coupled to the cannula tube (22) of the cannula assembly (12) of the trocar (10) of Figure 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 Figure 13A, the legs (1014) may be curved downward. When the depth limiter (1010) is pressed against the abdominal wall (2), the legs (1014) bend more flatly, providing a reaction spring force against the abdominal wall (2) and the cannula (20). The degree to which the legs (1014) bend more flatly can be controlled by the user. For example, an additional force (e.g., downward hand pressure by the user) can bend the legs (1014) more flatly until the depth limiter (1010) is disposed adjacent to the abdominal wall (2). As the flatness of the legs (1014) increases, the amount of reaction force against the cannula (20) can also increase, thereby increasing the locking force. For example, if the user presses the depth limiter (1010) partially (but not fully) into the deployed configuration, the legs (1014) may have a certain degree of deployment. Further, if the user then applies an off - axis load, one or more of the legs (1014) can be pushed further down than the other legs (1014), but when the off - axis load is removed, the legs (1014) can be equalized and returned to the central home position in a controlled manner.

[0060] Figure 13B shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1010) of FIG. 12 coupled to the cannula tube (22) of the cannula assembly (12) of FIG. 1 after removal and extraction of the occluder (16). The legs (1014) of the depth limiter (1010) are in a deployed configuration where the distal end of the cannula tube (22) is 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 that tilt (i.e., prevent sudden accidental 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) by sufficiently reducing the compression / clamping force of the depth limiter (1010) on the abdominal wall (2) such that the user can manually pull back the depth limiter (1010). The depth limiter (1010) can be disposable or reusable.

[0061] D. Fourth Exemplary Depth Limiter FIG. 14 shows a fourth exemplary depth limiter (1110) that is similar to the depth limiter (1010). The depth limiter (1110) includes a hub (1112) similar to the hub (1012), legs (1114) similar to the legs (1014), an aperture (1116) similar to the aperture (1016), and a gripping surface (1118) of the aperture (1116) similar to the gripping surface (1018). The legs (1114) can include a cup-shaped portion (1120) similar to the cup-shaped portion (1020). Unlike the depth limiter (1010) shown as including four legs (1014), the depth limiter (1110) includes two legs (1114). For example, the legs (1114) can be separated by approximately 180 degrees. The legs (1114) flex in the same manner as the legs (1014) shown above with reference to FIGS. 13A - 13B.

[0062] E. Fifth Exemplary Depth Limiter FIG. 15 shows a fifth exemplary depth limiter (1210) similar to the depth limiters (1010, 1110). The depth limiter (1210) includes a hub (1212) similar to the hub (1012), legs (1214) similar to the legs (1014), an aperture (1216) similar to the aperture (1016), and a gripping surface (1218) of the aperture (1216) similar to the gripping surface (1018). The legs (1114) may include a cup-shaped portion (1220) similar to the cup-shaped portion (1020). Unlike the depth limiter (1010) shown as including four legs (1014), the depth limiter (1210) includes three legs (1214). For example, the legs (1214) may be circumferentially separated uniformly by approximately 120 degrees around the hub (1212). However, the legs (1214) may be separated non-uniformly. In some cases, the use of three or four legs (1014, 1214, 1314, 1414) can enable additional stability and ergonomics and allow for a user (U) finger grip. The legs (1214) may flex in the same manner as the legs (1014) shown above with reference to FIGS. 13A-13B.

[0063] F. Sixth Exemplary Depth Limiter FIGS. 16-18B show a sixth exemplary depth limiter (1310). In particular, FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the depth limiter (1310). As shown, the depth limiter (1310) includes a hub (1312) and a plurality 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 (200, 300) described above. The hub (1312) is shown as being generally cylindrical, although other shapes of the hub (1312) are contemplated. As shown, the hub (1312) includes an aperture (1316) and a plurality of notches (1318). The notches (1318) can convert the depth limiter (1310) from a movable configuration to a fixed configuration.

[0064] The aperture (1316) includes a gripping surface (1320) configured to couple to the outer surface of the cannula tube (124) in a fixed configuration. The gripping surface (1320) may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). FIGS. 17A-18B illustrate the depth limiter (1310) with reference to the cannula tube (124) of the trocar (110), although other cannula tubes (e.g., cannula tube (22)) may also be used. The gripping surface (1320) may be smooth or non-smooth. As shown in FIG. 16, the gripping surface (1320) may include a smooth surface that frictionally engages the rib (128) of the cannula (120) in a fixed configuration. Alternatively, the gripping surface (1320) may include a non-smooth surface that includes one or more features for locking engagement with the cannula tube (124). The hub (1312) of the depth limiter (1310) may be fixed to the cannula (120) with a mating screw (such as a nut) or may be fixed to the scallop cannula using an interference fit. The screw may be helical or non-helical (e.g., scallop). For example, the gripping surface (1320) may include at least one tooth configured to engage in locking engagement with at least one of the ribs (128) of the cannula (120). For example, the notch (1318) may be formed in the hub (1312) of the depth limiter (1310) such that each leg (1314) can be selectively folded when an appropriate force acts on its leg (1314) to clamp the gripping surface (1320) more tightly onto the cannula (120). Accordingly, 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).

[0065] The leg(s) (1314) may have a generally tapered cross-section that moves radially away from the hub (1312). For example, one or more ends of the leg(s) (1314) may include a distal pad (1322) for distributing a downward force. As shown, the leg(s) (1314) are separated by approximately 90 degrees. The leg(s) (1314) may be unevenly separated. Additionally, more or fewer leg(s) (1314) are envisioned (similar to those shown in FIGS. 14 - 15 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 leg(s) (1314) to limit sudden tilting and thereby stabilize the cannula (120). The leg(s) (1314) can contact the body wall to prevent or at least decelerate the tip above the cannula (120).

[0066] FIGS. 17A and 18A show the depth limiter (1310) in a movable configuration. In particular, FIG. 17A shows a top view of the depth limiter (1310) of FIG. 16 with the hub (1312) of the depth limiter (1310) in a movable configuration and coupled to the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of FIG. 5. FIG. 18A shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1310) of FIG. 16 with the leg(s) (1314) of the depth limiter (1310) in a movable configuration and coupled to the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of the trocar (112) of FIG. 5. In the movable configurations of FIGS. 17A and 18A, the gripping surface (1320) forms a second effective diameter (ED2) that allows for 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, it is considered a rest configuration and the leg(s) (1314) are curved downward. When pressed against the abdominal wall (2), the leg(s) (1314) bend more flatly and provide a reaction force against the abdominal wall (2) and the cannula (120).

[0067] Figures 17B and 18B show the depth limiter (1310) in a fixed configuration. In particular, Figure 17B shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1310) of Figure 16 coupled to the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of Figure 5 after removal and removal of the obturator (116), where the legs (1314) of the depth limiter (1310) are in a fixed configuration. Figure 18B shows a partial side cross-sectional view of the depth limiter (1310) of Figure 16 coupled to the cannula tube (124) of the cannula assembly (112) of the trocar (112) of Figure 5 after removal and removal of the obturator (116), where the legs (1314) of the depth limiter (1310) are in a fixed configuration. In the fixed configuration, the notch (1318) can be forced to close in 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 its tilt (i.e., prevent sudden movement inside the body). In the fixed configuration, the gripping surface (1320) collectively forms 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.

[0068] G. The Seventh Exemplary Depth Limiter FIG. 19 shows a top cross-sectional view of a seventh exemplary depth limiter (1410). The depth limiter (1410) includes a hub (1412) and a plurality of legs (1414) extending from the hub (1412). The depth limiter (1410) can be used in combination with any one or more of the depth limiters (200, 300) described above. In some variations, the hub (1412) can 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) can be separated by approximately 90 degrees. However, the legs (1414) can be separated unevenly. Further, more or fewer legs (1414) are also envisioned, similar to the depth limiters (1110, 1210) shown in FIGS. 14-15.

[0069] The depth limiter (1410) includes a fluid chamber (1418) that can be disposed within the hub (1412) and the legs (1414). For example, the fluid chamber (1418) can be completely enclosed by the hub (1412) and the legs (1414). The fluid chamber can include a plurality of fluid passages (1420) that include a narrow portion (1422). The narrow portion (1422) can generally be disposed between the hub (1412) and the legs (1414). The narrow portion (1422) regulates the flow between the hub (1412) and the legs (1414). In other words, the fluid chamber (1418) can be integrated with the legs (1414) that include a narrow portion (1422) that forms a flow restriction region at the base of each leg (1414). As shown, one or more ends of the legs (1414) can include an extensive portion (1424) configured to extend from a compressed configuration (C) to an expanded configuration (E). The depth limiter (1410) can provide additional stability to the trocar (110) for tip resistance. When additional tilting forces act on each independent leg (1414), the fluid can be redistributed to the other legs (1414), but the fluid can be restricted by these restricted regions (1422), thus providing a damping effect on the tilt of the trocar (110). This damping effect can regulate the speed at which the trocar (110) tilts. As a result, the depth limiter (1410) can limit a sudden tilt of the trocar (110) via the restricted fluid flow between the legs (1414), thereby stabilizing the cannula (120).

[0070] The aperture (1416) includes a gripping surface (1426) that can be coupled to the outer surface of the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The gripping surface (1426) can extend parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the cannula tube (124) of the cannula (120). The gripping surface (1426) can be smooth or non-smooth. As shown in FIG. 19, the gripping surface (1426) can include a smooth surface that frictionally engages a rib (128) of the cannula (120). Alternatively, the gripping surface (1426) can include a non-smooth surface that includes one or more features for locking engagement with the cannula tube (124). For example, the hub (1412) of the depth limiter (1410) can be fixed to the cannula (120) or to a scalloped cannula using mating threads (such as a nut). The threads can be helical or non-helical (e.g., scalloped). For example, the gripping surface (1426) can include at least one tooth configured to lockingly engage at least one of the ribs (128) of the cannula (120). The depth limiter (1410) can be disposable.

[0071] III. Exemplary Combinations The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings of this specification can be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the claims that may be presented at any time in this application or a subsequent application of this application. No waiver of any rights is intended. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is contemplated that the various teachings of this specification can be configured and applied in many other ways. Also, in some variations, it is contemplated that certain features mentioned in the following examples may be omitted. Accordingly, none of the aspects or features mentioned below should be considered important unless so expressly indicated later by the inventors or their successors in interest. If the claims presented in this application or a subsequent application related to this application include additional features other than those mentioned below, those additional features should not be considered to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

Example

[0072] A depth limiter configured to couple with the cannula tube of a trocar, comprising: (a) a body extending around a central axis and configured to surround the cannula tube, the body including: (i) a first body portion; (ii) a second body portion opposite the first body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge such that the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotable relative to each other about the hinge between an open configuration and a clamp configuration; (iii) a first inner surface presented by the first body portion; and (iv) a second inner surface presented by the second body portion, in the clamp configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively forming a first effective cross-sectional dimension sized to intersect the central axis and limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar, and in the open configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively forming a second effective cross-sectional dimension sized to intersect the central axis and permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar; and a second inner surface; a body; (b) a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion; and (c) a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member being elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, and in the clamp configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member being configured to engage each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration.

Example

[0073] The depth limiter according to Example 1, wherein the first locking member includes a claw, and the claw is biased radially outwardly relative to the central axis.

Example

[0074] The second locking member includes a rack, and in the clamping configuration, the rack is configured to engage with the claw to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamping configuration, as described in Example 2 of the depth limiter.

Example

[0075] The claw is oriented radially outward with respect to the central axis and includes a claw tooth having a first locking surface and a first cam surface, and the rack is oriented radially inward with respect to the central axis and includes at least one rack tooth having a second locking surface and a second cam surface, as described in Example 3 of the depth limiter.

Example

[0076] The first cam surface and the second cam surface are configured to engage with each other to at least partially redirect the movement of the claw tooth relative to the rack, thereby enabling the approach towards the clamping configuration of the first body portion and the second body portion, and the first locking surface and the second locking surface are configured to engage with each other to stop the movement of the claw tooth relative to the rack, thereby preventing the separation towards the open configuration of the first body portion and the second body portion, as described in Example 4 of the depth limiter.

Example

[0077] The depth limiter according to any one of Examples 1 to 5 further includes a release button configured to selectively engage with at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion towards the open configuration.

Example

[0078] At least one of the first locking member or the second locking member includes a release tab, and the release button is straight radially inward with respect to the central axis and selectively engages with the release tab to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the first body portion and the second body portion to move toward the open configuration. The depth limiter according to Example 6 includes a protrusion configured as such.

Example

[0079] The depth limiter according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the first locking member extends into the internal cavity of the second body portion.

Example

[0080] The depth limiter according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, further comprising a first outer surface and a second outer surface, each including a first finger grip and a second finger grip positioned on the first body portion and the second body portion respectively and on opposite sides in the diameter direction.

Example

[0081] The depth limiter according to Example 9, wherein the first body portion extends between a first hinge end and a first closed end, the second body portion extends between a second hinge end and a second closed end, the first finger grip is positioned at the center between the first hinge end and the first closed end, and the second finger grip is positioned between the second hinge end and the second closed end.

Example

[0082] The depth limiter according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the first inner surface or the second inner surface includes at least one tube gripping feature configured to grip the cannula tube of the trocar.

Example

[0083] The depth limiter according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the first body part and the second body part are biased toward an open configuration.

Example

[0084] The depth limiter according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the hinge includes a living hinge.

Example

[0085] The depth limiter according to Example 13, wherein the first body part, the second body part, and the living hinge are integrally formed as an integral part.

Example

[0086] The depth limiter according to Example 14, wherein the integral part includes a plastic material.

Example

[0087] A surgical access device assembly comprising: (a) a cannula including a working channel configured to guide a surgical instrument along a central axis of the cannula; and (b) a depth limiter movably coupled to the cannula, the depth limiter comprising: (i) a body extending around a central axis of the depth limiter and surrounding the cannula, the body including: (A) a first body portion and a second body portion facing each other and pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge such that the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotable relative to each other about the hinge between an open configuration and a clamp configuration; and (B) a first inner surface and a second inner surface presented by the first body portion and the second body portion, respectively, the first inner surface and the second inner surface defining a first effective cross-sectional dimension transverse to the central axis sized to collectively limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula in the clamp configuration and a second effective cross-sectional dimension transverse to the central axis sized to collectively permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula in the open configuration; (ii) a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion; and (iii) a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member being elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, the first locking member and the second locking member being configured to engage each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration.

Example

[0088] The surgical access device assembly according to Example 16, wherein the first locking member includes a first tooth oriented radially outward relative to the central axis of the depth limiter and having a first locking surface and a first cam surface, and the second locking member includes a second tooth oriented radially inward relative to the central axis of the depth limiter and having a second locking surface and a second cam surface.

Example

[0089] The first cam surface and the second cam surface engage with each other to redirect at least in part the movement of the first locking member relative to the second locking member, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion towards the clamp configuration, and the first locking surface and the second locking surface are configured to stop the movement of the first locking member relative to the second locking member, thereby preventing the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion towards the open configuration, the surgical access device assembly according to Example 17.

Example

[0090] A method of using a depth limiter provided with a trocar, the depth limiter including a first body portion and a second body portion pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge, a first inner surface and a second inner surface respectively positioned on the first body portion and the second body portion, a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion, and a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, at least one of the first locking member and the second locking member being elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, the method including: (a) positioning the first body portion and the second body portion at least partially around the cannula tube of the trocar such that the first body portion and the second body portion are in an open configuration; and (b) pivoting the first body portion and the second body portion relative to each other about the hinge from the open configuration toward a clamp configuration around the cannula tube, wherein in the clamp configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension that restricts axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar, and in the open configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension that allows axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar, and in the clamp configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member engage each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration.

Example

[0091] The depth limiter has a release button, and the method further includes selectively engaging at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member with the release button to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, the method according to Example 19.

[0092] IV. Others It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described in this specification can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described in this specification. Therefore, the above teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should not be considered in isolation from each other. Various suitable ways of combining the teachings of this specification will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the teachings of this specification. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0093] Furthermore, any one or more of the teachings of this specification can be combined with any one or more of the teachings disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP1] (entitled "Pinch-To-Release Cannula Depth Limiter", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP2] (entitled "Multi-Diameter Cannula Depth Limiter", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP4] (entitled "Universal Size Multi-Walled Elastomer Cannula Depth Limiter", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP5] (entitled "Threaded Cannula Depth Limiter", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP6] (entitled "Tilting Tang Cannula Depth Limiter", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP7] (entitled "Two Piece Separable Obturator", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP8] (entitled "Latchless Obturator with Interference Fit Feature", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP9] (entitled "Balancing Feature for Reusable Trocar", filed on the same date as this application), U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP10] (entitled "Airflow Channels and Patterns in Lumen for Cannula", filed on the same date as this application), and / or U.S. Patent Application No. [Agent Docket No. REF NO END9247USNP11] (entitled "Stabilizer for Surgical Shafts or Cannulas").The disclosure of each of these patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference into this specification.

[0094] It should be understood that all or part of any patent, publication, or other disclosure referred to as being incorporated by reference into this specification is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated content does not conflict with existing definitions, opinions, or other disclosure content described in this disclosure. In and of itself, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure content expressly described in this specification shall supersede any conflicting descriptions incorporated by reference into this specification. Any content, or portions thereof, that is referred to as being incorporated by reference into this specification but conflicts with the current definitions, opinions, or other disclosure content described in this specification shall be incorporated only to the extent that no conflict arises between the incorporated content and the current disclosure content.

[0095] The above-described variations of the device can be applied not only to conventional medical procedures and surgeries performed by medical professionals, but also to robot-assisted medical procedures and surgeries. As just one example, the various teachings herein can be readily incorporated into robotic surgical systems such as the DAVINCI (trademark) 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 any of the following various teachings: U.S. Patent No. 5,792,135, entitled "Articulated Surgical Instrument For Performing Minimally Invasive Surgery With Enhanced Dexterity and Sensitivity," issued on August 11, 1998, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; U.S. Patent No. 8,783,541, entitled "Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effector System," issued on July 22, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; U.S. Patent No. 8,479,969, entitled "Drive Interface for Operably Coupling a Manipulatable Surgical Tool to a Robot," issued on July 9, 2013; U.S. Patent No. 8,800,838, entitled "Robotically-Controlled Cable-Based Surgical End Effectors," issued on August 12, 2014 (the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference); and / or U.S. Patent No. 8,573,465, entitled "Robotically-Controlled Surgical End Effector System with Rotary Actuated Closure Systems," issued on November 5, 2013 (the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference).

[0096] The variants of the above devices can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. The variants can, in either or both cases, be readjusted for reuse after at least one use. The readjustment can include any combination of a device disassembly process, followed by a cleaning or replacement process of specific parts, and a subsequent reassembly process. In particular, some variants of the device can be disassembled, and any number of specific parts or components of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. When cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, some variants of the device can be reassembled for subsequent use in a readjustment facility or by the user immediately prior to treatment. Those skilled in the art will understand that various techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly can be utilized in the readjustment of the device. The use of such techniques, and the resulting readjusted device, are all within the scope of this application.

[0097] Merely by way of example, the variants described herein may be sterilized before and / or after treatment. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a sealed and encapsulated container such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. Next, the container and the device may be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma rays, X-rays, or high-energy electron beams. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and within the container. Next, the sterilized device may be stored in the sterilized container for later use. The device can also be sterilized using any other technique well known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma rays, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0098] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by those skilled in the art with appropriate modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. Some of such possible modifications have been described, but other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the above examples, embodiments, geometric shapes, materials, dimensions, ratios, processes, etc. are illustrative and not essential. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be considered with respect to the following claims, and it is understood that it is not limited to the details of the structures and operations shown and described in this specification and the drawings.

[0099] 〔Embodiment〕 (1) A depth limiter configured to couple with a cannula tube of a trocar, (a) A body extending around a central axis and configured to surround the cannula tube, (i) A first body portion, (ii) A second body portion opposite from the first body portion, wherein the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge, such that the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotable relative to each other around the hinge between an open configuration and a clamp configuration, (iii) A first inner surface presented by the first body portion, (iv) A second inner surface presented by the second body portion, wherein in the clamp configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension sized to restrict axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar across the central axis, and in the open configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension sized to permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar across the central axis, a second inner surface; a body comprising, (b) a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion; (c) a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, and comprising: At least one of the first locking member or the second locking member is elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, and in the clamp configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member are configured to engage each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration. Depth limiter. (2) The depth limiter according to embodiment 1, wherein the first locking member includes a claw, and the claw is biased radially outward with respect to the central axis. (3) The depth limiter according to embodiment 2, wherein the second locking member includes a rack, and in the clamp configuration, the rack is configured to engage the claw to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration. (4) The depth limiter according to embodiment 3, wherein the claw is directed radially outward with respect to the central axis and includes a claw tooth having a first locking surface and a first cam surface, and the rack is directed radially inward with respect to the central axis and includes at least one rack tooth having a second locking surface and a second cam surface. (5) The depth limiter according to embodiment 4, wherein the first cam surface and the second cam surface are configured to engage each other to at least partially redirect the movement of the claw tooth relative to the rack, thereby enabling the approach of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the clamp configuration, and the first locking surface and the second locking surface are configured to engage each other to stop the movement of the claw tooth relative to the rack, thereby preventing the separation of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration.

[0100] (6) Further comprising a release button configured to selectively engage with at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 1. (7) At least one of the first locking member or the second locking member includes a release tab, and the release button is straight radially inward with respect to the central axis and selectively engages with the release tab to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 6 including a protruding portion configured as such. (8) The first locking member extends into the internal cavity of the second body portion, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 1. (9) Further comprising first and second outer surfaces respectively positioned on the first body portion and the second body portion and each including a first finger grip and a second finger grip located on opposite sides in the diametrical direction, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 1. (10) The first body portion extends between a first hinge end and a first closed end, the second body portion extends between a second hinge end and a second closed end, the first finger grip is positioned at the center between the first hinge end and the first closed end, and the second finger grip is positioned at the center between the second hinge end and the second closed end, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 9.

[0101] (11) At least one of the first inner surface or the second inner surface includes at least one tube gripping feature configured to grip the cannula tube of the trocar, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 1. (12) The first body portion and the second body portion are biased toward the open configuration, the depth limiter according to Embodiment 1. (13) The depth limiter according to Embodiment 1, wherein the hinge includes a living hinge. (14) The depth limiter according to Embodiment 13, wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as an integral part. (15) The depth limiter according to Embodiment 14, wherein the integral part includes a plastic material.

[0102] (16) A surgical access device assembly, (a) A cannula including a working channel configured to guide a surgical instrument along a central axis of the cannula; (b) A depth limiter movably coupled to the cannula, (i) A body extending around a central axis of the depth limiter and surrounding the cannula, (A) A first body portion and a second body portion facing each other and pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge, such that the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotable relative to each other around the hinge between an open configuration and a clamp configuration; (B) First and second inner surfaces respectively presented by the first body portion and the second body portion, wherein in the clamp configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension across the central axis sized to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula, and in the open configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension across the central axis sized to permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula; (ii) A first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion; (iii) A second locking member positioned within the second body portion, At least one of the first locking member or the second locking member is elastically biased to engage with the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, and in the clamp configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member are configured to engage with each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration. A depth limiter, and a surgical access device assembly comprising the depth limiter. (17) The first locking member is directed radially outward with respect to the central axis of the depth limiter and includes a first tooth having a first locking surface and a first cam surface, and the second locking member is directed radially inward with respect to the central axis of the depth limiter and includes a second tooth having a second locking surface and a second cam surface. The surgical access device assembly according to embodiment 16. (18) The first cam surface and the second cam surface are configured to engage with each other to at least partially redirect the movement of the first locking member relative to the second locking member, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the clamp configuration. The first locking surface and the second locking surface are configured to engage with each other to stop the movement of the first locking member relative to the second locking member, thereby preventing the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration. The surgical access device assembly according to embodiment 17. (19) A method of using a depth limiter with a trocar, the depth limiter including a first body portion and a second body portion pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge, first and second inner surfaces respectively positioned on the first body portion and the second body portion, a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion, and a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member being elastically biased to engage with the other of the first locking member and the second locking member, the method comprising: (a) Position the first body portion and the second body portion at least partially around the cannula tube of the trocar such that the first body portion and the second body portion are in an open configuration; (b) pivot the first body portion and the second body portion relative to each other about the hinge from the open configuration toward a clamped configuration around the cannula tube; and In the clamped configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension that limits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar, and in the open configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension that permits axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar; In the clamped configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member engage each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamped configuration. (20) The depth limiter has a release button, and the method further includes selectively engaging at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member with the release button to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, according to the method of embodiment 19.

Claims

Claim 1 A depth limiter configured to couple with a cannula tube of a trocar, comprising: (a) a body extending around a central axis and configured to surround the cannula tube, the body comprising: (i) a first body portion; (ii) a second body portion facing the first body portion, the first body portion and the second body portion being pivotably coupled to each other by a hinge such that the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotable relative to each other about the hinge between an open configuration and a clamp configuration; (iii) a first inner surface presented by the first body portion; and (iv) a second inner surface presented by the second body portion, wherein in the clamp configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension sized to limit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar across the central axis, and in the open configuration, the first inner surface and the second inner surface collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension sized to permit axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar across the central axis; (b) a first locking member extending from the first body portion towards the second body portion; and (c) a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, wherein at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member is elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, and in the clamp configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member are configured to engage each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamp configuration; the depth limiter further comprising a release button configured to selectively engage at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby permitting movement of the first body portion and the second body portion towards the open configuration. At least one of the first locking member or the second locking member includes a release tab, the release button is straight radially inward with respect to the central axis, and selectively engages with the release tab to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, a depth limiter including a protruding portion configured as such.

2. The depth limiter according to claim 1, wherein the first locking member includes a claw, and the claw is biased radially outward with respect to the central axis.

3. The depth limiter according to claim 2, wherein the second locking member includes a rack, and in the clamped configuration, the rack is configured to engage with the claw to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamped configuration.

4. The depth limiter according to claim 3, wherein the claw is oriented radially outward with respect to the central axis and includes claw teeth having a first locking surface and a first cam surface, and the rack is oriented radially inward with respect to the central axis and includes at least one rack tooth having a second locking surface and a second cam surface.

5. The depth limiter according to claim 4, wherein the first cam surface and the second cam surface engage with each other to at least partially redirect the movement of the claw teeth relative to the rack, thereby enabling the first body portion and the second body portion to approach the clamped configuration, and the first locking surface and the second locking surface engage with each other to stop the movement of the claw teeth relative to the rack, thereby preventing separation of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration.

6. The depth limiter according to claim 1, wherein the first locking member extends into the internal cavity of the second body portion.

7. The depth limiter according to claim 1, further comprising first and second outer surfaces respectively positioned on the first body portion and the second body portion and each including a first finger grip and a second finger grip on opposite sides in the diametrical direction.

8. The first body portion extends between a first hinge end and a first closing end, the second body portion extends between a second hinge end and a second closing end, the first finger grip is positioned centrally between the first hinge end and the first closing end, and the second finger grip is positioned centrally between the second hinge end and the second closing end. The depth limiter according to claim 7.

9. The depth limiter according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first inner surface or the second inner surface includes at least one tube gripping feature configured to grip the cannula tube of the trocar.

10. The depth limiter according to claim 1, wherein the first body portion and the second body portion are biased toward the open configuration.

11. The depth limiter according to claim 1, wherein the hinge includes a living hinge.

12. The depth limiter according to claim 11, wherein the first body portion, the second body portion, and the living hinge are integrally formed together as an integral part.

13. The depth limiter according to claim 12, wherein the integral part includes a plastic material.

14. A surgical access device assembly, (a) a cannula including a working channel configured to guide a surgical instrument along a central axis of the cannula, the cannula; (b) a depth limiter movably coupled to the cannula, (i) a body extending around a central axis of the depth limiter and surrounding the cannula, (A) a first body portion and a second body portion facing each other, pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge, such that the first body portion and the second body portion are pivotable relative to each other around the hinge between an open configuration and a clamp configuration, the first body portion and the second body portion; (B) first and second inner surfaces respectively presented by the first body portion and the second body portion, in the clamping configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension across the central axis of the depth limiter sized to limit the axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula, and in the open configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension across the central axis of the depth limiter sized to allow the axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula, the first and second inner surfaces, and a body including the same; (ii) a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion; (iii) a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, including; at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member is elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member or the second locking member, and in the clamping configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member are configured to engage with each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamping configuration, a depth limiter; the depth limiter further includes a release button configured to selectively engage at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration; at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member includes a release tab, the release button is straight radially inward with respect to the central axis of the depth limiter, and selectively engages the release tab to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, a surgical access device assembly including a protrusion configured as such.

15. The first locking member is oriented radially outward with respect to the central axis of the depth limiter and includes a first tooth having a first locking surface and a first cam surface, and the second locking member is oriented radially inward with respect to the central axis of the depth limiter and includes a second tooth having a second locking surface and a second cam surface. The surgical access device assembly according to claim 14.

16. The first cam surface and the second cam surface are configured to engage with each other to at least partially redirect the movement of the first locking member relative to the second locking member, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the clamp configuration, and the first locking surface and the second locking surface are configured to engage with each other to stop the movement of the first locking member relative to the second locking member, thereby preventing the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration. The surgical access device assembly according to claim 15.

17. A method of using a depth limiter with a trocar, the depth limiter including a first body portion and a second body portion pivotally coupled to each other by a hinge, first and second inner surfaces respectively positioned on the first body portion and the second body portion, a first locking member extending from the first body portion toward the second body portion, and a second locking member positioned within the second body portion, at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member being elastically biased to engage the other of the first locking member and the second locking member, the method comprising (a) positioning the first body portion and the second body portion at least partially around the cannula tube of the trocar such that the first body portion and the second body portion are in an open configuration; and (b) pivoting the first body portion and the second body portion relative to each other about the hinge from the open configuration toward the clamp configuration around the cannula tube. In the clamping configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a first effective cross-sectional dimension that limits the axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar, and in the open configuration, the first and second inner surfaces collectively form a second effective cross-sectional dimension that allows the axial movement of the depth limiter relative to the cannula tube of the trocar. In the clamping configuration, the first locking member and the second locking member engage with each other to selectively lock the first body portion and the second body portion in the clamping configuration. The depth limiter further includes a release button configured to selectively engage with at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration. At least one of the first locking member or the second locking member includes a release tab, and the release button is straight radially inward with respect to the central axis of the depth limiter and selectively engages with the release tab to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration, the method including a protruding portion configured as such. The method according to claim 17, further comprising selectively engaging at least one of the first locking member or the second locking member with the release button to disengage the first locking member and the second locking member from each other, thereby enabling the movement of the first body portion and the second body portion toward the open configuration.

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