18665049. FLEXIBLE INSTRUMENT WITH GROOVED STEERABLE TUBE simplified abstract (INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC.)

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FLEXIBLE INSTRUMENT WITH GROOVED STEERABLE TUBE

Organization Name

INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC.

Inventor(s)

Anoop B. Kowshik of Saratoga CA (US)

Stephen J. Blumenkranz of Los Altos CA (US)

Carolyn M. Fenech of Campbell CA (US)

FLEXIBLE INSTRUMENT WITH GROOVED STEERABLE TUBE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18665049 titled 'FLEXIBLE INSTRUMENT WITH GROOVED STEERABLE TUBE

The abstract describes a medical instrument with an elongate flexible body, a steerable tube in the distal portion, a transition portion, and an inner sheath with conduits and tendons extending through it.

  • The medical instrument has an elongate flexible body with a steerable tube in the distal portion.
  • The inner sheath of the instrument contains conduits that extend through its wall, with tendons passing through them.
  • Tendons extend from the proximal portion into the distal portion of the instrument, allowing for precise control and manipulation.
  • The instrument also features channels in the distal portion for additional functionality.
  • The design allows for intricate procedures to be performed with precision and control.

Potential Applications: - Minimally invasive surgeries - Endoscopic procedures - Interventional radiology

Problems Solved: - Improved maneuverability in tight spaces - Enhanced control during delicate procedures

Benefits: - Increased precision in medical interventions - Reduced risk of damage to surrounding tissues - Enhanced patient outcomes

Commercial Applications: Title: Advanced Medical Instrument for Precision Procedures This technology could be used in hospitals, surgical centers, and other medical facilities for a wide range of procedures, potentially revolutionizing minimally invasive surgeries and endoscopic interventions.

Prior Art: Researchers interested in this technology may want to explore patents related to medical instruments, endoscopy tools, and surgical devices to understand the existing landscape.

Frequently Updated Research: Stay informed about advancements in medical instrument technology, materials science, and surgical techniques to leverage the latest innovations in this field.

Questions about Medical Instrument Innovation: 1. How does this medical instrument improve patient outcomes compared to traditional tools? 2. What are the potential cost implications of using this advanced instrument in medical procedures?


Original Abstract Submitted

A medical instrument comprises an elongate flexible body comprising a proximal portion, a distal portion comprising a steerable tube and a plurality of channels, a transition portion between the proximal portion and the distal portion, and an inner sheath extending at least within the proximal portion. The inner sheath comprises a plurality of conduits extending through a wall of the inner sheath, and a distal end of each conduit terminates at the transition portion. The medical instrument further comprises at least one tendon extending from the proximal portion into the distal portion of the elongate flexible body. In the proximal portion, the tendon extends through at least one conduit of the plurality of conduits. In the distal portion, the tendon extends within at least one channel of the plurality of channels.