Endoluminal tool deployment system
First Claim
1. An apparatus for manipulating tissue, comprising:
- an end effector having first and second arm members each adapted to be flexible along its length and further adapted to be endoscopically deployed; and
an actuating mechanism including a tensioning cable that is adapted to be tensioned to reconfigure at least the first or second arm member such that tissue is engaged between the arm members.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Systems, devices and methods are provided for endoscopic procedures involving tissue manipulations beyond the capabilities of traditional endoscopic instruments. Embodiments of the systems include an elongated main body having a scope therethrough and at least one steerable tool arm which extends from the distal end of the main body. In preferred embodiments, the system includes two tool arms, each arm steerable to form a curve laterally outward which then bends laterally inward so that the arms form an angular shape. In addition, end effectors extend from the distal ends of each tool arm for use in manipulation of tissue. The angular shape brings the end effectors together in view of the scope for cooperative movements which are continuously visible by the surgeon. In addition, the tool arms may be steerable in any additional direction and may be rotateable to allow grasping, elevation and more complex manipulation of tissue.
366 Citations
38 Claims
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1. An apparatus for manipulating tissue, comprising:
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an end effector having first and second arm members each adapted to be flexible along its length and further adapted to be endoscopically deployed; and
an actuating mechanism including a tensioning cable that is adapted to be tensioned to reconfigure at least the first or second arm member such that tissue is engaged between the arm members. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
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13. An apparatus for manipulating tissue, comprising:
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an end effector having first and second flexible arm members each adapted to be flexible along its length and wherein at least the first arm member includes a piercing element disposed therein or thereon which is adapted to penetrate tissue; and
an actuating mechanism including a cable that is adapted to be tensioned to reconfigure at least the first or second arm member such that tissue is penetrated by the piercing member between the first and second arm members. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27)
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28. A system for manipulating tissue, comprising:
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an elongate endoscopic device having a proximal end, a distal end, and a length therebetween;
an end effector having first and second flexible arm members each adapted to be flexible along its length and extending from the distal end of the endoscopic device; and
an actuating mechanism including a cable that is adapted to be tensioned to reconfigure at least the first or second arm member such that tissue is engaged between the arm members. - View Dependent Claims (29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38)
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Specification