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Flexible cutting tool and methods for its use

  • US 6,068,642 A
  • Filed: 08/31/1998
  • Issued: 05/30/2000
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/01/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A cutting tool comprising:

  • an elongated, flexible cutting element having a longitudinal axis about which the cutting element may be rotated and comprising at least one cable, each at least one cable comprising an outer layer of helically wound fibers, and cutting means comprising at least one fiber having a cutting edge disposed at the distal end of the cutting element to perform a cutting function when the cutting element is rotated;

    a motor attached to said cutting element remote from its distal end for rotating the cutting element about its longitudinal axis; and

    an elongated holder having an opening for supporting the cutting element and through which the cutting element may be advanced axially, the holder having a distal end and opening for supporting the cutting element during a drilling operation and through which the distal end of the cutting element protrudes and advances, the holder including a cutting element support shaped to orient the longitudinal axis of the cutting element adjacent its distal end and to maintain such orientation as the cutting element is rotated and advanced in a cutting operation.

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