US3851642A - Medical examining instrument - Google Patents

Medical examining instrument Download PDF

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Publication number
US3851642A
US3851642A US00280112A US28011272A US3851642A US 3851642 A US3851642 A US 3851642A US 00280112 A US00280112 A US 00280112A US 28011272 A US28011272 A US 28011272A US 3851642 A US3851642 A US 3851642A
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Prior art keywords
tang
slide
handle
arm
lever
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Expired - Lifetime
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US00280112A
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English (en)
Inventor
B Mcdonald
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Medical Testing Systems Inc
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Medical Testing Systems Inc
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Publication date
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Priority to US00280112A priority Critical patent/US3851642A/en
Priority to DE2251264A priority patent/DE2251264A1/de
Priority to IT70357/72A priority patent/IT975363B/it
Priority to GB4919572A priority patent/GB1408382A/en
Priority to FR7237839A priority patent/FR2158962A5/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US3851642A publication Critical patent/US3851642A/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/32—Devices for opening or enlarging the visual field, e.g. of a tube of the body
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/00142—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with means for preventing contamination, e.g. by using a sanitary sheath
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/06—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with illuminating arrangements
    • A61B1/07—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor with illuminating arrangements using light-conductive means, e.g. optical fibres
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M29/00—Dilators with or without means for introducing media, e.g. remedies
    • A61M29/02—Dilators made of swellable material

Definitions

  • ABSTRACT An improved vaginal speculum having hollow transparent plastic blades that fit on tangs extending from a handle.
  • a lower tang is fixed to the handle at about a right angle.
  • a slider can move along the handle and is held in an extended position by a ratchet.
  • the upper tang is mounted on an arm extending from the slider and a thumb operated lever permits the angle between the blades to be changed.
  • Springs bias the blades towards each other with adjustable force and means may be provided at the ends of the blades for gripping a cervix.
  • Various embodiments of blades are disclosed, including one having a slot at its leading end for receiving any of a variety of inserts. Light from a remote light source is transmitted to the end of one or both tangs by a fiber optic bundle.
  • the walls of the vagina are 7 situated in close juxtaposition about their axial center, thus preventing direct visual observation of the cervix uteri as required for medical examination or surgery.
  • the prior art includes a familiar type of device known as a vaginal speculum having a pair of elongated metal blades pivotally joined together about -a fulcrum whereby parting of the blades after their initial placement in situ separates and holds apart the vaginal walls.
  • vaginal specula It is an inherent disadvantage of vaginal specula that the fulcrum supporting structure and the means for retaining the blades in spaced apart relationship unavoidably restricts both the access area and the field of view of the situs which is sought to be examined or operated upon, particularly when instrumental contact with the cervix must be made.
  • tenacula A tenaculum forcibly engages and holds the cervix to prevent its movement during surgical procedures involving the cervix uteri.
  • This instrument is functionally distinguishable from the vaginal speculum in that the latter does not grasp anything but merely spreads the vaginal wall apart.
  • the typical vaginal speculum has a pair of metal blades that engage the walls of the vagina. With such an instrument, cleaning and sterilization between usages is mandatory to prevent the spread of infection from one patient to another. Such a procedure is bothersome and time consuming andusually requires that the physician have several specula available so that some may be used while others are being cleaned. Re.-
  • vaginal speculum sufficiently rugged for surgical purposes and yet inexpensively operated with disposable parts to minimize the need for cleaning and sterilization.
  • an instrument provides illumination for examination or surgical procedures. It is also desirable that the instrument be provided with a variety of blades for grasping the cervix.
  • a speculum having a lower blade support tang fixed on a handle.
  • An upper blade support tang is mounted on a slide for ratcheting movement along the length of the handle.
  • the upper tang is pivoted about an axis transverse to the movement of the slide and a lever on the slide tilts the upper tang.
  • the tangs are resiliently biased towards each other and means are provided for temporarily latching the tangs apart.
  • a hollow transparent blade is fitted on each tang during use of the instrument.
  • An extension may be mounted on each blade for grasping the cervix.
  • Fiber optics may transmit light from a remote light source to the end of one or both tangs. 1
  • FIG. 1 illustrates in perspective one embodiment of combined speculum and tenaculum having removable blades constructed according to principles of this invention
  • FIG. 2 is a transverse cross section through one of the blades of FIG. 1;
  • FIGS is a perspective view of another embodiment of a vaginal speculum constructed according to principles of this invention in a closed position;
  • FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the speculum of FIG. 3 in a partially opened position
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 2 withthe speculum in a fully opened position
  • FIG. 6 is a detailed view of the slide on the speculum of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 7 is a detail of a spring adjustment for the speculum of FIG. 3;
  • FIG. 8 is a detail of attachment of a fiber optic bundle to the handle of the speculum
  • FIG. 9 is a transverse cross section through the blades of the speculum.
  • FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative blade
  • FIG. 11 is an end view of the blade of FIG. 10;
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 are variations of blade tip suitable 1 for use with the speculum
  • FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of blade for the speculum of FIG. 3;
  • FIG. 15 illustrates another blade suitable for the speculum of FIG. 3 with a unique means or holding a cervix
  • FIG. 16 illustrates still another variety of blade suitable for use with the improved medical examining instrument
  • FIG. 1 illustrates in perspective a medical examining instrument constructed according to principles of this invention.
  • a pair of handle elements 401 and 402 are pivotally interconnected by a pin 403.
  • the handles are biased apart by a spring 400.
  • the distal handle 402 is rigidly connected to a lower blade support bracket 404.
  • the proximal handle 401 is adjustably connected to an upper support bracket 406 by a thumb screw 407 to permit adjustment.
  • the upper support bracket can be slidably moved towards and away from the pivot 403 and latched in a desired position by the thumb screw 407 which is free to move in a slot 410.
  • a rectangular, tapered tang 408 extends forwardly from the upper support bracket 406. At least one surface of the tang 408 is provided with small, tooth-like ridges 409 having a shallow angle ramp on a distal edge and a steep ramp on the proximal edge.
  • an upper blade 41 1 made of a transparent plastic material. Since the blade 411 is transparent, an internal cavity 412 can be seen therein and is further seen in the cutaway section of the blade. The internal cavity is blind or closed towards the distal end of the blade 411 and has an open mouth 413 at its proximal end. As illustrated in this embodiment, the blade near the mouth 413 is rectangular in crosssection and so is the mouth of the cavity. The distal end of the blade is curved for use of the instrument within the body and it is therefore preferable that the distal end of the cavity also be curved to conform. This is also seen in FIG. 2 which comprises a cross section of a similar lower blade 414. If desired, the proximal portion of the blade and the mouth 413 can also be made with a curved profile and if this is done, the tang 408 is also made curved to be complementary to the cavity 412.
  • the mouth 413 of the cavity is slid over the tang 408 and across the ridges 409. Since the ridges are somewhat like teeth, they firmly engage the plastic blade to prevent it from being removed under the forces normally encountered in a body examination.
  • a particular advantage of the instrument is that the blades are inexpensive and disposable, thereby elimi nating any need for sterilization between uses. Since the ridges 409 hold the blades in place firmly, other means are provided for removing the blade from the tang 408.
  • the two broader sides 416 of the blade are made relatively thick for strength and rigidity.
  • the narrower side edges 417 are made relatively thin so as to be readily broken by hand.
  • the lower blade 414 and upper blade 411 are preferably identical for ease in manufacture.
  • a slight modification is also shown in FIG. 1 on the lower tang 418 forming a part of the lower blade support bracket404.
  • a plurality of small nibs 419 protrude outwardly from the tang in order to engage the plastic blade and prevent its withdrawal from the end of the tang.
  • the nibs 419 are asymmetrical somewhat like the teeth on a rasp to permit the blade to be inserted readily by hand and yet to inhibit withdraw] of the blade.
  • the fiber optic bundle Protruding forwardly from the tangs 408 and 418 are similar fiber optic bundles 421.
  • the fiber optic bundle is surrounded by a relatively rigid, yet elastically flexible plastic sleeve 422.
  • the sleeve serves to protect the fiber optic bundle from damage when a blade 411 or 414 is removed from the instrument since it can elastically deform to some extent.
  • the cavity 412 within the blade is preferably kept relatively wide in the region surrounding the fiber optic bundle to permit it to be twisted to the side to break away the thin walls 417 without unduly encountering the fiber optic bundle.
  • the fiber optic bundle 421 has an end 423 within the hollow portion of the proximal handle 401. This end is adjacent a high intensity light bulb 424 electrically connected to dry cell batteries 426 in a conventional manner.
  • a switch (not shown) is provided near the upper portion of the proximal handle 401 for easy thumb operation.
  • the fiber optic bundle passes upwardly adjacent the handle 401 and forks into two bundles adjacent the blade support brackets and then the two forks pass through the center of the respective blade mounting tangs 408 and 418.
  • each of the fiber optic bundles is preferably slightly curved relatively inwardly and cut off at a slight angle so that light from the bulb 424 passes through the bundle and is projected from the end 427 somewhat inwardly in a forwardly converging direction. Some of the light is transmitted directly through the transparent blades adjacent the end of the cavity therein and a portion is transmitted along the length of the blades to provide adequate illumination when the instrument is used.
  • the use of a hollow blade that fits on an extending member in the manner of a mortise and tenon is advantageous for ease of use and also foraccommodation of fiber optics or similar lighting sources.
  • the hollow disposable transparent plastic blade permits the lighting to be directed-as desired by permanent fiber optics.
  • the tang may be appreciably longer and the fiber optics have only an end exposed for illumination.
  • a more flexible blade may be used with more rigidity contributed by the tang.
  • Such a long blade may be put on the tang in the manner of a sock or glove and may be removed by tearing away a deliberately weakened section.
  • a strong string or wire may be embedded in the plastic to aid in cutting away the plastic.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates from the right rear another embodiment of speculum constructed according to principles of this invention. As seen in this view, the speculum is in a closed position for insertion into a vagina.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates from the right rear another embodiment of speculum constructed according to principles of this invention. As seen in this view, the speculum is in a closed position for insertion into a vagina.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates from the right rear another embodiment of speculum constructed according to principles of this invention. As seen in this view, the speculum is in a closed position for insertion into a vagina.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates from the right rear another embodiment of speculum constructed according to principles of this invention. As seen in this view, the speculum is in a closed position for insertion into a vagina.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates from the right rear another embodiment of speculum constructed according to principles of this invention. As seen in this view, the speculum is in a closed position for insertion into
  • FIG. 5 illustrates the same instrument in a view similar to FIG. 4 except that it is in a completely open position. Additional details of the instrument are illustrated in fragmentary views 6 to 9.
  • the speculum has a handle portion 20 integral with anangled extension portion 21 that is, in turn, integral with a lower blade support tang 22.
  • the extension portion 21 is recessed or hollowed out on its upper and rearward portions as much as feasible to provide maximum access through the speculum for surgical instruments.
  • the handle and lower blade support tang be made of stainless steel or the like for strength or corrosion resistance. This permits the blade support tang to be rather thin and still retain adequate strength.
  • a slide 23 is mounted for movement along the length of the handle 20.
  • the slide has a T-shaped cross section that fits into a T-shaped slot 24 (FIGS. 4 and 5) extending along the length of the handle, thereby permitting the slide to move up and down and yet be retained rigidly against tilting motions.
  • a series of ratchet teeth 26 are formed on the inside of the T-slot in the handle for engagement by a pawl 27 mounted on the slide 23 (FIG. 6).
  • the pawl is pivotally mounted on a pin 28 extending transverse to the slot.
  • a thumb knob 29 is integral with the pawl.
  • a spring 31 biases the knob so that the pawl engages the teeth 26 unless tilted away by the thumb.
  • This ratchet and pawl arrangement permits upward movement of the slide merely by pressing in an upward direction on the knob 29 with the thumb of the same hand that is holding the handle. Typically this speculum is employed in the left hand and the knob is offset towards the right of the slide for greater convenience.
  • the upper end of the knob 29 is pressed, which plies a downward force on the slide.
  • An upper support arm 32 is integral with the slide 23 or bolted thereto.
  • the support arm 32 extends laterally from the slide, curving outwardly and upwardly to provide a rigid support and yet provide substantial clearance for observation or surgical instruments.
  • a pivot arm 33 is mounted on the upper end of the upper support'arm 32 with a substantial bearing area therebetween for maintaining alignment and preventing wobble.
  • the pivot arm is pivotally mounted to the upper support arm on a bolt 34 fitted with a lock nut 36 for keeping the pivot arm in tight engagement with the upper support arm but sufficiently loose to enable free pivoting.
  • a conventional torsion spring 37 onlyone tip disengages the pawl from the ratchet teeth and also apof which is seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, biases the pivot arm 33 relative to the upper support arm 32 for urging the instrument towards a closed position.
  • An upper blade support tang 38 is integral with the pivot arm 33'and forms an extension thereof opposed to the lower tang 22.
  • Each of the blade support tangs is adapted to receive a hollow transparent plastic blade 39.
  • the blades illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 are open at the rearward end for receiving the respective tang and closed at their forward end much in the manner hereinabove described and illustrated in FIG. 1. Since the blades are mounted on the tangs in these illustrations, the sockets within the blades are not separately seen. If desired, the tangs may be roughened or provided with small teeth for engaging the interior of the blades and inhibiting their withdrawal during use.
  • the blades illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 are plain at the tip and are of the sort used for medical examination or maintaining the vagina in an open position during a surgical procedure. Such blades might be used as much as 75 percent of the time that the speculum is employed. There is no substantial force tending to withdraw the blades from the tangs and the frictional engagement be-. tween a slightly tapered tang. and a tapered socket within the blade is normally sufficient for inhibiting removal of the blade during use.
  • Each of the blades has a semi-circular flange or plate 40 adjacent its open end so that when the speculum is used, none of the metal parts thereof come in contact with the pubis of the patient. Only the disposable plastic parts contact the patient and therefore, for most procedures, it is only necessary to replace the disposable blades and extensive cleaning and sterilization of thespeculum is obviated.
  • the blades are illustrated in transverse cross section in FIG. 9 where the tangs are seen in end view.
  • the tangs and blades are relatively flat on their opposing faces and convex on theirouter faces. This permits the blades to be brought as close together as possible during insertion of the speculum into the vagina.
  • a thumb lever 41 is mounted on a shaft 42 extending across the speculum transverse to the direction of movement of the slide 23.
  • a short lever arm 43 on the other end of the shaft from the thumb lever 41 is connected to a pivot 44.
  • An elevator arm 46 (FIGS. 4 and 5) is also mounted on the pivot 44 at one end. The other end of the elevator arm is connected to the pivot arm 33 by a pivot pin 47.
  • the thumb lever 41 tilts rearwardly at an angle relative to the handle 20.
  • the lever arm 43 and'elevator arm 46 are thus in a downward position and the blades are relatively closed.
  • the torsion spring 37 and another adjustable spring described hereinafter bias the blades towards this closed position.
  • the thumb lever 41 is depressed. This rotates the lever arm 43 mounted on the other end of the shaft 42, causing the elevator arm 46 to rise and pivot the pivot arm 33 about the pivot bolt 34 to swingthe upper blade support tang 38 and its associated blade away from the lower blade support tang 22.
  • a stop 48 on the lever arm 43 encounters the upper support arm 32 for limiting the extent of opening of the blades.
  • Other stops can readily beprovided or, if de-' sired, an adjustment screw may be included on the lever arm or other suitable location for adjustably varying the extent of opening of the speculum.
  • the elevator arm 46 is curved outwardly and upwardly, as is the upper support arm 32, to provide access for surgical instruments observation. Any desired curvature or relative positioning of thepivots can be employed so long as the pivot axes remain, parallel to each other.
  • a latch 49 is mounted on the upper end of the slide and is free to slide transversely thereof.
  • a short shank 51 on the latch extends over a part of the lever 41.
  • An operating pad 52 extends rearwardly from the latch.
  • a pair of blades 39 are fitted onto the upper and lower tangs respectively.
  • the blades are then inserted into the vagina in a closed position as illustrated in FIG. 3.
  • the slide 23 is moved upwardly by pressing on the thumb knob 29.
  • the thumb lever 41 is pressed spreading the tips of the blades apart and the latch 49 is then slipped sidewise for latching the lever down and holding the speculum open. If one is merely conducting an examination it is, of course, not necessary to use the latch and the blades can be maintained apart merely by thumb pressure on the lever.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates in fragmentary cross section an upper portion of the slide 23 where the shaft 42 on which the thumb lever 41 is mounted is located.
  • the end of the shaft on which the lever arm 43 is mounted has a reduced diameter and a knurled spring adjusting knob 53 provides bearing support for the end of the shaft.
  • a short sleeve 54 fits into a counterbore around the shaft in the housing 23 for supporting and centering the adjusting knob 53.
  • a combined tension and torsion spring 55 surrounds a portion of the shaft and has its two ends inserted in holes in the shaft 42 and adjusting knob 53, respectively.
  • Radial serrations 56 are provided between the face of the adjusting knob 53 and the corresponding face of the housing 23.
  • the tension in the spring 55 biases the adjusting knob towards the housing so that the serrations remain in engagement and the knob is secured against rotation relative to the housing.
  • the torsion of the spring 55 biases the shaft relative to the housing in a direction tending to urge the lever arm 43 down and hence bias the tangs towards a closed position.
  • the force of the spring 55 therefore augments the force of the spring 37 (FIGS. 4 and between the upper support arm 32 and the pivot arm 33. i
  • An adjustable biasing force permits the .tips of the blades to impose an adjustable force on the cervix for secure gripping.
  • the adjustment knob 53 is rotated to change the torsion exerted by the spring 55. The knob is simply rotated by thumb pressure and when theexterior is cone shaped and thumb pressure helps release engagement of the serrations between the knob and housing.
  • a conventional fiber optic bundle59 is brought from a remote light source 61 to the handle 20. It has been found desirable to employ a remote light source and an elongated fiber optic bundle to keep the weight of the speculum as low as possible and-provide'high intensity illumination without any generation of heat within the instrument.
  • a male threaded stud 62 on the base of the handle for receiving the end of the fiber optic bunde.
  • a male threaded ferrule 63 is fixed on the fiber optic bundle at a predetermined distance from the end thereof.
  • a female threaded sleeve 64 is used for interconnecting the two male threaded portions 62 and 63 which are provided with a combination of right and left handed threads respectively for assembly.
  • the ferrule 63 is spaced a sufficient distance from the end of the fiber optic bundle so that the bundle can pass up through the handle 20 and extension 21 and along the length of the lower tang 22.
  • the end of the fiber optic bundle is preferably spread in a ribbon like shape with its end terminating at the end of the lower tan 22 as seen in the fragmentary cross section of FIG. 9.
  • Preferably the end of the fiber optic bundle is approximately flush with the end of the tang or it may extend some distance therebeyond within the transparent plastic blades. This interconnection between the fiber optic bundle and the handle permits prepositioning of the end of the fiber optic bundle adjacent the end of the tang and allows removal as may be desired for cleaning or replacement.
  • the fiber optic bundle can be split and one portion thereof can be brought out of the handle and 'into the upper blade support tang 38.,as illustrated in phantom in FIG. 5.
  • Such an arrangement permits illumination by way of both the upper and lower tangs. Suffrcient light intensity can, however, be introduced through the lower tang that it does not appear necessary to use both.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates in side view another embodiment of transparent plastic blade suitable for fitting on the tangs of the speculum.
  • This speculum blade has an internal socket 66 for receiving one of the tangs.
  • a flange or plate 67 is formed on the blade adjacent the open end of the socket 66.
  • At the opposite closed end of the blade there are a plurality of teeth 68 as seen in the end view of FIG. 11.
  • the teeth 68 engage the cervix in the manner of a tenaculum and hold it securely for surgical procedures.
  • FIG. 12. illustrates a variation in the tip of a blade of the type illustrated in FIG. 10. According to this arrangement the teeth 69 are angled distally for somewhat greater extension and grasping of the cervix.
  • FIG. 13 illustrates another variation of the tip of the speculum blade wherein the teeth 71 are angled proximally for better gripping of thecervix in some circumstances.
  • Other variations in the tip of the blade will be apparent to one skilled in the art.
  • a pair of spaced apart teeth may be provided on each blade so that the cervix is engaged by four opposed teeth.
  • FIG. 14 illustrates in exploded perspective a particularly preferred blade for use with the improved speculum.
  • the blade is formed of a transparent plastic material and has an open ended socket 73 so that the blade can be fitted onto a tang of the speculum.
  • a semi-circular flange or plate 74 at the base of the blade serves to prevent contact of the balance of the speculum with the pubis of the patient.
  • a second socket 76 open to the tip and closed at its inner end.-A pair of ribs 77 extend into the socket 76 from one wall thereof and are parallel to the length of the blade.
  • a steel or plastic insert 78 can be fitted into the socket 76 to extend the length of the blade. Ridges or teeth 79 on one or both faces of the insert engage the inner wall of the socket 76 and permit the insert to be pressed in but inhibit its withdrawal. Shallow grooves 81 extending along the length of the insert receive the ribs 77 to help hold the insert in firm alignment with the blade. Any of a variety of arrangements of teeth 82 may be provided on the end of the insert. In the illustrated arrangement the socket 76 is flat and so is the insert that fits therein. It will be apparent that if desired both the socket 76 and the insert 78 may be curved to more nearly conform to the curvature of the blade.
  • a blade with an insert such as illustrated in FIG. 14 is valuable for a variety of reasons.
  • the blade alone on a speculum may be employed for initial examination and then after it is ascertained which of a variety of tips might be suitable, the speculum can be withdrawn and a suitable insert 78 pressed into each blade.
  • a surgical procedure can then be conducted without changing the blades on the speculum. When such a procedure is completed the entire blade and insert is simply discarded.
  • a variety of inserts having different tooth arrangements, for example, or different lengths may be maintained and all fit into a standard blade.
  • Steel inserts can also have teeth that are bendable so that the physician can adjust the teeth to suit a particular condition noted during an examination.
  • the blades of this embodiment can be provided in pre-packaged, sterile, prelubricated pairs for quick and easy use. Pairs of inserts can also be provided separately for maximum selectiv ity.
  • FIG. illustrates still another embodiment of blade suitable for use in practice of this invention.
  • the blade has a socket 84 for fitting on the tang of a speculum.
  • a a semicircular flange or plate 85 is provided at the proximal end of the blade.
  • a channel or conduit 86 is provided along the length of the bladenear each side edge thereof from the rear end that connects to the speculum to the tip end thereof.
  • the channels may be used for irrigation, application of medication, or for a skewer for tightly gripping the cervix.
  • One such skewer 87 is illustrated inserted through one of the channels 86.
  • the skewer is an elongated rod having a'thread 88 at the distal end thereof.
  • the threaded portion may, for example, be
  • the skewer 87 At its opposite or proximal end the skewer 87 has a threaded'portion 89 extending a substantial distance along its length. A flattened end 91 serves as a finger grip. A threaded nut 92 is provided on the threaded portion 89 for adjustment along the length of the skewer.
  • the speculum with blades as illustrated inFIG. 15 is inserted in the usual manner. From one to fourskewers can then be inserted through thechannels 86 and the threaded end 88 forcibly screwed into the rather stiff flesh of the cervix. Although such a procedure is relatively drastic it can be highly valuable when the cervix is anteverted or retracted or if a very fixed traction of the cervix-is required. Oncev the threaded ends 88v are securely threaded into the flesh of the cervix the nut 92 is spun down to engage the gauntlet of the blade. In this manner the cervix is very rigidly held.
  • the speculum is also rigidly held in position the cervix is firmly anchored and the doctor can have both hands free for surgical procedures. Furthermore with threaded skewers in place, spreading of the speculum blades will tend to open the cervical canal.
  • FIG. 16 illustrates still another embodiment of blade useful with the improved speculum.
  • This blade also has a pair of channels 93 extending along the length thereof (as will be apparent only one such channel is actually needed) Rubber plugs 94 are fitted into the channels at their rearward end.
  • a curved inflatable cuff 96 is provided at the tip end of the blade in fluid communication with one or both of the channels 93.
  • the inwardly facing surface 97 of the inflatable cuff is roughened or provided with a series of knobs for gripping a cervix.
  • This blade is used in substantially the same'manner as other blades for a combined speculum and tenaculum.
  • the blade When the blade has been inserted and is positioned adjacent the cervix the blade is inflated with saline solution injected through one of the rubber plugs 94 by a hypodermic syringe 98. Inflation of the opposing curved cuffs 96 brings them in engagement with the cervix for gripping it tightly yet with some gentleness and resiliency.
  • the cuff is deflated with a syringe or merely by snapping out one of the rubber plugs.
  • vaginal specula and blades therefor have been described and illustrated herein, many modifications and variations will be apparent to one skilled in the art. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.
  • a vaginal speculum comprising: an elongated operating handle having an upper end and a lower end; a lower blade support tang fixed on the handle; a slide mounted for movement along the length of the handle; releasable ratchet means for permitting upward movement of the slide and inhibiting downward movement of the slide; an upper blade support tang, said upper and lower blade support tangs each adapted to receive and temporarily support a hollow transparent blade; means for mounting the upper tang on the slide for pivoting about an axis transverse to the direction of movement of the slide; lever operated means mounted on the slide for pivoting the upper tang towards and away from the lower tang; resilient means for lower tang; means for adjusting the biasing force of the resilient means; and means for temporarily latching the upper tang in a open position relative to the lower tang.
  • a vaginal speculum as defined in claim 1 further comprising: i
  • a vaginal speculum as defined in claim 2 comprising:
  • vaginal speculum as defined in claim 1 wherein the means for pivoting the upper tang comprises:
  • pivots having axes parallel to the axis of pivoting of the lever arm.
  • a vaginal speculum as defined in claim 4 wherein the ratchet means comprises:
  • a vaginal speculum comprising:
  • an elongated operating handle having an upper end and a lower end;
  • a slide having a T-shaped cross section mounted in the slot for movement along the length thereof betweena lower closed positionand an upper open position, the top of the slide being below the top of the lower blade support tang in both the open and closed positions;
  • a spring loaded pawl on the slide for permitting upward movement of the slide and inhibiting downward movement of the slide relative to the handle;
  • a support arm fixed on the slide and extending laterally and upwardly therefrom to a position above the lower tang and leaving a clear field of view adjacent the upper face of the lower tang;
  • a thumb lever mounted on top of the slide for pivoting about an axis transverse to the slide;
  • pivot means for connecting the lower end of the elevator arm to the lever arm
  • pivot means for connecting the upper end of the elevator arm to the pivot arm so that pressure on the thumb lever pivots the upper blade support tang away from the lower blade support tang;
  • a vaginal speculum as defined in claim 8 further comprising means for latching the thumb lever in a depressed condition with the upper blade support tang pivoted away from the lower blade support tang.
  • a vaginal speculum as defined in claim 9 wherein the means or latching comprises a latch member mounted on the slide for translation transverse to the direction of movement of the slide and including a portion for engaging the thumb lever.
  • a vaginal speculum as defined in claim 8 further comprising means for temporarily latching the upper tang in an open position relative to the lower tang.
  • vaginal speculum as defined in claim 11 further comprising:

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Anesthesiology (AREA)
  • Hematology (AREA)
  • Vascular Medicine (AREA)
  • Endoscopes (AREA)
  • Surgical Instruments (AREA)
US00280112A 1971-10-26 1972-08-14 Medical examining instrument Expired - Lifetime US3851642A (en)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US00280112A US3851642A (en) 1971-10-26 1972-08-14 Medical examining instrument
DE2251264A DE2251264A1 (de) 1971-10-26 1972-10-19 Spekulum mit haken fuer die untersuchung von koerper-hohlraeumen
IT70357/72A IT975363B (it) 1971-10-26 1972-10-25 Strumento per esami medici
GB4919572A GB1408382A (en) 1972-08-14 1972-10-25 Specula
FR7237839A FR2158962A5 (enExample) 1971-10-26 1972-10-25

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US19239071A 1971-10-26 1971-10-26
US00280112A US3851642A (en) 1971-10-26 1972-08-14 Medical examining instrument

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US3851642A true US3851642A (en) 1974-12-03

Family

ID=26888037

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US00280112A Expired - Lifetime US3851642A (en) 1971-10-26 1972-08-14 Medical examining instrument

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Country Link
US (1) US3851642A (enExample)
DE (1) DE2251264A1 (enExample)
FR (1) FR2158962A5 (enExample)
IT (1) IT975363B (enExample)

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US4300541A (en) * 1979-02-09 1981-11-17 Kermit Burgin Speculum lens structure
US4562832A (en) * 1984-01-21 1986-01-07 Wilder Joseph R Medical instrument and light pipe illumination assembly
US4566439A (en) * 1984-07-16 1986-01-28 Burgin Kermit H Acrylooptic examination device with auxiliary light
US4592344A (en) * 1980-07-25 1986-06-03 Scheer Peter M Combination illuminator and lip and cheek expander
US4597382A (en) * 1984-03-16 1986-07-01 Perez Jr Raul Medical speculum and procedure
US4615334A (en) * 1985-07-16 1986-10-07 Jaeger John C Surgical pad for gynecological procedures
US4616257A (en) * 1985-06-13 1986-10-07 Luxtec Corporation Headlight
USD289926S (en) 1985-01-23 1987-05-19 Trylon Associates, Ltd. Light source attachment for endoscopes
US4807600A (en) * 1986-10-15 1989-02-28 Hayes Allen L Speculum protector
US4834077A (en) * 1985-03-19 1989-05-30 Sun William Y Sterile disposable linguiform laryngoscope blade sheath
US4979499A (en) * 1985-03-19 1990-12-25 Sun William Y Sterile disposable linguiform laryngoscope blade sheath
US5007409A (en) * 1989-10-12 1991-04-16 Pope Susan G Medical speculum blade sheath
US5072720A (en) * 1990-01-08 1991-12-17 Francis Walter C Vaginal speculum
US5243966A (en) * 1992-07-27 1993-09-14 Ng Raymond C Method for speculum sheathing and sheathing use
US5318010A (en) * 1989-01-27 1994-06-07 Danvag Ltd. Medical instrument
US5347995A (en) * 1993-03-25 1994-09-20 Slater William M Laryngoscope blade cover
US5785648A (en) * 1996-10-09 1998-07-28 David Min, M.D., Inc. Speculum
WO1998055029A1 (en) * 1997-06-02 1998-12-10 General Surgical Innovations, Inc. Vascular retractor
US5865729A (en) * 1997-10-10 1999-02-02 Olympus America, Inc. Apparatus for facilitating gynecological examinations and procedures
US6176824B1 (en) 1996-10-29 2001-01-23 James M. Davis Fiberoptically illuminated appliances
US6196968B1 (en) * 1997-06-02 2001-03-06 General Surgical Innovations, Inc. Direct vision subcutaneous tissue retractor and method for use
US6416467B1 (en) 2000-09-15 2002-07-09 Mcmillin Matthew Vaginal speculum and method of using same
US20040225196A1 (en) * 2003-05-09 2004-11-11 Ruane Bernard Joseph Expandable and pivotally adjustable surgical retractor
US20050021069A1 (en) * 2003-07-24 2005-01-27 Gerald Feuer Inflatable apparatus for accessing body cavity and methods of making
US20050043633A1 (en) * 2003-08-19 2005-02-24 Marcotte Jacques R. Multi-positionable vaginal speculum with removable blades
US6960166B1 (en) * 2002-11-05 2005-11-01 Irwin Lane Wong Speculum having ultrasound probe
WO2006021069A1 (en) * 2004-08-23 2006-03-02 Marcotte Jacques R Multi-positionable vaginal speculum with removable blades
US7070561B1 (en) * 2003-12-26 2006-07-04 Amir Ansari Adjustable weighted vaginal speculum
US20060224043A1 (en) * 2005-04-04 2006-10-05 Guinan William P Vaginal speculum
US20060293567A1 (en) * 2000-05-04 2006-12-28 German Borodulin Universal vaginal speculum with disconnectable blades
EP1769731A1 (en) 2005-09-29 2007-04-04 Forth-Photonics Ltd Vaginal speculum arrangement
US20070255110A1 (en) * 2006-04-28 2007-11-01 Maine Medical Center Operative vaginal speculum
US20080146886A1 (en) * 2006-12-18 2008-06-19 David Brian Lucas Speculum
US20080146885A1 (en) * 2006-12-18 2008-06-19 Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc. Retractors facilitating imaging during surgery
US20080242938A1 (en) * 2007-03-27 2008-10-02 Daniel Larkin Speculum blade covers
US20090312610A1 (en) * 2008-06-13 2009-12-17 Obp Corporation Disposable Speculums Having Single-Sided Support and Operating Mechanism
US20100217091A1 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-08-26 Gynex Corporation Vaginal speculum providing an unobstructed view
US20110196209A1 (en) * 2010-02-07 2011-08-11 Dane Shipp Speculum Blade Extender
US8088066B2 (en) * 2007-10-24 2012-01-03 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
US20120035638A1 (en) * 2009-03-26 2012-02-09 Vickneswaran Mathaneswaran Apparatus for surgery
US20140148653A1 (en) * 2005-04-01 2014-05-29 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum apparatus
WO2014201080A1 (en) * 2013-06-11 2014-12-18 New York University Vaginal speculum
US9532706B2 (en) 2014-08-07 2017-01-03 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum with illuminator
US9867602B2 (en) 2015-02-05 2018-01-16 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated surgical retractor
US9913577B2 (en) 2010-09-28 2018-03-13 Obp Medical Corporation Speculum
US10278572B1 (en) 2017-10-19 2019-05-07 Obp Medical Corporation Speculum
US10420538B2 (en) 2015-02-05 2019-09-24 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated surgical retractor
US10512519B2 (en) 2018-02-20 2019-12-24 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated medical devices
US10687793B2 (en) 2017-07-18 2020-06-23 Obp Medical Corporation Minimally invasive no touch (MINT) procedure for harvesting the great saphenous vein (GSV) and venous hydrodissector and retractor for use during the MINT procedure
US10687699B2 (en) 2017-03-17 2020-06-23 CEEK Enterprises Lighting module for a medical device and methods for using the same
US10722621B2 (en) 2016-07-11 2020-07-28 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated suction device
US10799229B2 (en) 2018-02-20 2020-10-13 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated medical devices
USD904607S1 (en) 2019-05-07 2020-12-08 Obp Medical Corporation Nasal retractor
US10881387B2 (en) 2015-06-03 2021-01-05 Obp Medical Corporation Retractor
USD911521S1 (en) 2019-02-19 2021-02-23 Obp Medical Corporation Handle for medical devices including surgical retractors
US10939899B2 (en) 2015-06-03 2021-03-09 Obp Medical Corporation End cap assembly for retractor and other medical devices
US10952712B2 (en) 2015-06-03 2021-03-23 Obp Medical Corporation Retractor
US10959609B1 (en) 2020-01-31 2021-03-30 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated suction device
US10966702B1 (en) 2020-02-25 2021-04-06 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated dual-blade retractor
US11147444B2 (en) 2015-12-29 2021-10-19 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Speculum with secondary bills
US11382711B2 (en) 2008-08-13 2022-07-12 Invuity, Inc. Cyclo olefin polymer and copolymer medical devices
US20220218183A1 (en) * 2021-01-11 2022-07-14 Ease Medical, Inc. Sleeve system for speculum and speculum system comprising same
USD963908S1 (en) 2017-03-24 2022-09-13 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Medical device lighting module
US20230091940A1 (en) * 2020-02-17 2023-03-23 The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York Adaptor for surgical retractors
USD986415S1 (en) 2020-09-11 2023-05-16 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Speculum
US11896201B2 (en) 2015-12-29 2024-02-13 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Insertable sleeve for speculum and use thereof
US11931002B2 (en) 2015-12-29 2024-03-19 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Sleeve for speculum and use thereof
US12318080B2 (en) 2023-07-21 2025-06-03 Coopersurgical, Inc. Illuminated surgical retractor capable of hand-held operation and of being mounted to a fixed frame
US12502165B2 (en) 2023-07-27 2025-12-23 Coopersurgical, Inc. Illuminated medical devices

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Cited By (116)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD245515S (en) * 1975-11-21 1977-08-23 Concept, Inc. Light for vaginal speculum
US4300541A (en) * 1979-02-09 1981-11-17 Kermit Burgin Speculum lens structure
US4592344A (en) * 1980-07-25 1986-06-03 Scheer Peter M Combination illuminator and lip and cheek expander
US4562832A (en) * 1984-01-21 1986-01-07 Wilder Joseph R Medical instrument and light pipe illumination assembly
US4597382A (en) * 1984-03-16 1986-07-01 Perez Jr Raul Medical speculum and procedure
US4566439A (en) * 1984-07-16 1986-01-28 Burgin Kermit H Acrylooptic examination device with auxiliary light
USD289926S (en) 1985-01-23 1987-05-19 Trylon Associates, Ltd. Light source attachment for endoscopes
US4834077A (en) * 1985-03-19 1989-05-30 Sun William Y Sterile disposable linguiform laryngoscope blade sheath
US4979499A (en) * 1985-03-19 1990-12-25 Sun William Y Sterile disposable linguiform laryngoscope blade sheath
US4616257A (en) * 1985-06-13 1986-10-07 Luxtec Corporation Headlight
US4615334A (en) * 1985-07-16 1986-10-07 Jaeger John C Surgical pad for gynecological procedures
US4807600A (en) * 1986-10-15 1989-02-28 Hayes Allen L Speculum protector
US5318010A (en) * 1989-01-27 1994-06-07 Danvag Ltd. Medical instrument
US5007409A (en) * 1989-10-12 1991-04-16 Pope Susan G Medical speculum blade sheath
US5072720A (en) * 1990-01-08 1991-12-17 Francis Walter C Vaginal speculum
US5243966A (en) * 1992-07-27 1993-09-14 Ng Raymond C Method for speculum sheathing and sheathing use
US5347995A (en) * 1993-03-25 1994-09-20 Slater William M Laryngoscope blade cover
US5785648A (en) * 1996-10-09 1998-07-28 David Min, M.D., Inc. Speculum
US6176824B1 (en) 1996-10-29 2001-01-23 James M. Davis Fiberoptically illuminated appliances
WO1998055029A1 (en) * 1997-06-02 1998-12-10 General Surgical Innovations, Inc. Vascular retractor
US6196968B1 (en) * 1997-06-02 2001-03-06 General Surgical Innovations, Inc. Direct vision subcutaneous tissue retractor and method for use
US5865729A (en) * 1997-10-10 1999-02-02 Olympus America, Inc. Apparatus for facilitating gynecological examinations and procedures
US20080287744A1 (en) * 2000-05-04 2008-11-20 German Borodulin Universal vaginal speculum with permanent handle and disposable disconnectable blades that prevent contact of the distal part of the handle with vaginal cavity
US20060293567A1 (en) * 2000-05-04 2006-12-28 German Borodulin Universal vaginal speculum with disconnectable blades
US7654953B2 (en) * 2000-05-04 2010-02-02 German Borodulin Universal vaginal speculum with disconnectable blades
US6416467B1 (en) 2000-09-15 2002-07-09 Mcmillin Matthew Vaginal speculum and method of using same
US6960166B1 (en) * 2002-11-05 2005-11-01 Irwin Lane Wong Speculum having ultrasound probe
US7141015B2 (en) 2003-05-09 2006-11-28 Bernard Joseph Ruane Expandable and pivotally adjustable surgical retractor
US20040225196A1 (en) * 2003-05-09 2004-11-11 Ruane Bernard Joseph Expandable and pivotally adjustable surgical retractor
US20050021069A1 (en) * 2003-07-24 2005-01-27 Gerald Feuer Inflatable apparatus for accessing body cavity and methods of making
US20050043633A1 (en) * 2003-08-19 2005-02-24 Marcotte Jacques R. Multi-positionable vaginal speculum with removable blades
US7311663B2 (en) 2003-08-19 2007-12-25 Marcotte Jacques R Multi-positionable vaginal speculum with removable blades
US7070561B1 (en) * 2003-12-26 2006-07-04 Amir Ansari Adjustable weighted vaginal speculum
WO2006021069A1 (en) * 2004-08-23 2006-03-02 Marcotte Jacques R Multi-positionable vaginal speculum with removable blades
US9883792B2 (en) 2005-04-01 2018-02-06 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum apparatus
US20140148653A1 (en) * 2005-04-01 2014-05-29 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum apparatus
US10376138B2 (en) 2005-04-01 2019-08-13 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum apparatus
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US12262878B2 (en) 2005-04-01 2025-04-01 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum apparatus
US9332898B2 (en) * 2005-04-01 2016-05-10 Welch Allyn, Inc. Vaginal speculum apparatus
US7384393B2 (en) 2005-04-04 2008-06-10 Guinan William P Vaginal speculum
US20060224043A1 (en) * 2005-04-04 2006-10-05 Guinan William P Vaginal speculum
EP1769731A1 (en) 2005-09-29 2007-04-04 Forth-Photonics Ltd Vaginal speculum arrangement
WO2007036744A2 (en) 2005-09-29 2007-04-05 Forth Photonics Limited Vaginal speculum arrangement
US20070255110A1 (en) * 2006-04-28 2007-11-01 Maine Medical Center Operative vaginal speculum
US8636654B2 (en) * 2006-12-18 2014-01-28 Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc. Retractors facilitating imaging during surgery
US20080146886A1 (en) * 2006-12-18 2008-06-19 David Brian Lucas Speculum
US20080146885A1 (en) * 2006-12-18 2008-06-19 Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc. Retractors facilitating imaging during surgery
US20080242938A1 (en) * 2007-03-27 2008-10-02 Daniel Larkin Speculum blade covers
US10582844B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2020-03-10 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
US12161301B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2024-12-10 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
US9060707B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2015-06-23 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
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US9468366B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2016-10-18 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
US8088066B2 (en) * 2007-10-24 2012-01-03 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
US9986901B2 (en) 2007-10-24 2018-06-05 Invuity, Inc. Blade insert illuminator
US20090312610A1 (en) * 2008-06-13 2009-12-17 Obp Corporation Disposable Speculums Having Single-Sided Support and Operating Mechanism
US8096945B2 (en) 2008-06-13 2012-01-17 Obp Corporation Disposable speculums having single-sided support and operating mechanism
US11382711B2 (en) 2008-08-13 2022-07-12 Invuity, Inc. Cyclo olefin polymer and copolymer medical devices
US20100217091A1 (en) * 2009-02-20 2010-08-26 Gynex Corporation Vaginal speculum providing an unobstructed view
US9486131B2 (en) * 2009-03-26 2016-11-08 Universiti Malaya Apparatus for surgery
US20120035638A1 (en) * 2009-03-26 2012-02-09 Vickneswaran Mathaneswaran Apparatus for surgery
US8834362B2 (en) * 2010-02-07 2014-09-16 Dane Maxwell Shipp Speculum blade extender
US20110196209A1 (en) * 2010-02-07 2011-08-11 Dane Shipp Speculum Blade Extender
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US11896201B2 (en) 2015-12-29 2024-02-13 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Insertable sleeve for speculum and use thereof
US11931002B2 (en) 2015-12-29 2024-03-19 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Sleeve for speculum and use thereof
US11147444B2 (en) 2015-12-29 2021-10-19 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Speculum with secondary bills
US11717374B2 (en) 2016-07-11 2023-08-08 Obp Surgical Corporation Illuminated suction device
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US10687699B2 (en) 2017-03-17 2020-06-23 CEEK Enterprises Lighting module for a medical device and methods for using the same
US12167838B2 (en) 2017-03-17 2024-12-17 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Lighting module for a medical device and methods for using the same
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US11744568B2 (en) 2018-02-20 2023-09-05 Obp Surgical Corporation Illuminated medical devices
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US10959609B1 (en) 2020-01-31 2021-03-30 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated suction device
US12246124B2 (en) 2020-01-31 2025-03-11 Coopersurgical, Inc. Illuminated suction device
US11617822B2 (en) 2020-01-31 2023-04-04 Obp Surgical Corporation Illuminated suction device
US20230091940A1 (en) * 2020-02-17 2023-03-23 The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York Adaptor for surgical retractors
US10966702B1 (en) 2020-02-25 2021-04-06 Obp Medical Corporation Illuminated dual-blade retractor
US11622758B2 (en) 2020-02-25 2023-04-11 Obp Surgical Corporation Illuminated dual-blade retractor
USD986415S1 (en) 2020-09-11 2023-05-16 Ceek Women's Health, Inc. Speculum
US20220218183A1 (en) * 2021-01-11 2022-07-14 Ease Medical, Inc. Sleeve system for speculum and speculum system comprising same
US12318080B2 (en) 2023-07-21 2025-06-03 Coopersurgical, Inc. Illuminated surgical retractor capable of hand-held operation and of being mounted to a fixed frame
US12502165B2 (en) 2023-07-27 2025-12-23 Coopersurgical, Inc. Illuminated medical devices

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2158962A5 (enExample) 1973-06-15
DE2251264A1 (de) 1973-05-10
IT975363B (it) 1974-07-20

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