US20040049172A1 - Reusable instruments and related systems and methods - Google Patents

Reusable instruments and related systems and methods Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20040049172A1
US20040049172A1 US10/391,536 US39153603A US2004049172A1 US 20040049172 A1 US20040049172 A1 US 20040049172A1 US 39153603 A US39153603 A US 39153603A US 2004049172 A1 US2004049172 A1 US 2004049172A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
client
reusable instrument
instrument
reusable
endoscope
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/391,536
Inventor
Thomas Root
Robert Krupa
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
OPTIM Inc
Original Assignee
OPTIM Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by OPTIM Inc filed Critical OPTIM Inc
Priority to US10/391,536 priority Critical patent/US20040049172A1/en
Assigned to OPTIM, INC. reassignment OPTIM, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KRUPA, ROBERT J., ROOT, THOMAS V.
Assigned to FISH & RICHARDSON P.C. reassignment FISH & RICHARDSON P.C. NOTIFICATION OF ARTISAN'S LIEN UNDER DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CODE 38-124 AND COMPARABLE OTHER STATUTES Assignors: OPTIM, INC.
Publication of US20040049172A1 publication Critical patent/US20040049172A1/en
Assigned to OPTIM INCORPORATED reassignment OPTIM INCORPORATED TERMINATION OF ARTISAN'S LIEN Assignors: Fish & Richardson, PC
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00Instruments 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
    • A61B1/00002Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/00011Operational features of endoscopes characterised by signal transmission
    • A61B1/00016Operational features of endoscopes characterised by signal transmission using wireless means
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00Instruments 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
    • A61B1/00002Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/00059Operational features of endoscopes provided with identification means for the endoscope
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00Instruments 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
    • A61B1/00002Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/00062Operational features of endoscopes provided with means for preventing overuse
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00Instruments 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
    • A61B1/12Instruments 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 cooling or rinsing arrangements
    • A61B1/121Instruments 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 cooling or rinsing arrangements provided with means for cleaning post-use
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06QINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q30/00Commerce
    • G06Q30/04Billing or invoicing
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00Instruments 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
    • A61B1/00002Operational features of endoscopes
    • A61B1/00025Operational features of endoscopes characterised by power management
    • A61B1/00027Operational features of endoscopes characterised by power management characterised by power supply
    • A61B1/00029Operational features of endoscopes characterised by power management characterised by power supply externally powered, e.g. wireless
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/02Operational features
    • A61B2560/0266Operational features for monitoring or limiting apparatus function
    • A61B2560/0271Operational features for monitoring or limiting apparatus function using a remote monitoring unit
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/02Operational features
    • A61B2560/0266Operational features for monitoring or limiting apparatus function
    • A61B2560/0276Determining malfunction
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/04Constructional details of apparatus
    • A61B2560/0456Apparatus provided with a docking unit

Definitions

  • the invention relates to reusable instruments, such as endoscopes, and related systems and methods.
  • Endoscopes are commonly used to view a region inside a subject (e.g., a human, an animal), such as, for example, when performing a therapeutic or interventional medical procedure to remove a polyp within the intestine, when performing a diagnostic medical procedure to view the bronchii searching for tumors, or when performing a diagnostic medical procedure to ultrasonically image an organ (e.g., in transesophageal ultrasonic imaging).
  • a subject e.g., a human, an animal
  • a diagnostic medical procedure to view the bronchii searching for tumors
  • ultrasonically image an organ e.g., in transesophageal ultrasonic imaging
  • an endoscope has a manipulation portion coupled to an elongated portion (e.g., a flexible elongated portion, a rigid elongated portion, a semi-rigid elongated portion) so that, during use of the endoscope, the manipulation portion remains outside the subject while the elongated portion is at least partially disposed inside the subject.
  • the elongated portion has one or more optical components (e.g., one or more lenses, imaging fiber optics, video imager) to illuminate and view the region inside the subject
  • the manipulation portion has one or more devices designed to control the optical components and the position of the elongated portion in the subject.
  • the elongated portion can include one or more medical tools configured to perform a medical procedure on the subject.
  • the endoscope is cleaned to remove detritus, and subsequently disinfected and/or sterilized.
  • the invention features a method of charging a client for use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the method includes charging the client for use of the reusable instrument, where the charge to the client is at least partially based on the number of times the client has used the reusable instrument since last being charged for use of the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a method of charging a client for use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope.
  • the method includes reading recognition data from the reusable instrument to determine the identity of the reusable instrument, and determining the client based on the identity of the reusable instrument.
  • the method also includes charging the client based on data associated with the client.
  • the invention features a method of managing a condition of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the method includes determining the identity of the reusable instrument, and determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure.
  • the invention features a method of maintaining a supply material associated with uses of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope.
  • the method includes determining the identity of the reusable instrument, and determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by a client associated with the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a method of preventing use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the method includes determining a client associated with the reusable instrument based on the identity of the reusable instrument, and preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on data associated with the client.
  • the invention features a method of maintaining a database for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the method includes determining, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, and updating, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, the database to indicate that the reusable instrument has been used in another procedure.
  • the invention features a method of charging a client.
  • the method includes charging the client, where the charge to the client is at least partially based on a number of times the client has treated a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) since last being charged.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause a process to occur.
  • the process includes charging a client for use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), where the charge to the client is at least partially based on a number of times the client has used the reusable instrument since last being charged for use of the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes reading recognition data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to determine an identity of the reusable instrument, and determining a client associated with the reusable instrument based on the identity of the reusable instrument.
  • the process also includes charging the client based on data associated with the client.
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes determining an identity of the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), and determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure.
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes determining an identity of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), and determining based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by a client associated with the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes determining an account for a client based on an identity of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), and preventing the client from using the reusable instrument in a procedure based on data associated with the client.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes determining, each time a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) has been used in a procedure, that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, and updating, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, the database to indicate that the reusable instrument has been used in another procedure.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes charging a client, where the charge to the client is at least partially based on a number of times the client has treated a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) since last being charged.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the instrument includes an instrument body, and an indicator configured to provide the identity of the instrument.
  • the indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body.
  • the invention features a system that includes a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a data recognition device.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the instrument includes an instrument body and an indicator.
  • the indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body.
  • the data recognition device is configured to read data from the indicator to determine the identity of the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that includes an instrument body and an indicator.
  • the indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body.
  • the indicator is configured to provide a serial number of the reusable instrument device, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, a procedure enablement status (e.g., a medical procedure enablement status) of the reusable instrument, or a supply status of the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a system that includes a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a data recognition device.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the instrument includes an instrument body and an indicator.
  • the indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body.
  • the data recognition device is configured to read data from the indicator, where the data is a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the endoscopic device, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a system that includes an article and a data recognition device.
  • the article is a component of a treatment system (e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed in a treatment chamber (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) for the reusable instrument, or a docking station for a holder for a reusable instrument that is configured to be removably housed within a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument.
  • a treatment system e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • a holder for a reusable instrument e.g.,
  • the data recognition is integral with the article, disposed on an exterior of the article, or disposed in an interior of the article.
  • the data recognition device is configured to read data from the reusable instrument to recognize a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the endoscope, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a system that includes an article and a disabling device coupled to the article.
  • the article is a component for a treatment system (e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed in a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument, or a docking station for a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed within a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument.
  • the disabling device is configured to change a procedure enablement status of a reusable instrument to prevent the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure.
  • the invention features a system that includes an article and a treatment status device coupled to the article.
  • the article is a component for a treatment system (e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed in a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument, or a docking station for a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed within a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument.
  • the treatment status device is configured to change a treatment status of a reusable instrument to indicate that the reusable instrument has been treated since it was last used in a procedure.
  • the invention features a method that includes reading data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to determine the identity of the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a method that includes reading recognition data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), where the recognition data is a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, a supply status of the reusable instrument, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument (e.g., a medical procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument).
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes reading data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to determine the identity of the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes reading recognition data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), where the recognition data is a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, a supply status of the reusable instrument, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features an endoscopic device that includes an endoscope body and a communication device.
  • the communication device is integral with the endoscope body, disposed on the exterior of the endoscope body, or disposed in the interior of the endoscope body.
  • the communication device is a wireless transmitter and/or a wireless receiver.
  • the invention features a system that includes an endoscope body and a first communication device that is integral with the endoscope body, disposed on the exterior of the endoscope body, or disposed in the interior of the endoscope body.
  • the system also includes a second communication device.
  • the first communication device is a wireless transmitter and/or a wireless receiver, and the first and second communication devices are configured to wirelessly transmit data therebetween.
  • the invention features a method of communicating that includes wirelessly communicating data between an endoscope and an article.
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes wirelessly communicating data between an endoscope and an article.
  • the invention features a system that includes a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber) for treating a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a cleaning device coupled to the treatment chamber so that, when the reusable instrument is disposed in the treatment chamber, the cleaning device is capable of interacting with an interior channel of the reusable instrument to at least partially clean the interior channel.
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a system that includes a treatment chamber (e.g. a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber) for treating a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a cleaning device coupled to the treatment chamber so that, when the reusable instrument is disposed in the treatment chamber, the cleaning device interacts with an exterior surface of the reusable instrument to at least partially clean the exterior surface of the reusable instrument.
  • a treatment chamber e.g. a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a system that includes a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber) for treating a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a fluid source coupled to the treatment chamber so that, when the reusable instrument is disposed in the treatment chamber, the fluid source is adjacent an opening in an interior channel of the reusable instrument so that the fluid source can dispose a fluid into an interior channel of the reusable instrument.
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the invention features a system that includes a sterilization chamber and a first cleaning device coupled to the sterilization chamber so that, when an endoscope is disposed in the sterilization chamber, the first cleaning device is capable of interacting with an interior channel of the endoscope to at least partially clean the interior channel.
  • the first cleaning device is, for example, a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, or a rope.
  • the system also includes a controller configured to control a position of the first cleaning device within the sterilization chamber so that the first cleaning device can be moved from a first position in the sterilization chamber to a second position in the sterilization chamber that is different from the first position, where the first cleaning device is at least partially disposed within the interior channel of the endoscope when in the second position.
  • the system further includes a second cleaning device coupled to the sterilization chamber so that, when the endoscope is disposed in the sterilization chamber, the second cleaning device interacts with an exterior surface of the endoscope to at least partially clean the exterior surface of the endoscope.
  • the cleaning device is, for example, a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, or a rope.
  • the system also includes a controller configured to control a position of the second cleaning device within the sterilization chamber so that the second cleaning device can be moved from a first position in the sterilization chamber to a second position in the sterilization chamber that is different from the first position, where the second cleaning device is adjacent the exterior surface of the endoscope when in the second position.
  • the system further includes a fluid source coupled to the sterilization chamber so that, when the endoscope is disposed in the sterilization chamber, the fluid source can dispose a fluid into the interior channel of the endoscope.
  • the fluid source is, for example, a fluid emission device.
  • the system also includes a controller configured to control a position of the fluid source within the sterilization chamber so that the fluid source can be moved from a first position in the sterilization chamber to a second position in the sterilization chamber that is different from the first position, where the fluid source is adjacent an opening in the interior channel of the endoscope when in the second position.
  • the invention features a method of cleaning an interior channel of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope.
  • the method includes disposing the reusable instrument in a treatment chamber, and at least partially disposing a cleaning device within the interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel of the reusable instrument.
  • the invention features a method of cleaning an exterior surface of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument).
  • the method includes disposing the reusable instrument in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a cleaning device adjacent an exterior surface of the reusable instrument to remove contaminants from the exterior surface of the reusable instrument.
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • the invention features a method of cleaning an interior channel of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the method includes disposing the reusable instrument in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a fluid in an interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel.
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes disposing a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and at least partially disposing a cleaning device within the interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel of the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes disposing a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a cleaning device adjacent an exterior surface of the reusable instrument to remove contaminants from the exterior surface of the reusable instrument.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes disposing a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a fluid into an interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel.
  • a reusable instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • a treatment chamber e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber
  • the invention features an endoscopic device that includes an endoscope body and a light source.
  • the endoscope body includes an elongated portion having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end, where the longitudinal channel is sealed at the distal end.
  • the endoscope body also includes a manipulation portion having an interior, where the manipulation portion is coupled to the proximal end of the elongated portion.
  • the light source is disposed in the interior of the manipulation portion. The light source is in optical communication with the distal end of the elongated portion through the longitudinal channel.
  • the invention features an endoscopic device that includes an endoscope body and a pressure regulator.
  • the endoscope body has an interior, an exterior, and an opening capable of allowing fluid communication between the interior and exterior.
  • the pressure regulator is coupled to the opening in the endoscope body so that the pressure regulator is capable of regulating fluid communication between the interior of the endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope.
  • the invention features a system that includes an endoscope body and a pressure regulator.
  • the endoscope body has an interior, an exterior, and an opening capable of allowing fluid communication between the interior and exterior.
  • the pressure regulator is coupled to the opening in the endoscope.
  • the system also includes a gas source coupled to the pressure regulator.
  • the pressure regulator and the gas source are configured so that the pressure gas source is capable of regulating fluid communication between the gas source and the interior of the endoscope body.
  • the gas source is capable of removing gas from the interior of the endoscope body or adding gas to the interior of the endoscope body.
  • the invention features a method of operating an endoscope.
  • the endoscope has a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end.
  • the method includes generating light in the proximal end of the endoscope, and transmitting the light generated in the proximal end of the endoscope to the distal end of the endoscope through the longitudinal channel.
  • the invention features a method of sterilizing an endoscope.
  • the endoscope has an interior, an exterior, and a distal end.
  • the method includes sterilizing a portion of the interior of the endoscope while maintaining a pressure differential between the interior of the endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope of at most about five psi.
  • the portion of the interior of the endoscope is sealed at the distal end of the endoscope.
  • the invention features a method that includes determining a pressure differential between the interior of the endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope while the endoscope is disposed in a treatment chamber, and regulating a pressure in the interior of the endoscope based on the pressure differential while the endoscope is disposed in the treatment chamber.
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes transmitting light from a proximal end of an endoscope to a distal end of the endoscope through a longitudinal channel.
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes sterilizing at least a portion of an interior of an endoscope while maintaining a pressure differential between the interior of the endoscope and an exterior of the endoscope of at most about five psi.
  • the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process.
  • the process includes determining a pressure differential between the interior of an endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope while the endoscope is disposed in a treatment chamber, and regulating a pressure in the interior of the endoscope based on the pressure differential while the endoscope is disposed in the treatment chamber.
  • the methods allow data (e.g., data corresponding to the current status, historical status, and/or historical use for one or more reusable instruments, such as an endoscope) to be efficiently and accurately maintained, updated and accessed.
  • data can include, for example, the sterilization status of the reusable instrument (e.g., the reusable medical instrument), the payment status of a client account associated with the reusable medical instrument (e.g., fully paid, delinquent, etc.), the maintenance status of the reusable instrument (e.g., whether the instrument has been used more than a predetermined number of times since it last underwent a maintenance procedure), and the supply status of the reusable instrument (e.g., whether the instrument has been used more than a predetermined number of times since the user was last provided appropriate supplies for the instrument).
  • the sterilization status of the reusable instrument e.g., the reusable medical instrument
  • the payment status of a client account associated with the reusable medical instrument e.g., fully paid, delinquent, etc.
  • Efficient, accurate and practical methods of charging a client for use of a medical instrument e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • the methods can allow, for example, for the client to be charged on a pay-per-use basis, or a pay-per-batch basis (per predetermined number of uses).
  • the client can pay before or after use of the reusable instrument.
  • the charge to the client can be based on a number of factors, such as, for example, the identity of the client (e.g., whether the client is a private individual, a member of a professional organization, a private insurance agency, a private health maintenance organization, or a government agency), the number of times the client has used the medical instrument, the total number of times the client has used the reusable instrument, the number of times the client has used the treatment chamber (e.g., sterilization chamber, disinfection chamber), the total number of times the client has used any reusable instrument (e.g., as tracked by the system), the total number of times the client has used any treatment chamber (e.g., as tracked by the system), the time of day that the client used the instrument, and the frequency (e.g., on a per year basis, on a per month basis, on a per week basis) that the client has used the instrument.
  • the identity of the client e.g., whether the client is a private individual, a member of a professional organization, a private
  • Endoscopes are provided that have an indicator that provides the identity of the endoscope (as unique from all endoscopes).
  • the identity can be based, for example, on the serial number of the endoscope or the product number of the endoscope.
  • Sensing devices are provided that can read information (e.g., identity, sterilization status, procedure enablement status) for a reusable instrument (e.g., reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).
  • the sensing devices can be included in a system (e.g., a treatment chamber, such as a sterilization chamber), or the devices can be, for example, hand held. This can reduce the complexity associated with maintaining and tracking reusable instruments (e.g., reusable medical instruments, such as endoscopes), as well as reduce the complexity associated with billing for their use.
  • Endoscopes are provided that are untethered (can be used without external light sources, power sources, communication cables, etc.). This can reduce the cost and/or complexity associated with using, assembling and/or maintaining an endoscope.
  • Endoscopes are provided that can wirelessly transmit information (e.g., video data, endoscope position data) for display, for example, on an external monitor. This can reduce the complexity associated with using an endoscope in a medical procedure.
  • information e.g., video data, endoscope position data
  • Reusable instrument treatment chambers e.g., sterilization chambers, disinfection chambers
  • a reusable instrument e.g., reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope
  • Reusable instruments e.g., reusable medical instruments
  • a pressure regulator to reduce pressure differentials during treatment (e.g., sterilization) of the instruments. This can result in a longer useful lifetime for the instruments. This can also reduce the presence of moisture (e.g., steam, water droplets) in undesirable portions of the interior of the reusable medical instrument (e.g., on optics in the elongated portion of an endoscope).
  • moisture e.g., steam, water droplets
  • FIG. 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method of using, cleaning, sterilizing and tracking an endoscope
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an endoscope
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the manipulation portion of the endoscope of FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the elongated portion of the endoscope of FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for reading an identity indicator
  • FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated portion of the endoscope of FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for wirelessly transmitting data from the endoscope of FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sterilization chamber
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for reading an identity indicator
  • FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8;
  • FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8;
  • FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8;
  • FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8 containing the endoscope of FIG. 2;
  • FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for reading an identity indicator
  • FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an endoscope holder
  • FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a docking station for the endoscope holder of FIG. 15;
  • FIG. 17 is a flow chart for an embodiment of a method of charging a client for use of an endoscope.
  • FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a method 100 of using an endoscope in a medical procedure, and subsequently cleaning and sterilizing the endoscope.
  • the sterilization status (whether the endoscope has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure) and the medical procedure enablement status (the status of one or more medical procedure enablement status factors, such as, for example, payment status, maintenance status, supply status) are determined ( 110 ). If the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status are appropriate, the endoscope is used in a medical procedure ( 120 ), and the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status of the endoscope are then updated ( 130 ).
  • the endoscope is subsequently matched with an appropriate sterilization chamber ( 140 ), cleaned to at least partially remove detritus from the endoscope ( 150 ), and sterilized ( 160 ). Finally, the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status of the endoscope are again updated ( 170 ).
  • Method 100 also allows certain information associated with the endoscope to be tracked during the process.
  • the sterilization status of the endoscope can be tracked. This information can be used, for example, to reduce the risk of using the endoscope in multiple medical procedures without sterilizing the endoscope between uses.
  • the medical procedure enablement status of the endoscope can be tracked.
  • This information can be used, for example, to determine whether a client associated with the endoscope has been making appropriate payments for use of the endoscope (e.g., to disable the endoscope if the client account is delinquent), to reduce the risk of using the endoscope if it has not been properly maintained (e.g., to disable the endoscope if the endoscope has been used more than a predetermined number of times since it last underwent a maintenance procedure), and/or to reduce the risk that an operator will run out of supplies for the endoscope (e.g., to disable the endoscope if the endoscope has been used more than a predetermined number of times since the client was last provided supplies for the endoscope).
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an endoscope 1000 having a manipulation portion 1100 coupled to an elongated portion 1200 .
  • Manipulation portion 1100 is generally configured to remain outside a subject during use of endoscope 1000
  • elongated portion 1200 is generally configured to be at least partially disposed within a subject during use of endoscope 1000 .
  • endoscope 1000 is untethered (can be operated as an individual unit without being physically connected to external devices, such as light sources, power sources, communication cables or the like).
  • endoscope 1000 is formed of one or more materials that can withstand sterilization conditions. Exemplary materials include Sil-Kore (W. L. Gore & Associates, Incorporated), Radel R-5000 (A. L. Hyde Company), stainless steel, autoclavable polytetrafluoroethylenes and autoclavable polypropylenes.
  • endoscope 1000 is configured to be disposed within a body cavity (e.g., colon, stomach, esophagus, bronchi, larynx, urethra, kidneys, bladder, ear, nose) of a subject (e.g., a human, an animal) during use in a medical procedure.
  • a body cavity e.g., colon, stomach, esophagus, bronchi, larynx, urethra, kidneys, bladder, ear, nose
  • a subject e.g., a human, an animal
  • endoscopes include colonoscopes, gastroscopes, cystoscopes, laparoscopes, arthroscopes, and transesophageal ultrasonic instruments.
  • manipulation portion 1100 includes an opening 1105 , a seal 1110 in opening 1105 , a control device 1120 (e.g., a switch, a hand wheel, a joystick), a control device 1130 (e.g., a switch, a valve, a hand wheel, a joystick), and a wireless transmitter 1125 (e.g., an IEEE 802.11 standard compatible wireless transmitter, a SIG Bluetooth standard compatible wireless transmitter), an image processor 1155 coupled to transmitter 1125 , an identity indicator 1140 , a sterilization status indicator 1150 , a medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 , a sterilization chamber match indicator 1165 , a light source 1170 (e.g., an incandescent light source, a florescent light source, a solid-state light source, an arc light source, a gas discharge light source) and corresponding power source 1175 (e.g., a battery, such as a rechargeable battery) housed inside wall
  • a control device 1120 e.g
  • elongated portion 1200 includes a proximal end 1210 coupled to manipulation portion 1100 , a flexible portion 1215 , and a distal end 1220 .
  • elongated portion 1200 has a wall 1230 that houses steering cables 1240 , 1250 , 1260 and 1270 that extend to distal end 1220 , and are sealed at distal end 1220 .
  • Cables 1240 , 1250 , 1260 and 1270 are coupled (e.g., mechanically coupled, electrically coupled) to control devices 1120 and/or 1130 so that elongated portion 1200 can be positioned using the control device(s).
  • Wall 1230 also houses an optical guide 1280 (e.g., a fiber optic conductor, a light transmissive cylinder, or a liquid-filled tube) that extends to distal end 1220 , and is sealed at distal end 1220 .
  • Optical guide 1280 is optically coupled to light source 1270 (e.g., by contacting a flat surface of light source 1170 with a flat surface of optical guide 1280 ) so that light emitted by light source 1170 can travel along optical guide 1280 to distal end 1220 .
  • Wall 1230 further houses a working channel 1275 that extends to distal end 1220 , and is open at distal end 1220 .
  • Working channel 1275 can be used, for example, to couple a medical tool at distal end 1220 with a control device on manipulation portion 1100 , thereby allowing manipulation of the medical instrument using the control device.
  • Wall 1230 also houses an optical image cable 1290 (e.g., a fiber optic conductor, wires conducting a video signal) adjacent distal end 1220 , and is sealed at distal end 1220 .
  • optical image cable 1290 e.g., a fiber optic conductor, wires conducting a video signal
  • the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (whether endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure) and the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 (the status of one or more medical procedure enablement status factors, such as, for example, payment status, maintenance status, supply status) are determined.
  • the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can generally be determined by inspecting sterilization indicator 1150 , and/or by using identity indicator 1140 (see discussion below).
  • the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can generally be determined by inspecting medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 , and/or by using identity indicator 1140 (see discussion below).
  • endoscope 1000 After verifying that both the sterilization status and the enablement status of endoscope 1000 are appropriate (e.g., encloscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure, the account for the client associated with endoscope 1000 is not delinquent, endoscope 1000 has not been used more than a predetermined number of times since last undergoing a maintenance procedure, endoscope 1000 has not been used more than a predetermined number of times since the client was last provided supplies for endoscope 1000 ), endoscope 1000 can be used in a medical procedure.
  • endoscope 1000 After verifying that both the sterilization status and the enablement status of endoscope 1000 are appropriate (e.g., encloscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure, the account for the client associated with endoscope 1000 is not delinquent, endoscope 1000 has not been used more than a predetermined number of times since last undergoing a maintenance procedure, endoscope 1000 has not been used more than a predetermined number of times since the client
  • sterilization status indicator 1150 can be disposed in the interior of endoscope 1000 (e.g., in the interior of manipulation portion 1100 , in the interior of elongated portion 1200 ), disposed on an exterior surface of endoscope 1000 (on an exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100 , on the exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100 ), or integrally formed with endoscope 1000 (integrally formed with manipulation portion 1100 , integrally formed with elongated portion 1200 ).
  • sterilization status indicator 1150 can be visually inspected to determine the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 .
  • indicator 1150 can be formed of a material that changes color when exposed to sterilization conditions (e.g., from red to green), and again changes color (e.g., from green to red) when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids).
  • indicator 1150 can be formed of a material that forms an image whose visibility changes (e.g., from nonvisible to visible, or from visible to nonvisible) when exposed to a sterilization cycle (e.g., so that a word, such as STERILIZED, appears on endoscope 1000 when exposed to sterilization, or so that a word, such as NONSTERILIZED, becomes nonvisible on endoscope 1000 when exposed to sterilization), and whose image reverts back to its prior state (visible to nonvisible, or nonvisible to visible) when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids).
  • a sterilization cycle e.g., so that a word, such as STERILIZED, appears on endoscope 1000 when
  • indicator 1150 can be a marker (e.g., a colored marker) used in conjunction with a sleeve that moves to a certain position with respect to indicator 1150 when exposed to sterilization (e.g., sleeve moves to cover indicator 1150 , or sleeve moves to expose indicator 1150 ), and that moves to a different position (e.g., sleeve moves to expose indicator 1150 , or sleeve moves to cover indicator 1150 ) when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids).
  • a marker e.g., a colored marker
  • sterilization status indicator 1150 contains information indicating the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., sterilized since last used in a medical procedure, or not sterilized since last used in a medical procedure) that is designed to be read by a sensor (e.g., a hand held sensor) to determine the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 without knowing the identity of endoscope 1000 .
  • a sensor e.g., a hand held sensor
  • Such indicator/sensor systems include, for example, magnetic systems, inductance systems, electrical systems, optical systems, and/or mechanical systems.
  • indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism.
  • indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system (e.g., indicator 1150 is a passive electrical device, and the sensor is a sensor for such passive electrical devices).
  • indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a magnetic system (e.g., indicator 1150 is a magnetic binary code and the sensor has Hall effect sensors).
  • indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a bar code system (e.g., indicator 1150 can be a bar code, and the sensor can be a bar code reader).
  • indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components to a dot code system (e.g., indicator 1150 can be a dot code, and the sensor can be a dot code reader).
  • indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of an induction system (e.g., a passive induction system, such as a TIRIS system from Texas Instruments).
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light is emitted by light source 1170 (e.g., by visually inspecting the distal end of optical guide 1280 ).
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization, a thermal switch (e.g., a bimetallic switch) positions a flag outside the optical path between light source 1170 and optical guide 1280 , and so that, when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), the flag is positioned between light source 1170 and optical guide 2180 so that the flag blocks optical communication between light source 1170 and guide 1280 .
  • a thermal switch e.g., a bimetallic switch
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during a sterilization cycle, a thermal switch (e.g., bimetallic spring) causes the focus to shift when the sterilization chamber begins to heat up, and resets the focus after the sterilization cycle.
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization, an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is connected, and so that, when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), the electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is disconnected.
  • a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week
  • endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization of endoscope 1000 , power source 1175 is recharged (by removing power source 1175 from endoscope 1000 and charging power supply 1175 in a separate compartment while endoscope 1000 is being sterilized, or by charging power source 1175 during sterilization without removal from endoscope 1000 ), and so that when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), power source 1175 is discharged.
  • a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week
  • endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light transmitted from distal end 1220 along optical image cable 1290 to manipulation portion 1100 (e.g., by determining whether processor 1155 receives a signal from cable 1290 ).
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization, a thermal switch (e.g., a bimetallic switch) positions a flag outside the optical path between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155 , and so that, when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), the flag is positioned between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155 so that the flag blocks optical communication between the distal end of cable 190 and processor 1155 .
  • a thermal switch e.g., a bimetallic switch
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by determining whether an articulation mechanism of endoscope 1000 works.
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during a sterilization cycle, a thermal switch (e.g., bimetallic spring) applies a brake to an articulation mechanism when the autoclave heats up, and the sterilization system releases the brake upon completion of the sterilization cycle.
  • a thermal switch e.g., bimetallic spring
  • medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 can be disposed in the interior of endoscope 1000 (e.g., in the interior of manipulation portion 1100 , in the interior of elongated portion 1200 ), disposed on an exterior surface of endoscope 1000 (on an exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100 , on the exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100 ), or integrally formed with endoscope 1000 (integrally formed with manipulation portion 1100 , integrally formed with elongated portion 1200 ).
  • medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 can be visually inspected to determined the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 .
  • indicator 1160 can be formed of a material that has one color if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), and a different color if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired).
  • indicator 1160 can be formed of a material that forms an image that has one visibility status (e.g., nonvisible, visible) if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), and a different visibility status (e.g., visible or nonvisible) if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired).
  • one visibility status e.g., nonvisible, visible
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endo
  • indicator 1160 can be a marker (e.g., a colored marker) used in conjunction with a sleeve that moves to a certain position with respect to indicator 1160 (e.g., sleeve moves to cover indicator 1160 , or sleeve moves to expose indicator 1160 ) if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), and that moves to a different position (e.g., sleeve moves to expose indicator 1160 , or sleeve moves to cover indicator 1160 ) if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired).
  • a marker e.
  • medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 contains information regarding the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., account payment status, endoscope 1000 maintenance status, endoscope 1000 supply status) that is designed to be read by a sensor (e.g., a hand held sensor) to determine the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 without knowing the identity of endoscope 1000 .
  • a sensor e.g., a hand held sensor
  • Such indicator/sensor systems include, for example, magnetic systems, inductance systems, electrical systems, optical systems, and/or mechanical systems.
  • indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism.
  • indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system (e.g., indicator 1160 is a passive electrical device, and the sensor is a sensor for such passive electrical devices).
  • indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a magnetic system (e.g., indicator 1160 is a magnetic binary code and the sensor has Hall effect sensors).
  • indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a bar code system (e.g., indicator 1160 can be a bar code, and the sensor can be a bar code reader).
  • indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components to a dot code system (e.g., indicator 1160 can be a dot code, and the sensor can be a dot code reader).
  • indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of an induction system (e.g., a passive induction system, such as a TIRIS system from Texas Instruments).
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light is emitted by light source 1170 (e.g., by visually inspecting the distal end of optical guide 1280 ).
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), a flag is positioned outside the optical path between light source 1170 and optical guide 1280 , and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the flag is positioned between light source 1170 and optical guide 1280 so that the flag blocks optical communication between light source 1170 and guide 1280 .
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a pre
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the optics in endoscope 1000 are properly focused, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the optics are not properly focused.
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired)
  • the optics in endoscope 1000 are properly focused, and so that, if
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is connected, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the connection is disconnected.
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired)
  • an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is connected, and
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), power source 1175 is charged, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), power source 1175 is discharged.
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), power source 1175 is charged, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account de
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light transmitted from distal end 1220 along optical image cable 1290 to manipulation portion 1100 (e.g., by determining whether processor 1155 receives a signal from cable 1290 ).
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), a flag is positioned outside the optical path between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155 , and so that if the medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a different status (e.g., account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the flag is positioned between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155 so that the flag blocks optical communication between the distal end of cable 190 and processor 1155 .
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by determining whether an articulation mechanism of endoscope 1000 works.
  • endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), an articulation element functions properly, and so that, if the factor has a different status (e.g., account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the articulation element is prevented from functioning properly (e.g., by applying a brake to the articulation mechanism).
  • a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid,
  • the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 is determined by reading identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without reading sterilization status indicator 1150 and/or medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 ).
  • an identity sensor 1142 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000 ), and passes the data to data processor 1144 (e.g., a computer).
  • data processor 1144 accesses appropriate data (e.g., sterilization status data, medical procedure enablement status data) for endoscope 1000 contained in a database stored on a data storage device 1146 (e.g., a hard disk drive, a random access memory, a read-only memory).
  • appropriate data e.g., sterilization status data, medical procedure enablement status data
  • data storage device 1146 e.g., a hard disk drive, a random access memory, a read-only memory.
  • data processor 1144 may be in communication with one or more status adjustment devices (e.g., a sterilization status adjustment device, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device) so that processor 1144 can instruct the device to change the status of one or more indicators for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to change the status of sterilization status indicator 1150 , to change the status of medical procedure enablement device status indicator 1160 ) based on the information that processor 1144 receives from device 1146 .
  • status adjustment devices e.g., a sterilization status adjustment device, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device
  • Processor 1144 can also send appropriate data to device 1146 to update data contained in the database contained on device 1146 for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that the sterilization status for endoscope 1000 has changed, to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that the medical procedure enablement status for endoscope 1000 has changed). For example, referring to FIG.
  • processor 1144 is in communication with a status adjustment device 1500 (e.g., a sterilization indicator status adjustment device, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device) that is configured to change the status of an indicator 1502 (e.g., a sterilization status indicator, a medical procedure enablement status indicator) for endoscope 1000 , and processor 1144 is also in communication with device 1146 to appropriately update data in the database for endoscope 1000 .
  • a status adjustment device 1500 e.g., a sterilization indicator status adjustment device, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device
  • indicator 1502 e.g., a sterilization status indicator, a medical procedure enablement status indicator
  • status adjustment device 1500 forms a complimentary component of indicator 1502 (e.g., a magnetic device, an inductance device, an electrical device, an optical device, a mechanical device).
  • indicator 1502 e.g., a magnetic device, an inductance device, an electrical device, an optical device, a mechanical device.
  • device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism so that device 1500 can change the position of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system so that device 1500 can change a passive electrical property of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a magnetic system so that device 1500 can change a magnetic property of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a bar code system so that device 1500 can change the bar code of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a dot code system so that device 1500 can change the dot code of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of an induction system so that device 1500 can change the passive induction properties of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • device 1500 can be capable of heating endoscope 1500 to affect a color change in indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1500 .
  • indicator 1502 can be capable of heating endoscope 1000 to affect a change in the visibility (e.g., visible to nonvisible, nonvisible to visible) of indicator 1502 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • indicator 1502 can be capable of changing the position of a sleeve relative to indicator 1502 (e.g., indicator 1502 covered by sleeve to indicator 1502 not covered by sleeve, indicator 1502 not covered by sleeve to indicator 1502 covered by sleeve) on endoscope 1000 , thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502 .
  • status adjustment device 1500 can adjust the status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., sterilization status, medical procedure enablement status) without interacting with indicator 1502 (e.g., sterilization status indicator, medical procedure enablement status indicator).
  • device 1500 can be capable of changing (e.g., by thermally activating a bimetallic spring) the position of a flag so that the flag is positioned in/outside the optical path between light source 1175 and the distal end of optical guide 1280 .
  • device 1500 can be capable of changing (e.g., by thermally activating a bimetallic spring) the focus of the optics in endoscope 1000 .
  • device 1500 can be capable of connecting/disconnecting (e.g., by thermally activating a bimetallic switch) an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 , or between a power source and a video camera.
  • device 1500 can be capable of charging/discharging power source.
  • device 1500 can be capable of applying/removing a brake on an articulation mechanism of endoscope 1000 .
  • endoscope 1000 can be used by an operator (e.g., a surgeon) in a medical procedure as follows.
  • optical image cable 1290 is coupled to an image processor 1155 , which, in turn, is coupled to wireless transmitter 1125 so that visual data received by cable 1290 is wirelessly transmitted by transmitter 1125 .
  • Transmitter 1125 is coupled to a data processor 1255 (e.g., via a wireless receiver), which, in turn, is coupled to a display device 1265 (e.g., a video monitor) so that the data transmitted by transmitter 1125 is displayed on display device 1265 .
  • the operator of endoscope 1000 analyzes the displayed information, and uses control devices 1120 and/or 1130 to manipulate flexible portion 1215 via steering guides 1240 , 1250 , 1260 and/or 1270 to adjust the position of elongated portion 1200 within the subject.
  • wireless transmitter 1125 can be used in conjunction with a receiver (e.g., an RF receiver) to provide data corresponding to the position of distal end 1220 within the subject, and the wirelessly received signal can be used, for example, to position endoscope 1000 within the subject.
  • endoscope 1000 can include a receiver configured to receive a wireless transmission (e.g., from a wireless transmitter outside the subject).
  • a medical tool e.g., a cauterizing apparatus, a cutting apparatus, a clamping apparatus, an irrigation apparatus, a suction apparatus, a pressurization apparatus, an inspection apparatus, a marking apparatus, an illumination apparatus, a retrieval apparatus
  • a control device e.g., positioned on manipulation portion 1100 .
  • the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be updated.
  • using endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure automatically updates sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., as indicated by sterilization status indicator 1150 ) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may change color (e.g., green to red) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may display a word (e.g., NONSTERILIZED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • the distal end of optical guide 1280 may not emit light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • an articulation element may fail to function properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • using the endoscope in a medical procedure automatically updates the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., as indicated by indicator 1160 ) to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure and/or to prevent endoscope 1000 from being used in a medical procedure (e.g., by disabling endoscope 1000 from being capable of being used in a medical procedure).
  • indicator 1160 may change color (e.g., green to red) to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1160 may display a word (e.g., DISABLED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure.
  • the distal end of optical guide 1280 may not emit light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been disabled from being used in a medical procedure.
  • an articulation element may fail to function properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been disabled from being used in a medical procedure.
  • the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 is updated using identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without updating sterilization status indicator 1150 and/or medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 ).
  • identity sensor 1142 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000 ), and passes the data to data processor 1144 .
  • Processor 1144 sends appropriate data to device 1146 to update data contained in the database contained on device 1146 for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure).
  • Processor 1144 may instruct status adjustment device 1500 to update the status of an indicator (e.g., a sterilization status indicator) using an appropriate status adjustment device (see discussion above).
  • processor 1144 may read certain data for endoscope 1000 in the database for endoscope 1000 on device 1146 (e.g., medical procedure enablement status data), and update the status of the corresponding indicator (e.g., medical procedure enablement status indicator) for endoscope 1000 (see discussion above).
  • endoscope 1000 is cleaned to remove detritus, and then sterilized.
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a sterilization chamber 2000 configured to clean and sterilize endoscope 1000 .
  • Sterilization chamber 2000 has a wall 2050 that houses an identity sensor 2100 , a sterilization status adjustment device 2200 , a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300 , a sterilization match sensor 2250 , a cleaning device 2400 designed to clean the interior of working channel 1275 , a cleaning device 2500 designed to clean the exterior surface of wall 1230 , a fluid emission device 2600 designed to emit a fluid into working channel 1275 , a pressure regulator 1145 , a pressure sensor 2700 , a temperature sensor 2800 , a timer 2900 , and a communication device 2950 (e.g., a wireless transmitter, a transmitter electrically connected to processor 1144 , a transmitter optically connected to processor 1144 , a wireless receiver, a receiver electrically connected to processor 1144 , a receiver optically connected to processor 1144 , a wireless transmitter/re
  • Each of sensor 2100 , device 2200 , device 2300 , sensor 2250 , device 2300 , device 2400 , device 2500 , sensor 2700 , sensor 2800 , sensor 2900 , and/or device 2950 can be integral with chamber 2000 , disposed in the interior of chamber 2000 , or disposed on the exterior of chamber 2000 .
  • Sterilization chamber 2000 is designed to ensure that endoscope 1000 is properly matched with chamber 2000 (e.g., to avoid damage to endoscope 1000 due to exposure to improper sterilization conditions, to avoid ineffective sterilization of endoscope 1000 due to improper sterilization conditions, to be able to monitor use of endoscope 1000 ).
  • Sterilization chamber 2000 is also designed to be capable of interacting with the database for endoscope 1000 stored on device 1146 (e.g., to determine status information for endoscope 1000 , to update status information for endoscope 1000 , to determine status information for chamber 2000 , to update status information for chamber 2000 ).
  • sterilization chamber match indicator 1165 can be disposed in the interior of endoscope 1000 (e.g., in the interior of manipulation portion 1100 , in the interior of elongated portion 1200 ), disposed on an exterior surface of endoscope 1000 (on an exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100 , on the exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100 ), or integrally formed with endoscope 1000 (integrally formed with manipulation portion 1100 , integrally formed with elongated portion 1200 ).
  • sterilization chamber match indicator 1165 contains information that can be read by sterilization chamber match sensor 2250 to determine if endoscope 1000 matches sterilization chamber 2000 without knowing the identity of endoscope 1000 .
  • Such indicator/sensor systems include, for example, magnetic systems, inductance systems, electrical systems, optical systems, and/or mechanical systems.
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism.
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a pressure interlock mechanism.
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system (e.g., indicator 1165 is a passive electrical device, and sensor 2250 is a sensor for such passive electrical devices).
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a magnetic system (e.g., indicator 1165 is a magnetic binary code and sensor 2250 has Hall effect sensors).
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a bar code system (e.g., indicator 1165 can be a bar code, and sensor 2250 can be a bar code reader).
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components to a dot code system (e.g., indicator 1165 can be a dot code, and sensor 2250 can be a dot code reader).
  • indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of an induction system (e.g., a passive induction system, such as a TIRIS system from Texas Instruments).
  • the match between endoscope 1000 and sterilization chamber 2000 can be determined using identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without using indicator 1165 .
  • identity sensor 2100 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000 ), and passes the data to data processor 1144 via device 2950 .
  • Processor 1144 retrieves appropriate data to device 1146 to determine whether endoscope 1000 matches sterilization chamber 2000 . If endoscope 1000 does not match sterilization chamber 2000 , then processor 1144 instructs a power supply 1148 to shut down sterilization chamber 2000 .
  • chamber 2000 cleans endoscope 1000 to remove detritus.
  • cleaning device 2400 e.g., a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, a rope
  • cleaning device 2400 is disposed within working channel 1275 , and relative motion occurs between working channel 1275 and cleaning device 2400 so that cleaning device 2400 interacts with different regions of working channel 1275 to clean working channel 1275 (e.g., to brush off detritus, to blow off detritus with fluid).
  • cleaning device 2400 is stationary and configured so that, as endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000 , device 2400 is placed within channel 1275 .
  • cleaning device 2400 is movable within sterilization chamber 2000 so that, after endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000 , device 2400 is moved into working channel 1275 . In some embodiments, after at least partially disposing device 2400 within channel 1275 , cleaning device 2400 moves within channel 1275 while channel 1275 is stationary. In certain embodiments, after at least partially disposing device 2400 within channel 1275 , working channel 1275 moves while device 2400 is stationary. Generally, the movement of cleaning device 2400 and/or channel 1275 can be manual controlled, automated or both.
  • cleaning device 2500 e.g., a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, a rope
  • the exterior surface of wall 1230 are positioned adjacent each other, and relative motion occurs between cleaning device 2500 and wall 1230 so that cleaning device 2500 interacts with different regions of the exterior of wall 1230 to clean wall 1230 (e.g., to brush off detritus, to blow off detritus with fluid).
  • the manner in which cleaning device 2500 and wall 1230 are disposed adjacent each other and relative motion occurs can be varied as desired.
  • cleaning device 2500 is stationary and configured so that, as endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000 , device 2500 is placed adjacent the exterior of wall 1230 .
  • cleaning device 2500 is movable within sterilization chamber 2000 so that, after endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000 , device 2500 is moved adjacent the exterior of wall 1230 .
  • cleaning device 2500 moves adjacent different regions of the exterior of wall 1230 while wall 1230 is stationary.
  • wall 1230 moves while device 2500 is stationary.
  • the movement of cleaning device 2500 and/or wall 1230 can be manually controlled, automated or both.
  • fluid emission device 2600 e.g., a steam emission nozzle, a steam emission hose, a gas emission nozzle, a gas emission hose, a cleaning fluid emission nozzle, a cleaning emission hose
  • device 2600 can be positioned adjacent working channel 1275 at distal end 1220 , and device 2600 can emit a fluid into channel 1275 to clean channel 1275 .
  • the manner in which cleaning device 2600 and channel 1275 are disposed adjacent each other can be varied as desired.
  • cleaning device 2600 is stationary and configured so that, as endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000 , device 2600 is placed adjacent channel 1275 at distal end 1220 .
  • cleaning device 2600 is movable within sterilization chamber 2000 so that, after endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000 , device 2600 is moved adjacent channel 1275 at distal end 1220 .
  • the movement of cleaning device 2600 and/or channel 1275 can be manually controlled, automated or both.
  • Cleaning device 2600 can emit, for example, one or more enzymatic cleaning fluids, disinfectant fluids, and/or sterilization fluids.
  • endoscope 1000 After cleaning endoscope 1000 to remove detritus, endoscope 1000 is sterilized. Generally, sterilization includes sealing sterilization chamber 2000 , evacuating chamber 2000 , and introducing pressurized steam into chamber 2000 . The steam pressure, steam temperature, and the amount of time to which the endoscope is exposed to the steam can be selected on the particular type of endoscope (e.g., materials, size, uses).
  • sterilization of endoscope 1000 involves first evacuating chamber 2000 , and then pressurizing chamber 2000 with steam.
  • Elongated portion 1200 of endoscope 1000 typically has one or more components that are sealed at distal end 1220 (e.g., steering cables, an optical guide, an optical image cable), which can cause pressure differentials to occur during the sterilization process.
  • endoscope 1000 can partially expand due to a pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 (relatively low pressure) and the region of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 (relatively high pressure), and, during pressurization of chamber 2000 , endoscope 1000 can partially collapse due to a pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 (relatively high pressure) and the region of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 (relatively low pressure).
  • FIG. 13 shows a cross-section of a portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 , and in fluid communication with opening 1105 . Opening 1105 is in fluid communication with a gas supply/vacuum apparatus 1135 via a pressure regulator 1145 (e.g., a valve).
  • a pressure regulator 1145 e.g., a valve
  • pressure regulator 1145 opens to allow apparatus 1135 to reduce the pressure (e.g., by pumping out gas) in the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 so that the pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 and the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 is relatively small (e.g., less than about five psi, less than about four psi, less than about three psi, less than about two psi, less than about one psi, less than 0.5 psi, less than 0.2 psi) during evacuation.
  • the pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 and the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 is relatively small (e.g., less than about five psi, less than about four psi, less than about three psi, less than about two psi, less than about one psi, less than 0.5 psi, less than 0.2 psi) during evacuation.
  • pressure regulator 1145 opens to allow apparatus 1135 to increase the pressure (e.g., by pumping in gas) in the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 so that the pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 and the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 is relatively small (e.g., less than about five psi, less than about four psi, less than about three psi, less than about two psi, less than about one psi, less than 0.5 psi, less than 0.2 psi) during pressurization.
  • pressure regulator 1145 can be manually controlled, automated, or both.
  • pressure regulator 1145 can be varied continuously between a fully on position and a fully off position. In some embodiments, pressure regulator 1145 has only a fully on position and a fully off position.
  • pressure sensor 2700 , temperature sensor 2800 , and/or timer 2900 are used to determine whether the proper sterilization conditions (steam pressure, steam temperature, time that endoscope 1000 was exposed to the steam) were met (e.g., sterilization chamber 2000 operates under set sterilization conditions, and sensors 2700 , 2800 , and/or 2900 are used to verify that the conditions were met).
  • pressure sensor 2700 , temperature sensor 2800 and/or timer 2900 can be used to monitor and adjust the steam pressure, steam temperature, and time of exposure (e.g., sensors 2700 , 2800 , and/or 2900 are used to control the conditions used during sterilization of endoscope 1000 ) to assist in sterilizing endoscope 1000 under appropriate conditions.
  • Sensors 2700 , 2800 , and/or 2900 can be manually operated, automated, or both.
  • the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be updated.
  • sterilizing endoscope 1000 in a sterilizer automatically updates sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., as indicated by sterilization status indicator 1150 ) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may change color (e.g., red to green) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may display a word (e.g., STERILIZED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • the distal end of optical guide 1280 emits light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • an articulation element functions properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • using the endoscope in a medical procedure automatically updates the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., as indicated by indicator 1160 ) to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1160 may change color (e.g., red to green) to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1160 may display a word (e.g., ENABLED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • the distal end of optical guide 1280 may emit light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • an articulation element functions properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 is updated using identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without updating sterilization status indicator 1150 and/or medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160 ).
  • identity sensor 2100 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000 ), and passes the data to data processor 1144 via communication device 2950 .
  • Processor 1144 sends appropriate data to device 1146 to update data in the database contained on device 1146 for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure).
  • Processor 1144 may also instruct sterilization status adjustment device 2200 to update sterilization status indicator 1150 as appropriate (see discussion above), and/or processor 1144 may also instruct medical procedure enablement adjustment device 2300 to update medical procedure enablement adjustment status indicator 1160 as appropriate (see discussion above).
  • sterilization chamber 2000 does not have identity sensor 2100 , sterilization status adjustment device 2200 , medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300 , sterilization match sensor 2250 , pressure sensor 2700 , temperature sensor 2800 , and/or timer 2900 .
  • one or more of these components can be coupled to a device that can fit into sterilization chamber 2000 so that, while chamber 2000 itself does not have one or more of these components, the sterilization system still does have all these components disposed within chamber 2000 during sterilization.
  • FIG. 16 shows an endoscope holder 3000 (e.g., a tray) that can be repeatedly fit into sterilization chamber 2000 , and that can be repeatedly removed from sterilization chamber 2000 .
  • Holder 3000 includes identity sensor 2100 , sterilization status adjustment device 2200 , medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300 , sterilization match sensor 2250 , pressure sensor 2700 , temperature sensor 2800 , and timer 2900 .
  • Holder 3000 can be used as follows. Endoscope 1000 is placed in holder 3000 , holder 3000 is placed in sterilization chamber 2000 , and the match between endoscope 1000 and chamber 2000 is determined. If chamber 2000 and endoscope 1000 are not properly matched, chamber 2000 is shut down (see discussion above). Otherwise, the process continues. In some embodiments, holder 3000 and endoscope 1000 are configured so that cleaning devices 2400 , 2500 and/or 2600 are appropriately positioned as tray 3000 is placed into chamber 2000 . Sterilization chamber 2000 then goes through a sterilization cycle, sterilization conditions are checked, and the status of endoscope 1000 is updated (see discussion above).
  • Each of sensor 2100 , device 2200 , device 2300 , sensor 2250 , sensor 2700 , sensor 2800 , sensor 2900 , and/or transmitter 2950 can be integral with holder 3000 , disposed in the interior of holder 3000 , or disposed on the exterior of holder 3000 .
  • holder 3000 does not include identity sensor 2100 , sterilization status adjustment device 2200 , medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300 , sterilization match sensor 2250 , pressure sensor 2700 , temperature sensor 2800 , and/or timer 2900 .
  • a docking station 4000 for holder 3000 can contain these components. Docking station 4000 can be used as follows. Holder 3000 is used as described above. After the sterilization cycle, holder 3000 is removed from chamber 2000 and connected to docking station 4000 (which may be remote from chamber 2000 ). The sterilization conditions are checked, and the status of endoscope 1000 is updated (see discussion above).
  • Each of sensor 2100 , device 2200 , device 2300 , sensor 2250 , sensor 2700 , sensor 2800 , sensor 2900 , and/or transmitter 2950 can be integral with docking station 4000 , disposed in the interior of docking station 4000 , or disposed on the exterior of docking station 4000 .
  • docking station 4000 is configured to be electrically coupled, optically coupled and/or wirelessly coupled with holder 3000 .
  • docking station 4000 is configured to hold endoscope holder 3000 without such coupling with holder 3000 .
  • FIG. 18 shows a flow chart for a method 5000 that can be used to charge a client for use of endoscope 1000 .
  • the client uses endoscope 1000 ( 5100 ), and this information is communicated to a data processor ( 5200 ).
  • the data processor then communicates with a data storage device containing a database with data for endoscope 1000 ( 5300 ).
  • the data processor uses the data for endoscope 1000 to calculate the client charge for using endoscope 1000 ( 5400 ).
  • the data processor debits the account (e.g., by updating the database for endoscope 1000 contained on device 1446 to reduce the charge from the credit for the account) and forwards this information to the client, or the data processor bills the account (e.g., by updating the database for endoscope 1000 contained on device 1446 to indicate that the client has been sent a bill for the charge) and forwards the bill to the client ( 5500 ).
  • this method can be performed as follows.
  • the client uses endoscope 1000 , and as data is communicated from endoscope 1000 to data processor 1144 and data storage device 1146 to update the data for endoscope 1000 in the database contained on device 1146 to indicate that the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 has changed, the database is updated to indicate that endoscope 1000 has undergone another use in a medical procedure.
  • processor 1144 recognizes that endoscope 1000 has undergone a use in a medical procedure, and processor 1144 communicates this to database 1146 (e.g., the database can contain information regarding the number of times endoscope 1000 has been used in a medical procedure).
  • Processor 1144 then retrieves the appropriate data from the database to calculate the charge to the client, and processor 1144 retrieves appropriate data from the database to determine the type of account the client has (e.g., credited, noncredited) to determine how to charge the client. Processor 1144 then provides appropriate instructions so that the client is informed of the charge (e.g., by displaying the charge information on a video monitor so that a person can read this information and forward it to the client, by printing the information on a sheet that is forwarded to the client, by electronically/optically/wirelessly communicating this information to the client).
  • the information can include the identity of the client.
  • the client charge may depend upon whether the client is a private patient, a private doctor, a doctor who is part of a professional organization, a health maintenance organization, a private insurance company, or a government agency.
  • the information can include the number of times the client has used endoscope 1000 . For example, the rate per use may change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the number of uses increases.
  • the information can include the number of times that the client has used endoscope 1000 since the client was last billed.
  • the client can be billed based on a predetermined number of uses, as opposed to being billed on a per use basis.
  • the information can include the total number of times that the client has used an endoscope in the system.
  • the client may be associated with multiple endoscopes through an account, and the total number of uses for the multiple endoscopes can be stored in the database so that the client charge per endoscope use can change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the total number of endoscope uses increases.
  • the information can include the total number of times that the client has used a sterilization chamber in the system.
  • the client may have access to multiple sterilization chambers, and the total number of sterilization chamber uses can be stored in the database so that the charge per use can change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the total number of sterilization system uses increases.
  • the information can include the time of day that endoscope 1000 was used. For example, the charge per use can be lower if endoscope 1000 was used during off peak hours.
  • the information can include the frequency of use of endoscope 1000 . For example, the charge per use can change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the number of uses per unit time increases.
  • the client is charged before use of endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure (e.g., before each use, before each predetermined number of uses). In certain embodiments, the client is charged after use of endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure (e.g., after each use, after each predetermined number of uses).
  • a reusable medical instrument means a medical instrument that, after being used in a medical procedure, is treated (e.g., cleaned, disinfected, and/or sterilized) so that the device can be used again in a medical procedure.
  • Examples of reusable medical instruments include laparoscopes, video imaging cameras and/or associated electronics, CCD imaging cameras and/or associated electronics, CMOS imaging cameras and/or associated electronics, wound closure devices (e.g., staplers, suturing devices), ultrasonic probes, umbilical cables, umbilicals for cutters, umbilicals for shavers, umbilicals for staplers, and endarterectomy devices.
  • wound closure devices e.g., staplers, suturing devices
  • ultrasonic probes e.g., ultrasonic probes, umbilical cables, umbilicals for cutters, umbilicals for shavers, umbilicals for staplers, and endarterectomy devices.
  • the systems and methods can be used with any treatment that is used for a reusable medical instrument between uses of the instrument in a medical procedure.
  • the systems and methods can use a disinfection chamber and process.
  • the treatment of the reusable medical instrument between uses in a medical procedure can include cleaning, disinfection and/or sterilization.
  • the status checking and/or data updating for a reusable medical instrument can be done at any stage in the process that is desired.
  • the status of the reusable device can be checked and/or updated before use in a medical procedure, after the device is used in a medical procedure (e.g., between use in a medical procedure and treatment), and/or after the device is treated (e.g., sterilized and/or disinfected).
  • the status of the reusable medical instrument is checked and/or updated between use in a medical procedure and treatment, but not after treatment.
  • the status of the reusable medical instrument is checked and/or updated after treatment, but not between use in a medical procedure and treatment.
  • data associated with the reusable medical instrument can be updated before the device is used in a medical procedure, after the device is used in a medical procedure (e.g., between use in a medical procedure and treatment), and/or after the device is treated.
  • endoscopes having a light source in the manipulation portion have been described, endoscopes having one or more lights sources located in the elongated portion of the endoscope (e.g., at the distal end) can also be used.
  • One or more of the light sources can be external to the endoscope (e.g., connected to the manipulation portion via an electrical connection, an optical connection, and/or a wireless connection).
  • endoscopes having an internal power source have been described, endoscopes having an external power source (e.g., connected to the manipulation portion via an electrical connection, an optical connection, and/or a wireless connection) can be used.
  • an external power source e.g., connected to the manipulation portion via an electrical connection, an optical connection, and/or a wireless connection
  • endoscopes having a wireless transmitter on the elongated portion have been described, endoscopes having an electrically connected and/or optically connected transmitter on the elongated portion can be used.
  • region 1215 can be rigid or semi-rigid.
  • the manipulation portion of an endoscope can have one or more oculars, one or more umbilicals, one or more connectors, and/or one or more valves.
  • the endoscope can be designed so that the cable automatically changes the status of the endoscope (e.g., sterilization status, medical procedure enablement status) when the umbilical is separated from the endoscope or is separated at its distal end (e.g., from the video processor, gas/vacuum/irrigation supply, and/or light source), and/or the umbilical can mechanically reset to indicate a change in status after use.
  • a light source can be formed of one or more LEDs (e.g., one or more red LEDs, one or more blue LEDs, one or more green LEDs, and/or one or more white LEDs).
  • one or more LEDs e.g., one or more red LEDs, one or more blue LEDs, one or more green LEDs, and/or one or more white LEDs.
  • a medical instrument can have one or more joysticks that are used as control devices.
  • Medical instruments containing such control devices are described, for example, in commonly owned and co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/389,168, filed Jun. 17, 2002 , and entitled “Mechanical Joystick Steering Mechanism for Borescope, Endoscope, Catheter, Guide Tube, and Working Tool,” the contents of which are herby incorporated by reference.
  • the systems can be used to provide methods of maintaining the condition of a reusable medical instrument.
  • the database can maintain a record of the number of times the reusable medical instrument has been used in a medical procedure since it last underwent a maintenance procedure.
  • the data processor can retrieve this information from the database, and, when the database indicates that the reusable medical instrument has undergone the predetermined number of uses since last undergoing a maintenance procedure, the processor can disable the reusable medical instrument from use in a medical procedure. The database can then instruct the client that the reusable medical instrument has been disabled.
  • the systems can be used to provide methods of maintaining supplies associated with uses of a reusable medical instrument (e.g., cytology brushes, baskets, snares, graspers, forceps).
  • a reusable medical instrument e.g., cytology brushes, baskets, snares, graspers, forceps.
  • the database can maintain a record of the number of times the reusable medical instrument has been used in a medical procedure since the client associated with the instrument was provided supplies for the instrument.
  • the data processor can retrieve this information from the database, and, when the database indicates that the reusable medical instrument has undergone the predetermined number of uses since the client was last provided the supplies, the processor can instruct a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device for the instrument to disable the reusable medical instrument from use in a medical procedure.
  • the database can then instruct the client that the reusable medical instrument has been disabled.
  • a user or handler of the instrument can provide the data processor with information regarding the medical procedure that is intended to be used with the instrument, and the data processor can
  • instruments and procedures have been described, other instruments and procedures can also be used.
  • the instruments can be designed to be reusable for industrial uses (e.g., for inspecting the interior of an aircraft engine), and the procedures can be industrial procedures (e.g., inspecting the interior of an aircraft engine).
  • the pressure regulator and gas/vacuum source have been described as being coupled to a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber), other embodiments can be used.
  • the pressure regulator and/or gas/vacuum source can be coupled to a holder (e.g., a tray) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).

Abstract

Reusable instruments, such as reusable medical instruments, and related systems and methods, are disclosed. In some embodiments, the reusable instrument can be an endoscope.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e)(1) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/365,310, filed on Mar. 18, 2002, and entitled “Endoscope and Autoclave System for Endoscope Sterilization,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.[0001]
  • TECHNICAL FIELD
  • The invention relates to reusable instruments, such as endoscopes, and related systems and methods. [0002]
  • BACKGROUND
  • Endoscopes are commonly used to view a region inside a subject (e.g., a human, an animal), such as, for example, when performing a therapeutic or interventional medical procedure to remove a polyp within the intestine, when performing a diagnostic medical procedure to view the bronchii searching for tumors, or when performing a diagnostic medical procedure to ultrasonically image an organ (e.g., in transesophageal ultrasonic imaging). Typically, an endoscope has a manipulation portion coupled to an elongated portion (e.g., a flexible elongated portion, a rigid elongated portion, a semi-rigid elongated portion) so that, during use of the endoscope, the manipulation portion remains outside the subject while the elongated portion is at least partially disposed inside the subject. Generally, the elongated portion has one or more optical components (e.g., one or more lenses, imaging fiber optics, video imager) to illuminate and view the region inside the subject, and the manipulation portion has one or more devices designed to control the optical components and the position of the elongated portion in the subject. Optionally, the elongated portion can include one or more medical tools configured to perform a medical procedure on the subject. In general, after each use in a medical procedure, the endoscope is cleaned to remove detritus, and subsequently disinfected and/or sterilized. [0003]
  • SUMMARY
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method of charging a client for use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes charging the client for use of the reusable instrument, where the charge to the client is at least partially based on the number of times the client has used the reusable instrument since last being charged for use of the reusable instrument. [0004]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a method of charging a client for use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes reading recognition data from the reusable instrument to determine the identity of the reusable instrument, and determining the client based on the identity of the reusable instrument. The method also includes charging the client based on data associated with the client. [0005]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a method of managing a condition of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes determining the identity of the reusable instrument, and determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure. [0006]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method of maintaining a supply material associated with uses of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes determining the identity of the reusable instrument, and determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by a client associated with the reusable instrument. [0007]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a method of preventing use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes determining a client associated with the reusable instrument based on the identity of the reusable instrument, and preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on data associated with the client. [0008]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a method of maintaining a database for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes determining, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, and updating, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, the database to indicate that the reusable instrument has been used in another procedure. [0009]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method of charging a client. The method includes charging the client, where the charge to the client is at least partially based on a number of times the client has treated a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) since last being charged. [0010]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause a process to occur. The process includes charging a client for use of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), where the charge to the client is at least partially based on a number of times the client has used the reusable instrument since last being charged for use of the reusable instrument. [0011]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes reading recognition data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to determine an identity of the reusable instrument, and determining a client associated with the reusable instrument based on the identity of the reusable instrument. The process also includes charging the client based on data associated with the client. [0012]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes determining an identity of the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), and determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure. [0013]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes determining an identity of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), and determining based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by a client associated with the reusable instrument. [0014]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes determining an account for a client based on an identity of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), and preventing the client from using the reusable instrument in a procedure based on data associated with the client. [0015]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes determining, each time a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) has been used in a procedure, that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, and updating, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, the database to indicate that the reusable instrument has been used in another procedure. [0016]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes charging a client, where the charge to the client is at least partially based on a number of times the client has treated a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) since last being charged. [0017]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The instrument includes an instrument body, and an indicator configured to provide the identity of the instrument. The indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body. [0018]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a system that includes a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a data recognition device. The instrument includes an instrument body and an indicator. The indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body. The data recognition device is configured to read data from the indicator to determine the identity of the reusable instrument. [0019]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that includes an instrument body and an indicator. The indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body. The indicator is configured to provide a serial number of the reusable instrument device, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, a procedure enablement status (e.g., a medical procedure enablement status) of the reusable instrument, or a supply status of the reusable instrument. [0020]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a system that includes a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a data recognition device. The instrument includes an instrument body and an indicator. The indicator is integral with the instrument body, disposed on the exterior of the instrument body, or disposed in the interior of the instrument body. The data recognition device is configured to read data from the indicator, where the data is a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the endoscopic device, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument. [0021]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a system that includes an article and a data recognition device. The article is a component of a treatment system (e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed in a treatment chamber (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) for the reusable instrument, or a docking station for a holder for a reusable instrument that is configured to be removably housed within a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument. The data recognition is integral with the article, disposed on an exterior of the article, or disposed in an interior of the article. The data recognition device is configured to read data from the reusable instrument to recognize a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the endoscope, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument. [0022]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a system that includes an article and a disabling device coupled to the article. The article is a component for a treatment system (e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed in a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument, or a docking station for a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed within a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument. The disabling device is configured to change a procedure enablement status of a reusable instrument to prevent the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure. [0023]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a system that includes an article and a treatment status device coupled to the article. The article is a component for a treatment system (e.g., a sterilization system, a disinfection system) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed in a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument, or a docking station for a holder for a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) that is configured to be removably housed within a treatment chamber for the reusable instrument. The treatment status device is configured to change a treatment status of a reusable instrument to indicate that the reusable instrument has been treated since it was last used in a procedure. [0024]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method that includes reading data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to determine the identity of the reusable instrument. [0025]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a method that includes reading recognition data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), where the recognition data is a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, a supply status of the reusable instrument, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument (e.g., a medical procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument). [0026]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes reading data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to determine the identity of the reusable instrument. [0027]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes reading recognition data from a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope), where the recognition data is a serial number of the reusable instrument, a product number of the reusable instrument, a treatment status of the reusable instrument, a supply status of the reusable instrument, or a procedure enablement status of the reusable instrument. [0028]
  • In another aspect, the invention features an endoscopic device that includes an endoscope body and a communication device. The communication device is integral with the endoscope body, disposed on the exterior of the endoscope body, or disposed in the interior of the endoscope body. The communication device is a wireless transmitter and/or a wireless receiver. [0029]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a system that includes an endoscope body and a first communication device that is integral with the endoscope body, disposed on the exterior of the endoscope body, or disposed in the interior of the endoscope body. The system also includes a second communication device. The first communication device is a wireless transmitter and/or a wireless receiver, and the first and second communication devices are configured to wirelessly transmit data therebetween. [0030]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method of communicating that includes wirelessly communicating data between an endoscope and an article. [0031]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes wirelessly communicating data between an endoscope and an article. [0032]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a system that includes a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber) for treating a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a cleaning device coupled to the treatment chamber so that, when the reusable instrument is disposed in the treatment chamber, the cleaning device is capable of interacting with an interior channel of the reusable instrument to at least partially clean the interior channel. [0033]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a system that includes a treatment chamber (e.g. a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber) for treating a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a cleaning device coupled to the treatment chamber so that, when the reusable instrument is disposed in the treatment chamber, the cleaning device interacts with an exterior surface of the reusable instrument to at least partially clean the exterior surface of the reusable instrument. [0034]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a system that includes a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber) for treating a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) and a fluid source coupled to the treatment chamber so that, when the reusable instrument is disposed in the treatment chamber, the fluid source is adjacent an opening in an interior channel of the reusable instrument so that the fluid source can dispose a fluid into an interior channel of the reusable instrument. [0035]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a system that includes a sterilization chamber and a first cleaning device coupled to the sterilization chamber so that, when an endoscope is disposed in the sterilization chamber, the first cleaning device is capable of interacting with an interior channel of the endoscope to at least partially clean the interior channel. The first cleaning device is, for example, a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, or a rope. The system also includes a controller configured to control a position of the first cleaning device within the sterilization chamber so that the first cleaning device can be moved from a first position in the sterilization chamber to a second position in the sterilization chamber that is different from the first position, where the first cleaning device is at least partially disposed within the interior channel of the endoscope when in the second position. The system further includes a second cleaning device coupled to the sterilization chamber so that, when the endoscope is disposed in the sterilization chamber, the second cleaning device interacts with an exterior surface of the endoscope to at least partially clean the exterior surface of the endoscope. The cleaning device is, for example, a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, or a rope. The system also includes a controller configured to control a position of the second cleaning device within the sterilization chamber so that the second cleaning device can be moved from a first position in the sterilization chamber to a second position in the sterilization chamber that is different from the first position, where the second cleaning device is adjacent the exterior surface of the endoscope when in the second position. The system further includes a fluid source coupled to the sterilization chamber so that, when the endoscope is disposed in the sterilization chamber, the fluid source can dispose a fluid into the interior channel of the endoscope. The fluid source is, for example, a fluid emission device. The system also includes a controller configured to control a position of the fluid source within the sterilization chamber so that the fluid source can be moved from a first position in the sterilization chamber to a second position in the sterilization chamber that is different from the first position, where the fluid source is adjacent an opening in the interior channel of the endoscope when in the second position. [0036]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method of cleaning an interior channel of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes disposing the reusable instrument in a treatment chamber, and at least partially disposing a cleaning device within the interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel of the reusable instrument. [0037]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a method of cleaning an exterior surface of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument). The method includes disposing the reusable instrument in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a cleaning device adjacent an exterior surface of the reusable instrument to remove contaminants from the exterior surface of the reusable instrument. [0038]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a method of cleaning an interior channel of a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The method includes disposing the reusable instrument in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a fluid in an interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel. [0039]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes disposing a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and at least partially disposing a cleaning device within the interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel of the reusable instrument. [0040]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes disposing a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a cleaning device adjacent an exterior surface of the reusable instrument to remove contaminants from the exterior surface of the reusable instrument. [0041]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes disposing a reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) in a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber, a disinfection chamber), and disposing a fluid into an interior channel of the reusable instrument to clean the interior channel. [0042]
  • In one aspect, the invention features an endoscopic device that includes an endoscope body and a light source. The endoscope body includes an elongated portion having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end, where the longitudinal channel is sealed at the distal end. The endoscope body also includes a manipulation portion having an interior, where the manipulation portion is coupled to the proximal end of the elongated portion. The light source is disposed in the interior of the manipulation portion. The light source is in optical communication with the distal end of the elongated portion through the longitudinal channel. [0043]
  • In another aspect, the invention features an endoscopic device that includes an endoscope body and a pressure regulator. The endoscope body has an interior, an exterior, and an opening capable of allowing fluid communication between the interior and exterior. The pressure regulator is coupled to the opening in the endoscope body so that the pressure regulator is capable of regulating fluid communication between the interior of the endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope. [0044]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a system that includes an endoscope body and a pressure regulator. The endoscope body has an interior, an exterior, and an opening capable of allowing fluid communication between the interior and exterior. The pressure regulator is coupled to the opening in the endoscope. The system also includes a gas source coupled to the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator and the gas source are configured so that the pressure gas source is capable of regulating fluid communication between the gas source and the interior of the endoscope body. The gas source is capable of removing gas from the interior of the endoscope body or adding gas to the interior of the endoscope body. [0045]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a method of operating an endoscope. The endoscope has a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal channel extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The method includes generating light in the proximal end of the endoscope, and transmitting the light generated in the proximal end of the endoscope to the distal end of the endoscope through the longitudinal channel. [0046]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a method of sterilizing an endoscope. The endoscope has an interior, an exterior, and a distal end. The method includes sterilizing a portion of the interior of the endoscope while maintaining a pressure differential between the interior of the endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope of at most about five psi. The portion of the interior of the endoscope is sealed at the distal end of the endoscope. [0047]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a method that includes determining a pressure differential between the interior of the endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope while the endoscope is disposed in a treatment chamber, and regulating a pressure in the interior of the endoscope based on the pressure differential while the endoscope is disposed in the treatment chamber. [0048]
  • In one aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes transmitting light from a proximal end of an endoscope to a distal end of the endoscope through a longitudinal channel. [0049]
  • In another aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes sterilizing at least a portion of an interior of an endoscope while maintaining a pressure differential between the interior of the endoscope and an exterior of the endoscope of at most about five psi. [0050]
  • In a further aspect, the invention features a computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to cause the occurrence of a process. The process includes determining a pressure differential between the interior of an endoscope and the exterior of the endoscope while the endoscope is disposed in a treatment chamber, and regulating a pressure in the interior of the endoscope based on the pressure differential while the endoscope is disposed in the treatment chamber. [0051]
  • In certain embodiments, the methods allow data (e.g., data corresponding to the current status, historical status, and/or historical use for one or more reusable instruments, such as an endoscope) to be efficiently and accurately maintained, updated and accessed. Such data can include, for example, the sterilization status of the reusable instrument (e.g., the reusable medical instrument), the payment status of a client account associated with the reusable medical instrument (e.g., fully paid, delinquent, etc.), the maintenance status of the reusable instrument (e.g., whether the instrument has been used more than a predetermined number of times since it last underwent a maintenance procedure), and the supply status of the reusable instrument (e.g., whether the instrument has been used more than a predetermined number of times since the user was last provided appropriate supplies for the instrument). [0052]
  • Efficient, accurate and practical methods of charging a client for use of a medical instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) are provided. The methods can allow, for example, for the client to be charged on a pay-per-use basis, or a pay-per-batch basis (per predetermined number of uses). The client can pay before or after use of the reusable instrument. In some embodiments, the charge to the client can be based on a number of factors, such as, for example, the identity of the client (e.g., whether the client is a private individual, a member of a professional organization, a private insurance agency, a private health maintenance organization, or a government agency), the number of times the client has used the medical instrument, the total number of times the client has used the reusable instrument, the number of times the client has used the treatment chamber (e.g., sterilization chamber, disinfection chamber), the total number of times the client has used any reusable instrument (e.g., as tracked by the system), the total number of times the client has used any treatment chamber (e.g., as tracked by the system), the time of day that the client used the instrument, and the frequency (e.g., on a per year basis, on a per month basis, on a per week basis) that the client has used the instrument. [0053]
  • Endoscopes are provided that have an indicator that provides the identity of the endoscope (as unique from all endoscopes). The identity can be based, for example, on the serial number of the endoscope or the product number of the endoscope. [0054]
  • Sensing devices are provided that can read information (e.g., identity, sterilization status, procedure enablement status) for a reusable instrument (e.g., reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope). The sensing devices can be included in a system (e.g., a treatment chamber, such as a sterilization chamber), or the devices can be, for example, hand held. This can reduce the complexity associated with maintaining and tracking reusable instruments (e.g., reusable medical instruments, such as endoscopes), as well as reduce the complexity associated with billing for their use. [0055]
  • Endoscopes are provided that are untethered (can be used without external light sources, power sources, communication cables, etc.). This can reduce the cost and/or complexity associated with using, assembling and/or maintaining an endoscope. [0056]
  • Endoscopes are provided that can wirelessly transmit information (e.g., video data, endoscope position data) for display, for example, on an external monitor. This can reduce the complexity associated with using an endoscope in a medical procedure. [0057]
  • Reusable instrument treatment chambers (e.g., sterilization chambers, disinfection chambers) are provided that can be used to clean a reusable instrument (e.g., reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope) to remove detritus with reduced cost and/or complexity. [0058]
  • Reusable instruments (e.g., reusable medical instruments) are provided that can be coupled to a pressure regulator to reduce pressure differentials during treatment (e.g., sterilization) of the instruments. This can result in a longer useful lifetime for the instruments. This can also reduce the presence of moisture (e.g., steam, water droplets) in undesirable portions of the interior of the reusable medical instrument (e.g., on optics in the elongated portion of an endoscope). [0059]
  • Features, objects and advantages of the invention are in the description, drawings and claims.[0060]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method of using, cleaning, sterilizing and tracking an endoscope; [0061]
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an endoscope; [0062]
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the manipulation portion of the endoscope of FIG. 2; [0063]
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the elongated portion of the endoscope of FIG. 2; [0064]
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for reading an identity indicator; [0065]
  • FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated portion of the endoscope of FIG. 2; [0066]
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for wirelessly transmitting data from the endoscope of FIG. 2; [0067]
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sterilization chamber; [0068]
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for reading an identity indicator; [0069]
  • FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8; [0070]
  • FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8; [0071]
  • FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8; [0072]
  • FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sterilization chamber of FIG. 8 containing the endoscope of FIG. 2; [0073]
  • FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for reading an identity indicator; [0074]
  • FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an endoscope holder; [0075]
  • FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a docking station for the endoscope holder of FIG. 15; and [0076]
  • FIG. 17 is a flow chart for an embodiment of a method of charging a client for use of an endoscope.[0077]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a method [0078] 100 of using an endoscope in a medical procedure, and subsequently cleaning and sterilizing the endoscope. First, the sterilization status (whether the endoscope has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure) and the medical procedure enablement status (the status of one or more medical procedure enablement status factors, such as, for example, payment status, maintenance status, supply status) are determined (110). If the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status are appropriate, the endoscope is used in a medical procedure (120), and the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status of the endoscope are then updated (130). The endoscope is subsequently matched with an appropriate sterilization chamber (140), cleaned to at least partially remove detritus from the endoscope (150), and sterilized (160). Finally, the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status of the endoscope are again updated (170).
  • Method [0079] 100 also allows certain information associated with the endoscope to be tracked during the process. As an example, the sterilization status of the endoscope can be tracked. This information can be used, for example, to reduce the risk of using the endoscope in multiple medical procedures without sterilizing the endoscope between uses. As another example, the medical procedure enablement status of the endoscope can be tracked. This information can be used, for example, to determine whether a client associated with the endoscope has been making appropriate payments for use of the endoscope (e.g., to disable the endoscope if the client account is delinquent), to reduce the risk of using the endoscope if it has not been properly maintained (e.g., to disable the endoscope if the endoscope has been used more than a predetermined number of times since it last underwent a maintenance procedure), and/or to reduce the risk that an operator will run out of supplies for the endoscope (e.g., to disable the endoscope if the endoscope has been used more than a predetermined number of times since the client was last provided supplies for the endoscope).
  • Endoscope Design [0080]
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an [0081] endoscope 1000 having a manipulation portion 1100 coupled to an elongated portion 1200. Manipulation portion 1100 is generally configured to remain outside a subject during use of endoscope 1000, and elongated portion 1200 is generally configured to be at least partially disposed within a subject during use of endoscope 1000. As explained below, endoscope 1000 is untethered (can be operated as an individual unit without being physically connected to external devices, such as light sources, power sources, communication cables or the like). Typically, endoscope 1000 is formed of one or more materials that can withstand sterilization conditions. Exemplary materials include Sil-Kore (W. L. Gore & Associates, Incorporated), Radel R-5000 (A. L. Hyde Company), stainless steel, autoclavable polytetrafluoroethylenes and autoclavable polypropylenes.
  • In general, [0082] endoscope 1000 is configured to be disposed within a body cavity (e.g., colon, stomach, esophagus, bronchi, larynx, urethra, kidneys, bladder, ear, nose) of a subject (e.g., a human, an animal) during use in a medical procedure. Examples of endoscopes include colonoscopes, gastroscopes, cystoscopes, laparoscopes, arthroscopes, and transesophageal ultrasonic instruments.
  • As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, [0083] manipulation portion 1100 includes an opening 1105, a seal 1110 in opening 1105, a control device 1120 (e.g., a switch, a hand wheel, a joystick), a control device 1130 (e.g., a switch, a valve, a hand wheel, a joystick), and a wireless transmitter 1125 (e.g., an IEEE 802.11 standard compatible wireless transmitter, a SIG Bluetooth standard compatible wireless transmitter), an image processor 1155 coupled to transmitter 1125, an identity indicator 1140, a sterilization status indicator 1150, a medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160, a sterilization chamber match indicator 1165, a light source 1170 (e.g., an incandescent light source, a florescent light source, a solid-state light source, an arc light source, a gas discharge light source) and corresponding power source 1175 (e.g., a battery, such as a rechargeable battery) housed inside wall 1180 of manipulation region 1100.
  • Referring to FIG. 2, [0084] elongated portion 1200 includes a proximal end 1210 coupled to manipulation portion 1100, a flexible portion 1215, and a distal end 1220. Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, elongated portion 1200 has a wall 1230 that houses steering cables 1240, 1250, 1260 and 1270 that extend to distal end 1220, and are sealed at distal end 1220. Cables 1240, 1250, 1260 and 1270 are coupled (e.g., mechanically coupled, electrically coupled) to control devices 1120 and/or 1130 so that elongated portion 1200 can be positioned using the control device(s). Wall 1230 also houses an optical guide 1280 (e.g., a fiber optic conductor, a light transmissive cylinder, or a liquid-filled tube) that extends to distal end 1220, and is sealed at distal end 1220. Optical guide 1280 is optically coupled to light source 1270 (e.g., by contacting a flat surface of light source 1170 with a flat surface of optical guide 1280) so that light emitted by light source 1170 can travel along optical guide 1280 to distal end 1220. Wall 1230 further houses a working channel 1275 that extends to distal end 1220, and is open at distal end 1220. Working channel 1275 can be used, for example, to couple a medical tool at distal end 1220 with a control device on manipulation portion 1100, thereby allowing manipulation of the medical instrument using the control device. Wall 1230 also houses an optical image cable 1290 (e.g., a fiber optic conductor, wires conducting a video signal) adjacent distal end 1220, and is sealed at distal end 1220.
  • Use of Endoscope in a Medical Procedure [0085]
  • Generally, before using [0086] endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure, the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (whether endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure) and the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 (the status of one or more medical procedure enablement status factors, such as, for example, payment status, maintenance status, supply status) are determined. The sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can generally be determined by inspecting sterilization indicator 1150, and/or by using identity indicator 1140 (see discussion below). Similarly, the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can generally be determined by inspecting medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160, and/or by using identity indicator 1140 (see discussion below). After verifying that both the sterilization status and the enablement status of endoscope 1000 are appropriate (e.g., encloscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure, the account for the client associated with endoscope 1000 is not delinquent, endoscope 1000 has not been used more than a predetermined number of times since last undergoing a maintenance procedure, endoscope 1000 has not been used more than a predetermined number of times since the client was last provided supplies for endoscope 1000), endoscope 1000 can be used in a medical procedure.
  • Sterilization Status Indicator [0087]
  • In general, [0088] sterilization status indicator 1150 can be disposed in the interior of endoscope 1000 (e.g., in the interior of manipulation portion 1100, in the interior of elongated portion 1200), disposed on an exterior surface of endoscope 1000 (on an exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100, on the exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100), or integrally formed with endoscope 1000 (integrally formed with manipulation portion 1100, integrally formed with elongated portion 1200).
  • In some embodiments, [0089] sterilization status indicator 1150 can be visually inspected to determine the sterilization status of endoscope 1000. As an example, indicator 1150 can be formed of a material that changes color when exposed to sterilization conditions (e.g., from red to green), and again changes color (e.g., from green to red) when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids). As another example, indicator 1150 can be formed of a material that forms an image whose visibility changes (e.g., from nonvisible to visible, or from visible to nonvisible) when exposed to a sterilization cycle (e.g., so that a word, such as STERILIZED, appears on endoscope 1000 when exposed to sterilization, or so that a word, such as NONSTERILIZED, becomes nonvisible on endoscope 1000 when exposed to sterilization), and whose image reverts back to its prior state (visible to nonvisible, or nonvisible to visible) when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids). As a further example, indicator 1150 can be a marker (e.g., a colored marker) used in conjunction with a sleeve that moves to a certain position with respect to indicator 1150 when exposed to sterilization (e.g., sleeve moves to cover indicator 1150, or sleeve moves to expose indicator 1150), and that moves to a different position (e.g., sleeve moves to expose indicator 1150, or sleeve moves to cover indicator 1150) when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids).
  • In certain embodiments, [0090] sterilization status indicator 1150 contains information indicating the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., sterilized since last used in a medical procedure, or not sterilized since last used in a medical procedure) that is designed to be read by a sensor (e.g., a hand held sensor) to determine the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 without knowing the identity of endoscope 1000. Such indicator/sensor systems include, for example, magnetic systems, inductance systems, electrical systems, optical systems, and/or mechanical systems. As an example, indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism. As another example, indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system (e.g., indicator 1150 is a passive electrical device, and the sensor is a sensor for such passive electrical devices). As a further example, indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a magnetic system (e.g., indicator 1150 is a magnetic binary code and the sensor has Hall effect sensors). As another example, indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a bar code system (e.g., indicator 1150 can be a bar code, and the sensor can be a bar code reader). As a further example, indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components to a dot code system (e.g., indicator 1150 can be a dot code, and the sensor can be a dot code reader). As a further example, indicator 1150 and the sensor can be complimentary components of an induction system (e.g., a passive induction system, such as a TIRIS system from Texas Instruments).
  • Alternatively or additionally, [0091] endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light is emitted by light source 1170 (e.g., by visually inspecting the distal end of optical guide 1280). As an example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization, a thermal switch (e.g., a bimetallic switch) positions a flag outside the optical path between light source 1170 and optical guide 1280, and so that, when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), the flag is positioned between light source 1170 and optical guide 2180 so that the flag blocks optical communication between light source 1170 and guide 1280. As another example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during a sterilization cycle, a thermal switch (e.g., bimetallic spring) causes the focus to shift when the sterilization chamber begins to heat up, and resets the focus after the sterilization cycle. As an additional example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization, an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is connected, and so that, when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), the electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is disconnected. As a further example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization of endoscope 1000, power source 1175 is recharged (by removing power source 1175 from endoscope 1000 and charging power supply 1175 in a separate compartment while endoscope 1000 is being sterilized, or by charging power source 1175 during sterilization without removal from endoscope 1000), and so that when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), power source 1175 is discharged.
  • Alternatively or additionally, [0092] endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light transmitted from distal end 1220 along optical image cable 1290 to manipulation portion 1100 (e.g., by determining whether processor 1155 receives a signal from cable 1290). As an example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during sterilization, a thermal switch (e.g., a bimetallic switch) positions a flag outside the optical path between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155, and so that, when more than a predetermined period of time lapses after sterilization (e.g., more than about one day, more than about one week) or when endoscope 1000 is exposed to conditions similar to those experienced during a medical procedure (e.g., when endoscope 1000 is held at a temperature of about 37° C., when endoscope 1000 is exposed to body fluids), the flag is positioned between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155 so that the flag blocks optical communication between the distal end of cable 190 and processor 1155.
  • Alternatively or additionally, [0093] endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the sterilization status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by determining whether an articulation mechanism of endoscope 1000 works. For example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, during a sterilization cycle, a thermal switch (e.g., bimetallic spring) applies a brake to an articulation mechanism when the autoclave heats up, and the sterilization system releases the brake upon completion of the sterilization cycle.
  • Medical Procedure Enablement Status Indicator [0094]
  • In general, medical procedure [0095] enablement status indicator 1160 can be disposed in the interior of endoscope 1000 (e.g., in the interior of manipulation portion 1100, in the interior of elongated portion 1200), disposed on an exterior surface of endoscope 1000 (on an exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100, on the exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100), or integrally formed with endoscope 1000 (integrally formed with manipulation portion 1100, integrally formed with elongated portion 1200).
  • In some embodiments, medical procedure [0096] enablement status indicator 1160 can be visually inspected to determined the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000. As an example, indicator 1160 can be formed of a material that has one color if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), and a different color if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired). As another example, indicator 1160 can be formed of a material that forms an image that has one visibility status (e.g., nonvisible, visible) if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), and a different visibility status (e.g., visible or nonvisible) if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired). As a further example, indicator 1160 can be a marker (e.g., a colored marker) used in conjunction with a sleeve that moves to a certain position with respect to indicator 1160 (e.g., sleeve moves to cover indicator 1160, or sleeve moves to expose indicator 1160) if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), and that moves to a different position (e.g., sleeve moves to expose indicator 1160, or sleeve moves to cover indicator 1160) if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired).
  • In certain embodiments, medical procedure [0097] enablement status indicator 1160 contains information regarding the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., account payment status, endoscope 1000 maintenance status, endoscope 1000 supply status) that is designed to be read by a sensor (e.g., a hand held sensor) to determine the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 without knowing the identity of endoscope 1000. Such indicator/sensor systems include, for example, magnetic systems, inductance systems, electrical systems, optical systems, and/or mechanical systems. As an example, indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism. As another example, indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system (e.g., indicator 1160 is a passive electrical device, and the sensor is a sensor for such passive electrical devices). As a further example, indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a magnetic system (e.g., indicator 1160 is a magnetic binary code and the sensor has Hall effect sensors). As another example, indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of a bar code system (e.g., indicator 1160 can be a bar code, and the sensor can be a bar code reader). As a further example, indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components to a dot code system (e.g., indicator 1160 can be a dot code, and the sensor can be a dot code reader). As a further example, indicator 1160 and the sensor can be complimentary components of an induction system (e.g., a passive induction system, such as a TIRIS system from Texas Instruments).
  • Alternatively or additionally, [0098] endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light is emitted by light source 1170 (e.g., by visually inspecting the distal end of optical guide 1280). As an example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), a flag is positioned outside the optical path between light source 1170 and optical guide 1280, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the flag is positioned between light source 1170 and optical guide 1280 so that the flag blocks optical communication between light source 1170 and guide 1280. As another example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the optics in endoscope 1000 are properly focused, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the optics are not properly focused. As an additional example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170 is connected, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the connection is disconnected. As a further example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), power source 1175 is charged, and so that, if the factor has a different status (account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), power source 1175 is discharged.
  • Alternatively or additionally, [0099] endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by turning on power source 1175 and determining whether light transmitted from distal end 1220 along optical image cable 1290 to manipulation portion 1100 (e.g., by determining whether processor 1155 receives a signal from cable 1290). As an example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), a flag is positioned outside the optical path between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155, and so that if the medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a different status (e.g., account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the flag is positioned between the distal end of cable 1290 and processor 1155 so that the flag blocks optical communication between the distal end of cable 190 and processor 1155.
  • Alternatively or additionally, [0100] endoscope 1000 can be designed so that the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be determined by determining whether an articulation mechanism of endoscope 1000 works. For example, endoscope 1000 can be designed so that, if a given medical procedure enablement status factor associated with endoscope 1000 has a particular status (e.g., fully paid, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, less than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), an articulation element functions properly, and so that, if the factor has a different status (e.g., account delinquent, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since its last maintenance procedure, more than a predetermined number of uses of endoscope 1000 since supply materials were acquired), the articulation element is prevented from functioning properly (e.g., by applying a brake to the articulation mechanism).
  • Identity Indicator [0101]
  • In some embodiments, the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of [0102] endoscope 1000 is determined by reading identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without reading sterilization status indicator 1150 and/or medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160). Referring to FIG. 6, an identity sensor 1142 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000), and passes the data to data processor 1144 (e.g., a computer). Based on the data from indicator 1140, data processor 1144 accesses appropriate data (e.g., sterilization status data, medical procedure enablement status data) for endoscope 1000 contained in a database stored on a data storage device 1146 (e.g., a hard disk drive, a random access memory, a read-only memory).
  • In certain embodiments, [0103] data processor 1144 may be in communication with one or more status adjustment devices (e.g., a sterilization status adjustment device, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device) so that processor 1144 can instruct the device to change the status of one or more indicators for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to change the status of sterilization status indicator 1150, to change the status of medical procedure enablement device status indicator 1160) based on the information that processor 1144 receives from device 1146. Processor 1144 can also send appropriate data to device 1146 to update data contained in the database contained on device 1146 for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that the sterilization status for endoscope 1000 has changed, to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that the medical procedure enablement status for endoscope 1000 has changed). For example, referring to FIG. 6, processor 1144 is in communication with a status adjustment device 1500 (e.g., a sterilization indicator status adjustment device, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device) that is configured to change the status of an indicator 1502 (e.g., a sterilization status indicator, a medical procedure enablement status indicator) for endoscope 1000, and processor 1144 is also in communication with device 1146 to appropriately update data in the database for endoscope 1000.
  • In some embodiments, [0104] status adjustment device 1500 forms a complimentary component of indicator 1502 (e.g., a magnetic device, an inductance device, an electrical device, an optical device, a mechanical device). As an example, device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism so that device 1500 can change the position of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As another example, device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system so that device 1500 can change a passive electrical property of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As a further example, device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a magnetic system so that device 1500 can change a magnetic property of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As another example, device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a bar code system so that device 1500 can change the bar code of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As a further example, device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of a dot code system so that device 1500 can change the dot code of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As another example, device 1500 and indicator 1502 can be complimentary components of an induction system so that device 1500 can change the passive induction properties of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As an additional example, device 1500 can be capable of heating endoscope 1500 to affect a color change in indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1500. As a further example, indicator 1502 can be capable of heating endoscope 1000 to affect a change in the visibility (e.g., visible to nonvisible, nonvisible to visible) of indicator 1502, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502. As another example, indicator 1502 can be capable of changing the position of a sleeve relative to indicator 1502 (e.g., indicator 1502 covered by sleeve to indicator 1502 not covered by sleeve, indicator 1502 not covered by sleeve to indicator 1502 covered by sleeve) on endoscope 1000, thereby changing the status of endoscope 1000 as indicated by indicator 1502.
  • In certain embodiments, [0105] status adjustment device 1500 can adjust the status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., sterilization status, medical procedure enablement status) without interacting with indicator 1502 (e.g., sterilization status indicator, medical procedure enablement status indicator). As an example, device 1500 can be capable of changing (e.g., by thermally activating a bimetallic spring) the position of a flag so that the flag is positioned in/outside the optical path between light source 1175 and the distal end of optical guide 1280. As another example, device 1500 can be capable of changing (e.g., by thermally activating a bimetallic spring) the focus of the optics in endoscope 1000. As an additional example, device 1500 can be capable of connecting/disconnecting (e.g., by thermally activating a bimetallic switch) an electrical connection between power source 1175 and light source 1170, or between a power source and a video camera. As a further example, device 1500 can be capable of charging/discharging power source. As another example, device 1500 can be capable of applying/removing a brake on an articulation mechanism of endoscope 1000.
  • Performing a Medical Procedure [0106]
  • After verifying that both the sterilization status and medical procedure enablement status of [0107] endoscope 1000 are appropriate, endoscope 1000 can be used by an operator (e.g., a surgeon) in a medical procedure as follows.
  • The operator turns on power source [0108] 1175 (e.g., using a control device on manipulation portion 1100) so that light travels from light source 1170 and along optical guide 1280 to distal end 1220 where the light illuminates a region inside the subject that is adjacent distal end 1220. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, optical image cable 1290 is coupled to an image processor 1155, which, in turn, is coupled to wireless transmitter 1125 so that visual data received by cable 1290 is wirelessly transmitted by transmitter 1125. Transmitter 1125 is coupled to a data processor 1255 (e.g., via a wireless receiver), which, in turn, is coupled to a display device 1265 (e.g., a video monitor) so that the data transmitted by transmitter 1125 is displayed on display device 1265. The operator of endoscope 1000 analyzes the displayed information, and uses control devices 1120 and/or 1130 to manipulate flexible portion 1215 via steering guides 1240, 1250, 1260 and/or 1270 to adjust the position of elongated portion 1200 within the subject. Alternatively or additionally, wireless transmitter 1125 can be used in conjunction with a receiver (e.g., an RF receiver) to provide data corresponding to the position of distal end 1220 within the subject, and the wirelessly received signal can be used, for example, to position endoscope 1000 within the subject. Alternatively or additionally, endoscope 1000 can include a receiver configured to receive a wireless transmission (e.g., from a wireless transmitter outside the subject). Optionally, a medical tool (e.g., a cauterizing apparatus, a cutting apparatus, a clamping apparatus, an irrigation apparatus, a suction apparatus, a pressurization apparatus, an inspection apparatus, a marking apparatus, an illumination apparatus, a retrieval apparatus) can be positioned at distal end 1220 and coupled to a control device on manipulation portion 1100 through working channel 1175 so that tile medical instrument can be manipulated (e.g., based on the visual information and/or position information) using a control device (e.g., positioned on manipulation portion 1100).
  • Updating Endoscope Status [0109]
  • After using [0110] endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure, the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be updated.
  • In some embodiments, using [0111] endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure automatically updates sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., as indicated by sterilization status indicator 1150) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. As an example, indicator 1150 may change color (e.g., green to red) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. As another example, indicator 1150 may display a word (e.g., NONSTERILIZED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. As a further example, indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. In some embodiments, the distal end of optical guide 1280 may not emit light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. In certain embodiments, an articulation element may fail to function properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • In certain embodiments, using the endoscope in a medical procedure automatically updates the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope [0112] 1000 (e.g., as indicated by indicator 1160) to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure and/or to prevent endoscope 1000 from being used in a medical procedure (e.g., by disabling endoscope 1000 from being capable of being used in a medical procedure). As an example, indicator 1160 may change color (e.g., green to red) to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure. As another example indicator 1160 may display a word (e.g., DISABLED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure. As a further example, indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 should not be used in a medical procedure. In some embodiments, the distal end of optical guide 1280 may not emit light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been disabled from being used in a medical procedure. In certain embodiments, an articulation element may fail to function properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been disabled from being used in a medical procedure.
  • In some embodiments, the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of [0113] endoscope 1000 is updated using identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without updating sterilization status indicator 1150 and/or medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160). For example, again referring to FIG. 6, identity sensor 1142 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000), and passes the data to data processor 1144. Processor 1144 sends appropriate data to device 1146 to update data contained in the database contained on device 1146 for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure). Processor 1144 may instruct status adjustment device 1500 to update the status of an indicator (e.g., a sterilization status indicator) using an appropriate status adjustment device (see discussion above). In some embodiments, processor 1144 may read certain data for endoscope 1000 in the database for endoscope 1000 on device 1146 (e.g., medical procedure enablement status data), and update the status of the corresponding indicator (e.g., medical procedure enablement status indicator) for endoscope 1000 (see discussion above).
  • Cleaning and Sterilization of Endoscope [0114]
  • In general, after use in a medical procedure, [0115] endoscope 1000 is cleaned to remove detritus, and then sterilized.
  • Sterilization Chamber [0116]
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a [0117] sterilization chamber 2000 configured to clean and sterilize endoscope 1000. Sterilization chamber 2000 has a wall 2050 that houses an identity sensor 2100, a sterilization status adjustment device 2200, a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300, a sterilization match sensor 2250, a cleaning device 2400 designed to clean the interior of working channel 1275, a cleaning device 2500 designed to clean the exterior surface of wall 1230, a fluid emission device 2600 designed to emit a fluid into working channel 1275, a pressure regulator 1145, a pressure sensor 2700, a temperature sensor 2800, a timer 2900, and a communication device 2950 (e.g., a wireless transmitter, a transmitter electrically connected to processor 1144, a transmitter optically connected to processor 1144, a wireless receiver, a receiver electrically connected to processor 1144, a receiver optically connected to processor 1144, a wireless transmitter/receiver, a transmitter/receiver electrically connected to processor 1144, a transmitter/receiver optically connected to processor 1144). Each of sensor 2100, device 2200, device 2300, sensor 2250, device 2300, device 2400, device 2500, sensor 2700, sensor 2800, sensor 2900, and/or device 2950 can be integral with chamber 2000, disposed in the interior of chamber 2000, or disposed on the exterior of chamber 2000.
  • Matching Endoscope and Sterilization Chamber [0118]
  • [0119] Sterilization chamber 2000 is designed to ensure that endoscope 1000 is properly matched with chamber 2000 (e.g., to avoid damage to endoscope 1000 due to exposure to improper sterilization conditions, to avoid ineffective sterilization of endoscope 1000 due to improper sterilization conditions, to be able to monitor use of endoscope 1000). Sterilization chamber 2000 is also designed to be capable of interacting with the database for endoscope 1000 stored on device 1146 (e.g., to determine status information for endoscope 1000, to update status information for endoscope 1000, to determine status information for chamber 2000, to update status information for chamber 2000).
  • In general, sterilization [0120] chamber match indicator 1165 can be disposed in the interior of endoscope 1000 (e.g., in the interior of manipulation portion 1100, in the interior of elongated portion 1200), disposed on an exterior surface of endoscope 1000 (on an exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100, on the exterior surface of manipulation portion 1100), or integrally formed with endoscope 1000 (integrally formed with manipulation portion 1100, integrally formed with elongated portion 1200).
  • In certain embodiments, sterilization [0121] chamber match indicator 1165 contains information that can be read by sterilization chamber match sensor 2250 to determine if endoscope 1000 matches sterilization chamber 2000 without knowing the identity of endoscope 1000. Such indicator/sensor systems include, for example, magnetic systems, inductance systems, electrical systems, optical systems, and/or mechanical systems. As an example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a mating key and socket mechanism. As another example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a pressure interlock mechanism. As another example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a passive electrical system (e.g., indicator 1165 is a passive electrical device, and sensor 2250 is a sensor for such passive electrical devices). As a further example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a magnetic system (e.g., indicator 1165 is a magnetic binary code and sensor 2250 has Hall effect sensors). As another example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of a bar code system (e.g., indicator 1165 can be a bar code, and sensor 2250 can be a bar code reader). As a further example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components to a dot code system (e.g., indicator 1165 can be a dot code, and sensor 2250 can be a dot code reader). As a further example, indicator 1165 and sensor 2250 can be complimentary components of an induction system (e.g., a passive induction system, such as a TIRIS system from Texas Instruments).
  • In some embodiments, the match between [0122] endoscope 1000 and sterilization chamber 2000 can be determined using identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without using indicator 1165. Referring to FIG. 10, identity sensor 2100 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000), and passes the data to data processor 1144 via device 2950. Processor 1144 retrieves appropriate data to device 1146 to determine whether endoscope 1000 matches sterilization chamber 2000. If endoscope 1000 does not match sterilization chamber 2000, then processor 1144 instructs a power supply 1148 to shut down sterilization chamber 2000.
  • Cleaning Endoscope to Remove Detritus [0123]
  • After determining that [0124] endoscope 1000 matches sterilization chamber 2000, chamber 2000 cleans endoscope 1000 to remove detritus.
  • Referring to FIG. 11, cleaning device [0125] 2400 (e.g., a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, a rope) is disposed within working channel 1275, and relative motion occurs between working channel 1275 and cleaning device 2400 so that cleaning device 2400 interacts with different regions of working channel 1275 to clean working channel 1275 (e.g., to brush off detritus, to blow off detritus with fluid). In general, the manner in which cleaning device 2400 is disposed in working channel 1275, and relative motion occurs can be varied as desired. In some embodiments, cleaning device 2400 is stationary and configured so that, as endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000, device 2400 is placed within channel 1275. In certain embodiments, cleaning device 2400 is movable within sterilization chamber 2000 so that, after endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000, device 2400 is moved into working channel 1275. In some embodiments, after at least partially disposing device 2400 within channel 1275, cleaning device 2400 moves within channel 1275 while channel 1275 is stationary. In certain embodiments, after at least partially disposing device 2400 within channel 1275, working channel 1275 moves while device 2400 is stationary. Generally, the movement of cleaning device 2400 and/or channel 1275 can be manual controlled, automated or both.
  • Referring to FIG. 12, before, after or while cleaning [0126] device 2400 cleans channel 1275, cleaning device 2500 (e.g., a brush, a fluid emission device, a radiation emission device, a pipe cleaner, a thread, a rope) and the exterior surface of wall 1230 are positioned adjacent each other, and relative motion occurs between cleaning device 2500 and wall 1230 so that cleaning device 2500 interacts with different regions of the exterior of wall 1230 to clean wall 1230 (e.g., to brush off detritus, to blow off detritus with fluid). In general, the manner in which cleaning device 2500 and wall 1230 are disposed adjacent each other and relative motion occurs can be varied as desired. In some embodiments, cleaning device 2500 is stationary and configured so that, as endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000, device 2500 is placed adjacent the exterior of wall 1230. In certain embodiments, cleaning device 2500 is movable within sterilization chamber 2000 so that, after endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000, device 2500 is moved adjacent the exterior of wall 1230. In some embodiments, after disposing the exterior of wall 1230 and device 2500 adjacent each other, cleaning device 2500 moves adjacent different regions of the exterior of wall 1230 while wall 1230 is stationary. In certain embodiments, after disposing the exterior of wall 1230 and device 2500 adjacent each other, wall 1230 moves while device 2500 is stationary. In general, the movement of cleaning device 2500 and/or wall 1230 can be manually controlled, automated or both.
  • Referring to FIG. 13, alternatively or additionally, fluid emission device [0127] 2600 (e.g., a steam emission nozzle, a steam emission hose, a gas emission nozzle, a gas emission hose, a cleaning fluid emission nozzle, a cleaning emission hose) can be positioned adjacent working channel 1275 at distal end 1220, and device 2600 can emit a fluid into channel 1275 to clean channel 1275. In general, the manner in which cleaning device 2600 and channel 1275 are disposed adjacent each other can be varied as desired. In some embodiments, cleaning device 2600 is stationary and configured so that, as endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000, device 2600 is placed adjacent channel 1275 at distal end 1220. In certain embodiments, cleaning device 2600 is movable within sterilization chamber 2000 so that, after endoscope 1000 is disposed in sterilization chamber 2000, device 2600 is moved adjacent channel 1275 at distal end 1220. In general, the movement of cleaning device 2600 and/or channel 1275 can be manually controlled, automated or both. Cleaning device 2600 can emit, for example, one or more enzymatic cleaning fluids, disinfectant fluids, and/or sterilization fluids.
  • Sterilization of Endoscope [0128]
  • After cleaning [0129] endoscope 1000 to remove detritus, endoscope 1000 is sterilized. Generally, sterilization includes sealing sterilization chamber 2000, evacuating chamber 2000, and introducing pressurized steam into chamber 2000. The steam pressure, steam temperature, and the amount of time to which the endoscope is exposed to the steam can be selected on the particular type of endoscope (e.g., materials, size, uses).
  • In general, sterilization of [0130] endoscope 1000 involves first evacuating chamber 2000, and then pressurizing chamber 2000 with steam. Elongated portion 1200 of endoscope 1000 typically has one or more components that are sealed at distal end 1220 (e.g., steering cables, an optical guide, an optical image cable), which can cause pressure differentials to occur during the sterilization process. For example, during evacuation of chamber 2000, endoscope 1000 can partially expand due to a pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 (relatively low pressure) and the region of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 (relatively high pressure), and, during pressurization of chamber 2000, endoscope 1000 can partially collapse due to a pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 (relatively high pressure) and the region of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 (relatively low pressure).
  • FIG. 13 shows a cross-section of a portion of [0131] endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220, and in fluid communication with opening 1105. Opening 1105 is in fluid communication with a gas supply/vacuum apparatus 1135 via a pressure regulator 1145 (e.g., a valve). As the pressure in chamber 2000 is reduced during evacuation, pressure regulator 1145 opens to allow apparatus 1135 to reduce the pressure (e.g., by pumping out gas) in the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 so that the pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 and the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 is relatively small (e.g., less than about five psi, less than about four psi, less than about three psi, less than about two psi, less than about one psi, less than 0.5 psi, less than 0.2 psi) during evacuation. After evacuation, as the pressure in chamber 2000 is increased, pressure regulator 1145 opens to allow apparatus 1135 to increase the pressure (e.g., by pumping in gas) in the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 so that the pressure differential between the exterior of endoscope 1000 and the portion of endoscope 1000 that is sealed at distal end 1220 is relatively small (e.g., less than about five psi, less than about four psi, less than about three psi, less than about two psi, less than about one psi, less than 0.5 psi, less than 0.2 psi) during pressurization. In general, pressure regulator 1145 can be manually controlled, automated, or both. In certain embodiments, pressure regulator 1145 can be varied continuously between a fully on position and a fully off position. In some embodiments, pressure regulator 1145 has only a fully on position and a fully off position.
  • In certain embodiments, [0132] pressure sensor 2700, temperature sensor 2800, and/or timer 2900 are used to determine whether the proper sterilization conditions (steam pressure, steam temperature, time that endoscope 1000 was exposed to the steam) were met (e.g., sterilization chamber 2000 operates under set sterilization conditions, and sensors 2700, 2800, and/or 2900 are used to verify that the conditions were met). In some embodiments, pressure sensor 2700, temperature sensor 2800 and/or timer 2900 can be used to monitor and adjust the steam pressure, steam temperature, and time of exposure (e.g., sensors 2700, 2800, and/or 2900 are used to control the conditions used during sterilization of endoscope 1000) to assist in sterilizing endoscope 1000 under appropriate conditions. Sensors 2700, 2800, and/or 2900 can be manually operated, automated, or both.
  • Updating Endoscope Status [0133]
  • After sterilizing [0134] endoscope 1000, the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 can be updated.
  • In some embodiments, sterilizing [0135] endoscope 1000 in a sterilizer automatically updates sterilization status of endoscope 1000 (e.g., as indicated by sterilization status indicator 1150) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has not been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. As an example, indicator 1150 may change color (e.g., red to green) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. As another example, indicator 1150 may display a word (e.g., STERILIZED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. As a further example, indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. In some embodiments, the distal end of optical guide 1280 emits light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure. In certain embodiments, an articulation element functions properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure.
  • In certain embodiments, using the endoscope in a medical procedure automatically updates the medical procedure enablement status of endoscope [0136] 1000 (e.g., as indicated by indicator 1160) to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure. As an example, indicator 1160 may change color (e.g., red to green) to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure. As another example, indicator 1160 may display a word (e.g., ENABLED) to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure. As a further example, indicator 1150 may cover/not cover a marker on endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure. In some embodiments, the distal end of optical guide 1280 may emit light when power source 1175 is turned on to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure. In certain embodiments, an articulation element functions properly to indicate that endoscope 1000 is enabled for use in a medical procedure.
  • In some embodiments, the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of [0137] endoscope 1000 is updated using identity indicator 1140 (e.g., without updating sterilization status indicator 1150 and/or medical procedure enablement status indicator 1160). Referring to FIG. 15, identity sensor 2100 reads data from identity indicator 1140 (data corresponding to the identity of endoscope 1000), and passes the data to data processor 1144 via communication device 2950. Processor 1144 sends appropriate data to device 1146 to update data in the database contained on device 1146 for endoscope 1000 (e.g., to update data in the database for endoscope 1000 to indicate that endoscope 1000 has been sterilized since last used in a medical procedure). Processor 1144 may also instruct sterilization status adjustment device 2200 to update sterilization status indicator 1150 as appropriate (see discussion above), and/or processor 1144 may also instruct medical procedure enablement adjustment device 2300 to update medical procedure enablement adjustment status indicator 1160 as appropriate (see discussion above).
  • Endoscope Holder [0138]
  • In certain [0139] embodiments sterilization chamber 2000 does not have identity sensor 2100, sterilization status adjustment device 2200, medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300, sterilization match sensor 2250, pressure sensor 2700, temperature sensor 2800, and/or timer 2900. In such embodiments, one or more of these components can be coupled to a device that can fit into sterilization chamber 2000 so that, while chamber 2000 itself does not have one or more of these components, the sterilization system still does have all these components disposed within chamber 2000 during sterilization. For example, FIG. 16 shows an endoscope holder 3000 (e.g., a tray) that can be repeatedly fit into sterilization chamber 2000, and that can be repeatedly removed from sterilization chamber 2000. Holder 3000 includes identity sensor 2100, sterilization status adjustment device 2200, medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300, sterilization match sensor 2250, pressure sensor 2700, temperature sensor 2800, and timer 2900.
  • [0140] Holder 3000 can be used as follows. Endoscope 1000 is placed in holder 3000, holder 3000 is placed in sterilization chamber 2000, and the match between endoscope 1000 and chamber 2000 is determined. If chamber 2000 and endoscope 1000 are not properly matched, chamber 2000 is shut down (see discussion above). Otherwise, the process continues. In some embodiments, holder 3000 and endoscope 1000 are configured so that cleaning devices 2400, 2500 and/or 2600 are appropriately positioned as tray 3000 is placed into chamber 2000. Sterilization chamber 2000 then goes through a sterilization cycle, sterilization conditions are checked, and the status of endoscope 1000 is updated (see discussion above). Each of sensor 2100, device 2200, device 2300, sensor 2250, sensor 2700, sensor 2800, sensor 2900, and/or transmitter 2950 can be integral with holder 3000, disposed in the interior of holder 3000, or disposed on the exterior of holder 3000.
  • Endoscope Holder Docking Station [0141]
  • In some embodiments, [0142] holder 3000 does not include identity sensor 2100, sterilization status adjustment device 2200, medical procedure enablement status adjustment device 2300, sterilization match sensor 2250, pressure sensor 2700, temperature sensor 2800, and/or timer 2900. Referring to FIG. 17, in such embodiments, a docking station 4000 for holder 3000 can contain these components. Docking station 4000 can be used as follows. Holder 3000 is used as described above. After the sterilization cycle, holder 3000 is removed from chamber 2000 and connected to docking station 4000 (which may be remote from chamber 2000). The sterilization conditions are checked, and the status of endoscope 1000 is updated (see discussion above). Each of sensor 2100, device 2200, device 2300, sensor 2250, sensor 2700, sensor 2800, sensor 2900, and/or transmitter 2950 can be integral with docking station 4000, disposed in the interior of docking station 4000, or disposed on the exterior of docking station 4000. In some embodiments, docking station 4000 is configured to be electrically coupled, optically coupled and/or wirelessly coupled with holder 3000. In certain embodiments, docking station 4000 is configured to hold endoscope holder 3000 without such coupling with holder 3000.
  • Charging for use of Endoscope [0143]
  • FIG. 18 shows a flow chart for a [0144] method 5000 that can be used to charge a client for use of endoscope 1000. First, the client uses endoscope 1000 (5100), and this information is communicated to a data processor (5200). The data processor then communicates with a data storage device containing a database with data for endoscope 1000 (5300). The data processor uses the data for endoscope 1000 to calculate the client charge for using endoscope 1000 (5400). Depending on the type of account the client has, the data processor debits the account (e.g., by updating the database for endoscope 1000 contained on device 1446 to reduce the charge from the credit for the account) and forwards this information to the client, or the data processor bills the account (e.g., by updating the database for endoscope 1000 contained on device 1446 to indicate that the client has been sent a bill for the charge) and forwards the bill to the client (5500).
  • In general, this method can be performed as follows. The client uses [0145] endoscope 1000, and as data is communicated from endoscope 1000 to data processor 1144 and data storage device 1146 to update the data for endoscope 1000 in the database contained on device 1146 to indicate that the sterilization status and/or medical procedure enablement status of endoscope 1000 has changed, the database is updated to indicate that endoscope 1000 has undergone another use in a medical procedure. This can take place after use of endoscope 1000 (e.g., after use of endoscope 1000 but before cleaning of endoscope 1000, when endoscope 1000 is cleaned, when endoscope 1000 is matched with sterilization chamber 2000, after matching with sterilization chamber 2000 but before sterilization of endoscope 1000) and/or after sterilization of endoscope 1000 (e.g., after sterilization of endoscope 1000 but before the next use of endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure), but generally not both (see discussion above). During this process, processor 1144 recognizes that endoscope 1000 has undergone a use in a medical procedure, and processor 1144 communicates this to database 1146 (e.g., the database can contain information regarding the number of times endoscope 1000 has been used in a medical procedure). Processor 1144 then retrieves the appropriate data from the database to calculate the charge to the client, and processor 1144 retrieves appropriate data from the database to determine the type of account the client has (e.g., credited, noncredited) to determine how to charge the client. Processor 1144 then provides appropriate instructions so that the client is informed of the charge (e.g., by displaying the charge information on a video monitor so that a person can read this information and forward it to the client, by printing the information on a sheet that is forwarded to the client, by electronically/optically/wirelessly communicating this information to the client).
  • Various information can be contained in the database for [0146] endoscope 1000 that is stored on device 1146 and that is used by processor 1144 to determine the client charge for using endoscope 1000. In some embodiments, the information can include the identity of the client. For example, the client charge may depend upon whether the client is a private patient, a private doctor, a doctor who is part of a professional organization, a health maintenance organization, a private insurance company, or a government agency. In certain embodiments, the information can include the number of times the client has used endoscope 1000. For example, the rate per use may change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the number of uses increases. In some embodiments, the information can include the number of times that the client has used endoscope 1000 since the client was last billed. For example, the client can be billed based on a predetermined number of uses, as opposed to being billed on a per use basis. In certain embodiments, the information can include the total number of times that the client has used an endoscope in the system. For example, the client may be associated with multiple endoscopes through an account, and the total number of uses for the multiple endoscopes can be stored in the database so that the client charge per endoscope use can change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the total number of endoscope uses increases. In some embodiments, the information can include the total number of times that the client has used a sterilization chamber in the system. For example, the client may have access to multiple sterilization chambers, and the total number of sterilization chamber uses can be stored in the database so that the charge per use can change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the total number of sterilization system uses increases. In certain embodiments, the information can include the time of day that endoscope 1000 was used. For example, the charge per use can be lower if endoscope 1000 was used during off peak hours. In some embodiments, the information can include the frequency of use of endoscope 1000. For example, the charge per use can change (e.g., increase, decrease) as the number of uses per unit time increases.
  • In some embodiments, the client is charged before use of [0147] endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure (e.g., before each use, before each predetermined number of uses). In certain embodiments, the client is charged after use of endoscope 1000 in a medical procedure (e.g., after each use, after each predetermined number of uses).
  • While certain embodiments have been described, other embodiments are possible. [0148]
  • As an example, while the systems and methods have been described for use with endoscopes, other reusable medical instruments can be used in the systems and methods. A reusable medical instrument, as referred to herein, means a medical instrument that, after being used in a medical procedure, is treated (e.g., cleaned, disinfected, and/or sterilized) so that the device can be used again in a medical procedure. Examples of reusable medical instruments include laparoscopes, video imaging cameras and/or associated electronics, CCD imaging cameras and/or associated electronics, CMOS imaging cameras and/or associated electronics, wound closure devices (e.g., staplers, suturing devices), ultrasonic probes, umbilical cables, umbilicals for cutters, umbilicals for shavers, umbilicals for staplers, and endarterectomy devices. [0149]
  • As another example, while the above-described systems and methods have been described with respect to sterilization chambers and sterilization processes, more generally, the systems and methods can be used with any treatment that is used for a reusable medical instrument between uses of the instrument in a medical procedure. As an example, rather than a sterilization chamber and process, the systems and methods can use a disinfection chamber and process. In some embodiments, the treatment of the reusable medical instrument between uses in a medical procedure can include cleaning, disinfection and/or sterilization. [0150]
  • As a further example, the status checking and/or data updating for a reusable medical instrument can be done at any stage in the process that is desired. For example, the status of the reusable device can be checked and/or updated before use in a medical procedure, after the device is used in a medical procedure (e.g., between use in a medical procedure and treatment), and/or after the device is treated (e.g., sterilized and/or disinfected). In some embodiments, the status of the reusable medical instrument is checked and/or updated between use in a medical procedure and treatment, but not after treatment. In certain embodiments, the status of the reusable medical instrument is checked and/or updated after treatment, but not between use in a medical procedure and treatment. Similarly, data associated with the reusable medical instrument can be updated before the device is used in a medical procedure, after the device is used in a medical procedure (e.g., between use in a medical procedure and treatment), and/or after the device is treated. [0151]
  • While endoscopes having a light source in the manipulation portion have been described, endoscopes having one or more lights sources located in the elongated portion of the endoscope (e.g., at the distal end) can also be used. One or more of the light sources can be external to the endoscope (e.g., connected to the manipulation portion via an electrical connection, an optical connection, and/or a wireless connection). [0152]
  • While endoscopes having an internal power source have been described, endoscopes having an external power source (e.g., connected to the manipulation portion via an electrical connection, an optical connection, and/or a wireless connection) can be used. [0153]
  • While endoscopes having a wireless transmitter on the elongated portion have been described, endoscopes having an electrically connected and/or optically connected transmitter on the elongated portion can be used. [0154]
  • While endoscopes having a [0155] flexible portion 1215 have been described, in some embodiments region 1215 can be rigid or semi-rigid.
  • In some embodiments, the manipulation portion of an endoscope can have one or more oculars, one or more umbilicals, one or more connectors, and/or one or more valves. In embodiments in which the manipulation portion has an umbilical, the endoscope can be designed so that the cable automatically changes the status of the endoscope (e.g., sterilization status, medical procedure enablement status) when the umbilical is separated from the endoscope or is separated at its distal end (e.g., from the video processor, gas/vacuum/irrigation supply, and/or light source), and/or the umbilical can mechanically reset to indicate a change in status after use. [0156]
  • In certain embodiments, a light source can be formed of one or more LEDs (e.g., one or more red LEDs, one or more blue LEDs, one or more green LEDs, and/or one or more white LEDs). [0157]
  • In some embodiments, a medical instrument can have one or more joysticks that are used as control devices. Medical instruments containing such control devices are described, for example, in commonly owned and co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/389,168, filed Jun. 17, [0158] 2002, and entitled “Mechanical Joystick Steering Mechanism for Borescope, Endoscope, Catheter, Guide Tube, and Working Tool,” the contents of which are herby incorporated by reference.
  • In some embodiments, the systems can be used to provide methods of maintaining the condition of a reusable medical instrument. For example, the database can maintain a record of the number of times the reusable medical instrument has been used in a medical procedure since it last underwent a maintenance procedure. The data processor can retrieve this information from the database, and, when the database indicates that the reusable medical instrument has undergone the predetermined number of uses since last undergoing a maintenance procedure, the processor can disable the reusable medical instrument from use in a medical procedure. The database can then instruct the client that the reusable medical instrument has been disabled. [0159]
  • In certain embodiments, the systems can be used to provide methods of maintaining supplies associated with uses of a reusable medical instrument (e.g., cytology brushes, baskets, snares, graspers, forceps). For example, the database can maintain a record of the number of times the reusable medical instrument has been used in a medical procedure since the client associated with the instrument was provided supplies for the instrument. The data processor can retrieve this information from the database, and, when the database indicates that the reusable medical instrument has undergone the predetermined number of uses since the client was last provided the supplies, the processor can instruct a medical procedure enablement status adjustment device for the instrument to disable the reusable medical instrument from use in a medical procedure. The database can then instruct the client that the reusable medical instrument has been disabled. In some embodiments, a user or handler of the instrument can provide the data processor with information regarding the medical procedure that is intended to be used with the instrument, and the data processor can interact with the database to determine whether sufficient supplies are available for the instrument to be used in the particular procedure. [0160]
  • While reusable medical instruments and medical procedures have been described, other instruments and procedures can also be used. For example, the instruments can be designed to be reusable for industrial uses (e.g., for inspecting the interior of an aircraft engine), and the procedures can be industrial procedures (e.g., inspecting the interior of an aircraft engine). [0161]
  • While the pressure regulator and gas/vacuum source have been described as being coupled to a treatment chamber (e.g., a sterilization chamber), other embodiments can be used. For example, the pressure regulator and/or gas/vacuum source can be coupled to a holder (e.g., a tray) for the reusable instrument (e.g., a reusable medical instrument, such as an endoscope).[0162]

Claims (111)

Other embodiments are in the claims:
1. A method of charging a client for use of a reusable instrument, the method comprising:
charging the client for use of the reusable instrument, the charge to the client being at least partially based on a number of times the client has used the reusable instrument since last being charged for use of the reusable instrument.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a total number of reusable instrument uses associated with the client.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a total number of treatment system uses associated with the client, the treatment system being designed to treat a reusable instrument.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a frequency of uses of the reusable instrument.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a frequency of uses of a total number of reusable instruments associated with the client.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a time of day when the reusable instrument is used.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on an average time of day that the client uses a reusable instrument.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on an amount of time that the client has had the reusable instrument.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the client is charged after each use of the reusable instrument.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the client is charged before each use of the reusable instrument.
11. The method of claim 1, wherein the client is charged after a predetemined number of uses of the reusable instrument.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein the client is charged before a predetermined number of uses of the reusable instrument.
13. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining the client based on an identity of the reusable instrument.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein determining the client includes communicating data associated with the identity of the reusable instrument to a data processor.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the data processor is remote from the reusable instrument.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein determining the client further includes communicating data associated with the client from a data storage instrument to the data processor.
17. The method of claim 13, further comprising determining a payment status of the client.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on the payment status of the client.
19. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining a payment status of the client.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on the payment status of the client.
21. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining an identity of the reusable instrument.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein determining the identity of the reusable instrument includes reading recognition data from the reusable instrument.
23. The method of claim 22, further comprising communicating the recognition data to a data processor.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising communicating between the data processor and a data storage device to determine a client associated with the reusable instrument.
25. The method of claim 23, wherein the data processor is remote from the reusable instrument.
26. The method of claim 23, wherein determining the client further includes communicating data associated with the client from a data storage instrument to the data processor.
27. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing the reusable instrument and a treatment system to the client, the treatment system being designed to treat a reusable instrument.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the treatment system is a sterilization system or a disinfection system.
29. The method of claim 1, wherein the client includes a person that used the reusable instrument, a company affiliated with a person that used the reusable instrument, a subject on whom the reusable instrument was used, a person associated with a subject on whom the reusable instrument was used, an insurance company, or a government agency.
30. The method of claim 1, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
31. A method of charging a client for use of a reusable instrument, the reusable instrument having an identity, the method comprising:
reading recognition data from the reusable instrument to determine the identity of the reusable instrument;
determining the client based on the identity of the reusable instrument; and
charging the client based on data associated with the client.
32. The method of claim 31, wherein the data associated with the client includes a number of times the reusable instrument has been used by the client.
33. The method of claim 31, wherein the data associated with the client includes a total number of reusable instrument uses associated with the client.
34. The method of claim 31, wherein the data associated with the client includes a total number of treatment system uses associated with the client.
35. The method of claim 31, wherein determining the client includes communicating the recognition data to a data processor.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein the data processor is remote from the reusable instrument.
37. The method of claim 35, wherein determining the client further includes communicating data associated with the client from a data storage instrument to the data processor.
38. The method of claim 31, wherein the recognition data is read from the reusable instrument using a instrument selected from the group consisting of magnetic instruments, inductance instruments, electrical instruments, optical instruments, and mechanical instruments.
39. The method of claim 31, further comprising determining a payment status of the client.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on the payment status of the client.
41. The method of claim 31, further comprising providing the reusable instrument and a treatment system to the client, the treatment system being designed to treat a reusable instrument.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the treatment system is a sterilization system or a disinfection system.
43. The method of claim 31, wherein the client is selected from the group consisting of a person that used the reusable instrument; a company affiliated with a person that used the reusable instrument, a subject on whom the reusable instrument was used, a person associated with a subject on whom the reusable instrument was used, an insurance company, and a government agency.
44. The method of claim 31, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
45. A method of managing a condition of a reusable instrument, the reusable instrument having an identity, the method comprising:
determining the identity of the reusable instrument; and
determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein determining the identity of the reusable instrument includes reading recognition data from the reusable instrument.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein determining the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure includes communicating the recognition data to a data processor.
48. The method of claim 47, wherein the data processor is remote from the reusable instrument.
49. The method of claim 47, wherein determining the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure further includes communicating data associated with the reusable instrument from a data storage instrument to the data processor.
50. The method of claim 45, further comprising preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure.
51. The method of claim 45, further comprising performing a maintenance procedure on the reusable instrument based on the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure.
52. The method of claim 51, further comprising charging a client associated with the reusable instrument for performance of the maintenance procedure.
53. The method of claim 45, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
54. A method of maintaining a supply material associated with uses of a reusable instrument, the reusable instrument having an identity, the method comprising:
determining the identity of the reusable instrument; and
determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by a client associated with the reusable instrument.
55. The method of claim 54, wherein determining the identity of the reusable instrument includes reading recognition data from the reusable instrument.
56. The method of claim 55, wherein determining the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by the client includes communicating the recognition data for the reusable instrument to a data processor.
57. The method of claim 56, wherein the data processor is remote from the reusable instrument.
58. The method of claim 56, wherein determining the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by the client further includes communicating data associated with the reusable instrument from a data storage instrument to the data processor.
59. The method of claim 54, further comprising preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last provided to the client.
60. The method of claim 54, further comprising providing the supply material to the client based on the number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last provided to the client.
61. The method of claim 60, further comprising charging the client for providing the supply material.
62. The method of claim 54, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
63. A method of preventing use of a reusable instrument, the reusable instrument having an identity, the method comprising:
determining a client associated with the reusable instrument based on the identity of the reusable instrument; and
preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure based on data associated with the client.
64. The method of claim 63, wherein the data associated with the client is a payment status of an account associated with the client.
65. The method of claim 63, wherein preventing the reusable instrument from being used in a procedure includes disabling the reusable instrument from being capable of being used in a procedure.
66. The method of claim 65, further comprising informing the client that the reusable instrument has been disabled.
67. The method of claim 66, further comprising, after disabling the reusable instrument, allowing the reusable instrument to be used in a procedure based on data from an account associated with the client.
68. The method of claim 63, further comprising informing the client that the reusable instrument is being prevented from being used in a procedure.
69. The method of claim 63, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
70. A method of maintaining a database for a reusable instrument, the method comprising:
determining, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure; and
updating, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, the database to indicate that the reusable instrument has been used in another procedure.
71. The method of claim 70, wherein determining that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure includes determining an identity of the reusable instrument.
72. The method of claim 71, wherein determining the identity of the reusable instrument includes reading recognition data from the reusable instrument.
73. The method of claim 72, wherein updating the database includes communicating the recognition data to a data processor.
74. The method of claim 73, wherein the data processor identifies the database associated with the reusable instrument, and communicates the procedure use data to the database.
75. The method of claim 70, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
76. A method of charging a client, the method comprising:
charging the client, the charge to the client being at least partially based on a number of times the client has treated a reusable instrument since last being charged.
77. The method of claim 76, wherein the treatment is sterilization, disinfection or cleaning.
78. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a total number of treatment systems associated with the client.
79. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a frequency of treatments.
80. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a total number of uses of a treatment system.
81. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a total number of treatment systems associated with the client.
82. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a frequency of uses of a total number of treatment systems associated with the client.
83. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on a time of day when treatment is performed.
84. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on an average time of day that the client treats a reusable instrument.
85. The method of claim 76, wherein the charge to the client is at least partially based on an amount of time that the client has had a treatment system for treating the reusable instrument.
86. The method of claim 76, wherein the client is charged after each treatment of the reusable instrument.
87. The method of claim 76, wherein the client is charged before each treatment of the reusable instrument.
88. The method of claim 76, wherein the client is charged after a predetermined number of treatments of the reusable instrument.
89. The method of claim 76, wherein the client is charged before a predetermined number of treatments of the reusable instrument.
90. The method of claim 76, wherein the reusable instrument is an endoscope.
91. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause a process to occur, the process including:
charging a client for use of the reusable instrument, the charge to the client being at least partially based on a number of times the client has used a reusable instrument since last being charged for use of the reusable instrument.
92. The computer program product of claim 91, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
93. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause the occurrence of a process, the process including:
reading recognition data from a reusable instrument to determine an identity of the reusable instrument;
determining a client associated with the reusable instrument based on the identity of the reusable instrument; and
charging the client based on data associated with the client.
94. The computer program product of claim 93, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
95. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause the occurrence of a process, the process including:
determining an identity of the reusable instrument; and
determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the reusable instrument last underwent a maintenance procedure.
96. The computer program product of claim 95, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
97. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause the occurrence of a process, the process including:
determining an identity of the reusable instrument; and
determining, based on the identity of the reusable instrument, a number of times the reusable instrument has been used since the supply material was last acquired by a client associated with the reusable instrument.
98. The computer program product of claim 97, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
99. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause the occurrence of a process, the process including:
determining an account for a client based on an identity of a reusable instrument; and
preventing the client from using the reusable instrument in a procedure based on data associated with the client.
100. The computer program product of claim 99, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
101. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause the occurrence of a process, the process including:
determining, each time a reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, that the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure; and
updating, each time the reusable instrument has been used in a procedure, the database to indicate that the reusable instrument has been used in another procedure.
102. The computer program product of claim 101, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
103. A computer program product residing on a computer readable medium having a plurality of instructions stored thereon which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:
cause the occurrence of a process, the process including:
charging a client, the charge to the client being at least partially based on a number of times the client has treated a reusable instrument since last being charged.
104. The computer program product of claim 103, wherein the computer readable medium is selected from the group consisting of a hard disk drive, a random access memory, and a read-only memory.
105. The method of claim 1, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
106. The method of claim 31, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
107. The method of claim 45, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
108. The method of claim 54, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
109. The method of claim 63, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
110. The method of claim 70, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
111. The method of claim 76, wherein the reusable instrument is a reusable medical instrument.
US10/391,536 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods Abandoned US20040049172A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/391,536 US20040049172A1 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US36531002P 2002-03-18 2002-03-18
US10/391,536 US20040049172A1 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20040049172A1 true US20040049172A1 (en) 2004-03-11

Family

ID=28454638

Family Applications (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/391,478 Abandoned US20040052679A1 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US10/391,536 Abandoned US20040049172A1 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US10/391,535 Expired - Lifetime US7193519B2 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US10/391,479 Expired - Lifetime US7115091B2 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable endoscopic device and related systems and methods

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/391,478 Abandoned US20040052679A1 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods

Family Applications After (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/391,535 Expired - Lifetime US7193519B2 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US10/391,479 Expired - Lifetime US7115091B2 (en) 2002-03-18 2003-03-18 Reusable endoscopic device and related systems and methods

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (4) US20040052679A1 (en)
EP (4) EP2322078A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003218190A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2003079888A2 (en)

Cited By (402)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040024290A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-02-05 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US20050113808A1 (en) * 2003-11-25 2005-05-26 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Medical device with visual indicator and related methods of use
US20050209507A1 (en) * 2004-03-22 2005-09-22 Olympus Corporation Endoscope washer system, endoscope washer device, and endoscope
US20060085969A1 (en) * 2004-09-17 2006-04-27 Optim, Inc. LED endoscope illuminator and methods of mounting within an endoscope
US20060158896A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2006-07-20 Krupa Robert J Illumination device
US20070086205A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2007-04-19 Optim, Inc. Compact, high efficiency, high power solid state light source using a solid state light-emitting device
US20080076967A1 (en) * 2004-05-18 2008-03-27 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Serialization of single use endoscopes
US20080114207A1 (en) * 2006-11-14 2008-05-15 Krupa Robert J Portable endoscope
US20080214896A1 (en) * 2007-01-10 2008-09-04 Krupa Robert J Endoscope with detachable elongation portion
US20090076328A1 (en) * 2007-09-14 2009-03-19 Root Thomas V Endoscope with internal light source and power supply
US20090185392A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2009-07-23 Optim, Inc. Detachable illumination system
US20150278460A1 (en) * 2014-03-31 2015-10-01 Fujifilm Corporation Endoscopic scope cleaning management system, endoscopic scope cleaning management method, and non-transitory computer readable medium
US20160066910A1 (en) * 2014-09-05 2016-03-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Monitoring device degradation based on component evaluation
US9526920B2 (en) 2010-10-12 2016-12-27 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Medical device
US9913573B2 (en) 2003-04-01 2018-03-13 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Endoscopic imaging system
US10149680B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2018-12-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a gap setting system
US10149682B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2018-12-11 Ethicon Llc Stapling system including an actuation system
US10159483B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2018-12-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical apparatus configured to track an end-of-life parameter
US10172620B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-01-08 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjuncts with bonding nodes
US10172616B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2019-01-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical staple cartridge
US10180463B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2019-01-15 Ethicon Llc Surgical apparatus configured to assess whether a performance parameter of the surgical apparatus is within an acceptable performance band
US10188385B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2019-01-29 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system comprising lockable systems
US10201364B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2019-02-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a rotatable shaft
US10201363B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-02-12 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical instrument
US10201349B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2019-02-12 Ethicon Llc End effector detection and firing rate modulation systems for surgical instruments
US10206677B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical staple and driver arrangements for staple cartridges
US10206676B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US10206678B2 (en) 2006-10-03 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument with lockout features to prevent advancement of a firing assembly unless an unfired surgical staple cartridge is operably mounted in an end effector portion of the instrument
US10211586B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical shaft assemblies with watertight housings
US10206605B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Time dependent evaluation of sensor data to determine stability, creep, and viscoelastic elements of measures
US10213262B2 (en) 2006-03-23 2019-02-26 Ethicon Llc Manipulatable surgical systems with selectively articulatable fastening device
US10213201B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2019-02-26 Ethicon Llc Stapling end effector configured to compensate for an uneven gap between a first jaw and a second jaw
US10226249B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2019-03-12 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instruments with conductive pathways for signal communication
US10231794B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-03-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instruments with rotatable staple deployment arrangements
US10238386B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2019-03-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having motor control based on an electrical parameter related to a motor current
US10238391B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-03-26 Ethicon Llc Drive train control arrangements for modular surgical instruments
US10245035B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Stapling assembly configured to produce different formed staple heights
US10245029B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with articulating and axially translatable end effector
US10245032B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US10245027B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with an anvil that is selectively movable about a discrete non-movable axis relative to a staple cartridge
US10245033B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a lockable battery housing
US10258418B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc System for controlling articulation forces
US10258330B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc End effector including an implantable arrangement
US10258333B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical fastening apparatus with a rotary end effector drive shaft for selective engagement with a motorized drive system
US10258331B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10265074B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-04-23 Ethicon Llc Implantable layers for surgical stapling devices
US10265068B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2019-04-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with separable motors and motor control circuits
US10271849B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-04-30 Ethicon Llc Woven constructs with interlocked standing fibers
US10271846B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-30 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapler
US10278780B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2019-05-07 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for use with robotic system
US10278702B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-05-07 Ethicon Llc Stapling system comprising a firing bar and a lockout
US10292704B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2019-05-21 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for battery pack failure in powered surgical instruments
US10293100B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-05-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument having a medical substance dispenser
US10299878B2 (en) 2015-09-25 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Implantable adjunct systems for determining adjunct skew
US10299792B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge comprising non-uniform fasteners
US10299787B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Stapling system comprising rotary inputs
US10307163B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-06-04 Ethicon Llc Detachable motor powered surgical instrument
US10307170B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-06-04 Ethicon Llc Method for closed loop control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10314589B2 (en) 2006-06-27 2019-06-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument including a shifting assembly
USD851762S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-06-18 Ethicon Llc Anvil
US10327769B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having motor control based on a drive system component
US10327767B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on angle of articulation
US10335148B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-07-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge including a tissue thickness compensator for a surgical stapler
US10335145B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-07-02 Ethicon Llc Modular surgical instrument with configurable operating mode
USD854151S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-07-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument shaft
US10357247B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-07-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US10363031B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensators for surgical staplers
US10363037B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system comprising a magnetic lockout
US10363036B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having force-based motor control
US10368865B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2019-08-06 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10368864B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-08-06 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling displaying motor velocity for a surgical instrument
US10376263B2 (en) 2016-04-01 2019-08-13 Ethicon Llc Anvil modification members for surgical staplers
US10390841B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-08-27 Ethicon Llc Control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on angle of articulation
US10398434B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2019-09-03 Ethicon Llc Closed loop velocity control of closure member for robotic surgical instrument
US10398433B2 (en) 2007-03-28 2019-09-03 Ethicon Llc Laparoscopic clamp load measuring devices
US10405859B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-09-10 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with adjustable stop/start control during a firing motion
US10413294B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-09-17 Ethicon Llc Shaft assembly arrangements for surgical instruments
US10420549B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument
US10420550B2 (en) 2009-02-06 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Motor driven surgical fastener device with switching system configured to prevent firing initiation until activated
US10426481B2 (en) 2014-02-24 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Implantable layer assemblies
US10426463B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-10-01 Ehticon LLC Surgical instrument having a feedback system
US10426471B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple failure response modes
US10426467B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with detection sensors
US10441279B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2019-10-15 Ethicon Llc Multiple level thresholds to modify operation of powered surgical instruments
US10441285B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2019-10-15 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator comprising tissue ingrowth features
US10448948B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2019-10-22 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10448950B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-10-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical staplers with independently actuatable closing and firing systems
US10456137B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-10-29 Ethicon Llc Staple formation detection mechanisms
US10463370B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-11-05 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument
US10485539B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with firing lockout
US10485543B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Anvil having a knife slot width
US10485536B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Tissue stapler having an anti-microbial agent
US10492783B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-12-03 Ethicon, Llc Surgical instrument with improved stop/start control during a firing motion
US10492785B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-03 Ethicon Llc Shaft assembly comprising a lockout
US10499914B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-10 Ethicon Llc Staple forming pocket arrangements
USD869655S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-12-10 Ethicon Llc Surgical fastener cartridge
US10517590B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument having a transmission system
US10517595B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Jaw actuated lock arrangements for preventing advancement of a firing member in a surgical end effector unless an unfired cartridge is installed in the end effector
US10517594B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Cartridge assemblies for surgical staplers
US10524790B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-01-07 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled surgical stapling devices that produce formed staples having different lengths
US10524787B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-01-07 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument with parameter-based firing rate
US10531887B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-01-14 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument including speed display
US10537325B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-01-21 Ethicon Llc Staple forming pocket arrangement to accommodate different types of staples
US10568626B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with jaw opening features for increasing a jaw opening distance
US10568625B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridges and arrangements of staples and staple cavities therein
US10568652B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical staples having attached drivers of different heights and stapling instruments for deploying the same
US10575868B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2020-03-03 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with coupler assembly
US10588626B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument displaying subsequent step of use
US10588623B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Adhesive film laminate
US10588632B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors and firing members thereof
US10588633B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with open and closable jaws and axially movable firing member that is initially parked in close proximity to the jaws prior to firing
USD879808S1 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-03-31 Ethicon Llc Display panel with graphical user interface
USD879809S1 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-03-31 Ethicon Llc Display panel with changeable graphical user interface
US10617416B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Control systems for surgical instruments
US10617412B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc System for detecting the mis-insertion of a staple cartridge into a surgical stapler
US10617418B2 (en) 2015-08-17 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Implantable layers for a surgical instrument
US10617417B2 (en) 2014-11-06 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a releasable adjunct material
US10617413B2 (en) 2016-04-01 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Closure system arrangements for surgical cutting and stapling devices with separate and distinct firing shafts
US10624633B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-04-21 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10624861B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-04-21 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator configured to redistribute compressive forces
US10631859B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2020-04-28 Ethicon Llc Articulation systems for surgical instruments
US10639115B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2020-05-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors having angled tissue-contacting surfaces
US10646220B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-05-12 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling displacement member velocity for a surgical instrument
US10660640B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-05-26 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US10667809B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge and staple cartridge channel comprising windows defined therein
US10667808B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2020-06-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising an absorbable adjunct
US10675028B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-06-09 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US10682134B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2020-06-16 Ethicon Llc Continuous use self-propelled stapling instrument
US10682142B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-06-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling apparatus including an articulation system
US10687813B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Adapters with firing stroke sensing arrangements for use in connection with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10687806B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Adaptive tissue compression techniques to adjust closure rates for multiple tissue types
US10695062B2 (en) 2010-10-01 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument including a retractable firing member
US10695063B2 (en) 2012-02-13 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical cutting and fastening instrument with apparatus for determining cartridge and firing motion status
US10695058B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument systems comprising an articulatable end effector and means for adjusting the firing stroke of a firing member
US10702267B2 (en) 2007-03-15 2020-07-07 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument having a releasable buttress material
USD890784S1 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Display panel with changeable graphical user interface
US10716614B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical shaft assemblies with slip ring assemblies with increased contact pressure
US10716565B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with dual articulation drivers
US10729509B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2020-08-04 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising closure and firing locking mechanism
US10729501B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-08-04 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for language selection of a surgical instrument
US10736628B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US10736636B2 (en) 2014-12-10 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instrument system
US10736630B2 (en) 2014-10-13 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge
US10743870B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling apparatus with interlockable firing system
US10743874B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Sealed adapters for use with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10743875B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors with jaw stiffener arrangements configured to permit monitoring of firing member
US10743851B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Interchangeable tools for surgical instruments
US10743873B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Drive arrangements for articulatable surgical instruments
US10743872B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc System and methods for controlling a display of a surgical instrument
US10743849B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Stapling system including an articulation system
US10751076B2 (en) 2009-12-24 2020-08-25 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument with electric actuator directional control assembly
US10758229B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-09-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising improved jaw control
US10758230B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-09-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with primary and safety processors
US10765427B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Method for articulating a surgical instrument
US10765425B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US10765429B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for providing alerts according to the operational state of a surgical instrument
US10772625B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-09-15 Ethicon Llc Signal and power communication system positioned on a rotatable shaft
US10772629B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2020-09-15 Ethicon Llc Surgical anvil arrangements
US10779825B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Adapters with end effector position sensing and control arrangements for use in connection with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10779821B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler anvils with tissue stop features configured to avoid tissue pinch
US10780539B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Stapling instrument for use with a robotic system
US10779820B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling motor speed according to user input for a surgical instrument
US10779826B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Methods of operating surgical end effectors
US10779824B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising an articulation system lockable by a closure system
US10779903B2 (en) 2017-10-31 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Positive shaft rotation lock activated by jaw closure
US10796471B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-10-06 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods of displaying a knife position for a surgical instrument
US10806448B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-10-20 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument assembly comprising a flexible articulation system
US10806449B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2020-10-20 Ethicon Llc End effectors for surgical staplers
US10813639B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-10-27 Ethicon Llc Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on system conditions
US10828033B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-11-10 Ethicon Llc Handheld electromechanical surgical instruments with improved motor control arrangements for positioning components of an adapter coupled thereto
US10828028B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2020-11-10 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US10835330B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2020-11-17 Ethicon Llc Method for determining the position of a rotatable jaw of a surgical instrument attachment assembly
US10842490B2 (en) 2017-10-31 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Cartridge body design with force reduction based on firing completion
US10842491B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Surgical system with an actuation console
US10842492B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Powered articulatable surgical instruments with clutching and locking arrangements for linking an articulation drive system to a firing drive system
US10856869B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2020-12-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical anvil arrangements
US10856870B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2020-12-08 Ethicon Llc Switching arrangements for motor powered articulatable surgical instruments
US10863986B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2020-12-15 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having downstream current-based motor control
US10869666B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-12-22 Ethicon Llc Adapters with control systems for controlling multiple motors of an electromechanical surgical instrument
USD906355S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-12-29 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with a graphical user interface for a surgical instrument
US10881396B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-01-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with variable duration trigger arrangement
US10881399B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-01-05 Ethicon Llc Techniques for adaptive control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
USD907648S1 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with animated graphical user interface
USD907647S1 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with animated graphical user interface
US10888321B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling velocity of a displacement member of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10898183B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Robotic surgical instrument with closed loop feedback techniques for advancement of closure member during firing
US10903685B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical shaft assemblies with slip ring assemblies forming capacitive channels
US10905418B2 (en) 2014-10-16 2021-02-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a tissue thickness compensator
US10912559B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-02-09 Ethicon Llc Reinforced deformable anvil tip for surgical stapler anvil
US10912575B2 (en) 2007-01-11 2021-02-09 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling device having supports for a flexible drive mechanism
US10918380B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-02-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system including a control system
USD910847S1 (en) 2017-12-19 2021-02-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument assembly
US10932778B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical cutting and stapling apparatus with manually retractable firing system
US10932772B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Methods for closed loop velocity control for robotic surgical instrument
US10945731B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-03-16 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator comprising controlled release and expansion
US10945728B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2021-03-16 Ethicon Llc Locking arrangements for detachable shaft assemblies with articulatable surgical end effectors
USD914878S1 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-03-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument anvil
US10959725B2 (en) 2012-06-15 2021-03-30 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instrument comprising a firing drive
US10966718B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-04-06 Ethicon Llc Dynamic clamping assemblies with improved wear characteristics for use in connection with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10980539B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc Implantable adjunct comprising bonded layers
US10980537B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on measured time over a specified number of shaft rotations
US10987102B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-04-27 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator comprising a plurality of layers
USD917500S1 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-04-27 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface
US10993716B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2021-05-04 Ethicon Llc Surgical anvil arrangements
US11007004B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc Powered multi-axial articulable electrosurgical device with external dissection features
US11006955B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc End effectors with positive jaw opening features for use with adapters for electromechanical surgical instruments
US11007022B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc Closed loop velocity control techniques based on sensed tissue parameters for robotic surgical instrument
US11013511B2 (en) 2007-06-22 2021-05-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument with an articulatable end effector
US11020112B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2021-06-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical tools configured for interchangeable use with different controller interfaces
US11020115B2 (en) 2014-02-12 2021-06-01 Cilag Gmbh International Deliverable surgical instrument
US11033267B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-06-15 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods of controlling a clamping member firing rate of a surgical instrument
US11039834B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-06-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler anvils with staple directing protrusions and tissue stability features
US11039836B2 (en) 2007-01-11 2021-06-22 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapling instrument
US11045270B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2021-06-29 Cilag Gmbh International Robotic attachment comprising exterior drive actuator
US11045192B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-06-29 Cilag Gmbh International Fabricating techniques for surgical stapler anvils
US11051813B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-07-06 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US11051807B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2021-07-06 Cilag Gmbh International Packaging assembly including a particulate trap
US11068852B2 (en) 2014-05-01 2021-07-20 Covidien Lp System and method for using RFID tags to determine sterilization of devices
US11071554B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on magnitude of velocity error measurements
US11071543B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effectors with clamping assemblies configured to increase jaw aperture ranges
US11071545B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Smart cartridge wake up operation and data retention
US11076853B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2021-08-03 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods of displaying a knife position during transection for a surgical instrument
US11083458B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with clutching arrangements to convert linear drive motions to rotary drive motions
US11090075B2 (en) 2017-10-30 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation features for surgical end effector
US11090046B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling displacement member motion of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11133106B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly comprising a retraction assembly
US11129680B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a projector
US11129615B2 (en) 2009-02-05 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system
US11134944B2 (en) 2017-10-30 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler knife motion controls
US11134942B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instruments and staple-forming anvils
US11141153B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2021-10-12 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges comprising driver arrangements
US11147551B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2021-10-19 Cilag Gmbh International Firing drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11147553B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2021-10-19 Cilag Gmbh International Firing drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11154301B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2021-10-26 Cilag Gmbh International Modular stapling assembly
US11172929B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2021-11-16 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11179150B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2021-11-23 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11197671B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-12-14 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly comprising a lockout
US11197670B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-12-14 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effectors with pivotal jaws configured to touch at their respective distal ends when fully closed
US11202633B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2021-12-21 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling buttresses and adjunct materials
US11207065B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-12-28 Cilag Gmbh International Method for fabricating surgical stapler anvils
US11207064B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2021-12-28 Cilag Gmbh International Automated end effector component reloading system for use with a robotic system
US11213293B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2022-01-04 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical instruments with single articulation link arrangements
US11219455B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-01-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a lockout key
US11224427B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system including a console and retraction assembly
US11224497B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical systems with multiple RFID tags
US11224428B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling systems
US11224426B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US11224423B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Smart sensors with local signal processing
US11229437B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-01-25 Cilag Gmbh International Method for authenticating the compatibility of a staple cartridge with a surgical instrument
US11234698B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-02-01 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling system comprising a clamp lockout and a firing lockout
US11241230B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-02-08 Cilag Gmbh International Clip applier tool for use with a robotic surgical system
US11246678B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system having a frangible RFID tag
US11246590B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including staple drivers having different unfired heights
US11246592B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation system lockable to a frame
US11253256B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2022-02-22 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable motor powered surgical instruments with dedicated articulation motor arrangements
US11253254B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-02-22 Cilag Gmbh International Shaft rotation actuator on a surgical instrument
US11259805B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-03-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising firing member supports
US11259799B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2022-03-01 Cilag Gmbh International Interface systems for use with surgical instruments
US11259803B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-03-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system having an information encryption protocol
US11266405B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2022-03-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical anvil manufacturing methods
US11266409B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-03-08 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge comprising a sled including longitudinally-staggered ramps
US11272927B2 (en) 2008-02-15 2022-03-15 Cilag Gmbh International Layer arrangements for surgical staple cartridges
US11278279B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-03-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly
US11284898B2 (en) 2014-09-18 2022-03-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a deployable knife
US11291441B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication between control unit and remote sensor
US11291449B2 (en) 2009-12-24 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical cutting instrument that analyzes tissue thickness
US11291447B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising independent jaw closing and staple firing systems
US11291440B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Method for operating a powered articulatable surgical instrument
US11291451B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with battery compatibility verification functionality
US11298125B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2022-04-12 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue stapler having a thickness compensator
US11298127B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-04-12 Cilag GmbH Interational Surgical stapling system having a lockout mechanism for an incompatible cartridge
US11298132B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-04-12 Cilag GmbH Inlernational Staple cartridge including a honeycomb extension
US11304695B2 (en) 2017-08-03 2022-04-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system shaft interconnection
US11304696B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-04-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a powered articulation system
US11311290B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2022-04-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an end effector dampener
US11311294B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2022-04-26 Cilag Gmbh International Powered medical device including measurement of closure state of jaws
US11317917B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2022-05-03 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system comprising a lockable firing assembly
US11317913B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-05-03 Cilag Gmbh International Lockout arrangements for surgical end effectors and replaceable tool assemblies
US11324503B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2022-05-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical firing member arrangements
US11324501B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2022-05-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling devices with improved closure members
US11350928B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a tissue thickness lockout and speed control system
US11376098B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-07-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system comprising an RFID system
US11382627B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly comprising a firing member including a lateral extension
US11382638B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on measured time over a specified displacement distance
US11399829B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods of initiating a power shutdown mode for a surgical instrument
US11399837B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for motor control adjustments of a motorized surgical instrument
US11419606B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-08-23 Cilag Gmbh International Shaft assembly comprising a clutch configured to adapt the output of a rotary firing member to two different systems
US11426167B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-08-30 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for proper anvil attachment surgical stapling head assembly
US11426251B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-08-30 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation directional lights on a surgical instrument
US11432816B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-09-06 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation pin for a surgical instrument
US11446029B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-09-20 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising projections extending from a curved deck surface
US11452528B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-09-27 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation actuators for a surgical instrument
US11452526B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2022-09-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a staged voltage regulation start-up system
US11464513B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system including replaceable end effectors
US11464512B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a curved deck surface
US11464601B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an RFID system for tracking a movable component
USD966512S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11471157B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-10-18 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation control mapping for a surgical instrument
US11471155B2 (en) 2017-08-03 2022-10-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system bailout
USD967421S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2022-10-18 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11478247B2 (en) 2010-07-30 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue acquisition arrangements and methods for surgical stapling devices
US11478241B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including projections
US11484312B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-11-01 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a staple driver arrangement
US11497488B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2022-11-15 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling a segmented circuit
US11497492B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-11-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including an articulation lock
US11504116B2 (en) 2011-04-29 2022-11-22 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US11504122B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-11-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a nested firing member
US11517325B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on measured displacement distance traveled over a specified time interval
US11517390B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a limited travel switch
US11523822B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-12-13 Cilag Gmbh International Battery pack including a circuit interrupter
US11523823B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2022-12-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with non-symmetrical articulation arrangements
US11523821B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2022-12-13 Cilag Gmbh International Method for creating a flexible staple line
US11529139B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Motor driven surgical instrument
US11529137B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising driver retention members
US11534259B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2022-12-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation indicator
USD974560S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-03 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD975278S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-10 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD975851S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11553971B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical RFID assemblies for display and communication
USD975850S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11559304B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a rapid closure mechanism
USD976401S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11564682B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2023-01-31 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler device
US11564686B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-01-31 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical shaft assemblies with flexible interfaces
US11571215B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-02-07 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US11576672B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-02-14 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a closure system including a closure member and an opening member driven by a drive screw
USD980425S1 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-03-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly
US11607239B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2023-03-21 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11607219B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-03-21 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a detachable tissue cutting knife
US11617577B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-04-04 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a sensor configured to sense whether an articulation drive of the surgical instrument is actuatable
US11622763B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2023-04-11 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly comprising a shiftable drive
US11622766B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2023-04-11 Cilag Gmbh International Empty clip cartridge lockout
US11627960B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-04-18 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with smart reload with separately attachable exteriorly mounted wiring connections
US11627959B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-04-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments including manual and powered system lockouts
US11638587B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-05-02 Cilag Gmbh International RFID identification systems for surgical instruments
US11638582B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2023-05-02 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with torsion spine drive arrangements
US11648005B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US11648009B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Rotatable jaw tip for a surgical instrument
US11653915B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with sled location detection and adjustment features
US11653920B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with communication interfaces through sterile barrier
US11653914B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument according to articulation angle of end effector
US11660163B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-05-30 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system with RFID tags for updating motor assembly parameters
US11678877B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-06-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a flexible support configured to support a flexible firing member
US11678882B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-06-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with interactive features to remedy incidental sled movements
US11684434B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-06-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical RFID assemblies for instrument operational setting control
US11696761B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2023-07-11 Cilag Gmbh International Firing drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11696757B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-07-11 Cilag Gmbh International Monitoring of internal systems to detect and track cartridge motion status
US11701113B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a separate power antenna and a data transfer antenna
US11701111B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Method for operating a surgical stapling instrument
US11717289B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an indicator which indicates that an articulation drive is actuatable
US11717291B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising staples configured to apply different tissue compression
US11717294B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International End effector arrangements comprising indicators
US11723657B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-08-15 Cilag Gmbh International Adjustable communication based on available bandwidth and power capacity
US11723658B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-08-15 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a firing lockout
US11723662B2 (en) 2021-05-28 2023-08-15 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising an articulation control display
US11730473B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-08-22 Cilag Gmbh International Monitoring of manufacturing life-cycle
US11737751B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-08-29 Cilag Gmbh International Devices and methods of managing energy dissipated within sterile barriers of surgical instrument housings
US11737749B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-08-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument comprising a retraction system
US11744603B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Multi-axis pivot joints for surgical instruments and methods for manufacturing same
US11744583B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Distal communication array to tune frequency of RF systems
US11744581B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with multi-phase tissue treatment
US11749877B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a signal antenna
US11751869B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-09-12 Cilag Gmbh International Monitoring of multiple sensors over time to detect moving characteristics of tissue
US11759202B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-09-19 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising an implantable layer
US11766260B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-09-26 Cilag Gmbh International Methods of stapling tissue
US11766259B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-09-26 Cilag Gmbh International Method of deforming staples from two different types of staple cartridges with the same surgical stapling instrument
US11771419B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-10-03 Cilag Gmbh International Packaging for a replaceable component of a surgical stapling system
US11779330B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-10-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a jaw alignment system
US11786243B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-10-17 Cilag Gmbh International Firing members having flexible portions for adapting to a load during a surgical firing stroke
US11786239B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-10-17 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument articulation joint arrangements comprising multiple moving linkage features
US11793522B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge assembly including a compressible adjunct
US11793516B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical staple cartridge comprising longitudinal support beam
US11793518B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US11793514B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising sensor array which may be embedded in cartridge body
US11806011B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-11-07 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising tissue compression systems
US11812964B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a power management circuit
US11826012B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a pulsed motor-driven firing rack
US11826048B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising selectively actuatable rotatable couplers
US11826132B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Time dependent evaluation of sensor data to determine stability, creep, and viscoelastic elements of measures
US11826042B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a firing drive including a selectable leverage mechanism
US11832816B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-12-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly comprising nonplanar staples and planar staples
US11844518B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-12-19 Cilag Gmbh International Method for operating a surgical instrument
US11844520B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-12-19 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising driver retention members
US11849941B2 (en) 2007-06-29 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge having staple cavities extending at a transverse angle relative to a longitudinal cartridge axis
US11849952B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising staples positioned within a compressible portion thereof
US11849944B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Drivers for fastener cartridge assemblies having rotary drive screws
US11849945B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Rotary-driven surgical stapling assembly comprising eccentrically driven firing member
US11849943B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with cartridge release mechanisms
US11857183B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-01-02 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly components having metal substrates and plastic bodies
US11877745B2 (en) 2021-10-18 2024-01-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly having longitudinally-repeating staple leg clusters
US11883026B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assemblies and staple retainer cover arrangements
USD1013170S1 (en) 2020-10-29 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly
US11890010B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2024-02-06 Cllag GmbH International Dual-sided reinforced reload for surgical instruments
US11890012B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2024-02-06 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising cartridge body and attached support
US11896218B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Method of using a powered stapling device
US11896217B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation lock
US11896219B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Mating features between drivers and underside of a cartridge deck
US11903581B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2024-02-20 Cilag Gmbh International Methods for stapling tissue using a surgical instrument
US11903582B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-02-20 Cilag Gmbh International Leveraging surfaces for cartridge installation
US11911032B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2024-02-27 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a seating cam
US11925349B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2024-03-12 Cilag Gmbh International Adjustment to transfer parameters to improve available power
US11931032B2 (en) 2018-12-28 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication between a control unit of a robotic system and remote sensor

Families Citing this family (139)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7464847B2 (en) 2005-06-03 2008-12-16 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Surgical stapler with timer and feedback display
US10285694B2 (en) 2001-10-20 2019-05-14 Covidien Lp Surgical stapler with timer and feedback display
US8723936B2 (en) 2002-03-12 2014-05-13 Karl Storz Imaging, Inc. Wireless camera coupling with rotatable coupling
US9510740B2 (en) * 2002-03-12 2016-12-06 Karl Storz Endovision, Inc. Auto recognition of a shaver blade for medical use
US20040230098A1 (en) * 2003-05-14 2004-11-18 Inner Vision Imaging, L.L.C. Endoscope illumination system
US20090090763A1 (en) * 2007-10-05 2009-04-09 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Powered surgical stapling device
JP4422501B2 (en) * 2004-01-21 2010-02-24 オリンパス株式会社 Endoscope and endoscope system
US7124932B2 (en) * 2004-02-25 2006-10-24 Megadyne Medical Products, Inc. Electrosurgical counter and lockout mechanism
US11819192B2 (en) 2004-03-23 2023-11-21 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. In-vivo visualization system
US7922654B2 (en) 2004-08-09 2011-04-12 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Fiber optic imaging catheter
ES2409160T3 (en) * 2004-03-23 2013-06-25 Boston Scientific Limited Live View System
US7468272B2 (en) * 2004-05-10 2008-12-23 3M Innovative Properties Company Biological soil detector
US7524673B2 (en) * 2004-05-10 2009-04-28 3M Innovative Properties Company Biological soil detector
US7465536B2 (en) * 2004-05-10 2008-12-16 3M Innovative Properties Company Biological soil detector
EP1767140A1 (en) * 2004-06-24 2007-03-28 Olympus Corporation Endoscope cleaning and disinfecting system, endoscope, and endoscope cleaning and disinfecting device
US20060106374A1 (en) * 2004-11-18 2006-05-18 Ceramoptec Industries, Inc. Expendable optical waveguide with use-tracking feature
EP1890605B1 (en) 2005-04-25 2014-05-07 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Ultrasound probe having an operational indicator assembly
US11291443B2 (en) 2005-06-03 2022-04-05 Covidien Lp Surgical stapler with timer and feedback display
CA2609970C (en) 2005-06-03 2014-08-12 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Battery powered surgical instrument
US20070160494A1 (en) * 2006-01-06 2007-07-12 Sands Daniel L Autoclave system using rfid tags on a case and/or instruments
DE102006008723A1 (en) * 2006-02-24 2007-08-30 Siemens Ag Sterilizing technical medical objects involves comparing number of sterilization cycles undergone with permitted number, triggering warning or restricting operation of sterilization device if number has reached or exceeded permitted number
US7638090B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2009-12-29 Searete Llc Surveying sterilizer methods and systems
US8758679B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2014-06-24 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Surveying sterilizer methods and systems
US8114342B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2012-02-14 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Methods and systems for monitoring sterilization status
US11185604B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2021-11-30 Deep Science Llc Methods and systems for monitoring sterilization status
US8932535B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2015-01-13 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Surveying sterilizer methods and systems
US20070231193A1 (en) * 2006-03-31 2007-10-04 Searete Llc, A Limited Liability Corporation Of The State Of Delaware Sterilization methods and systems
US8277724B2 (en) * 2006-03-31 2012-10-02 The Invention Science Fund I, Llc Sterilization methods and systems
US7758203B2 (en) * 2006-04-03 2010-07-20 Welch Allyn, Inc. Power connections and interface for compact illuminator assembly
JP2007325724A (en) 2006-06-07 2007-12-20 Olympus Medical Systems Corp Management system for cleaning and disinfection of endoscope
US20080107564A1 (en) 2006-07-20 2008-05-08 Shmuel Sternberg Medical fluid access site with antiseptic indicator
US20080021392A1 (en) * 2006-07-20 2008-01-24 Lurvey Kent L Medical fluid access site with antiseptic indicator
WO2008034913A2 (en) * 2006-09-22 2008-03-27 Sensodetect Ab Medical devices with access control
JP2008149027A (en) * 2006-12-19 2008-07-03 Olympus Corp Endoscope apparatus
US7431188B1 (en) 2007-03-15 2008-10-07 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Surgical stapling apparatus with powered articulation
US20080255413A1 (en) 2007-04-13 2008-10-16 Michael Zemlok Powered surgical instrument
US7950560B2 (en) 2007-04-13 2011-05-31 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Powered surgical instrument
US11259801B2 (en) 2007-04-13 2022-03-01 Covidien Lp Powered surgical instrument
US8800837B2 (en) 2007-04-13 2014-08-12 Covidien Lp Powered surgical instrument
US7823760B2 (en) 2007-05-01 2010-11-02 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Powered surgical stapling device platform
US7931660B2 (en) 2007-05-10 2011-04-26 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Powered tacker instrument
JP5118389B2 (en) * 2007-05-26 2013-01-16 中村製作所株式会社 Method for forming recess in workpiece
USRE47452E1 (en) 2007-07-20 2019-06-25 Baxter International Inc. Antimicrobial housing and cover for a medical device
US9125973B2 (en) 2007-07-20 2015-09-08 Baxter International Inc. Antimicrobial housing and cover for a medical device
US20090043317A1 (en) * 2007-08-08 2009-02-12 Cavanaugh Brian J Method and apparatus for delivery of a ligating suture
US8129189B2 (en) * 2007-09-12 2012-03-06 David B Spenciner Finite and multiple sterilization indication method for devices
US8960520B2 (en) 2007-10-05 2015-02-24 Covidien Lp Method and apparatus for determining parameters of linear motion in a surgical instrument
US8517241B2 (en) 2010-04-16 2013-08-27 Covidien Lp Hand-held surgical devices
US8967443B2 (en) * 2007-10-05 2015-03-03 Covidien Lp Method and apparatus for determining parameters of linear motion in a surgical instrument
JP5100303B2 (en) * 2007-10-17 2012-12-19 富士フイルム株式会社 Endoscope information management system, cleaning information management system, and cleaning information management device
US7922063B2 (en) 2007-10-31 2011-04-12 Tyco Healthcare Group, Lp Powered surgical instrument
US20100127430A1 (en) * 2008-11-22 2010-05-27 Gurdeep Singh Spray system having a dosing device for a molding process
US8821514B2 (en) 2009-06-08 2014-09-02 Covidien Lp Powered tack applier
US9492063B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2016-11-15 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Multi-viewing element endoscope
US9101287B2 (en) 2011-03-07 2015-08-11 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Multi camera endoscope assembly having multiple working channels
US9706903B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2017-07-18 Endochoice, Inc. Multiple viewing elements endoscope system with modular imaging units
US11547275B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2023-01-10 Endochoice, Inc. Compact multi-viewing element endoscope system
US9901244B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2018-02-27 Endochoice, Inc. Circuit board assembly of a multiple viewing elements endoscope
US8926502B2 (en) 2011-03-07 2015-01-06 Endochoice, Inc. Multi camera endoscope having a side service channel
US9101268B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2015-08-11 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Multi-camera endoscope
US11864734B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2024-01-09 Endochoice, Inc. Multi-camera endoscope
US9713417B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2017-07-25 Endochoice, Inc. Image capture assembly for use in a multi-viewing elements endoscope
US9402533B2 (en) 2011-03-07 2016-08-02 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Endoscope circuit board assembly
US11278190B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2022-03-22 Endochoice, Inc. Multi-viewing element endoscope
US9872609B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2018-01-23 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Multi-camera endoscope
US9642513B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2017-05-09 Endochoice Inc. Compact multi-viewing element endoscope system
EP2442706B1 (en) 2009-06-18 2014-11-12 EndoChoice Innovation Center Ltd. Multi-camera endoscope
US10165929B2 (en) 2009-06-18 2019-01-01 Endochoice, Inc. Compact multi-viewing element endoscope system
US10383629B2 (en) 2009-08-10 2019-08-20 Covidien Lp System and method for preventing reprocessing of a powered surgical instrument
US8648932B2 (en) * 2009-08-13 2014-02-11 Olive Medical Corporation System, apparatus and methods for providing a single use imaging device for sterile environments
US8733612B2 (en) 2009-08-17 2014-05-27 Covidien Lp Safety method for powered surgical instruments
WO2011047127A1 (en) 2009-10-15 2011-04-21 Minntech Corporation Room fogging disinfection system
US8821807B2 (en) 2009-12-03 2014-09-02 Medivators Inc. Container and system for decontaminating a medical device with a fog
WO2011079150A1 (en) * 2009-12-22 2011-06-30 Integrated Endoscopy, Inc. Methods and systems for disabling an endoscope after use
US20110218400A1 (en) * 2010-03-05 2011-09-08 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Surgical instrument with integrated wireless camera
CN109905669A (en) 2010-03-25 2019-06-18 德普伊辛迪斯制品公司 The system and method for disposable imaging device for medical application are provided
EP3718466B1 (en) 2010-09-20 2023-06-07 EndoChoice, Inc. Endoscope distal section comprising a unitary fluid channeling component
US9560953B2 (en) 2010-09-20 2017-02-07 Endochoice, Inc. Operational interface in a multi-viewing element endoscope
US8652033B2 (en) * 2010-09-23 2014-02-18 Karl Storz Endovision, Inc. Video stylet with directable tip
EP3540495A1 (en) 2010-10-28 2019-09-18 EndoChoice Innovation Center Ltd. Optical systems for multi-sensor endoscopes
CN107361721B (en) 2010-12-09 2019-06-18 恩多巧爱思创新中心有限公司 Flexible electronic circuit board for multi-cam endoscope
US11889986B2 (en) 2010-12-09 2024-02-06 Endochoice, Inc. Flexible electronic circuit board for a multi-camera endoscope
US9320419B2 (en) 2010-12-09 2016-04-26 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Fluid channeling component of a multi-camera endoscope
EP3228236A1 (en) 2011-02-07 2017-10-11 Endochoice Innovation Center Ltd. Multi-element cover for a multi-camera endoscope
US9700288B2 (en) 2011-03-29 2017-07-11 Covidien Lp System and method for performing surgical procedures with a modular surgical system having a rail mechanism
US10307038B2 (en) 2011-03-29 2019-06-04 Covidien Lp System and method for performing surgical procedures with a modular surgical system
AU2012253263B2 (en) 2011-05-12 2016-07-07 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Improved image sensor for endoscopic use
EP2714101B1 (en) 2011-05-27 2016-05-18 Mar Cor Purification, Inc. Decontamination system and method
BR112014006869A2 (en) 2011-09-21 2017-04-04 Bayer Medical Care Inc continuous fluid pump device, drive and actuation system and method
EP2604172B1 (en) 2011-12-13 2015-08-12 EndoChoice Innovation Center Ltd. Rotatable connector for an endoscope
CA2798716A1 (en) 2011-12-13 2013-06-13 Peermedical Ltd. Removable tip endoscope
US9815166B2 (en) 2012-01-04 2017-11-14 Mike Goldstein Inspection device for mechanical instruments and uses thereof
JP5953049B2 (en) * 2012-01-24 2016-07-13 オリンパス株式会社 Endoscope system
US9943359B2 (en) * 2012-04-30 2018-04-17 Covidien Lp Limited reuse ablation needles and ablation devices for use therewith
US9560954B2 (en) 2012-07-24 2017-02-07 Endochoice, Inc. Connector for use with endoscope
CA2878512A1 (en) 2012-07-26 2014-01-30 Olive Medical Corporation Camera system with minimal area monolithic cmos image sensor
US9489785B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2016-11-08 Covidien Lp RFID secure authentication
EP2967286B1 (en) 2013-03-15 2021-06-23 DePuy Synthes Products, Inc. Minimize image sensor i/o and conductor counts in endoscope applications
CN105246394B (en) 2013-03-15 2018-01-12 德普伊新特斯产品公司 It is synchronous without the imaging sensor of input clock and data transfer clock
US9993142B2 (en) 2013-03-28 2018-06-12 Endochoice, Inc. Fluid distribution device for a multiple viewing elements endoscope
US9986899B2 (en) 2013-03-28 2018-06-05 Endochoice, Inc. Manifold for a multiple viewing elements endoscope
US10499794B2 (en) 2013-05-09 2019-12-10 Endochoice, Inc. Operational interface in a multi-viewing element endoscope
US10398362B2 (en) * 2014-02-09 2019-09-03 Phc Holdings Corporation Measurement device, management device, measurement skill management system, and measurement skill management method
US10130382B2 (en) 2014-03-27 2018-11-20 Medtronic Xomed, Inc. Powered surgical handpiece having a surgical tool with an RFID tag
JP6246655B2 (en) * 2014-05-08 2017-12-13 株式会社フジクラ Imaging system
CA3207200A1 (en) 2015-01-09 2016-07-14 Bayer Healthcare Llc Multiple fluid delivery system with multi-use disposable set and features thereof
US9619618B2 (en) 2015-03-18 2017-04-11 Covidien Lp Systems and methods for credit-based usage of surgical instruments and components thereof
US20160334694A1 (en) * 2015-05-11 2016-11-17 Shenzhen Yonghengfeng Intelligent Device Co., Ltd Endoscopic device with cleaning function
WO2017075411A1 (en) 2015-10-28 2017-05-04 Acera LLC Embeddable module for high output led
CN109996490B (en) * 2016-09-28 2023-01-10 项目莫里股份有限公司 Base station, charging station and/or server for robotic catheter systems and other uses, and improved articulation apparatus and systems
US11311295B2 (en) 2017-05-15 2022-04-26 Covidien Lp Adaptive powered stapling algorithm with calibration factor
JP6833621B2 (en) * 2017-05-31 2021-02-24 富士フイルム株式会社 Endoscope control device, endoscope maintenance support method, endoscope maintenance support program
US11596400B2 (en) 2017-06-09 2023-03-07 Covidien Lp Handheld electromechanical surgical system
US10932784B2 (en) 2017-06-09 2021-03-02 Covidien Lp Handheld electromechanical surgical system
US11045199B2 (en) 2017-06-09 2021-06-29 Covidien Lp Handheld electromechanical surgical system
US20190101748A1 (en) * 2017-10-04 2019-04-04 Dornier Medtech Laser Gmbh Method for Operating a Pulsed Laser System
US10987104B2 (en) 2017-10-30 2021-04-27 Covidien Lp Apparatus for endoscopic procedures
US11207066B2 (en) 2017-10-30 2021-12-28 Covidien Lp Apparatus for endoscopic procedures
JP7098423B2 (en) * 2018-06-04 2022-07-11 オリンパス株式会社 Endoscope system, endoscope device and information display method
JP7240108B2 (en) * 2018-07-04 2023-03-15 Dgshape株式会社 Usage fee calculation device for medical equipment management device and medical equipment management system
US11497490B2 (en) 2018-07-09 2022-11-15 Covidien Lp Powered surgical devices including predictive motor control
US11197734B2 (en) 2018-10-30 2021-12-14 Covidien Lp Load sensing devices for use in surgical instruments
US11369372B2 (en) 2018-11-28 2022-06-28 Covidien Lp Surgical stapler adapter with flexible cable assembly, flexible fingers, and contact clips
US11202635B2 (en) 2019-02-04 2021-12-21 Covidien Lp Programmable distal tilt position of end effector for powered surgical devices
US11376006B2 (en) 2019-02-06 2022-07-05 Covidien Lp End effector force measurement with digital drive circuit
US11219461B2 (en) 2019-03-08 2022-01-11 Covidien Lp Strain gauge stabilization in a surgical device
US10905309B2 (en) * 2019-03-19 2021-02-02 Reed Cam, Inc. Method and apparatus for enforced provisioning and compliant usage authorization of endoscope applications
EP3834700A1 (en) * 2019-12-09 2021-06-16 Koninklijke Philips N.V. A medical apparatus, system and method for indicating sterilization
US11458244B2 (en) 2020-02-07 2022-10-04 Covidien Lp Irrigating surgical apparatus with positive pressure fluid
US11553913B2 (en) 2020-02-11 2023-01-17 Covidien Lp Electrically-determining tissue cut with surgical stapling apparatus
US11622768B2 (en) 2020-07-13 2023-04-11 Covidien Lp Methods and structure for confirming proper assembly of powered surgical stapling systems
US11877744B2 (en) 2020-08-14 2024-01-23 Covidien Lp Low-cost powered stapler with end stop selection
US11744580B2 (en) 2020-11-24 2023-09-05 Covidien Lp Long stapler reloads with continuous cartridge
US11653919B2 (en) 2020-11-24 2023-05-23 Covidien Lp Stapler line reinforcement continuity
US11684362B2 (en) 2021-06-07 2023-06-27 Covidien Lp Handheld electromechanical surgical system
US11771432B2 (en) 2021-06-29 2023-10-03 Covidien Lp Stapling and cutting to default values in the event of strain gauge data integrity loss
US11744592B2 (en) 2021-08-05 2023-09-05 Covidien Lp Handheld electromechanical stapler with tissue thickness detection
US11819208B2 (en) 2021-08-05 2023-11-21 Covidien Lp Handheld electromechanical surgical device with strain gauge drift detection
US11832823B2 (en) 2022-02-08 2023-12-05 Covidien Lp Determination of anvil release during anastomosis

Citations (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3986498A (en) * 1975-09-08 1976-10-19 Videodetics Corporation Remote ECG monitoring system
US4449518A (en) * 1981-04-13 1984-05-22 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Disinfection indicator for medical equipment
US4862872A (en) * 1987-04-17 1989-09-05 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope and endoscope washing apparatus
US4974607A (en) * 1987-08-20 1990-12-04 Satoru Miwa System for centralized management of medical data
US5217003A (en) * 1991-03-18 1993-06-08 Wilk Peter J Automated surgical system and apparatus
US5359993A (en) * 1992-12-31 1994-11-01 Symbiosis Corporation Apparatus for counting the number of times a medical instrument has been used
US5368015A (en) * 1991-03-18 1994-11-29 Wilk; Peter J. Automated surgical system and apparatus
US5631947A (en) * 1991-03-04 1997-05-20 Megatrend Telecommunications, Inc. Mobile telephone device for storing a plurality of changable charge rates and time limit data
US5732401A (en) * 1996-03-29 1998-03-24 Intellitecs International Ltd. Activity based cost tracking systems
US5830121A (en) * 1993-10-27 1998-11-03 Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Endoscopic apparatus having an endoscope and a peripheral device wherein total usage of the endoscope is quantified and recorded
US5920054A (en) * 1994-07-12 1999-07-06 Medrad, Inc. Closed loop information path for medical fluid delivery systems
US6193510B1 (en) * 1999-07-28 2001-02-27 Efraim Tsimerman Medical device with time-out feature
US20010041825A1 (en) * 2000-05-12 2001-11-15 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd Endoscopic image filing system for managing cleaning information of endoscope with image information
US20020013510A1 (en) * 2000-06-30 2002-01-31 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope device
US20020024290A1 (en) * 2000-08-23 2002-02-28 Sashiro Uemura Vacuum fluorescent display
US20020034823A1 (en) * 1995-10-06 2002-03-21 3M Innovative Properties Company Sterilizer testing systems
US6452624B1 (en) * 1997-09-02 2002-09-17 Omnilabo N.V. Medical video endoscopy monitoring device
US20030130567A1 (en) * 2002-01-09 2003-07-10 Mault James R. Health-related devices and methods
US20040041031A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-03-04 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US6712756B1 (en) * 2000-05-19 2004-03-30 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope system having transponder for discriminating endoscope
US6712760B2 (en) * 2000-04-10 2004-03-30 Pentax Corporation Television device of portable endoscope

Family Cites Families (38)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3963438A (en) * 1974-06-21 1976-06-15 Banez Armin V Method of sterilizing a fiberoptic proctoscope
JPS6121041Y2 (en) * 1977-08-04 1986-06-24
US4527551A (en) * 1982-07-27 1985-07-09 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Connector device for checking leakage in an airtight endoscope
US4457334A (en) * 1982-09-24 1984-07-03 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy Pressure sensitive valve actuator
US5225160A (en) * 1986-02-06 1993-07-06 Steris Corporation Medical instrument decontamination and sterilization processor
US4850716A (en) * 1987-11-20 1989-07-25 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Remotely detectable sterilization monitor
JPH01310638A (en) * 1988-06-10 1989-12-14 Toshiba Corp Endoscope device
US5279799A (en) * 1990-10-23 1994-01-18 Hamo Ag Apparatus for cleaning and testing endoscopes
US5609561A (en) * 1992-06-09 1997-03-11 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd Electronic type endoscope in which image pickup unit is dismounted to execute disinfection/sterilization processing
US5408991A (en) * 1992-07-31 1995-04-25 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope system wherein cleaning solution flows at same speed in cleaning solution supply section and in all flow paths of internal conduits
EP0629410A1 (en) * 1993-06-15 1994-12-21 Sintra Holding Ag Sterilizer
DE4323815C2 (en) * 1993-07-15 1997-09-25 Siemens Ag Method and device for the hygienic preparation of medical, in particular dental, instruments
US6059718A (en) * 1993-10-18 2000-05-09 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope form detecting apparatus in which coil is fixedly mounted by insulating member so that form is not deformed within endoscope
CH688083A5 (en) * 1993-12-30 1997-05-15 Hans Biermaier Cleaning and disinfecting machine for medical devices that have narrow canals, in particular for endoscopes.
US6733495B1 (en) * 1999-09-08 2004-05-11 Curon Medical, Inc. Systems and methods for monitoring and controlling use of medical devices
US5634880A (en) * 1995-05-22 1997-06-03 Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc. Endoscope pressure equalization system and method
DE19629646C2 (en) 1996-07-23 1998-09-10 Wolf Gmbh Richard Method and device for the automatic identification of components of medical device systems
US6528017B2 (en) * 1997-04-04 2003-03-04 Ethicon, Inc. System and method for sterilizing a lumen device
US5984875A (en) 1997-08-22 1999-11-16 Innotek Pet Products, Inc. Ingestible animal temperature sensor
US6240312B1 (en) 1997-10-23 2001-05-29 Robert R. Alfano Remote-controllable, micro-scale device for use in in vivo medical diagnosis and/or treatment
US20030109837A1 (en) * 1998-03-13 2003-06-12 Mcbride-Sakal Marcia Brush to clear occluded stents
US20020064479A1 (en) * 1998-03-26 2002-05-30 Nobuyuki Nakanishi Apparatus for washing and disinfecting-sterilizing endoscope
US5868667A (en) * 1998-03-27 1999-02-09 Ethicon, Inc. Pressure-equalizing cap
JP3071190B2 (en) * 1998-08-26 2000-07-31 昌純 高田 Self-propelled colonoscope and cleaning method thereof
JP3403653B2 (en) * 1998-11-10 2003-05-06 オリンパス光学工業株式会社 Endoscope system
JP3394742B2 (en) 1999-05-31 2003-04-07 オリンパス光学工業株式会社 Data filing system for endoscope
US6366206B1 (en) * 1999-06-02 2002-04-02 Ball Semiconductor, Inc. Method and apparatus for attaching tags to medical and non-medical devices
US6631353B1 (en) * 1999-06-10 2003-10-07 Hologic, Inc. Sonometry and densitometry medical diagnostic devices enabled for per-use patient examinations charged via internet connections to financial cards
DE20012237U1 (en) * 1999-07-26 2000-10-12 Storz Karl Gmbh & Co Kg Medical instrument with a contactlessly readable information carrier
US6408682B2 (en) * 2000-02-07 2002-06-25 Steris Inc. Leak detection method for endoscopes
US6485684B1 (en) * 2000-02-07 2002-11-26 Steris Inc. Fluid connection system for endoscope reprocessing with controlled leakage
US6365103B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2002-04-02 Technologies Of Sterilization With Ozone Tso3 Inc. Method for sterilizing an endoscope
US6814932B2 (en) * 2000-03-31 2004-11-09 Steris Inc. Device support activation system
JP4792195B2 (en) * 2000-08-18 2011-10-12 アークレイ株式会社 Remote service providing system and billing amount calculation method
JP4555452B2 (en) * 2000-10-12 2010-09-29 薫 川添 Method and apparatus for cleaning medical device pipelines
JP4172922B2 (en) * 2001-05-30 2008-10-29 Hoya株式会社 Electronic endoscope system and usage recording method of electronic endoscope system
JP3524077B2 (en) * 2001-06-29 2004-04-26 興研株式会社 Endoscope cleaning device
US6884392B2 (en) * 2002-11-12 2005-04-26 Minntech Corporation Apparatus and method for steam reprocessing flexible endoscopes

Patent Citations (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3986498A (en) * 1975-09-08 1976-10-19 Videodetics Corporation Remote ECG monitoring system
US4449518A (en) * 1981-04-13 1984-05-22 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Disinfection indicator for medical equipment
US4862872A (en) * 1987-04-17 1989-09-05 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope and endoscope washing apparatus
US4974607A (en) * 1987-08-20 1990-12-04 Satoru Miwa System for centralized management of medical data
US5631947A (en) * 1991-03-04 1997-05-20 Megatrend Telecommunications, Inc. Mobile telephone device for storing a plurality of changable charge rates and time limit data
US5368015A (en) * 1991-03-18 1994-11-29 Wilk; Peter J. Automated surgical system and apparatus
US5217003A (en) * 1991-03-18 1993-06-08 Wilk Peter J Automated surgical system and apparatus
US5359993A (en) * 1992-12-31 1994-11-01 Symbiosis Corporation Apparatus for counting the number of times a medical instrument has been used
US5830121A (en) * 1993-10-27 1998-11-03 Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Endoscopic apparatus having an endoscope and a peripheral device wherein total usage of the endoscope is quantified and recorded
US5920054A (en) * 1994-07-12 1999-07-06 Medrad, Inc. Closed loop information path for medical fluid delivery systems
US20020034823A1 (en) * 1995-10-06 2002-03-21 3M Innovative Properties Company Sterilizer testing systems
US5732401A (en) * 1996-03-29 1998-03-24 Intellitecs International Ltd. Activity based cost tracking systems
US6452624B1 (en) * 1997-09-02 2002-09-17 Omnilabo N.V. Medical video endoscopy monitoring device
US6193510B1 (en) * 1999-07-28 2001-02-27 Efraim Tsimerman Medical device with time-out feature
US6712760B2 (en) * 2000-04-10 2004-03-30 Pentax Corporation Television device of portable endoscope
US20010041825A1 (en) * 2000-05-12 2001-11-15 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd Endoscopic image filing system for managing cleaning information of endoscope with image information
US6726620B2 (en) * 2000-05-12 2004-04-27 Olympus Corporation Endoscopic image filing system for managing cleaning information of endoscope with image information
US6712756B1 (en) * 2000-05-19 2004-03-30 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope system having transponder for discriminating endoscope
US6679835B2 (en) * 2000-06-30 2004-01-20 Olympus Corporation Endoscope device
US20020013510A1 (en) * 2000-06-30 2002-01-31 Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. Endoscope device
US20020024290A1 (en) * 2000-08-23 2002-02-28 Sashiro Uemura Vacuum fluorescent display
US20030130567A1 (en) * 2002-01-09 2003-07-10 Mault James R. Health-related devices and methods
US20040041031A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-03-04 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US20040052679A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-03-18 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods

Cited By (909)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7115091B2 (en) 2002-03-18 2006-10-03 Optim, Inc. Reusable endoscopic device and related systems and methods
US20040041031A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-03-04 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US20040052679A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-03-18 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US20040024290A1 (en) * 2002-03-18 2004-02-05 Root Thomas V. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US7193519B2 (en) 2002-03-18 2007-03-20 Optim, Inc. Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
US20090122573A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2009-05-14 Optim, Inc. Illumination device
US9022628B2 (en) 2003-03-26 2015-05-05 Optim, Inc. Compact, high efficiency, high power solid state light source using a single solid state light-emitting device
US8801253B2 (en) 2003-03-26 2014-08-12 Optim Llc Illumination device
US8033704B2 (en) 2003-03-26 2011-10-11 Optim, Inc. Compact, high efficiency, high power solid state light source using a solid state light-emitting device
US7798692B2 (en) 2003-03-26 2010-09-21 Optim, Inc. Illumination device
US20090185392A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2009-07-23 Optim, Inc. Detachable illumination system
US20070086205A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2007-04-19 Optim, Inc. Compact, high efficiency, high power solid state light source using a solid state light-emitting device
US20060158896A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2006-07-20 Krupa Robert J Illumination device
US20090040783A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2009-02-12 Optim, Inc. Compact, high efficiency, high power solid state light source using a single solid state light-emitting device
US20090034286A1 (en) * 2003-03-26 2009-02-05 Optim, Inc. Illumination device
US9913573B2 (en) 2003-04-01 2018-03-13 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Endoscopic imaging system
US10765307B2 (en) 2003-04-01 2020-09-08 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Endoscopic imaging system
US11324395B2 (en) 2003-04-01 2022-05-10 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Endoscopic imaging system
US20050113808A1 (en) * 2003-11-25 2005-05-26 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Medical device with visual indicator and related methods of use
US20080004605A1 (en) * 2003-11-25 2008-01-03 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Medical device with visual indicator and related methods of use
US7244252B2 (en) * 2003-11-25 2007-07-17 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Medical device with visual indicator and related methods of use
US20050209507A1 (en) * 2004-03-22 2005-09-22 Olympus Corporation Endoscope washer system, endoscope washer device, and endoscope
EP1728465A4 (en) * 2004-03-22 2010-08-04 Olympus Corp Endoscope washing and sterilizing system, endoscope washing and sterilizing device and endoscope
EP1728465A1 (en) * 2004-03-22 2006-12-06 Olympus Corporation Endoscope washing and sterilizing system, endoscope washing and sterilizing device and endoscope
US11116386B2 (en) 2004-05-18 2021-09-14 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Serialization of single-use endoscopes
US20080076967A1 (en) * 2004-05-18 2008-03-27 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Serialization of single use endoscopes
US10226163B2 (en) 2004-05-18 2019-03-12 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Serialization of single-use endoscopes
US9230324B2 (en) * 2004-05-18 2016-01-05 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Serialization of single use endoscopes
US10799240B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2020-10-13 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a staple firing lockout
US10383634B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-08-20 Ethicon Llc Stapling system incorporating a firing lockout
US10687817B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Stapling device comprising a firing member lockout
US11684365B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2023-06-27 Cilag Gmbh International Replaceable staple cartridges for surgical instruments
US10716563B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Stapling system comprising an instrument assembly including a lockout
US11135352B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International End effector including a gradually releasable medical adjunct
US10568629B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Articulating surgical stapling instrument
US10485547B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical staple cartridges
US10278702B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-05-07 Ethicon Llc Stapling system comprising a firing bar and a lockout
US11116502B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2021-09-14 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument incorporating a two-piece firing mechanism
US11083456B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Articulating surgical instrument incorporating a two-piece firing mechanism
US11812960B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Method of segmenting the operation of a surgical stapling instrument
US11882987B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Articulating surgical stapling instrument incorporating a two-piece E-beam firing mechanism
US11890012B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2024-02-06 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising cartridge body and attached support
US10314590B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-06-11 Ethicon Llc Articulating surgical stapling instrument incorporating a two-piece e-beam firing mechanism
US11896225B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a pan
US10292707B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-05-21 Ethicon Llc Articulating surgical stapling instrument incorporating a firing mechanism
US10293100B2 (en) 2004-07-28 2019-05-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument having a medical substance dispenser
US7198397B2 (en) 2004-09-17 2007-04-03 Optim, Inc. LED endoscope illuminator and methods of mounting within an endoscope
US20070153541A1 (en) * 2004-09-17 2007-07-05 Optim, Inc. LED endoscope illuminator with thermally conductive handle
US20060085969A1 (en) * 2004-09-17 2006-04-27 Optim, Inc. LED endoscope illuminator and methods of mounting within an endoscope
US11172927B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2021-11-16 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US11484311B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-11-01 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a staple driver arrangement
US10271845B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-30 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge assembly comprising a cam and driver arrangement
US11771425B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2023-10-03 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly for forming staples to different formed heights
US11730474B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2023-08-22 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assembly comprising a movable cartridge and a staple driver arrangement
US10463369B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-11-05 Ethicon Llc Disposable end effector for use with a surgical instrument
US11839375B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2023-12-12 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assembly comprising an anvil and different staple heights
US10420553B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a staple driver arrangement
US11246590B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including staple drivers having different unfired heights
US11576673B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2023-02-14 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly for forming staples to different heights
US10729436B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2020-08-04 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled surgical stapling devices that produce formed staples having different lengths
US11134947B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assembly comprising a camming sled with variable cam arrangements
US10278697B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-05-07 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a staple driver arrangement
US11272928B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-03-15 Cilag GmbH Intemational Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US10245035B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Stapling assembly configured to produce different formed staple heights
US10271846B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-30 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapler
US10245032B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US11484312B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-11-01 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a staple driver arrangement
US10842489B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge assembly comprising a cam and driver arrangement
US10842488B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge assembly comprising a fixed anvil and different staple heights
US10869664B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2020-12-22 Ethicon Llc End effector for use with a surgical stapling instrument
US11399828B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assembly comprising a fixed anvil and different staple heights
US10932774B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effector for forming staples to different heights
US10321909B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2019-06-18 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a staple including deformable members
US11090045B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US11793512B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US11179153B2 (en) 2005-08-31 2021-11-23 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges for forming staples having differing formed staple heights
US10993713B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2021-05-04 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments
US10806449B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2020-10-20 Ethicon Llc End effectors for surgical staplers
US11793511B2 (en) 2005-11-09 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments
US10842491B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Surgical system with an actuation console
US11648024B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with position feedback
US10952728B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-03-23 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US10959722B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-03-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for deploying fasteners by way of rotational motion
US10278722B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-05-07 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US11793518B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US10201363B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-02-12 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical instrument
US11058420B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-07-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling apparatus comprising a lockout system
US10485539B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with firing lockout
US11051811B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-07-06 Ethicon Llc End effector for use with a surgical instrument
US11224427B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system including a console and retraction assembly
US11801051B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-10-31 Cilag Gmbh International Accessing data stored in a memory of a surgical instrument
US10299817B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven fastening assembly
US10463384B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-11-05 Ethicon Llc Stapling assembly
US11350916B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Endoscopic surgical instrument with a handle that can articulate with respect to the shaft
US10463383B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-11-05 Ethicon Llc Stapling instrument including a sensing system
US11364046B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-06-21 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US11660110B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-05-30 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US11648008B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument having force feedback capabilities
US10653417B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-05-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument
US10653435B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-05-19 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US11051813B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-07-06 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US10993717B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-05-04 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling system comprising a control system
US10918380B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-02-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system including a control system
US10426463B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2019-10-01 Ehticon LLC Surgical instrument having a feedback system
US11890029B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2024-02-06 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US11890008B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2024-02-06 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with firing lockout
US10675028B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-06-09 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instruments with firing system lockout arrangements
US11166717B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-11-09 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with firing lockout
US11612393B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2023-03-28 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled end effector
US10893853B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-01-19 Ethicon Llc Stapling assembly including motor drive systems
US10709468B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-07-14 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US11883020B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument having a feedback system
US11224454B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US11000275B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-05-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument
US11246616B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US10743849B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Stapling system including an articulation system
US11103269B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-08-31 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US11278279B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2022-03-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly
US10806479B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2020-10-20 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument with tactile position feedback
US11020113B2 (en) 2006-01-31 2021-06-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument having force feedback capabilities
US10213262B2 (en) 2006-03-23 2019-02-26 Ethicon Llc Manipulatable surgical systems with selectively articulatable fastening device
US11272938B2 (en) 2006-06-27 2022-03-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including dedicated firing and retraction assemblies
US10420560B2 (en) 2006-06-27 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Manually driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US10314589B2 (en) 2006-06-27 2019-06-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument including a shifting assembly
US10448952B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2019-10-22 Ethicon Llc End effector for use with a surgical fastening instrument
US11622785B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2023-04-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical staples having attached drivers and stapling instruments for deploying the same
US10172616B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2019-01-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical staple cartridge
US10595862B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2020-03-24 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge including a compressible member
US10568652B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical staples having attached drivers of different heights and stapling instruments for deploying the same
US11571231B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2023-02-07 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge having a driver for driving multiple staples
US11877748B2 (en) 2006-10-03 2024-01-23 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-driven surgical instrument with E-beam driver
US10206678B2 (en) 2006-10-03 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument with lockout features to prevent advancement of a firing assembly unless an unfired surgical staple cartridge is operably mounted in an end effector portion of the instrument
US11382626B2 (en) 2006-10-03 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system including a knife bar supported for rotational and axial travel
US10342541B2 (en) 2006-10-03 2019-07-09 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with E-beam driver and rotary drive arrangements
US20080114207A1 (en) * 2006-11-14 2008-05-15 Krupa Robert J Portable endoscope
US9055863B2 (en) 2006-11-14 2015-06-16 Optim, Inc. Portable endoscope
US20080214896A1 (en) * 2007-01-10 2008-09-04 Krupa Robert J Endoscope with detachable elongation portion
US11844521B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2023-12-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument for use with a robotic system
US11291441B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication between control unit and remote sensor
US11006951B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with wireless communication between control unit and sensor transponders
US11350929B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication between control unit and sensor transponders
US11000277B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-05-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with wireless communication between control unit and remote sensor
US10945729B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-03-16 Ethicon Llc Interlock and surgical instrument including same
US11064998B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-07-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication between a control unit of a robotic system and remote sensor
US10751138B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2020-08-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for use with a robotic system
US11771426B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2023-10-03 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication
US11666332B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2023-06-06 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a control circuit configured to adjust the operation of a motor
US11918211B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument for use with a robotic system
US10278780B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2019-05-07 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for use with robotic system
US10918386B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-02-16 Ethicon Llc Interlock and surgical instrument including same
US10433918B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2019-10-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system configured to evaluate the load applied to a firing member at the initiation of a firing stroke
US11134943B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instrument including a control unit and sensor
US11812961B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a motor control system
US11849947B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system including a control circuit and a passively-powered transponder
US10517682B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with wireless communication between control unit and remote sensor
US11166720B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-11-09 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a control module for assessing an end effector
US10952727B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2021-03-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for assessing the state of a staple cartridge
US10517590B2 (en) 2007-01-10 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument having a transmission system
US11839352B2 (en) 2007-01-11 2023-12-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling device with an end effector
US11039836B2 (en) 2007-01-11 2021-06-22 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapling instrument
US10912575B2 (en) 2007-01-11 2021-02-09 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling device having supports for a flexible drive mechanism
US10702267B2 (en) 2007-03-15 2020-07-07 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument having a releasable buttress material
US11337693B2 (en) 2007-03-15 2022-05-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument having a releasable buttress material
US10398433B2 (en) 2007-03-28 2019-09-03 Ethicon Llc Laparoscopic clamp load measuring devices
US11564682B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2023-01-31 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler device
US11559302B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a firing member movable at different speeds
US10299787B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Stapling system comprising rotary inputs
US11911028B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2024-02-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments for use with a robotic surgical system
US11154298B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2021-10-26 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling system for use with a robotic surgical system
US10363033B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled surgical instruments
US10327765B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Drive systems for surgical instruments
US11134938B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled shaft based rotary drive systems for surgical instruments
US10368863B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2019-08-06 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled shaft based rotary drive systems for surgical instruments
US11672531B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2023-06-13 Cilag Gmbh International Rotary drive systems for surgical instruments
US11648006B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled shaft based rotary drive systems for surgical instruments
US11857181B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2024-01-02 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled shaft based rotary drive systems for surgical instruments
US11147549B2 (en) 2007-06-04 2021-10-19 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument including a firing system and a closure system
US11013511B2 (en) 2007-06-22 2021-05-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instrument with an articulatable end effector
US11925346B2 (en) 2007-06-29 2024-03-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical staple cartridge including tissue supporting surfaces
US11849941B2 (en) 2007-06-29 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge having staple cavities extending at a transverse angle relative to a longitudinal cartridge axis
US8152715B2 (en) 2007-09-14 2012-04-10 Optim, Incorporated Endoscope with internal light source and power supply
US20090076328A1 (en) * 2007-09-14 2009-03-19 Root Thomas V Endoscope with internal light source and power supply
US10660640B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-05-26 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US10265067B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-04-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument including a regulator and a control system
US11612395B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2023-03-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system including a control system having an RFID tag reader
US10682141B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-06-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical device including a control system
US10682142B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-06-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling apparatus including an articulation system
US10716568B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling apparatus with control features operable with one hand
US10206676B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US11638583B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2023-05-02 Cilag Gmbh International Motorized surgical system having a plurality of power sources
US10722232B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-07-28 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for use with different cartridges
US10238387B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-03-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a control system
US10238385B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-03-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system for evaluating tissue impedance
US11571212B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2023-02-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system including an impedance sensor
US10639036B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-05-05 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled motorized surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US10743870B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling apparatus with interlockable firing system
US10743851B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Interchangeable tools for surgical instruments
US11801047B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2023-10-31 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system comprising a control circuit configured to selectively monitor tissue impedance and adjust control of a motor
US10542974B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-01-28 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument including a control system
US11446034B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2022-09-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly comprising first and second actuation systems configured to perform different functions
US10765432B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical device including a control system
US10779822B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc System including a surgical cutting and fastening instrument
US10925605B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-02-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling system
US11717285B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical cutting and fastening instrument having RF electrodes
US10307163B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-06-04 Ethicon Llc Detachable motor powered surgical instrument
US10905427B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-02-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical System
US10470763B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-11-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical cutting and fastening instrument including a sensing system
US10905426B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-02-02 Ethicon Llc Detachable motor powered surgical instrument
US10898194B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Detachable motor powered surgical instrument
US10898195B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Detachable motor powered surgical instrument
US10463370B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2019-11-05 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument
US10888330B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical system
US10888329B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Detachable motor powered surgical instrument
US10874396B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-12-29 Ethicon Llc Stapling instrument for use with a surgical robot
US10806450B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2020-10-20 Ethicon Llc Surgical cutting and fastening instrument having a control system
US11484307B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2022-11-01 Cilag Gmbh International Loading unit coupleable to a surgical stapling system
US11464514B2 (en) 2008-02-14 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Motorized surgical stapling system including a sensing array
US10390823B2 (en) 2008-02-15 2019-08-27 Ethicon Llc End effector comprising an adjunct
US11272927B2 (en) 2008-02-15 2022-03-15 Cilag Gmbh International Layer arrangements for surgical staple cartridges
US11154297B2 (en) 2008-02-15 2021-10-26 Cilag Gmbh International Layer arrangements for surgical staple cartridges
US11058418B2 (en) 2008-02-15 2021-07-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effector having buttress retention features
US10856866B2 (en) 2008-02-15 2020-12-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effector having buttress retention features
US11045189B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2021-06-29 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US10420549B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument
US11517304B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US11617576B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2023-04-04 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US11684361B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2023-06-27 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US11812954B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US10456133B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2019-10-29 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument
US10765425B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US11617575B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2023-04-04 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US10485537B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument
US10980535B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc Motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US11103241B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2021-08-31 Cilag Gmbh International Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US10736628B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US10898184B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument
US11871923B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2024-01-16 Cilag Gmbh International Motorized surgical instrument
US11406380B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2022-08-09 Cilag Gmbh International Motorized surgical instrument
US11648005B2 (en) 2008-09-23 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US11793521B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical cutting and stapling apparatus with manually retractable firing system
US11583279B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2023-02-21 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical cutting and stapling apparatus with manually retractable firing system
US10932778B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical cutting and stapling apparatus with manually retractable firing system
US11730477B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2023-08-22 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical system with manually retractable firing system
US11129615B2 (en) 2009-02-05 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system
US10420550B2 (en) 2009-02-06 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Motor driven surgical fastener device with switching system configured to prevent firing initiation until activated
US11291449B2 (en) 2009-12-24 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical cutting instrument that analyzes tissue thickness
US10751076B2 (en) 2009-12-24 2020-08-25 Ethicon Llc Motor-driven surgical cutting instrument with electric actuator directional control assembly
US11478247B2 (en) 2010-07-30 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue acquisition arrangements and methods for surgical stapling devices
US10258332B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc Stapling system comprising an adjunct and a flowable adhesive
US10743877B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler with floating anvil
US11154296B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-10-26 Cilag Gmbh International Anvil layer attached to a proximal end of an end effector
US10485536B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Tissue stapler having an anti-microbial agent
US10149682B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2018-12-11 Ethicon Llc Stapling system including an actuation system
US10182819B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-01-22 Ethicon Llc Implantable layer assemblies
US11083452B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including a tissue thickness compensator
US11925354B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2024-03-12 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising staples positioned within a compressible portion thereof
US11812965B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US10258330B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc End effector including an implantable arrangement
US11737754B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-08-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler with floating anvil
US10987102B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-04-27 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator comprising a plurality of layers
US11602340B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-03-14 Cilag Gmbh International Adhesive film laminate
US11298125B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2022-04-12 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue stapler having a thickness compensator
US10265072B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-04-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling system comprising an end effector including an implantable layer
US10548600B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-02-04 Ethicon Llc Multiple thickness implantable layers for surgical stapling devices
US10265074B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-04-23 Ethicon Llc Implantable layers for surgical stapling devices
US10945731B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-03-16 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator comprising controlled release and expansion
US11911027B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2024-02-27 Cilag Gmbh International Adhesive film laminate
US11583277B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-02-21 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US10898193B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc End effector for use with a surgical instrument
US10335148B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-07-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge including a tissue thickness compensator for a surgical stapler
US11395651B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2022-07-26 Cilag Gmbh International Adhesive film laminate
US10588623B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Adhesive film laminate
US10888328B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effector
US10335150B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-07-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising an implantable layer
US10869669B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-12-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument assembly
US11406377B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2022-08-09 Cilag Gmbh International Adhesive film laminate
US11684360B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-06-27 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a variable thickness compressible portion
US11883025B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue thickness compensator comprising a plurality of layers
US10363031B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensators for surgical staplers
US10835251B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-11-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument assembly including an end effector configurable in different positions
US11571215B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-02-07 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US10463372B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-11-05 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising multiple regions
US11850310B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including an adjunct
US11672536B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-06-13 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US11857187B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2024-01-02 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue thickness compensator comprising controlled release and expansion
US11540824B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-01-03 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue thickness compensator
US11849952B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising staples positioned within a compressible portion thereof
US10398436B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2019-09-03 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising staples positioned within a compressible portion thereof
US11559496B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue thickness compensator configured to redistribute compressive forces
US10624861B2 (en) 2010-09-30 2020-04-21 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator configured to redistribute compressive forces
US11529142B2 (en) 2010-10-01 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument having a power control circuit
US10695062B2 (en) 2010-10-01 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument including a retractable firing member
US10086216B2 (en) 2010-10-12 2018-10-02 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Medical device
US10639502B2 (en) 2010-10-12 2020-05-05 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Medical device
US11565134B2 (en) 2010-10-12 2023-01-31 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Medical device
US9526920B2 (en) 2010-10-12 2016-12-27 Smith & Nephew, Inc. Medical device
US11504116B2 (en) 2011-04-29 2022-11-22 Cilag Gmbh International Layer of material for a surgical end effector
US11439470B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2022-09-13 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled surgical instrument with selectively articulatable end effector
US10383633B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-08-20 Ethicon Llc Robotically-driven surgical assembly
US10813641B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-10-27 Ethicon Llc Robotically-driven surgical instrument
US10426478B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling systems
US10335151B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-07-02 Ethicon Llc Robotically-driven surgical instrument
US11583278B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2023-02-21 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system having multi-direction articulation
US11918208B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically-controlled shaft based rotary drive systems for surgical instruments
US10231794B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-03-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instruments with rotatable staple deployment arrangements
US11266410B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2022-03-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical device for use with a robotic system
US10617420B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Surgical system comprising drive systems
US10420561B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Robotically-driven surgical instrument
US10980534B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled motorized surgical instrument with an end effector
US10736634B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Robotically-driven surgical instrument including a drive system
US11129616B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system
US11207064B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2021-12-28 Cilag Gmbh International Automated end effector component reloading system for use with a robotic system
US10780539B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Stapling instrument for use with a robotic system
US11612394B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2023-03-28 Cilag Gmbh International Automated end effector component reloading system for use with a robotic system
US10485546B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Robotically-driven surgical assembly
US10524790B2 (en) 2011-05-27 2020-01-07 Ethicon Llc Robotically-controlled surgical stapling devices that produce formed staples having different lengths
US10695063B2 (en) 2012-02-13 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical cutting and fastening instrument with apparatus for determining cartridge and firing motion status
US11406378B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2022-08-09 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a compressible tissue thickness compensator
US10441285B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2019-10-15 Ethicon Llc Tissue thickness compensator comprising tissue ingrowth features
US11918220B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue thickness compensator comprising tissue ingrowth features
US10667808B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2020-06-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising an absorbable adjunct
US11793509B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including an implantable layer
US10959725B2 (en) 2012-06-15 2021-03-30 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instrument comprising a firing drive
US11707273B2 (en) 2012-06-15 2023-07-25 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical instrument comprising a firing drive
US11540829B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2023-01-03 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system including replaceable end effectors
US10420555B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-09-24 Ethicon Llc Hand held rotary powered surgical instruments with end effectors that are articulatable about multiple axes
US11154299B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-10-26 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly comprising a firing lockout
US11622766B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2023-04-11 Cilag Gmbh International Empty clip cartridge lockout
US10485541B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Robotically powered surgical device with manually-actuatable reversing system
US11510671B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-11-29 Cilag Gmbh International Firing system lockout arrangements for surgical instruments
US11058423B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-07-13 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling system including first and second closure systems for use with a surgical robot
US11241230B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-02-08 Cilag Gmbh International Clip applier tool for use with a robotic surgical system
US11039837B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-06-22 Cilag Gmbh International Firing system lockout arrangements for surgical instruments
US11278284B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-03-22 Cilag Gmbh International Rotary drive arrangements for surgical instruments
US11007004B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc Powered multi-axial articulable electrosurgical device with external dissection features
US11464513B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system including replaceable end effectors
US11534162B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2022-12-27 Cilag GmbH Inlernational Robotically powered surgical device with manually-actuatable reversing system
US10258333B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical fastening apparatus with a rotary end effector drive shaft for selective engagement with a motorized drive system
US11602346B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2023-03-14 Cilag Gmbh International Robotically powered surgical device with manually-actuatable reversing system
US11141155B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-10-12 Cilag Gmbh International Drive system for surgical tool
US11083457B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system including replaceable end effectors
US10413294B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-09-17 Ethicon Llc Shaft assembly arrangements for surgical instruments
US11857189B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2024-01-02 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including first and second articulation joints
US10383630B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2019-08-20 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling device with rotary driven firing member
US10687812B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system including replaceable end effectors
US11202631B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-12-21 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly comprising a firing lockout
US11141156B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-10-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly comprising flexible output shaft
US10639115B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2020-05-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors having angled tissue-contacting surfaces
US11197671B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-12-14 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly comprising a lockout
US11918213B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler including couplers for attaching a shaft to an end effector
US11806013B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2023-11-07 Cilag Gmbh International Firing system arrangements for surgical instruments
US11779420B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2023-10-10 Cilag Gmbh International Robotic surgical attachments having manually-actuated retraction assemblies
US10874391B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2020-12-29 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system including replaceable end effectors
US11109860B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-09-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effectors for use with hand-held and robotically-controlled rotary powered surgical systems
US10932775B2 (en) 2012-06-28 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Firing system lockout arrangements for surgical instruments
US11373755B2 (en) 2012-08-23 2022-06-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical device drive system including a ratchet mechanism
US10285695B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2019-05-14 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instruments with conductive pathways
US11529138B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instrument including a rotary drive screw
US10575868B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2020-03-03 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with coupler assembly
US11246618B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument soft stop
US10226249B2 (en) 2013-03-01 2019-03-12 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instruments with conductive pathways for signal communication
US10470762B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-11-12 Ethicon Llc Multi-function motor for a surgical instrument
US11266406B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2022-03-08 Cilag Gmbh International Control systems for surgical instruments
US10617416B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Control systems for surgical instruments
US10238391B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-03-26 Ethicon Llc Drive train control arrangements for modular surgical instruments
US10893867B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2021-01-19 Ethicon Llc Drive train control arrangements for modular surgical instruments
US10405857B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2019-09-10 Ethicon Llc Powered linear surgical stapler
US11690615B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2023-07-04 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system including an electric motor and a surgical instrument
US11622763B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2023-04-11 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly comprising a shiftable drive
US10149680B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2018-12-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a gap setting system
US11406381B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2022-08-09 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical stapler
US10702266B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2020-07-07 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system
US11564679B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2023-01-31 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical stapler
US11395652B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2022-07-26 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical stapler
US11633183B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2023-04-25 Cilag International GmbH Stapling assembly comprising a retraction drive
US10888318B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical stapler
US11638581B2 (en) 2013-04-16 2023-05-02 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical stapler
US11026680B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-06-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument configured to operate in different states
US10869665B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2020-12-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system including a control system
US11918209B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Torque optimization for surgical instruments
US10441281B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2019-10-15 Ethicon Llc surgical instrument including securing and aligning features
US10898190B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Secondary battery arrangements for powered surgical instruments
US11000274B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-05-11 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument
US11504119B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2022-11-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including an electronic firing lockout
US11109858B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-09-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a display which displays the position of a firing element
US11389160B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2022-07-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system comprising a display
US11376001B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2022-07-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling device with rotary multi-turn retraction mechanism
US11134940B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a variable speed firing member
US10828032B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2020-11-10 Ethicon Llc End effector detection systems for surgical instruments
US11133106B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly comprising a retraction assembly
US10624634B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2020-04-21 Ethicon Llc Firing trigger lockout arrangements for surgical instruments
US10201349B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2019-02-12 Ethicon Llc End effector detection and firing rate modulation systems for surgical instruments
US11701110B2 (en) 2013-08-23 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a drive assembly movable in a non-motorized mode of operation
US11020115B2 (en) 2014-02-12 2021-06-01 Cilag Gmbh International Deliverable surgical instrument
US10426481B2 (en) 2014-02-24 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Implantable layer assemblies
US10201364B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2019-02-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a rotatable shaft
US10898185B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument power management through sleep and wake up control
US11259799B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2022-03-01 Cilag Gmbh International Interface systems for use with surgical instruments
US11497488B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2022-11-15 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling a segmented circuit
US10588626B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument displaying subsequent step of use
US10863981B2 (en) 2014-03-26 2020-12-15 Ethicon Llc Interface systems for use with surgical instruments
US10713627B2 (en) * 2014-03-31 2020-07-14 Fujifilm Corporation Endoscopic scope cleaning management system, endoscopic scope cleaning management method, and non-transitory computer readable medium
US20150278460A1 (en) * 2014-03-31 2015-10-01 Fujifilm Corporation Endoscopic scope cleaning management system, endoscopic scope cleaning management method, and non-transitory computer readable medium
US11185330B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2021-11-30 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assemblies and staple retainer cover arrangements
US10470768B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2019-11-12 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge including a layer attached thereto
US10561422B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2020-02-18 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge comprising deployable tissue engaging members
US10299792B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridge comprising non-uniform fasteners
US11596406B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2023-03-07 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridges including extensions having different configurations
US10542988B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2020-01-28 Ethicon Llc End effector comprising an anvil including projections extending therefrom
US11717294B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International End effector arrangements comprising indicators
US11298134B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-04-12 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge comprising non-uniform fasteners
US10327776B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling buttresses and adjunct materials
US11517315B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridges including extensions having different configurations
US11382625B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge comprising non-uniform fasteners
US11918222B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly having firing member viewing windows
US11925353B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2024-03-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument comprising internal passage between stapling cartridge and elongate channel
US11883026B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge assemblies and staple retainer cover arrangements
US11266409B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-03-08 Cilag Gmbh International Fastener cartridge comprising a sled including longitudinally-staggered ramps
US11382627B2 (en) 2014-04-16 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly comprising a firing member including a lateral extension
US11068852B2 (en) 2014-05-01 2021-07-20 Covidien Lp System and method for using RFID tags to determine sterilization of devices
US11669807B2 (en) 2014-05-01 2023-06-06 Covidien Lp System and method for using RFID tags to determine sterilization of devices
US11717297B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International Smart cartridge wake up operation and data retention
US9737301B2 (en) * 2014-09-05 2017-08-22 Ethicon Llc Monitoring device degradation based on component evaluation
US10905423B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2021-02-02 Ethicon Llc Smart cartridge wake up operation and data retention
US11311294B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2022-04-26 Cilag Gmbh International Powered medical device including measurement of closure state of jaws
US11076854B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2021-08-03 Cilag Gmbh International Smart cartridge wake up operation and data retention
US11389162B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2022-07-19 Cilag Gmbh International Smart cartridge wake up operation and data retention
US11071545B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Smart cartridge wake up operation and data retention
US11406386B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2022-08-09 Cilag Gmbh International End effector including magnetic and impedance sensors
US20160066910A1 (en) * 2014-09-05 2016-03-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Monitoring device degradation based on component evaluation
US11653918B2 (en) 2014-09-05 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Local display of tissue parameter stabilization
US11284898B2 (en) 2014-09-18 2022-03-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a deployable knife
US10327764B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Method for creating a flexible staple line
US10426477B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge assembly including a ramp
US10426476B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Circular fastener cartridges for applying radially expandable fastener lines
US10751053B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2020-08-25 Ethicon Llc Fastener cartridges for applying expandable fastener lines
US11202633B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2021-12-21 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling buttresses and adjunct materials
US11523821B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2022-12-13 Cilag Gmbh International Method for creating a flexible staple line
US10206677B2 (en) 2014-09-26 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical staple and driver arrangements for staple cartridges
US10736630B2 (en) 2014-10-13 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge
US11918210B2 (en) 2014-10-16 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body including a plurality of wells
US10905418B2 (en) 2014-10-16 2021-02-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a tissue thickness compensator
US11701114B2 (en) 2014-10-16 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11185325B2 (en) 2014-10-16 2021-11-30 Cilag Gmbh International End effector including different tissue gaps
US11864760B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2024-01-09 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges comprising driver arrangements
US11141153B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2021-10-12 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges comprising driver arrangements
US11457918B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2022-10-04 Cilag Gmbh International Cartridge assemblies for surgical staplers
US10517594B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Cartridge assemblies for surgical staplers
US11241229B2 (en) 2014-10-29 2022-02-08 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridges comprising driver arrangements
US10617417B2 (en) 2014-11-06 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge comprising a releasable adjunct material
US11337698B2 (en) 2014-11-06 2022-05-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a releasable adjunct material
US11382628B2 (en) 2014-12-10 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical instrument system
US10736636B2 (en) 2014-12-10 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instrument system
US10743873B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Drive arrangements for articulatable surgical instruments
US10806448B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-10-20 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument assembly comprising a flexible articulation system
US10945728B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2021-03-16 Ethicon Llc Locking arrangements for detachable shaft assemblies with articulatable surgical end effectors
US10245027B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with an anvil that is selectively movable about a discrete non-movable axis relative to a staple cartridge
US11812958B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Locking arrangements for detachable shaft assemblies with articulatable surgical end effectors
US11083453B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system including a flexible firing actuator and lateral buckling supports
US11678877B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-06-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a flexible support configured to support a flexible firing member
US10695058B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument systems comprising an articulatable end effector and means for adjusting the firing stroke of a firing member
US11571207B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-02-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system including lateral supports for a flexible drive member
US11399831B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Drive arrangements for articulatable surgical instruments
US11553911B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly comprising a flexible articulation system
US11547404B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-01-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly comprising a flexible articulation system
US11547403B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2023-01-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument having a laminate firing actuator and lateral buckling supports
US10188385B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2019-01-29 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system comprising lockable systems
US11517311B2 (en) 2014-12-18 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument systems comprising an articulatable end effector and means for adjusting the firing stroke of a firing member
US10180463B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2019-01-15 Ethicon Llc Surgical apparatus configured to assess whether a performance parameter of the surgical apparatus is within an acceptable performance band
US11324506B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2022-05-10 Cilag Gmbh International Modular stapling assembly
US10182816B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2019-01-22 Ethicon Llc Charging system that enables emergency resolutions for charging a battery
US11744588B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument including a removably attachable battery pack
US10159483B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2018-12-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical apparatus configured to track an end-of-life parameter
US10245028B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Power adapter for a surgical instrument
US11154301B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2021-10-26 Cilag Gmbh International Modular stapling assembly
US10617412B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc System for detecting the mis-insertion of a staple cartridge into a surgical stapler
US10524787B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-01-07 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument with parameter-based firing rate
US11426160B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2022-08-30 Cilag Gmbh International Smart sensors with local signal processing
US11109859B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2021-09-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a lockable battery housing
US10245033B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a lockable battery housing
US10966627B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2021-04-06 Ethicon Llc Time dependent evaluation of sensor data to determine stability, creep, and viscoelastic elements of measures
US10206605B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Time dependent evaluation of sensor data to determine stability, creep, and viscoelastic elements of measures
US10772625B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-09-15 Ethicon Llc Signal and power communication system positioned on a rotatable shaft
US10687806B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Adaptive tissue compression techniques to adjust closure rates for multiple tissue types
US11224423B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Smart sensors with local signal processing
US10531887B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-01-14 Ethicon Llc Powered surgical instrument including speed display
US11350843B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Time dependent evaluation of sensor data to determine stability, creep, and viscoelastic elements of measures
US10548504B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-02-04 Ethicon Llc Overlaid multi sensor radio frequency (RF) electrode system to measure tissue compression
US11826132B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Time dependent evaluation of sensor data to determine stability, creep, and viscoelastic elements of measures
US10441279B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2019-10-15 Ethicon Llc Multiple level thresholds to modify operation of powered surgical instruments
US10729432B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2020-08-04 Ethicon Llc Methods for operating a powered surgical instrument
US10213201B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2019-02-26 Ethicon Llc Stapling end effector configured to compensate for an uneven gap between a first jaw and a second jaw
US11918212B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with selectively disengageable drive systems
US10433844B2 (en) 2015-03-31 2019-10-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with selectively disengageable threaded drive systems
US10617418B2 (en) 2015-08-17 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Implantable layers for a surgical instrument
US11058425B2 (en) 2015-08-17 2021-07-13 Ethicon Llc Implantable layers for a surgical instrument
US10835249B2 (en) 2015-08-17 2020-11-17 Ethicon Llc Implantable layers for a surgical instrument
US10238386B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2019-03-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having motor control based on an electrical parameter related to a motor current
US11490889B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2022-11-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler having motor control based on an electrical parameter related to a motor current
US11344299B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2022-05-31 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler having downstream current-based motor control
US10363036B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having force-based motor control
US11849946B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler having downstream current-based motor control
US10863986B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2020-12-15 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having downstream current-based motor control
US11026678B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2021-06-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler having motor control based on an electrical parameter related to a motor current
US10327769B2 (en) 2015-09-23 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler having motor control based on a drive system component
US11076929B2 (en) 2015-09-25 2021-08-03 Cilag Gmbh International Implantable adjunct systems for determining adjunct skew
US10299878B2 (en) 2015-09-25 2019-05-28 Ethicon Llc Implantable adjunct systems for determining adjunct skew
US10980539B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc Implantable adjunct comprising bonded layers
US10524788B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2020-01-07 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjunct with attachment regions
US10433846B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-10-08 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjunct with crossing spacer fibers
US10736633B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjunct with looping members
US11712244B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2023-08-01 Cilag Gmbh International Implantable layer with spacer fibers
US11890015B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2024-02-06 Cilag Gmbh International Compressible adjunct with crossing spacer fibers
US10327777B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Implantable layer comprising plastically deformed fibers
US10271849B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-04-30 Ethicon Llc Woven constructs with interlocked standing fibers
US10478188B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-11-19 Ethicon Llc Implantable layer comprising a constricted configuration
US10561420B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2020-02-18 Ethicon Llc Tubular absorbable constructs
US11903586B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2024-02-20 Cilag Gmbh International Compressible adjunct with crossing spacer fibers
US11553916B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Compressible adjunct with crossing spacer fibers
US10307160B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-06-04 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjunct assemblies with attachment layers
US11690623B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2023-07-04 Cilag Gmbh International Method for applying an implantable layer to a fastener cartridge
US10932779B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjunct with crossing spacer fibers
US10285699B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-05-14 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjunct
US10603039B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2020-03-31 Ethicon Llc Progressively releasable implantable adjunct for use with a surgical stapling instrument
US11793522B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge assembly including a compressible adjunct
US10172620B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2019-01-08 Ethicon Llc Compressible adjuncts with bonding nodes
US10292704B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2019-05-21 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for battery pack failure in powered surgical instruments
US11058422B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2021-07-13 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for battery pack failure in powered surgical instruments
US10265068B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2019-04-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with separable motors and motor control circuits
US11759208B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2023-09-19 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for battery pack failure in powered surgical instruments
US11129613B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with separable motors and motor control circuits
US10368865B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2019-08-06 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US11484309B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2022-11-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system comprising a controller configured to cause a motor to reset a firing sequence
US11083454B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10470764B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2019-11-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with closure stroke reduction arrangements
US10245029B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with articulating and axially translatable end effector
US10245030B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2019-04-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with tensioning arrangements for cable driven articulation systems
US10433837B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2019-10-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with multiple link articulation arrangements
US11730471B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2023-08-22 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical instruments with single articulation link arrangements
US11523823B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2022-12-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with non-symmetrical articulation arrangements
US10653413B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2020-05-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with an end effector that is highly articulatable relative to an elongate shaft assembly
US10588625B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instruments with off-axis firing beam arrangements
US11213293B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2022-01-04 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical instruments with single articulation link arrangements
US10413291B2 (en) 2016-02-09 2019-09-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument articulation mechanism with slotted secondary constraint
US11224426B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10258331B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US11826045B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US11344303B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2022-05-31 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US11779336B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2023-10-10 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10448948B2 (en) 2016-02-12 2019-10-22 Ethicon Llc Mechanisms for compensating for drivetrain failure in powered surgical instruments
US10376263B2 (en) 2016-04-01 2019-08-13 Ethicon Llc Anvil modification members for surgical staplers
US10617413B2 (en) 2016-04-01 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Closure system arrangements for surgical cutting and stapling devices with separate and distinct firing shafts
US11026684B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2021-06-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US11311292B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2022-04-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with detection sensors
US11517306B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with detection sensors
US10456137B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-10-29 Ethicon Llc Staple formation detection mechanisms
US11179150B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2021-11-23 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11607239B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2023-03-21 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10492783B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-12-03 Ethicon, Llc Surgical instrument with improved stop/start control during a firing motion
US10426467B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with detection sensors
US10828028B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2020-11-10 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US11284891B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2022-03-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US11317910B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2022-05-03 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with detection sensors
US11771454B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2023-10-03 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly including a controller for monitoring a clamping laod
US10335145B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-07-02 Ethicon Llc Modular surgical instrument with configurable operating mode
US10405859B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-09-10 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with adjustable stop/start control during a firing motion
US10357247B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2019-07-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US11642125B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2023-05-09 Cilag Gmbh International Robotic surgical system including a user interface and a control circuit
US11191545B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2021-12-07 Cilag Gmbh International Staple formation detection mechanisms
US11051810B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2021-07-06 Cilag Gmbh International Modular surgical instrument with configurable operating mode
US11350932B2 (en) 2016-04-15 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with improved stop/start control during a firing motion
US11350928B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a tissue thickness lockout and speed control system
US10363037B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2019-07-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument system comprising a magnetic lockout
US10478181B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2019-11-19 Ethicon Llc Cartridge lockout arrangements for rotary powered surgical cutting and stapling instruments
US10433840B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2019-10-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a replaceable cartridge jaw
US10368867B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2019-08-06 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a lockout
US11559303B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Cartridge lockout arrangements for rotary powered surgical cutting and stapling instruments
US11317917B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2022-05-03 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system comprising a lockable firing assembly
US10426469B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a primary firing lockout and a secondary firing lockout
US11147554B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2021-10-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system comprising a magnetic lockout
US11811253B2 (en) 2016-04-18 2023-11-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical robotic system with fault state detection configurations based on motor current draw
US10758230B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-09-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with primary and safety processors
US10426471B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-10-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with multiple failure response modes
US10973516B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-04-13 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors and adaptable firing members therefor
US10959727B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-03-30 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical end effector with asymmetric shaft arrangement
US10524789B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-01-07 Ethicon Llc Laterally actuatable articulation lock arrangements for locking an end effector of a surgical instrument in an articulated configuration
US11766260B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-09-26 Cilag Gmbh International Methods of stapling tissue
US11317913B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-05-03 Cilag Gmbh International Lockout arrangements for surgical end effectors and replaceable tool assemblies
US10603036B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-03-31 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instrument with independent pivotable linkage distal of an articulation lock
US10980536B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc No-cartridge and spent cartridge lockout arrangements for surgical staplers
US11849948B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Method for resetting a fuse of a surgical instrument shaft
US11350934B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Staple forming pocket arrangement to accommodate different types of staples
US11766259B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-09-26 Cilag Gmbh International Method of deforming staples from two different types of staple cartridges with the same surgical stapling instrument
US11350935B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical tool assemblies with closure stroke reduction features
US11191543B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-12-07 Cilag Gmbh International Assembly comprising a lock
US11191539B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-12-07 Cilag Gmbh International Shaft assembly comprising a manually-operable retraction system for use with a motorized surgical instrument system
US10758229B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-09-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising improved jaw control
US10918385B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-02-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical system comprising a firing member rotatable into an articulation state to articulate an end effector of the surgical system
US10517596B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Articulatable surgical instruments with articulation stroke amplification features
US11564688B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-01-31 Cilag Gmbh International Robotic surgical tool having a retraction mechanism
US11369376B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-06-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling systems
US10905422B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-02-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument for use with a robotic surgical system
US10610224B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-04-07 Ethicon Llc Lockout arrangements for surgical end effectors and replaceable tool assemblies
US10898186B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Staple forming pocket arrangements comprising primary sidewalls and pocket sidewalls
US10617414B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-04-14 Ethicon Llc Closure member arrangements for surgical instruments
US10537325B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-01-21 Ethicon Llc Staple forming pocket arrangement to accommodate different types of staples
US11191540B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-12-07 Cilag Gmbh International Protective cover arrangements for a joint interface between a movable jaw and actuator shaft of a surgical instrument
US10893864B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-01-19 Ethicon Staple cartridges and arrangements of staples and staple cavities therein
US11090048B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Method for resetting a fuse of a surgical instrument shaft
US11571210B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-02-07 Cilag Gmbh International Firing assembly comprising a multiple failed-state fuse
US10888322B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a cutting member
US11134942B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instruments and staple-forming anvils
US11653917B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling systems
US10881401B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-01-05 Ethicon Llc Staple firing member comprising a missing cartridge and/or spent cartridge lockout
US10517595B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-31 Ethicon Llc Jaw actuated lock arrangements for preventing advancement of a firing member in a surgical end effector unless an unfired cartridge is installed in the end effector
US10736629B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-08-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical tool assemblies with clutching arrangements for shifting between closure systems with closure stroke reduction features and articulation and firing systems
US10687809B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Surgical staple cartridge with movable camming member configured to disengage firing member lockout features
US11179155B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-11-23 Cilag Gmbh International Anvil arrangements for surgical staplers
US10624635B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-04-21 Ethicon Llc Firing members with non-parallel jaw engagement features for surgical end effectors
US10542982B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-01-28 Ethicon Llc Shaft assembly comprising first and second articulation lockouts
US10568626B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with jaw opening features for increasing a jaw opening distance
US10856868B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-12-08 Ethicon Llc Firing member pin configurations
US11419606B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-08-23 Cilag Gmbh International Shaft assembly comprising a clutch configured to adapt the output of a rotary firing member to two different systems
US11918215B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge with array of staple pockets
US10639034B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-05-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with lockout arrangements for preventing firing system actuation unless an unspent staple cartridge is present
US11160551B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-11-02 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical stapling instruments
US10588632B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors and firing members thereof
US10499914B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-10 Ethicon Llc Staple forming pocket arrangements
US10639035B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-05-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instruments and replaceable tool assemblies thereof
US10568625B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridges and arrangements of staples and staple cavities therein
US10588630B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical tool assemblies with closure stroke reduction features
US10779823B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Firing member pin angle
US10588631B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with positive jaw opening features
US10835245B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-11-17 Ethicon Llc Method for attaching a shaft assembly to a surgical instrument and, alternatively, to a surgical robot
US10448950B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-10-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical staplers with independently actuatable closing and firing systems
US11160553B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-11-02 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling systems
US10667811B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-02 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapling instruments and staple-forming anvils
US10667809B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-02 Ethicon Llc Staple cartridge and staple cartridge channel comprising windows defined therein
US10695055B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Firing assembly comprising a lockout
US10667810B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-02 Ethicon Llc Closure members with cam surface arrangements for surgical instruments with separate and distinct closure and firing systems
US10675025B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-09 Ethicon Llc Shaft assembly comprising separately actuatable and retractable systems
US10835247B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-11-17 Ethicon Llc Lockout arrangements for surgical end effectors
US11701115B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Methods of stapling tissue
US10675026B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-09 Ethicon Llc Methods of stapling tissue
US10682138B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-06-16 Ethicon Llc Bilaterally asymmetric staple forming pocket pairs
US10485543B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-11-26 Ethicon Llc Anvil having a knife slot width
US10582928B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-03-10 Ethicon Llc Articulation lock arrangements for locking an end effector in an articulated position in response to actuation of a jaw closure system
US10492785B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2019-12-03 Ethicon Llc Shaft assembly comprising a lockout
US11096689B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2021-08-24 Cilag Gmbh International Shaft assembly comprising a lockout
US10568624B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-02-25 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with jaws that are pivotable about a fixed axis and include separate and distinct closure and firing systems
US11224428B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling systems
US11497499B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2022-11-15 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable surgical stapling instruments
US10813638B2 (en) 2016-12-21 2020-10-27 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors with expandable tissue stop arrangements
US10888321B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling velocity of a displacement member of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10881396B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-01-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with variable duration trigger arrangement
US11090046B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling displacement member motion of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11071554B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on magnitude of velocity error measurements
US10307170B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-06-04 Ethicon Llc Method for closed loop control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10368864B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-08-06 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling displaying motor velocity for a surgical instrument
US11517325B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on measured displacement distance traveled over a specified time interval
USD890784S1 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Display panel with changeable graphical user interface
US11213302B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2022-01-04 Cilag Gmbh International Method for closed loop control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10646220B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-05-12 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling displacement member velocity for a surgical instrument
USD879808S1 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-03-31 Ethicon Llc Display panel with graphical user interface
US10327767B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-06-25 Ethicon Llc Control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on angle of articulation
US10390841B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2019-08-27 Ethicon Llc Control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on angle of articulation
US11871939B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2024-01-16 Cilag Gmbh International Method for closed loop control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11793513B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling motor speed according to user input for a surgical instrument
US10779820B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling motor speed according to user input for a surgical instrument
US11672532B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2023-06-13 Cilag Gmbh International Techniques for adaptive control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10813639B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-10-27 Ethicon Llc Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on system conditions
US10624633B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-04-21 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for controlling motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US10881399B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-01-05 Ethicon Llc Techniques for adaptive control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11653914B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods for controlling motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument according to articulation angle of end effector
US10980537B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2021-04-20 Ethicon Llc Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on measured time over a specified number of shaft rotations
US10595882B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-03-24 Ethicon Llc Methods for closed loop control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument
US11382638B2 (en) 2017-06-20 2022-07-12 Cilag Gmbh International Closed loop feedback control of motor velocity of a surgical stapling and cutting instrument based on measured time over a specified displacement distance
USD879809S1 (en) 2017-06-20 2020-03-31 Ethicon Llc Display panel with changeable graphical user interface
US10772629B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2020-09-15 Ethicon Llc Surgical anvil arrangements
US10631859B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2020-04-28 Ethicon Llc Articulation systems for surgical instruments
US11090049B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Staple forming pocket arrangements
US11141154B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2021-10-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effectors and anvils
US11766258B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2023-09-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical anvil arrangements
US10993716B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2021-05-04 Ethicon Llc Surgical anvil arrangements
US10856869B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2020-12-08 Ethicon Llc Surgical anvil arrangements
US11324503B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2022-05-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical firing member arrangements
US11266405B2 (en) 2017-06-27 2022-03-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical anvil manufacturing methods
US11000279B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2021-05-11 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising an articulation system ratio
US10779824B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising an articulation system lockable by a closure system
US10758232B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-09-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with positive jaw opening features
US11259805B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-03-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising firing member supports
US10765427B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Method for articulating a surgical instrument
USD851762S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-06-18 Ethicon Llc Anvil
USD854151S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-07-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument shaft
US11564686B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-01-31 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical shaft assemblies with flexible interfaces
US10903685B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Surgical shaft assemblies with slip ring assemblies forming capacitive channels
US11678880B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-06-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a shaft including a housing arrangement
US11083455B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation system ratio
US11389161B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-07-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising selectively actuatable rotatable couplers
US10588633B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-03-17 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with open and closable jaws and axially movable firing member that is initially parked in close proximity to the jaws prior to firing
USD869655S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-12-10 Ethicon Llc Surgical fastener cartridge
US11529140B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument lockout arrangement
US10211586B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2019-02-19 Ethicon Llc Surgical shaft assemblies with watertight housings
US11020114B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2021-06-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with articulatable end effector with axially shortened articulation joint configurations
US11478242B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Jaw retainer arrangement for retaining a pivotable surgical instrument jaw in pivotable retaining engagement with a second surgical instrument jaw
US10716614B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical shaft assemblies with slip ring assemblies with increased contact pressure
USD906355S1 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-12-29 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with a graphical user interface for a surgical instrument
US10786253B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-09-29 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors with improved jaw aperture arrangements
US11642128B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-05-09 Cilag Gmbh International Method for articulating a surgical instrument
US10695057B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-06-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument lockout arrangement
US11246592B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation system lockable to a frame
US11696759B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-07-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instruments comprising shortened staple cartridge noses
US11826048B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising selectively actuatable rotatable couplers
US11484310B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2022-11-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a shaft including a closure tube profile
US11058424B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2021-07-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an offset articulation joint
US10639037B2 (en) 2017-06-28 2020-05-05 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument with axially movable closure member
US11007022B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc Closed loop velocity control techniques based on sensed tissue parameters for robotic surgical instrument
US11890005B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2024-02-06 Cilag Gmbh International Methods for closed loop velocity control for robotic surgical instrument
US10258418B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2019-04-16 Ethicon Llc System for controlling articulation forces
US10898183B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2021-01-26 Ethicon Llc Robotic surgical instrument with closed loop feedback techniques for advancement of closure member during firing
US10398434B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2019-09-03 Ethicon Llc Closed loop velocity control of closure member for robotic surgical instrument
US10932772B2 (en) 2017-06-29 2021-03-02 Ethicon Llc Methods for closed loop velocity control for robotic surgical instrument
US11471155B2 (en) 2017-08-03 2022-10-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system bailout
US11304695B2 (en) 2017-08-03 2022-04-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system shaft interconnection
USD907648S1 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with animated graphical user interface
US10743872B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc System and methods for controlling a display of a surgical instrument
US11399829B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods of initiating a power shutdown mode for a surgical instrument
US10765429B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-09-08 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for providing alerts according to the operational state of a surgical instrument
USD917500S1 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-04-27 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with graphical user interface
US10729501B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-08-04 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods for language selection of a surgical instrument
US10796471B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2020-10-06 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods of displaying a knife position for a surgical instrument
USD907647S1 (en) 2017-09-29 2021-01-12 Ethicon Llc Display screen or portion thereof with animated graphical user interface
US11090075B2 (en) 2017-10-30 2021-08-17 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation features for surgical end effector
US11134944B2 (en) 2017-10-30 2021-10-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler knife motion controls
US10779903B2 (en) 2017-10-31 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Positive shaft rotation lock activated by jaw closure
US10842490B2 (en) 2017-10-31 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Cartridge body design with force reduction based on firing completion
US11478244B2 (en) 2017-10-31 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Cartridge body design with force reduction based on firing completion
US10779826B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Methods of operating surgical end effectors
US10869666B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-12-22 Ethicon Llc Adapters with control systems for controlling multiple motors of an electromechanical surgical instrument
US10966718B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-04-06 Ethicon Llc Dynamic clamping assemblies with improved wear characteristics for use in connection with electromechanical surgical instruments
US11006955B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-05-18 Ethicon Llc End effectors with positive jaw opening features for use with adapters for electromechanical surgical instruments
US11197670B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-12-14 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effectors with pivotal jaws configured to touch at their respective distal ends when fully closed
US11071543B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical end effectors with clamping assemblies configured to increase jaw aperture ranges
US10779825B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Adapters with end effector position sensing and control arrangements for use in connection with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10743874B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Sealed adapters for use with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10687813B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-06-23 Ethicon Llc Adapters with firing stroke sensing arrangements for use in connection with electromechanical surgical instruments
US10743875B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical end effectors with jaw stiffener arrangements configured to permit monitoring of firing member
US10828033B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2020-11-10 Ethicon Llc Handheld electromechanical surgical instruments with improved motor control arrangements for positioning components of an adapter coupled thereto
US11896222B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Methods of operating surgical end effectors
US11033267B2 (en) 2017-12-15 2021-06-15 Ethicon Llc Systems and methods of controlling a clamping member firing rate of a surgical instrument
US10716565B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2020-07-21 Ethicon Llc Surgical instruments with dual articulation drivers
US10729509B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2020-08-04 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising closure and firing locking mechanism
US10835330B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2020-11-17 Ethicon Llc Method for determining the position of a rotatable jaw of a surgical instrument attachment assembly
US11284953B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2022-03-29 Cilag Gmbh International Method for determining the position of a rotatable jaw of a surgical instrument attachment assembly
US11020112B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2021-06-01 Ethicon Llc Surgical tools configured for interchangeable use with different controller interfaces
US11045270B2 (en) 2017-12-19 2021-06-29 Cilag Gmbh International Robotic attachment comprising exterior drive actuator
USD910847S1 (en) 2017-12-19 2021-02-16 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument assembly
US11751867B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2023-09-12 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising sequenced systems
US11369368B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2022-06-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising synchronized drive systems
US11129680B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2021-09-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a projector
US11883019B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a staple feeding system
US11849939B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Continuous use self-propelled stapling instrument
US10743868B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2020-08-18 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument comprising a pivotable distal head
US11364027B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2022-06-21 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising speed control
US11179151B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2021-11-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a display
US11179152B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2021-11-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a tissue grasping system
US11583274B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2023-02-21 Cilag Gmbh International Self-guiding stapling instrument
US11576668B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2023-02-14 Cilag Gmbh International Staple instrument comprising a firing path display
US10682134B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2020-06-16 Ethicon Llc Continuous use self-propelled stapling instrument
US11337691B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2022-05-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument configured to determine firing path
US11311290B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2022-04-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an end effector dampener
US11076853B2 (en) 2017-12-21 2021-08-03 Cilag Gmbh International Systems and methods of displaying a knife position during transection for a surgical instrument
US11291440B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Method for operating a powered articulatable surgical instrument
US10856870B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2020-12-08 Ethicon Llc Switching arrangements for motor powered articulatable surgical instruments
US11324501B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2022-05-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling devices with improved closure members
US11207065B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-12-28 Cilag Gmbh International Method for fabricating surgical stapler anvils
US10842492B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Powered articulatable surgical instruments with clutching and locking arrangements for linking an articulation drive system to a firing drive system
US11039834B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-06-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapler anvils with staple directing protrusions and tissue stability features
US10912559B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-02-09 Ethicon Llc Reinforced deformable anvil tip for surgical stapler anvil
US10779821B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2020-09-22 Ethicon Llc Surgical stapler anvils with tissue stop features configured to avoid tissue pinch
US11083458B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-08-10 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with clutching arrangements to convert linear drive motions to rotary drive motions
USD914878S1 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-03-30 Ethicon Llc Surgical instrument anvil
US11253256B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2022-02-22 Cilag Gmbh International Articulatable motor powered surgical instruments with dedicated articulation motor arrangements
US11045192B2 (en) 2018-08-20 2021-06-29 Cilag Gmbh International Fabricating techniques for surgical stapler anvils
US11931032B2 (en) 2018-12-28 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with wireless communication between a control unit of a robotic system and remote sensor
US11172929B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2021-11-16 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11696761B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2023-07-11 Cilag Gmbh International Firing drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11147553B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2021-10-19 Cilag Gmbh International Firing drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11147551B2 (en) 2019-03-25 2021-10-19 Cilag Gmbh International Firing drive arrangements for surgical systems
US11903581B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2024-02-20 Cilag Gmbh International Methods for stapling tissue using a surgical instrument
US11648009B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2023-05-16 Cilag Gmbh International Rotatable jaw tip for a surgical instrument
US11432816B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-09-06 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation pin for a surgical instrument
US11253254B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-02-22 Cilag Gmbh International Shaft rotation actuator on a surgical instrument
US11471157B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-10-18 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation control mapping for a surgical instrument
US11426251B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-08-30 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation directional lights on a surgical instrument
US11452528B2 (en) 2019-04-30 2022-09-27 Cilag Gmbh International Articulation actuators for a surgical instrument
US11553971B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical RFID assemblies for display and communication
US11350938B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-06-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an aligned rfid sensor
US11660163B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-05-30 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical system with RFID tags for updating motor assembly parameters
US11771419B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-10-03 Cilag Gmbh International Packaging for a replaceable component of a surgical stapling system
US11684434B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-06-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical RFID assemblies for instrument operational setting control
US11376098B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-07-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument system comprising an RFID system
US11399837B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for motor control adjustments of a motorized surgical instrument
US11259803B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-03-01 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system having an information encryption protocol
US11684369B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-06-27 Cilag Gmbh International Method of using multiple RFID chips with a surgical assembly
US11744593B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Method for authenticating the compatibility of a staple cartridge with a surgical instrument
US11426167B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-08-30 Cilag Gmbh International Mechanisms for proper anvil attachment surgical stapling head assembly
US11051807B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2021-07-06 Cilag Gmbh International Packaging assembly including a particulate trap
US11638587B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-05-02 Cilag Gmbh International RFID identification systems for surgical instruments
US11298132B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-04-12 Cilag GmbH Inlernational Staple cartridge including a honeycomb extension
US11523822B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-12-13 Cilag Gmbh International Battery pack including a circuit interrupter
US11627959B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-04-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments including manual and powered system lockouts
US11553919B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Method for authenticating the compatibility of a staple cartridge with a surgical instrument
US11219455B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-01-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including a lockout key
US11497492B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-11-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument including an articulation lock
US11246678B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-02-15 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling system having a frangible RFID tag
US11291451B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with battery compatibility verification functionality
US11478241B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge including projections
US11224497B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-01-18 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical systems with multiple RFID tags
US11298127B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-04-12 Cilag GmbH Interational Surgical stapling system having a lockout mechanism for an incompatible cartridge
US11241235B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-02-08 Cilag Gmbh International Method of using multiple RFID chips with a surgical assembly
US11229437B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-01-25 Cilag Gmbh International Method for authenticating the compatibility of a staple cartridge with a surgical instrument
US11464601B2 (en) 2019-06-28 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an RFID system for tracking a movable component
US11701111B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Method for operating a surgical stapling instrument
US11291447B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-04-05 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising independent jaw closing and staple firing systems
US11234698B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-02-01 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling system comprising a clamp lockout and a firing lockout
US11304696B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-04-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a powered articulation system
US11931033B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a latch lockout
US11844520B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-12-19 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising driver retention members
US11576672B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-02-14 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a closure system including a closure member and an opening member driven by a drive screw
US11446029B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-09-20 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising projections extending from a curved deck surface
US11504122B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-11-22 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a nested firing member
US11607219B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-03-21 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a detachable tissue cutting knife
US11911032B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2024-02-27 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a seating cam
US11464512B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a curved deck surface
US11529139B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Motor driven surgical instrument
US11529137B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2022-12-20 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising driver retention members
US11559304B2 (en) 2019-12-19 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a rapid closure mechanism
USD976401S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD974560S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-03 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD967421S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2022-10-18 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD975278S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-10 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD975851S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD975850S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2023-01-17 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
USD966512S1 (en) 2020-06-02 2022-10-11 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge
US11883024B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Method of operating a surgical instrument
US11826013B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with firing member closure features
US11638582B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2023-05-02 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with torsion spine drive arrangements
US11737748B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2023-08-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with double spherical articulation joints with pivotable links
US11871925B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2024-01-16 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with dual spherical articulation joint arrangements
US11864756B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2024-01-09 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with flexible ball chain drive arrangements
US11857182B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2024-01-02 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with combination function articulation joint arrangements
US11660090B2 (en) 2020-07-28 2023-05-30 Cllag GmbH International Surgical instruments with segmented flexible drive arrangements
USD1013170S1 (en) 2020-10-29 2024-01-30 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly
US11617577B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-04-04 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a sensor configured to sense whether an articulation drive of the surgical instrument is actuatable
US11534259B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2022-12-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation indicator
US11931025B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a releasable closure drive lock
US11779330B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-10-10 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a jaw alignment system
US11717289B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an indicator which indicates that an articulation drive is actuatable
US11844518B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-12-19 Cilag Gmbh International Method for operating a surgical instrument
US11452526B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2022-09-27 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a staged voltage regulation start-up system
US11517390B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2022-12-06 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a limited travel switch
USD980425S1 (en) 2020-10-29 2023-03-07 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument assembly
US11896217B2 (en) 2020-10-29 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising an articulation lock
USD1018577S1 (en) 2020-11-11 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Display screen or portion thereof with a graphical user interface for a surgical instrument
US11737751B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-08-29 Cilag Gmbh International Devices and methods of managing energy dissipated within sterile barriers of surgical instrument housings
US11627960B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-04-18 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with smart reload with separately attachable exteriorly mounted wiring connections
US11849943B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with cartridge release mechanisms
US11678882B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-06-20 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with interactive features to remedy incidental sled movements
US11653920B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with communication interfaces through sterile barrier
US11890010B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2024-02-06 Cllag GmbH International Dual-sided reinforced reload for surgical instruments
US11653915B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-05-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instruments with sled location detection and adjustment features
US11744581B2 (en) 2020-12-02 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Powered surgical instruments with multi-phase tissue treatment
US11931034B2 (en) 2021-01-12 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instruments with smart staple cartridges
US11696757B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-07-11 Cilag Gmbh International Monitoring of internal systems to detect and track cartridge motion status
US11749877B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a signal antenna
US11751869B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-09-12 Cilag Gmbh International Monitoring of multiple sensors over time to detect moving characteristics of tissue
US11701113B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-07-18 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a separate power antenna and a data transfer antenna
US11793514B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising sensor array which may be embedded in cartridge body
US11744583B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Distal communication array to tune frequency of RF systems
US11925349B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2024-03-12 Cilag Gmbh International Adjustment to transfer parameters to improve available power
US11723657B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-08-15 Cilag Gmbh International Adjustable communication based on available bandwidth and power capacity
US11730473B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-08-22 Cilag Gmbh International Monitoring of manufacturing life-cycle
US11812964B2 (en) 2021-02-26 2023-11-14 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a power management circuit
US11806011B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-11-07 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising tissue compression systems
US11759202B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-09-19 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising an implantable layer
US11737749B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-08-29 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling instrument comprising a retraction system
US11826042B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument comprising a firing drive including a selectable leverage mechanism
US11723658B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-08-15 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a firing lockout
US11826012B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a pulsed motor-driven firing rack
US11717291B2 (en) 2021-03-22 2023-08-08 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising staples configured to apply different tissue compression
US11793516B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-10-24 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical staple cartridge comprising longitudinal support beam
US11744603B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-09-05 Cilag Gmbh International Multi-axis pivot joints for surgical instruments and methods for manufacturing same
US11896218B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Method of using a powered stapling device
US11896219B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-02-13 Cilag Gmbh International Mating features between drivers and underside of a cartridge deck
US11786243B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-10-17 Cilag Gmbh International Firing members having flexible portions for adapting to a load during a surgical firing stroke
US11786239B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-10-17 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument articulation joint arrangements comprising multiple moving linkage features
US11903582B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-02-20 Cilag Gmbh International Leveraging surfaces for cartridge installation
US11849944B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Drivers for fastener cartridge assemblies having rotary drive screws
US11849945B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-12-26 Cilag Gmbh International Rotary-driven surgical stapling assembly comprising eccentrically driven firing member
US11832816B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2023-12-05 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly comprising nonplanar staples and planar staples
US11857183B2 (en) 2021-03-24 2024-01-02 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling assembly components having metal substrates and plastic bodies
US11723662B2 (en) 2021-05-28 2023-08-15 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising an articulation control display
US11826047B2 (en) 2021-05-28 2023-11-28 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising jaw mounts
US11918217B2 (en) 2021-05-28 2024-03-05 Cilag Gmbh International Stapling instrument comprising a staple cartridge insertion stop
US11877745B2 (en) 2021-10-18 2024-01-23 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical stapling assembly having longitudinally-repeating staple leg clusters
US11931028B2 (en) 2022-02-03 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Surgical instrument with multiple program responses during a firing motion
US11931031B2 (en) 2022-05-27 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Staple cartridge comprising a deck including an upper surface and a lower surface
US11931038B2 (en) 2022-10-03 2024-03-19 Cilag Gmbh International Cartridge assemblies for surgical staplers

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20040024290A1 (en) 2004-02-05
US7115091B2 (en) 2006-10-03
EP2322078A1 (en) 2011-05-18
WO2003079888A2 (en) 2003-10-02
EP2319387A1 (en) 2011-05-11
AU2003218190A1 (en) 2003-10-08
US20040052679A1 (en) 2004-03-18
US20040041031A1 (en) 2004-03-04
US7193519B2 (en) 2007-03-20
EP1524932A2 (en) 2005-04-27
AU2003218190A8 (en) 2003-10-08
WO2003079888A3 (en) 2004-03-25
EP2322077A1 (en) 2011-05-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7193519B2 (en) Reusable instruments and related systems and methods
EP1864607B1 (en) System for managing cleaning and disinfecting steps for endoscope
US5846221A (en) Steerable catheter having disposable module and sterilizable handle and method of connecting same
EP2187800B1 (en) Endoscope with internal light source and power supply
CN108348139A (en) Improved Flexible Robot endoscopic system
EP1927313B1 (en) Endoscope device
US5551945A (en) Endoscope system including endoscope and protection cover
US20140180000A1 (en) Self-contained sterilizable surgical system
US10588490B2 (en) Hand-operated endoscope for medical purposes
Keller et al. Next-generation fiberoptic and digital ureteroscopes
KR20060122943A (en) Endoscope
US20070038117A1 (en) Multi-spectral imaging endoscope system
US20140118518A1 (en) Controlled-use imaging system
CN113423356A (en) Nasal suction device with interchangeable tip insert
US20220000341A1 (en) Single use devices with integrated vision capabilities
JP5914782B1 (en) Endoscope and endoscope system
US20220240767A1 (en) Medical device inspection scope
US20190282327A1 (en) Medical device inspection scope
KR20200059556A (en) Catheter Assembly for Endoscope
JP2024505431A (en) Endoscopic coupling device with adjustable optical lens
JP4914623B2 (en) Endoscope
JP5000081B2 (en) Endoscope
JP2007151789A (en) Endoscopic apparatus

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: OPTIM, INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ROOT, THOMAS V.;KRUPA, ROBERT J.;REEL/FRAME:014494/0943

Effective date: 20030709

AS Assignment

Owner name: FISH & RICHARDSON P.C., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: NOTIFICATION OF ARTISAN'S LIEN UNDER DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CODE 38-124 AND COMPARABLE OTHER STATUTES;ASSIGNOR:OPTIM, INC.;REEL/FRAME:014559/0036

Effective date: 20030929

AS Assignment

Owner name: OPTIM INCORPORATED, MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: TERMINATION OF ARTISAN'S LIEN;ASSIGNOR:FISH & RICHARDSON, PC;REEL/FRAME:016991/0876

Effective date: 20040517

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION