Retractable needle biopsy forceps and improved control cable therefor
Abstract
Abstract A biopsy forceps has two cutting spoons or jaws articulated in a midportion at a common pivot which is fixed on a tubular extension at the end of a flexible control cable sheath. The ends of the jaws opposite their cutting ends are each articulated to link rods having their other ends articulated at a common pivot on the body of a needle which extends between the jaws to locate the place of taking a biopsy. The needle has a longitudinal slot which runs past the common pivot of the jaws, so that the needle is retracted as the jaws are closed by the needle body being drawn into the control cable end by a central control wire. An improved control cable sheath has its exterior ground to a smooth surface tapering down in diameter towards the end which carries the forceps. The central control wire may have its dimensional stability enhanced by wrapping it with a stainless steel coiled sheath, preferably wound in a direction opposite to the direction of winding the coiled stainless steel wire of the other sheath of the control cable.
Inventors
- 👤 Jean-Marie Schintgen
- 👤 Bruno Zeitoun
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 4References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1991-01-25 | 1991-07-27 | 1992-01-26 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1995-01-25 | 1995-07-27 | 1996-01-26 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1999-01-25 | 1999-07-27 | 2000-01-26 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |