Other

Atc Technologies, Inc.

Kenneth V Freeman

Paul C Kierce

A blade exchange device may be used to remove or install a blade on a medical or surgical instrument such as a dermatome. The blade exchange device generally includes a base portion and a blade engaging portion that engages the blade being removed or installed. The blade exchange device may be used in a system that also includes a magnetic tool for coupling and moving the blades that are removed or installed. The blade exchange device, system and method may be used, for example, with commercially available dermatome instruments such as the type known as the Goulian-Weck knife.

Blade exchange device, system and method

A modular medical instrument is used with an endoscope or other similar medical instrument to perform medical procedures, such as endoscopy, bronchoscopy, and laparoscopy. The modular medical instrument comprises an elongated instrument device, an optional port fitting detachably coupled to the instrument device, and an actuator handle detachably coupled to the port fitting. The instrument device includes an elongated guide member, an inner actuation cable slidably disposed within the guide member, and an instrument device head assembly disposed at a distal end of the guide member and actuation cable. The guide member preferably has a smooth outer surface to facilitate insertion within the instrument channel of an endoscope or similar medical device. In one example, the instrument device head assembly includes a grasping device, such as biopsy forceps. The biopsy forceps device includes first and second jaws pivotably coupled to a body member, which is detachably coupled to an adapter at the distal end of the guide member. The actuation cable includes first and second portions or wires extending through the body member and coupled to the respective jaws such that relative movement of the actuation cable with respect to the body member causes the jaws to open and close. Each of the components or sub-assemblies of the modular medical instrument are detachable for cleaning and/or replacement.

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Laconia, NH, United States of America

Kenneth V Freeman