Ring applicator and method for applying elastic rings to anatomical tissue structures

Abstract

A ring applicator for applying elastic rings to anatomical tissue during surgical procedures includes an inner member with a forceps movably disposed within a middle tubular member having a distal end configured to hold a plurality of elastic rings in an expanded state and a proximal end with a plurality of longitudinally spaced steps. The middle tubular member is movably disposed in an outer tubular member, and an adjustable stop mechanism is mounted on the proximal end of the outer tubular member to limit axial movement of the outer tubular member relative to the middle tubular member to select which rings are to be ejected. A distal handle is connected with the inner member via slots in the outer and middle tubular members, and a proximal handle is pivotally connected to the middle tubular member via a slot in the outer tubular member. A pusher has a distal end movable between a latched or locked position where the distal end of the pusher protrudes into apertures in the outer and middle tubular members to prevent pivotal movement of the proximal handle and an unlatched or unlocked position where the distal end of the pusher is disengaged from the aperture in the middle tubular member to permit pivotal movement of the proximal handle in order to move the outer tubular member axially relative to the middle tubular member to eject an elastic ring. Distal portions of the outer and middle tubular members are preferably transparent with scale markings formed thereon to allow the surgeon to accurately determine the length of the tissue disposed within the middle tubular member prior to ejecting a ring. A prerelease feature is also disclosed for unlocking the pusher to allow ejection of a ring when the forceps has not been completely withdrawn in to the middle tubular member.