The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 22, 2003
Filed:
Apr. 23, 2001
Johan Stormby, Malmo, SE;
Jorn Lehe, Den Haag, NE;
Susanne Landgrebe, Sulfeld, DE;
Jochen Hoepffner, Belle Mead, NJ (US);
Ethicon, Inc., Somerville, NJ (US);
Abstract
Described is a surgical instrument and method for treating female urinary stress incontinence. The instrument includes a curved needle-like element defining in part a curved shaft having a distal end and a proximal end. A tape attaches to the needle for implanting into the lower abdomen of a female to provide support to the urethra. The tape may be made from synthetic and natural materials. The needle and tape may also be modified to allow the surgeon to attach and detach the tape during the surgical operation. The needle attaches to a handle on which attaches a mechanical arm to track the position of the needle point as it passes through the body and exits the abdominal wall.