A Medical Device for Puncturing Tissue with an Energy-Delivering Tip

This patent describes a medical device designed to puncture tissue using an energy-delivering tip, featuring a specific shape with curved and straight sections and a constant diameter layer for precise control.

What it covers

This medical device is designed to create a puncture through tissue at a specific site. It includes a long, slender part called an elongate member, which has a curved section and a straight section towards its end. The straight part is closer to the very tip than the curved part. At the very end of this device is an active tip that uses energy to make the puncture. The device also features a constant diameter layer that wraps around a narrower part of the straight section, suggesting a design for smooth insertion and stability.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover medical devices that puncture tissue using only mechanical force, without delivering energy from an active tip.
• —Does not cover devices where the distal (far) end lacks both a distinct curved portion and a distinct straight portion.
• —Does not cover devices where the active tip is not located at the very distal end of the device.
• —Does not cover devices where a constant diameter layer does not surround a minimum diameter portion of the distal straight section.

The clever bit

The clever aspect lies in the specific structural combination: an elongate member with both a curved and a straight distal section, where the straight section's narrowest part is enveloped by a constant diameter layer. This design likely allows for controlled navigation through tissue with the curved part, followed by stable and precise penetration using the energy-delivering tip, while maintaining a consistent outer profile for smoother entry.

Why it matters

Precise tissue puncturing is fundamental to many medical procedures, from biopsies to catheter insertions. Devices that improve control, reduce trauma, or enhance the accuracy of these punctures can lead to better patient outcomes and safer surgeries. This patent aims to refine the design of such tools, potentially making delicate procedures more reliable.

Real-world examples

• 1.Biopsy needles with energy-assisted tips
• 2.Catheters for minimally invasive surgery
• 3.Ablation probes
• 4.Endoscopic tools for tissue access