Patent ID: 9226774
Filing Date: 2016-01-05
CPC Classification: A61B

Claim Text:
1. An optical obturator, which comprises: an elongate member defining a longitudinal axis and having a first longitudinal lumen therethrough, the elongate member having proximal and distal ends and defining a generally tapered penetrating segment adjacent the distal end, the penetrating segment dimensioned to facilitate passage of the elongate member through tissue and having an outer wall segment with at least two openings extending through the outer wall segment in communication with the first longitudinal lumen; and a shield member at least partially disposed within the first longitudinal lumen of the elongate member, the shield member including an outer member defining a second longitudinal lumen dimensioned and configured for reception of a visualization device, the outer member having a closed distal window to prevent ingress of fluids within the second longitudinal lumen, the closed distal window being at least partially formed of an at least semi-transparent material to permit visualization with the visualization device at least through the at least two openings in the penetrating segment of the elongate member, the distal end of the shield member including a penetrating element extending from the closed distal window, the penetrating element dimensioned and adapted to penetrate tissue; and the elongate member being repositionable relative to the shield member between a first position, in which the penetrating element of the shield member is concealed within the first lumen of the elongate member, and at least one subsequent position, in which the penetrating element at least partially extends through and distally beyond one of the at least two openings extending through the outer wall segment of the penetrating segment of the elongate member.