Patent ID: 8453546
Filing Date: 2013-06-04
Classification: A61F,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A cast-cutter for use in removing a cast from a patient, said cast-cutter comprising: a body; a motor disposed in the body; a cutting assembly mounted on the body and driven by the motor, the cutting assembly comprising first and second cutting members each defining a cutting edge and an inner face, the first and second cutting members being pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis, the relative movement of the cutting edges defining a cutting plane, the respective cutting edges cooperating with one another in the cutting plane to cut cast material by a shearing action along a line of cut within the cutting plane while maintaining the inner faces in non-engaging relationship to provide clearance therebetween; wherein the pivot axis is offset from the line of cut; wherein the first cutting member includes first and second guide portions arranged on opposing sides of the cutting edge of the first cutting member, the first and second guide portions further being arranged on opposing sides of the cutting plane; and wherein the first and second guide portions each includes a guide surface, the guide surfaces facing in substantially opposite directions and one of the guide surfaces facing in generally the same direction that the cutting edge of the first cutting member faces, whereby the guide surfaces are positioned to engage cut portions of the cast material to assist in controlling the splay of the cast material as it is being cut.