Patent ID: 7163525
Filing Date: 2007-01-16
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A seal for use in conjunction with a trocar assembly, comprising: a circumferential flange having a seal body extending therefrom, the seal body being adapted for selectively opening and closing to seal an opening of the trocar assembly when an instrument is not passed therethrough, wherein the seal body includes an upper surface; a protector adjacent the seal body for protecting the seal body from instruments passing through the seal body; the protector including: wherein the instrument contacts the protector during insertion of the instrument forcing an underside of the flap into contact with the seal body in a manner forcing the seal body to an open configuration, this results in a transfer of force from the instrument to the protector to the seal body to open the seal body prior to direct contact with the instrument to thereby reduce direct contact between the instrument and the seal body and minimize a likelihood for tearing, and wherein the instrument first contacts the protector and then the seal body during insertion.