Patent ID: 7276065
Filing Date: 2007-10-02
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A surgical instrument, comprising: a shaft comprising a distal end; a generally linear proximal portion comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the of the proximal portion is coupled to the distal end of the shaft via a wrist mechanism having at least one degree of freedom; a generally linear shank portion comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end of the shank portion is coupled to the distal end of the proximal portion, wherein the shank portion angles away from a front side of the instrument by a knee angle, and wherein the knee angle allows the shank portion to self align and slide without catching into a cannula as the shaft is being withdrawn through the cannula; and a distal hook portion comprising a proximal end and a tip, wherein the proximal end of the distal hook portion is coupled to the distal end of the shank portion at an ankle, wherein the distal hook portion angles towards the front side of the instrument by an ankle angle, wherein the ankle angle allows the tip to self-align and slide without catching into the cannula as the shaft is being withdrawn through the cannula, and wherein the distal hook portion is configured to receive cauterization energy.