Patent ID: 7427287
Filing Date: 2008-09-23
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for introducing a medical device during cardiovascular surgery, comprising the steps of: providing an elongate tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen therebetween, the distal end adapted to enter a vessel or cardiac tissue, wherein said providing an elongate tubular member further comprises providing an elongate tubular member having a slot in the distal end which extends proximally; a blade mounted within the slot at the distal end of the elongate tubular member; and an actuating mechanism having a distal end connected to a proximal end of the blade, and a proximal end operable from the proximal end of the elongate tubular member, the actuating mechanism further comprising a force biasing element, a rotary element, a retaining element, and a release; providing a device connector having a first end, a second end, and a lumen therebetween, the device connector configured to receive a medical device, the device connector further being shaped to engage the proximal end of the elongate tubular member; engaging a medical device in the lumen of the device connector; inserting the elongate tubular member through an incision into the vessel or cardiac tissue; inserting the medical device into the lumen of the elongate tubular member and advancing the medical device into the vessel or cardiac tissue; and after engaging the medical device in the lumen of the device connector, engaging the device connector to the proximal end of the elongate tubular member, wherein said method further comprises making an incision into the vessel or cardiac tissue by activating the blade by advancing the actuating mechanism of the elongate tubular member.