Rotatable medical device

Medical devices and related methods are described. The medical device may include a shaft, a handle housing a proximal portion of the shaft, and a lock having a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration of the lock, the shaft may be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the shaft relative to the handle, and, in the second configuration of the lock, the shaft may be stationary relative to the handle.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of this disclosure relate generally to a medical device having a shaft that rotates relative to handle. More particularly, at least some embodiments of the disclosure relate to a medical device having a locking mechanism, which may be unlocked to allow for rotation of the medical device shaft or locked so that the shaft is stationary.

BACKGROUND

In certain medical procedures, physicians and/or technicians need to control a duodenoscope (or other scope or medical device) and other medical accessory devices. Depending on a patient's position relative to that of the physician's, the physician controlling the device may need to contort and/or twist their wrists and/or bodies so that the medical device is adjusted and positioned to face an intended target site. As a result, physicians may be at an increased risk to suffer ergonomic injuries to their hands, wrists, and back.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to an example, a medical device may comprise a shaft, a handle housing a proximal portion of the shaft, and a lock having a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration of the lock, the shaft is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the shaft relative to the handle, and, in the second configuration of the lock, the shaft is stationary relative to the handle.

In one example, the lock may further include a collar and a plurality of deflectors, wherein the plurality of deflectors surround a proximal portion of the shaft, wherein the collar surrounds the plurality of deflectors and the proximal portion of the shaft, and wherein a rotation of the collar in one direction places the lock into the first configuration, and the rotation of the collar in the opposite direction places the lock into the second configuration. In the first configuration the collar may be spaced apart from the plurality of deflectors allowing radial movement of the plurality of deflectors between the collar and the shaft, and in the second configuration the collar pushes the plurality of deflectors against the shaft so that the shaft is held stationary relative to the handle.

In another example, the lock may include a lever outside of the handle, a spring coupling a distal end of the lever to the handle, a tab connected to a proximal end of the lever, and a pivot point about which the lever pivots, wherein the tab is partially housed within the handle and is positioned to engage with one of a plurality of notches arranged about a periphery of the shaft. The lock may be defaulted into the second configuration, and the lock may be placed in a first configuration by depression of the distal end of the lever, thereby compressing the spring, and pivoting both the proximal end of the lever and the tab away from the handle so that the tab disengages with one of the plurality of notches.

In another example, the lock may include a pin, and a spindle housed within a spindle housing, wherein the spindle is spring-loaded, and both the spindle and the spindle housing are housed within the handle, wherein the pin is positioned to engage or disengage the spindle as the pin is advanced or retracted via depression of the pin, and wherein the spindle is positioned to engage or disengage with one of a plurality of notches arranged about a periphery of the shaft when the spindle is respectively radially advanced or retracted via engagement or disengagement with the pin. The lock may alternate between the first configuration and the second configuration via the depression of the pin. In the first configuration the spindle may be engaged with one of the plurality of notches, and in the second configuration the spindle may be disengaged with the one of the plurality of notches.

In another example, the lock may include a collar surrounding a portion of the shaft, wherein the collar includes a first flange, a second flange, and a pin driven through both the first flange and the second flange, wherein one end of the pin is coupled to a lock handle configured to rotate relative to the pin, and the other end of pin is coupled to a stop configured to prevent the pin from sliding out of both the first flange and the second flange. The lock may alternate between the first configuration and the second configuration via pivoting the lock handle. In the first configuration, the first flange and the second flange may be spaced apart by a gap, and in the second configuration, the first flange and the second flange may be in contact.

According to another example, the lock may include at least one spring coupled to a bearing, wherein one end of the spring is coupled to an inner wall of the handle and the other end of the spring is coupled to the bearing, and wherein the bearing is positioned to engage with one of a plurality of notches arranged about a periphery of the shaft via a spring force. The shaft may be rotated from the second configuration by an exertion of torsional forces greater than the spring force pressing the bearing against one of the plurality of notches.

In another example, the medical device may further comprise a motor, a cam coupled to the motor, and a switch configured to turn on/off the motor, wherein rotation of the cam by the motor engages the cam with one of a plurality of notches arranged about a periphery of the shaft.

In another example, the medical device may further comprise a housing configured to rotate with the shaft, wherein the housing houses a proximal portion of the shaft and is adjacent to the handle, and the housing includes a detent configured to engage with the lock. The lock may include a ring encompassing a proximal portion of the shaft. The ring may include a plurality of slots, each of which are configured to receive a portion of the detent, thereby anchoring the detent with the slots.

According to another example, a medical device may comprise a shaft including a distally-facing surface and a proximally-facing surface, a handle including a distally-facing surface and a proximally-facing surface, and a spring positioned between the proximally-facing surface of the shaft and the distally-facing surface of the handle, wherein in a compressed configuration of the spring, the shaft is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the shaft relative to the handle, and in an extended configuration of the spring, the shaft is stationary relative to the handle. In the compressed configuration of the spring, the shaft may be pulled distally relative to the handle. The distally-facing surface of the handle may be a flange that juts radially outward relative to the handle, and the distally-facing surface of the handle may abut the proximally-facing surface of the shaft in the extended configuration of the spring.

According to another example, a method of positioning a shaft of a medical device may comprise inserting a distal end of a shaft of the medical device into the body of a subject, and after the insertion step, unlocking the handle from the shaft, rotating the shaft about a longitudinal axis of the shaft relative to the handle, and locking the handle to the shaft. The method may further comprise rotating the handle about a longitudinal axis of the handle relative to the shaft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to aspects of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numbers will be used through the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. The term “distal” refers to a portion farthest away from a user when introducing a device into a subject (e.g., patient). By contrast, the term “proximal” refers to a portion closest to the user when placing the device into the subject.

This disclosure may solve one or more of the limitations in the art. The scope of the disclosure, however, is defined by the attached claims and not the ability to solve a specific problem. The disclosure is drawn to medical devices including shafts, e.g., duodenoscopes, which may be rotatable. In embodiments, the shaft of such a medical device rotates relative to a handle of the medical device. Such rotation may depend on varying configurations of a lock included in the medical device. For example, such a lock may include a configuration in which the shaft may be freely rotatable relative to other portions of the medical device (including the handle), and another configuration in which the shaft remains stationary and is not rotatable relative to those other portions. Such medical devices may provide a user the option of rotating the shaft in-procedure, via any suitable manner, e.g., by hand, mechanically, electrically, etc., and an option of maintaining the shaft stationary in its current rotational position relative to a remainder of the device. Thus, a user of the device may comfortably access and view intended target sites, via rotation of the shaft, without having to twist and contort their wrists or other parts of the body, regardless of a patient's position relative to said user.

FIG.1Ashows a schematic depiction of an exemplary medical device1ain accordance with an embodiment of this disclosure. Medical device1amay be a duodenoscope, as shown, or any other like medical device, such as an endoscope, colonoscope, ureteroscope, bronchoscope, etc. or other medical device having a shaft and a handle. Medical device1amay include a handle11and a shaft12coupled to a distal end of handle11. Handle11of medical device1amay have one or more lumens (not shown) that communicate with lumens of shaft12. Handle11further includes an actuation mechanism114, and at least one port116that opens into the one or more lumens of handle11. At least one port116is sized and shaped to receive one or more instruments (not shown) therethrough, such as, for example, any suitable medical instrument of a medical system. For example, a medical instrument may include, but is not limited to, a guidewire, cutting or grasping forceps, a biopsy device, a snare loop, an injection needle, a cutting blade, scissors, a retractable basket, a retrieval device, an ablation and/or electrophysiology catheter, a stent placement device, a surgical stapling device, a balloon catheter, a laser-emitting device, and/or any other suitable instrument.

Handle11further includes a lock15athat may be rotatable relative to the remainder of handle11and shaft12, and the rotation of lock15amay allow for the rotation of shaft12relative to handle11and vice versa. Rotatable lock15aand its relationship with respect to handle11is described in further detail below.

Shaft12of medical device11may include a tube that is sufficiently flexible such that the shaft12is configured to selectively bend, rotate, and/or twist when being inserted into and/or through a patient's tortuous anatomy to a target treatment site. The treatment site may include a body lumen, including, for example any gastrointestinal lumen (esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines). Shaft12may have one or more lumens (not shown) extending therethrough that include, for example, a working lumen for receiving instruments. In other embodiments, shaft12may include additional lumens such as a control wire lumen for receiving one or more control wires, a fluid lumen for delivering a fluid, an illumination lumen for receiving at least a portion of an illumination assembly (not shown), and/or an imaging lumen for receiving at least a portion of an imaging assembly (not shown).

Still referring toFIG.1A, an actuation mechanism114of medical device1ais positioned on handle11and may include one or more knobs, buttons, levers, switches, and/or other suitable actuators. Actuation mechanism114is configured to control at least one of deflection of shaft12(including deflection of an articulation joint at a distal end of shaft12via actuation of one or more first control wires), actuation of a second control wire (e.g. for an elevator at the distal tip), delivery or removal of a fluid or other material, emission of illumination, and/or various imaging functions. The distal tip124of device1amay include apparatus for lighting (e.g. LED) and imaging (e.g. a camera), an elevator to direct an instrument exiting the distal tip, and openings for irrigation and suction. A connector/cord118connects to a controller that may include processors and memory for controlling the various functions at the distal tip. A medical device1aaccording to embodiments of the disclosure may include more or less structure and functionality than those described above.

FIGS.1B-1Dillustrate an embodiment of a portion of medical device1ain further detail. As shown, handle11houses a proximal portion of shaft12. Handle11includes a lock15ahaving a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration of lock15a, shaft12is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11. In the second configuration of lock15a, shaft12is fixed relative to handle11.

Shaft12, specifically a proximal portion thereof, includes a proximal flange14and a distal flange13. As shown inFIGS.1B-1D, proximal flange14is circular (seeFIGS.1C-1Dshowing top view) and is located at the proximal-most end of shaft12. Alternatively, shaft12may extend further proximally, past proximal flange14. Distal flange13is spaced distally from proximal flange13by a suitable distance. In some embodiments, distal flange13also has a circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the diameters of distal flange13and proximal flange14are the same. Between distal flange13and proximal flange14is a portion of shaft12having a smaller diameter than distal flange13and proximal flange14. Portions of shaft12distal to distal flange13have a smaller diameter than that of distal flange13, and may be of the same diameter as the portion of shaft12between distal flange13and proximal flange14. In other embodiments, distal flange13and proximal flange14may have other suitable shapes and diameters.

Handle11has a proximal portion11aand a distal portion11b. Proximal portion11aand distal portion11bmay be discrete components separated longitudinally by a space (which is occupied by lock15a). Distal portion11bhouses a proximal portion of shaft12. In particular, distal portion11bincludes an inner wall11b1defines a lumen that encompasses said proximal portion of shaft12, so that minimal radial and longitudinal movement of said proximal shaft12is allowable. The lumen defined by inner wall11b1encompasses the portion of shaft12having a smaller diameter, and a groove11b2defined by inner wall11b1encompasses distal flange13. As a result of inner wall11b1and groove11b2encompassing shaft12, shaft12is inhibited from leaving distal portion11bvia the opening from which the remaining portion of shaft12exits handle11. However, shaft12may be rotatable within distal portion11bsince inner wall11b1and groove11b2leave sufficient clearance from shaft12to allow for minimal radial movement and rotation of said shaft12. It is also noted that handle11may be rotatable relative to shaft12via the same mechanism described herein.

Proximal portion11aand distal portion11bare connected together within the space between them by inner deflectors15a1. Deflectors15a1extend longitudinally from proximal portion11ato distal portion11b. As shown inFIGS.1C-1D, each deflector15a1may have a triangular cross-sectional shape.FIGS.1C-1Dshow four deflectors evenly spaced around the circumference of proximal flange14. However, the number of deflectors15a1is not particularly limited, and there may be more or less deflectors15a1in other medical device embodiments. Furthermore, the shape and the spacing/distribution of deflectors15a1are not particularly limited, and deflectors15a1may be of any suitable shape and/or distribution. Deflectors15a1are longitudinally rigid and flexible radially outward and inward. Each deflector15a1connects to proximal portion11aat proximal connection points11c1and11c2, and to distal portion11bat distal connection points11c3and11c4.

As previously noted, handle11includes lock15a. Lock15aincludes a collar15a2and the aforementioned deflectors15a1. Collar15a2sits in the space between proximal portion11aand distal portion11bof handle11. Collar15a2is annular in shape, with an opening therein. Furthermore, collar15a2has a circular exterior shape, but is not limited thereto. A bottom end of proximal portion11amay be of the same diameter as the adjacent surface, i.e., the top surface, of collar15a2, and likewise, a top end of distal portion11bmay be of the same diameter as the adjacent surface, i.e., the bottom surface, of collar15a2. Thus, distal portion11b, collar15a2, and proximal portion11amay be sized in such a way that the radially outer surfaces of them are flush to one another. Collar15a2rotates about the longitudinal axis of handle11relative to proximal portion11aand distal portion11b. Collar15a2may be made of any suitable rigid material.

Collar15a2includes projections15a3that project radially inward from an inner circumferential surface of collar15a2toward the longitudinal axis of handle11. As shown inFIGS.1C-1D, each projection15a3may have a triangular cross-sectional shape.FIGS.1C-1Dshow four projections evenly spaced around the inner circumferential surface of collar15a2. However, the number of projections15a3is not particularly limited, as collar15a2may include more or less projections15a3. Furthermore, projections15a3may be randomly spaced as desired. Regarding the shapes of projections15a3, projections15a3may be of any shape configured to engage with deflectors15a1. For example,FIGS.1C-1Dshow projections15a3having surfaces that are complementary to the surfaces of deflectors15a1, regardless of the rotational direction of collar15a2.

The number of projections15a3may correspond to the number of deflectors15a1, and such a number may dictate the rotational degree by which collar15a2may be rotated. For example, there are four projections15a3and four inner deflectors15a1, as shown inFIGS.1C-1D. Because both projections15a3and inner deflectors15a1are evenly arranged around the circumference of proximal flange14, collar15a2may be rotatable 90° degrees clockwise or counter-clockwise to loosen or tighten lock15a. In other embodiments, lock15amay include six projections15a3and six inner deflectors15a1, evenly distributed around proximal flange14. In such embodiments, collar15a2may be rotatable 60° degrees clockwise or counter-clockwise to loosen or tighten lock15a. Therefore, there may be any suitable number of projections15a3and inner deflectors15a2, and the disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned examples.

FIG.1Cshows a top sectional view of proximal flange14and lock15ain a loosened state/configuration. In this loosened configuration, collar15a2is in a loosened position relative to deflectors15a1and proximal flange14. Specifically, collar15a2and its projections15a3are spaced apart, or disengaged, from inner deflectors15a1, thereby allowing inner deflectors15a1to retain its natural, unbiased state within handle11. In this configuration, no force is applied to deflectors15a1by projections15a3, and shaft12is rotatable about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11in this loosened configuration. Handle11may also be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of handle11relative to shaft12and collar15a2.

Projections15a3are positioned relative to deflectors15a1so that counter-clockwise rotation of collar15a2would cause engagement between complementary surfaces of projections15a3and deflectors15a1. Such engagement would cause deflectors15a1to flex radially inward toward proximal flange14, due to a radially inward force component applied by projections15a3onto deflectors15a1.

In contrast,FIG.1Dshows a top sectional view of proximal flange14and lock15ain a tightened state/configuration. In this configuration, collar15a2has been rotated in a counter-clockwise direction so that projections15a3engage with and apply a force to deflectors15a1. Due to said force, deflectors15a1are pressed/flexed radially inward toward the longitudinal axes of the handle and the shaft, so that deflectors15a1are, in turn, pushed against proximal shaft flange14. Such engagement of deflectors15a1with proximal shaft flange14may provide sufficient friction force to keep shaft12stationary relative to handle11. Said friction force may withstand typical procedural movement and adjustment of shaft12, and prevent rotation thereof. In some embodiments, projections15a3, deflectors15a1, and/or proximal flange14may provide friction, e.g., be of any suitable frictious materials or comprise materials with roughened surfaces to enhance friction, so that friction forces resulting from their respective engagements help maintain the engagements until lock15is loosened. In other embodiments, any of the additional locks described in further detail below may be applied to medical device1ato further inhibit shaft12from further rotation. To revert lock15afrom a tightened configuration to the described loosened configuration, collar15a2may be rotated in an opposite direction, e.g., a clockwise direction. Thus, lock15aof medical device1amay include a loosened configuration and a tightened configuration.

Referring toFIGS.1A-1C, an example of how medical device1amay be used is further discussed below. The distal end of shaft12of medical device1amay be delivered into the body of a subject, adjacent to an intended target site. Imaging associated with medical device1a, via any suitable image processing device, may assist in positioning of the distal end of shaft12. Depending on the position of the subject and/or the intended target site relative to medical device1aand/or a user of medical device1a, the user may choose to rotate shaft12relative to handle11. If lock15ais in the previously described tightened configuration, the user may loosen collar15a2by rotating collar15a2in a clockwise direction. Such rotation disengages or separates projections15a3of collar15a2from inner deflectors15a1to place lock15ain a loosened configuration. When lock15ais in the loosened configuration, the user may rotate shaft12about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11, so that shaft12is better positioned relative to an intended target site and/or to allow the user to be in an ergonomic position. Alternatively, the user may rotate handle11relative to shaft12to allow the user's handling of handle11in a more ergonomic position, or for various other reasons. The user may rotate shaft12or handle11, relative to the other, by any selected or predetermined degree. The user may then place lock15in a tightened configuration by rotating collar15a2in a counter-clockwise direction. Such rotation causes projections15a3to engage and press against deflectors15a1so that deflectors15a1flex radially inward toward proximal flange14. The user may continue to tighten collar15a2via rotation thereof, until rotation of collar15a2is no longer possible and deflectors15a1are pressed against proximal flange14. The manner in which collar15a2is rotated in a clockwise or a counter-clockwise direction is not particularly limited. As noted above, in some other embodiments, the user may actuate another suitable lock to ensure that shaft12is stationary relative to handle11.

Medical device1b, as shown inFIG.2, is similar to device1ain many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1aand device1bwill be described below. In device1b, proximal flange14′ includes a plurality of notches24circumferentially arranged about an outer surface of proximal shaft flange14′. Notches24may be depressions distributed on the outer circumferential surface of proximal shaft flange14′. Notches24may be of a suitable depth to sufficiently catch or engage with a lock15bto be described. While the number of notches24may not be particularly limited, it is noted that the number of notches corresponds to the number of rotational positions/degrees in which shaft12may be locked in place.

Lock15bincludes a lever15b1, a spring15b2, a tab15b3, and a pivot15b4. Lever15b1is not particularly limited in its shape and structure, so long as it is suitable for depression by a user. Lever15b1is positioned outside of handle11. Spring15b2couples a distal end of lever15b1to an outer surface of handle11. Spring15b2may have a sufficient spring force to withstand typical in-procedure manipulation of medical device1b, but also allow for compression via a user applied force to lever15b1. Tab15b3is connected to a proximal portion of lever15b1facing handle11, and may partially enter or exit handle11via any suitable opening in handle11. Tab15b3may enter or exit handle11to engage with or disengage from one of notches24. It is noted that tab15b3may be of any suitable shape or size that may engage or catch one of notches24. Pivot15b4couples the portion of lever15b1underneath tab15b3to the outer surface of handle11. Therefore, pivot15b4allows lever15b1, along with tab15b3, to pivot about pivot15b4, via compression or extension of spring15b2.

In the default position of lock15b, spring15b2is in full extension, thereby pushing the distal end of lever15b1outward via pivot15b4. In this pivoted position, tab15b3engages with one of notches24. Engagement may include the inward protruding tab15b3being caught in a depression of one of notches24. Due to such engagement, shaft12remains stationary relative to handle11and is inhibited from any rotation in this locked configuration.

As indicated by the directional arrows shown inFIG.2, depression of the distal end of lever15b1with sufficient force compresses spring15b2, and pivots both the proximal end of lever15b1and tab15b3away from handle11. The force to depress the distal end of lever15b1may be exerted by any suitable means, e.g., by hand, mechanically, or electrically. This causes tab15b3to disengage with one of notches24. During disengagement, shaft12may be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11, until lever15b1is released and lock15bis reverted to its default locked configuration. Handle11may also be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of handle11relative to shaft12during disengagement. Because the locked configuration requires that tab15b3engages with one of notches24, shaft12may be rotatable and lockable only in the plurality of rotational degrees/positions in which notches24and tab15b3align.

Medical device1bmay be used in a similar manner as medical device1a, except a user may depress or release the distal end of lever15b1to unlock or lock the rotation of shaft12relative to handle11, as opposed to tightening or loosening a collar. Furthermore, the user may rotate and lock shaft12in selected or predetermined rotational degrees in which one of notches24and tab15b3align.

Medical device1c, as shown inFIGS.3A-3B, is similar to device1bin many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1band device1cwill be described below. Lock15cis a locking mechanism, which may be pressed inward and clicked to toggle between locked and unlocked configurations. Lock15cincludes a button15c1coupled to a pin15c2, a spindle15c3, a spindle housing15c4, and a spring15c5. Button15c1is positioned outside of handle11. Button15c1is of any suitable size or shape so that a user may press or click button15c1towards handle11. Pin15c2, on one end, is coupled to the surface of button15c1facing handle11. Pin15c2is configured to partially enter or exit handle11via a suitable opening on handle11, as button15c1is pressed. Therefore, button15c1and pin15c2are configured so that as button15c1is pressed towards handle11, pin15c2advances radially inward within handle11. Pin15c2, on the other end, includes a guide15c12running along the length of pin15c2(substantially parallel to an axis of pin15c2), and a contact15c22adjacent to guide15c12. Guide15c12is a slot that extends longitudinally from the end of pin15c2to about a midpoint of pin15c2, but is not limited thereto in other examples. Guide15c12is open-ended at its end spaced from button15c1and may be of a dimension that is suitable to receive portions of spindle housing15c4, as described in further detail below. The end surface of contact15c22is angled relative to (transverse to) an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of pin15c2, so that an angled edge is formed. Contact15c22may be of a length, width, and shape suitable to engage with portions of spindle15c3, as described in further detail below. Pin15c2is not limited as described, and, in other embodiments, may be of any suitable size or shape for engaging with spindle15c3and spindle housing15c4, and portions thereof.

Both spindle15c3and spindle housing15c4are supported and housed within handle11and are adjacent to proximal flange14′. Spindle15c3is cylindrical in shape. Spindle15c3includes one end configured to engage with one of notches24, a flange15c43that juts radially outward at around a mid-portion of spindle15c3, and another end which includes a rotatable cam15c13. Flange15c43is of a diameter greater than the remainder of spindle15c3, but is less than that of spindle housing15c4, so that spindle15c3may advance and retract linearly within housing15c4. Rotatable cam15c13includes a plurality of teeth15c23and a plurality of channels15c33that are circumferentially distributed about rotatable cam15c13. Specifically, the distribution is such that each pair of two adjacent teeth15c23have a channel15c33positioned between them, e.g., pair, channel, pair.

Teeth15c23have angled edges, and are specifically angled so that the edges of teeth15c23complement, e.g., are substantially parallel to, the edge of contact15c22as the two edges come into contact with one another. Furthermore, the space between adjacent teeth may accommodate contact15c22. Channel15c33extends longitudinally from the cam-end of spindle15c3to a portion of spindle15c3that is prior to flange15c43. Channel15c33is open-ended, and may be of a dimension that is suitable to receive portions of spindle housing15c4, as described in further detail below.

Spindle housing15c4is tubular and is tapered inward on one end so that the tapered end contains spring15c5. However, housing15c4is not limited thereto, and may be of any tubular shape that is open-ended on both ends. Housing15c4may be of any suitable dimensions to house spindle15c3and pin15c2, and to allow for linear advancement or retraction of spindle15c3and pin15c2within housing15c4. Housing15c4includes a support15c14. Support15c14is a rail that protrudes inward from an inner surface of housing15c4, and is configured to ride within guide15c12of pin15c2and channel15c33of spindle15c3. Thus, support15c14may be of a extends that fits within both guide15c12and channel15c33. Support15c14runs longitudinally from an end of housing15c4to a suitable distance towards the other end of housing15c4. In some embodiments, the length of support15c14may be equal to or about the lengths of channel15c33. The end of support15c14, that is adjacent to spindle15c3, includes an end that is angled to a degree equal to or about the same as that of contact15c22. Thus, the angled edge of support15c14, like contact15c22, may complement, e.g., may be substantially parallel to, the angled surfaces of teeth15c23and may also be cradled within the space between adjacent teeth15c23.

Spring15c5may wrap around an end portion of spindle15c3that is closest to notches24. Furthermore, spring15c5may be positioned between an end of housing15c4and flange15c43, thereby forming a spring-loaded spindle15c3. As a result, spindle15c3may advance radially inward, via compression of spring15c5, and retract radially outward, via release of spring15c5. Spring15c5is not particularly limited, and may be any suitable spring.

Still referring toFIGS.3A-3B, the relative positions of lock15ccomponents are further described below. Pin15c2is positioned, relative to spindle15c3and housing15c4, so that pin15c2may engage spindle15c3as it advances radially inward within housing15c4. Guide15c12of pin15c2rides along support15c14of housing15c4to advance or retract within housing15c4. The engagement between pin15c2and spindle15c3causes spindle15c3, in turn, to advance radially inward towards proximal flange14′. Therefore, spindle15c3may be positioned so that spindle15c3may engage with one of notches24when spindle15c3advances radially inward. The distance between spindle15c3and proximal flange14′ may be so that spindle15c3engages with notches24when spindle15c3is fully extended inwards, but spindle15c3does not engage with notches24when spindle15c3is retracted back towards housing15c4. Moreover, the distance between housing15c4and proximal flange14′ may be so that housing15c4does not get caught in one of notches24.

Referring toFIGS.3C-3F, the unlocked and locked configurations of lock15care further described. In the unlocked configuration, both pin15c2and spindle15c3are fully retracted. In this retracted position, contact15c22is cradled in the space between adjacent teeth15c23, and support15c14is within channel15c33(seeFIG.3C). As button15c1(not shown inFIGS.3C-3F) is pressed or clicked by any suitable force, contact15c22presses against one of teeth15c23of cam15c13, thereby compressing spring15c5(not shown) and extending spindle15c3radially inward so that support15c14is out of channel15c33(seeFIG.3D). Because support15c14is no longer anchored within channel15c33, and the spring force of spring15c5presses contact15c22and cam15c13against one another, the angled edges of contact15c22and support15c14ride along one of teeth15c23, thereby initiating rotation of cam15c13so that adjacent teeth15c23cradle both support15c14and contact15c22(seeFIG.3E). As button15c1is released, pin15c2retracts by an extent so that contact15c22is out of the space between adjacent teeth15c23, thereby further rotating cam15c3so that support15c14is solely anchored between adjacent teeth15c23and contact15c22rests above one of teeth15c23(seeFIG.3F). This prevents rotated spindle15c3from returning to its original, retracted position. Thus, as shown inFIG.3F, spindle15c3is extended relative to its original position (shown inFIG.3C), and is extended to an extent such that spindle15c3engages with one of notches24of proximal flange14′ (not shown). Such engagement between spindle15c3and one of notches24, inhibits shaft12from being rotated and maintains shaft12in a stationary position. Thus, this position of lock15cmay be described as the locked configuration.

By pressing or “clicking” button15c1again, pin15c2again engages spring-loaded spindle15c3and cam15c13, such that spindle15c3again extends and rotates simultaneously within housing15c4. Upon release of button15c1, cam15c13rotates so that support15c14of housing15c4falls within channel15c33of cam15c13so that, spring15c5extends to its default state, and spindle15c3returns to its original, retracted position (shown inFIG.3C). In this state, spindle15c3is retracted to an extent so that spindle15c3is disengaged from one of notches24, and lock15cis reverted to an unlocked configuration.

Repeated toggling of clickable button15c1will alternate lock15cbetween the aforementioned unlocked and locked configurations. It is noted that if spring-loaded spindle15c3fails to engage with one of notches24, additional rotation of shaft12may be necessary so that spindle15c3may engage with any one of notches24and place lock15cin a locked configuration. Thus, medical device1cmay be used in the same manner as medical device1b, except a user may depress or “click” button15c1to unlock or lock the rotation of shaft12, as opposed to depressing and releasing a lever. Furthermore, the user may rotate and lock shaft12in selected or predetermined rotational degrees in which one of notches24and spindle15c3align.

Referring toFIGS.4A-4B, another embodiment of medical device1d1is described below. Similar to previously described medical device embodiments, medical device1d1includes a handle11′ and a shaft12′. Handle11′, specifically a distal portion thereof, includes a distally-facing surface, e.g., proximal flange21a, and a proximally-facing surface, e.g., distal flange21b. Distal flange21bis spaced distally from proximal flange21aby a suitable distance. Furthermore, proximal flange21aand distal flange21bjut radially outwards and are both circular in cross-sectional shape. Distal flange21bis of a smaller diameter than proximal flange21a. However, both distal flange21band proximal flange21aare of diameters greater than the portion of handle11′ between flanges21a,21band other remaining portions of handle11′.

Shaft12′ also includes a proximally-facing surface, e.g., handle15d1and a distally-facing surface, e.g., flange15d2. Shaft handle15d1encompasses at least a proximal portion of shaft12′. Shaft handle15d1has a diameter greater than that of more distal portion of shaft12′, as handle15d1juts radially outward relative to those more distal portions and tapers in a distal direction. A proximal portion of handle15d1has a diameter that is the same as the diameter of proximal flange21aof handle11′. The proximal end of shaft handle15d1includes flange15d2.

Shaft flange15d2is annular in shape and juts radially inward. Annular shaft flange15d2includes an opening that receives a distal portion of handle11′. Specifically, said opening is of a diameter that sufficiently encompasses the portion of handle11′ between the proximal flange21aand distal flange21b. Shaft flange15d2juts radially inward by a distance such that the proximal end of shaft handle15d1may be flush with proximal flange21awhile also allowing for minimal radial movement of handle11′ within shaft handle15d.

A spring15d3is positioned between shaft flange15d2and distal handle flange21b. Spring15d3may be any suitable spring, and is not particularly limited. Spring15d3may have a spring force sufficiently greater than other forces associated with typical in-procedure manipulation of medical device1d. Spring15d3is positioned so that it is parallel to the longitudinal axis of handle11′. As a result of such configuration, shaft flange15d2abuts proximal handle flange21a, and distal handle flange21babuts shaft12′, when spring15d3is in its default, extended position.FIG.4Ashows the default configuration of medical device1d. In this default state, spring15d3pushes shaft flange15d2against proximal handle flange21a, and distal flange21bagainst shaft12′, thereby interlocking shaft12′ with handle11′. Furthermore, abutting surfaces of shaft flange15d2and proximal flange21a, and of flange21band shaft12′, may provide friction, e.g., be of frictious materials or comprise materials with roughened surfaces to enhance friction, further enhancing the interlocking of shaft12′ with handle11′. Thus, in its default interlocked configuration, lock15dinhibits shaft12′ from being rotated relative to handle11′ and maintains shaft12′ in a stationary position.

FIG.4Bshows an unlocked configuration of medical device1d1. Medical device1d1is placed into this configuration when shaft12′ is pulled distally relative to handle11′ or handle11′ is pulled proximally relative to shaft12′ by any suitable manner. This results in spring15d3compressing, thereby disengaging, e.g., separating, shaft flange15d2from proximal handle flange21a, and flange21bfrom shaft12′. As a result of such disengagement, shaft12′ may be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11while in this unlocked configuration. Handle11′ may also be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of handle11′ relative to shaft12′. It is noted that the force necessary to actuate said disengagement must be greater than forces typically generated by in-procedure manipulation of shaft12′. To revert medical device1dback to its default interlocked state, shaft12′ may be released from any pulling forces so that spring15d3may naturally extend, and again, push shaft flange15d2against proximal handle flange21a, and flange21bagainst shaft12′.

In additional embodiments, the outer surfaces of shaft handle15d1may be of a frictious or roughened material to assist a user in gripping handle15d1, and pulling or pushing shaft12′. Medical device1d1may be used in the same manner as medical device1a, except a user may pull shaft12′ distally to unlock or interlock the rotation of shaft12, as opposed to tightening or loosening a collar.

FIGS.4C-4Dshow an alternative embodiment of medical device1d2that is similar in structure and operation as medical device1d1. The differences between device1d2and device1d1, illustrated inFIGS.4A-4B, are further detailed below.

InFIGS.4C-4D, handle11″ includes proximal flange21aand distal flange21b. Both proximal flange21aand distal flange21bjut radially inwards and are annular in shape. Annular distal flange21bhas an opening configured to receive a proximal portion of shaft12″. Said opening has a diameter sufficient to encompass a proximal portion15b1of shaft12″, while also allowing for minimal radial movement of shaft12″, within the opening. Shaft12″ includes shaft flange15d2at its proximal end. Shaft flange15d2juts radially outward and is circular in shape. Thus, shaft flange15d2has a diameter greater than the remaining portions of shaft12″. The outer diameter of shaft flange15d2is greater than the inner diameter of both proximal flange21a, and distal flange21b, such that shaft flange15d2is secured between proximal flange21aand distal flange21bof handle11″. The outer diameter of shaft flange15d2is slightly less than the inner diameter of portions of handle11″ between flanges21a,21b, allowing for minimal radial movement of shaft12″ within handle11″. Spring15d3may be the same, and may be positioned in the same manner, as in previously described device1d1. As a result, spring15d3forces shaft flange15d2against proximal flange21a, and with their frictious surfaces, fixes shaft12″ to handle11″. Thus, medical device1d2may be alternated between the default interlocked configuration and the unlocked configuration in the same manner and mechanism as that of medical device1d1.

In some other embodiments, springs15d3may be positioned so that they push handle11″ and shaft12″ away from each other. Thus, a force pushing shaft12″ proximally towards handle11″ may be applied to disengage shaft12″ from handle11″, and allow for rotation of shaft12″. In other embodiments, lock15dmay further include a locking ring to ensure that shaft flange15d2and the handle flanges do not disengage in-procedure. The locking ring is not particularly limited, and may be any mechanism or component that inhibits shaft12′ from pulling away from handle11′, and vice versa, e.g., a compression fit ring. In other embodiments, lock15dmay include a longitudinal locking mechanism, instead of a radial, locking ring. In one example, a longitudinal locking mechanism may engage and disengage with the handle or shaft being pulled or pushed apart, to separate locking interfaces (e.g.15d1or21band15d2or21ainFIGS.4A-4B, and15d2or21ainFIGS.4C-4D). Locking interfaces may include a square notch or a square notch with a rounded top to guide the locking interfaces during engagement.

Referring toFIGS.4E and4F, a device including another example of a longitudinal locking mechanism is further described below. Device1dmay be similar to devices1d1and1d2described above. Handle11and shaft12of device1dmay be interlocked in the same or a similar manner as devices1d1and1d2. Thus, shaft12may also be pulled distally to unlock itself from an interlocked state, and to rotate about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11. To ensure undesired unlocking/disengagement from the interlocked state, device1dincludes longitudinal lock50, handle ring71, a first shaft ring61, and a second shaft ring62.

Lock50is a single piece (though it could be multiple connected pieces) that is fitted within and/or around a proximal portion of shaft12. Lock50includes a base ring52, a longitudinal body51, and a head53. Ring52may be the portion of lock50that is fitted around shaft12. The diameter of the space within ring52may be such that ring52may rotate and/or slide linearly while fitted around shaft12, relative to device1d. The diameter of base ring52may be any suitable diameter to allow for longitudinal body51to extend towards handle ring71, without being impeded by the proximal facing surfaces of handle11. To avoid such impedance, in some embodiments, ring52may be fitted around a shaft handle that is flush against handle11, such as the proximal portion of shaft handle15d1ofFIGS.4A-4B. Longitudinal body51may be fixed to an outer edge or circumference of ring52. Body51extends proximally towards handle ring71. The shape of body51may be any suitable shape, e.g., linear, curved radially outwards, etc., to allow for body71to extend proximally over outer surfaces of handle11. In some exemplary embodiments, body51may be formed such that the distal end (attached to ring52) is closer to the central axis of the shaft than head53, which is relatively farther away from the central axis of the shaft. Thus, the shape of body51may be tuned to avoid interference with the distal end of the handle as a user rotates between the locked and unlocked states. Alternatively, body51may maintain a distance from the central axis and handle11may have a cutout to accommodate body51, as it rotates between the locked and unlocked positions. Body51may be of any suitable length that is sufficient to allow head53to reach and engage with ring71. Body51may be of any suitable material that can withstand typical in-procedure pulling forces against shaft12. Moreover, body51may be positioned on ring52so that it may be received within a gap72of handle ring71(further described below). Head53may be of any suitable shape or size to pass through gap72of ring71. Moreover, head53may protrude in a direction towards a recess73of ring71, and may protrude by a suitable length so that it may rest and remain on recess73.

Handle ring71may be fixed around all or a portion of an outer surface of handle11. Ring71may include a break along the circumference of ring71, thereby forming a gap72. Gap72may be of any suitable width that allows for head53and body51of ring52to pass through. The end of ring71facing head53may further include recess73, noted above. Recess73may be a depression on the aforementioned end of ring71that accommodates for head53to anchor against. First shaft ring61and second shaft ring62may be fixed onto shaft12. Rings61and62may be positioned along a proximal portion of shaft12. Rings61and62may respectively be positioned proximal and distal of ring52, thereby defining a space within which ring52may slide linearly. The defined space may be of a distance in accordance with the distance needed for head53to pass through gap72and reach recess73. Ring61may also serve the function as a catch/stop against ring52, thereby inhibiting shaft12from being pulled distally away from handle11.

In view of the above, lock50may have two states, an unlocked state (as shown inFIG.4E) and a locked state (as shown inFIG.4F). In the unlocked state, ring52may rest against second shaft ring62, and thus, head53may be distal of gap72. In this state, shaft12may be pulled distally to unlock itself from an interlocked state, and to rotate about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11. To transition lock50into a locked state, ring52may be slid/translated linearly in a proximal direction, so that head53and a proximal portion of body51may pass through gap72. To reach a sufficient distance at which head53may engage with recess73, ring52may be slid linearly until it abuts first shaft ring61. Ring52may then be rotated, as indicated by the directional arrows, so that head53meets and rests on recess73, thereby anchoring lock50to handle ring71. As a result, shaft12may be inhibited from being pulled distally away from handle11. Thus, lock50may transition between an unlocked state and a locked state, as the user desires.

Medical device1e, as shown inFIGS.5A-5C, is similar to device1ain many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1aand1ewill be described below. Handle11includes lock15e. Lock15eincludes a collar15e1surrounding a portion of shaft12between distal flange13and proximal flange14. Specifically, collar15e1is positioned between inner wall11b1and proximal flange14. Collar15e1may be of any suitable flexible material, e.g., plastic, rubber, etc.

Collar15e1includes a first flange15e2and a second flange15e3. Both first flange15e2and second flange15e3protrude radially, outside of handle11, by extending through an opening in a side of handle11. First flange15e2and second flange15e3may be either spaced apart by a gap laterally, or in contact with one another, closing the gap. These two configurations are discussed in further detail when referring toFIGS.5B-5C. Furthermore, first flange15e2and second flange15e3each includes an opening that is aligned with the opening of the other.

Collar15e1further includes a locking pin15e6driven through first flange15e2and second flange15e3, via their respective openings. Pin15e6may be of any suitable width or length that may fit into said openings and also remain in said openings when first flange15e2and second flange15e3are spaced apart. Flanges15e2and15e3may also slide laterally on pin15e6due to lateral forces exerted against flanges15e2and15e3. Locking pin15e6includes a stop15e4, coupled to one end of pin15e6. Specifically, stop15e4is coupled to a first end of pin15e6that is nearest first flange15e2. Stop15e4has a diameter greater than that of pin15e6, as well as the flange opening of flange15e2through which pin15e6is driven. Thus, stop15e4prevents pin15e6from falling or sliding out of first flange15e2.

Collar15e1also includes a lock handle15e5. Lock handle15e5may be of any form, suitable for user actuation. Lock handle15e5is coupled to a second end of pin15e6, adjacent to second flange15e3. Handle15e5is configured to be pivotable about a pivot pin15e7, which may be off-center of handle15e5. Specifically, handle15e5is configured to pivot along the plane of collar15e1, so that handle15e5may be pulled towards collar15e1or pulled away from collar15e1(see directional arrows ofFIGS.5B-5C).

As shown inFIG.5B, first flange15e2and second flange15e3are spaced apart, along pin15e6, thereby leaving collar15e1open, spaced from shaft12, and loosened. This is the natural, unbiased shape of collar15e1, as shown inFIG.5BThis configuration of lock15emay be described as the unlocked configuration. In this state, collar15e1is loosened to an extent which allows for radial movement of shaft12within collar15e1. Thus shaft12may be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11(not shown inFIG.5B) in this loosened state. Handle11may also be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of handle11relative to shaft12. It is noted that handle15e5, in this unlocked configuration, is away from collar15e1. However, as indicated by the directional arrows, pivoting handle15e5by pulling it towards collar15e1will result in collar15e1tightening onto shaft12. This results in lock15ebeing placed into a locked configuration, as further described below.

FIG.5Cshows lock15ein a locked configuration. In this configuration, collar15e1is tightened onto shaft12, thereby inhibiting any radial or rotational movement of shaft12. Specifically, first flange15e2and second flange15e3are in contact with one another, closing any prior gap between the flanges (though it is not necessary for flanges15e2and15e3to contact for collar15e1to contact shaft12). This is attributed to handle15e5being pivoted into a position towards collar15e1. Pivoting handle15e5, about pin15e7, towards collar15e1results in a camming action. Specifically, as handle15e5pivots about pivot pin15e7, outer surfaces of handle15e5press against an outer surface of flange15e3in a camming action, forcing flange15e3towards flange15e2. The gap between flanges15e2and15e3continues to close until collar15e1contacts and closes around shaft12, and any radial or longitudinal movement of shaft12is restricted. Such tightening onto shaft12places lock15ein the locked configuration. Thus, to alternate between unlocking and locking lock15e, handle15e5be pivoted so that it is pulled away or towards collar15e1. Medical device1emay be used in the same manner as medical device1a, except a user may pivot lock handle15e5, as described above, to unlock or lock the rotation of shaft12, as opposed to rotating the collar.

Medical device1f, as shown inFIGS.6A-6C, is similar to device1bin many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1band1fwill be described below. The inner wall of handle11includes a plurality of placeholders15f. Placeholders15fare circumferentially distributed along the inner wall of handle11, and are evenly spaced apart. Placeholders15fsurround proximal flange14′, and are configured to engage with each of notches24.

Each of placeholders15fincludes a spring15f1and a bearing15f2. Spring15f1is coupled to an inner wall of handle11on one end. Bearing15f2is coupled to an opposite end of spring15f1. Bearing15f2may be of any suitable form configured to engage with notches24, each of which may be a specific, predetermined size that is receptive of bearing15f2. Spring15f1may be any suitable spring having sufficient length so that bearings15f2may engage with each of notches24. Furthermore, springs15f1may have spring forces that are sufficient so that typical in-procedure manipulation of medical device1fdoes not result in unwanted disengagement of bearings15f2from notches24.

The engagement of bearings15f2with notches24places lock15fin a locked configuration. However, the aforementioned spring forces are also within the ergonomic capabilities of a user, and may be overcome by torsional forces exerted on shaft12by said user. Thus, a user may rotate shaft12so that bearings15f2are disengaged from notches24, until bearings15f2re-engage with adjacent notches24. Even after re-engagement, shaft12may continue to be rotated until bearings15f2re-engage notches24at a selected or predetermined rotational position of shaft12. Thus, medical device1fmay be used in the same manner as medical device1b, except a user may directly rotate shaft12by exerting torsional forces onto shaft12in any suitable manner.

Other embodiments may further include additional grips on shaft12to assist users in exerting sufficient torsional forces to rotate shaft12. In some other embodiments, a rotatable dial26may be integrated into handle11, as shown inFIG.6C. Grip26may be fixed to shaft12, for example at proximal flange13, so that a user may grip and rotate dial26as opposed to gripping and rotating shaft12.

In some other medical device embodiments, no lock or locking mechanism may be present and such embodiments may rely on frictional forces between the shaft and handle to hold relative position. Such frictional forces may be exerted by any suitable manner or mechanism, e.g., a frictional fit created by radial force or by material attraction properties.

Medical device1h, as shown inFIGS.7A-7B, is similar to previously described embodiments in many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. However, the rotation of shaft12of medical device1his motorized, and the driver for rotation of shaft12also may serve as a lock. Driver15hincludes a switch15h1coupled to a servomotor15h2. A portion of switch15h1is outside of handle11, and actuatable by a user, while another portion of switch15h1extends through an opening in handle11into handle11Servomotor15h2is housed within handle11. Servomotor15h2is coupled to a cam15h3configured to rotate and engage with notches24of proximal flange14′. Servomotor15h2may turn on or off by actuation of switch15h1, which may be of any suitable form.

The rotation of cam15h3by running servomotor15h2, while cam15h3remains engaged with notches24, rotates proximal flange14′, thereby rotating shaft12about a longitudinal axis of shaft12relative to handle11. In contrast, a stationary cam15h3, when servomotor15h2is not running, may lock shaft12in place as cam15h3remains engaged with notches24, thereby inhibiting further rotation of shaft12. Thus, medical device1hmay be used in the same manner as the previously described medical device embodiments, except a user may switch on/off driver15h, via switch15h1, to rotate or keep stationary shaft12.

Medical device1i, as shown inFIGS.8A-8G, is similar to previously described device1fin many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. Differences between device1iand device1fwill be described below. Medical device1iincludes handle11, which is coupled to shaft12aand a shaft housing12b. Specifically, housing12bhouses a distal portion of handle11. Shaft12aand housing12bmay be rotatable about a longitudinal axis of shaft12arelative to handle11, as shown inFIGS.8A and8C.

Handle11and housing12binclude arrows indicating a starting rotational point of shaft12relative to handle11(see aligned arrows inFIG.8A). Handle11and housing12bmay include any other suitable markings on their outer surfaces, in other embodiments. Referring toFIGS.8B,8D,8E, and8G, the inner surface of the distal end of handle11further includes a lock15i. Lock15iincludes a ring15i1, and a post15i3. Ring15i1is annular in shape, and ring15i1includes a plurality of slots15i4evenly spaced apart, about the circumference of ring15i1. Specifically, slots15i4are spaced apart in 45° intervals. Slots15i4are rectangular in shape, and extend distally from a proximal end of ring15i1to around a midpoint between the proximal end and the distal end of ring15i1. Slots15i4are of a sufficient width to fit/anchor ball15i5of shaft housing12, which is later described in further detail. However, it is noted that ring15i1is not limited as described, and may include more or less slots, different spacing, and different slot shapes. For example, as shown inFIGS.8E and8G, slots15i4may not be distributed throughout the whole circumference of ring15i1. Post15i3is a cylindrical protrusion that is coupled onto a distal portion of ring15i1. However, post15i3is not limited to being cylindrical, and may be of any suitable shape and/or dimension that may ride within a channel of housing12b, as further described below.

Referring toFIGS.8B and8D, a proximal portion of shaft12ais housed by and fixed to housing12b. Shaft12amay be fixed to housing12bby any suitable means, e.g., adhesion bonding, over-mold, and is not particularly limited. Therefore, shaft12aand housing12brotate in unison, relative to handle11. Shaft12aexits housing12bvia an opening on a distal end of housing12b. The distal end of housing12bmay also connect to a casing or strain relief12c, which also covers a proximal portion of shaft12aand from which shaft12amay exit.

As shown inFIGS.8A and8C, housing12bincludes an arrow marking on its outer surface, around its proximal end. This arrow may be used as a reference to indicate the rotational position of housing12band shaft12a, relative to handle11and its respective marking.

The inner proximal end of housing12bfurther includes channel15i2and detent15i6. Channel15i2is an annular/ring-like channel within a proximal portion of housing12b. Channel15i2has no inner surface, and circumferentially encompasses the outer surface of the distal end of ring15i1, such that channel15i2houses post15i3. Thus, post15i3may ride within channel15i2as post15i3rotates along with ring15i1, via rotation of handle11, or channel15i2may rotate over post15i3via rotation of shaft housing12b.

In some embodiments, channel15i2further includes a break or cutoff within its annular shape, so that a complete ring is not formed (seeFIGS.8E and8G). This break may be described as a molded stop15i7, as the break prevents post15i3from riding past either end of the break. For example, stop15i7may restrict rotation of detent15i6relative to handle11, and vice versa, to a maximum of 175° in each rotational direction to prevent damage to internal structures. Because detent15i6is inhibited from rotation past a selected or predetermined degree, additional slots15i4on ring15i1may be unnecessary and thus not present for a portion of ring15i1, as shown inFIGS.8E and8G. This break, i.e., molded stop15i7, may be filled or occupied in some instances with other wires, components, etc.

As shown inFIGS.8B and8D, detent15i6is fixed to the inner surface of a proximal portion of housing12b, so that as housing12brotates, detent15i6rotates as well. Detent15i6is a cylindrical housing radially extending from said inner surface to about or near ring15i1of handle11. Detent15i6houses ball15i5(as shown inFIG.8E) so that ball15i5partially protrudes from the end of housing15i6adjacent to ring15i1. Thus, ball15i5, which may be spring-loaded within detent15i6, may engage with slots15i4of ring15i5. Detent15i6is positioned adjacent to the proximal side of channel15i2.

Ball15i5is partially housed in the end of detent15i6adjacent to ring15i1, so that ball15i5may partially protrude out of that end. Ball15i5may be of any suitable size or shape that may engage with or anchor within slots15i4. Furthermore ball15i5may be spring-loaded so that ball15i5retracts, via compression of a spring (not shown), when detent15i6is positioned over the outer surface of ring15i5, via the rotation of handle11or shaft housing12b. In instances when detent15i6is positioned over one of slots15i4, ball15i5may protrude out of the end of detent15i6, via extension of the spring, so that ball15i5may be anchored within the slot15i4. This anchoring of detent ball15i5may be described as a locked configuration of device1i. In said locked configuration, further rotation of shaft12aand housing12bis inhibited, until sufficient rotational forces are applied against shaft handle12brelative to handle11. Thus, medical device1imay be used in the same manner as previously described medical device embodiment1f, except rotation of shaft12aand handle12bmay be restricted to a selected or predetermined rotational degree due to stop15i7.

Medical device1j, as shown inFIGS.9A-9C, is similar to previously described embodiments in many respects. Like reference numerals refer to like parts. As discussed in prior embodiments, handle11may be rotatably coupled to shaft12, so that handle11may rotate about a longitudinal axis of device1j, relative shaft12, and vice versa. The manner in which handle11and shaft12are rotatably coupled is not particularly limited. For example, in some embodiments, a proximal portion121of shaft12may include a channel or recess36(shown inFIG.9B) extending along the circumference of shaft12. Channel36may receive a protrusion (not shown) extending radially inwards within a distal portion of handle11, which may ride within channel36as handle11or shaft12is rotated relative to the other.

In addition to handle11and shaft12, medical device1jfurther includes a rotating feature20, which comprises resistance components80, locking component30, and a grip40. Device1jincludes two resistance components80, a first spring81and a second spring82(see e.g.,FIG.9D). However, it is noted that the number of resistance components is not particularly limited, e.g., one, three, four, etc. Both springs81and82may be coil springs defining central openings520. Moreover, each of the two ends of both springs81and82includes a post510that extends radially outwards from springs81and82. The size and number of loops of springs81and82is not particularly limited, and may be based on the amount of torque being transmitted via springs81and82. As shown inFIGS.9A and9B, springs81and82may be frictionally fitted around a distal portion110of handle11via central openings520. Thus, based on such configuration, a force applied against an inner surface512of post510(a surface closest to the adjacent post510) pushes posts510away from each other, reduces a size of central openings520, and results in springs81,82coiling tighter around distal portion110, thereby increasing the amount of torque that may be driven via such connection. In contrast, a force applied against an outer surface514of post510(a surface furthest from the adjacent post510) pushes posts510toward each other, increases a size of central openings520, and results in springs81,82uncoiling, thereby resulting in springs81,82loosening and slipping on distal portion110. It is noted that the orientation of posts510of spring81, relative to posts510of spring82, is not particularly limited, and may depend on the positioning of tabs32,34, as further discussed below.

Locking component30may be an annular piece including a central opening, a first tab32, a second tab34, and a channel36. Said central opening may be an opening of a sufficient diameter or width to receive shaft12, such that the surface defining of the central opening may be flush against the outer surface of shaft12. First and second tabs32,34may be features extending proximally from an edge of component30. First and second tabs32,34are configured to engage with springs81and82. Thus, tabs32,34may be of a sufficient width to be keyed within the gaps between posts510of springs81and82, as shown inFIG.9C. Furthermore, tabs32,34may be of a width that minimizes clearance between inner surfaces512of posts510and tabs32,34. As shown inFIGS.9B-9C, tabs32,34may be on opposite sides of locking component30(approximately 180° apart), but is not limited thereto. Moreover, it is noted that locking component30, via its central opening, may be immovably fixed around a proximal portion121of shaft12. The manner in which locking component30is immovably fixed to shaft12is not particularly limited (e.g., glue, adhesive, welding, etc.).

Grip40is a graspable feature sheathing a proximal portion of shaft12, locking component30, and springs81,82. Grip40includes a proximal opening42, a distal opening (not shown), and a lumen defined therebetween. Proximal opening42is configured to receive locking component30and springs81,82. Proximal opening42is in the shape of locking component30and springs81,82, so that locking component30and springs81,82may key into grip40. Thus, opening42and a portion of the lumen of grip40may surround the contour of locking component30and springs81,82, as shown inFIGS.9B-9C. Grip40may surround locking component30and springs81,82, while minimizing the clearance between the inner surface of grip40and outer surfaces514of posts510, as shown inFIG.9C. However, it is noted that grip40may be rotatable relative to shaft12, so that the inner surface of grip40may interface with outer surfaces514of posts510. Grip40further includes a distal opening (not shown) through which shaft12extends distally. Said distal opening may be of any suitable diameter that allows for frictional fit around shaft12, so that grip40may maintain its position along the length of shaft12.

In view of the above-described configuration, shaft12, by default, may be locked in a rotational position when a user does not apply any rotational forces on handle11, shaft12, or grip40, relative to one another. Any rotation, clockwise or counter-clockwise, of shaft12relative to handle11results in tabs32and34of locking component30applying a force against inner surfaces512of posts510. Such a force causes springs81,82to coil tighter about distal portion110of handle11through the natural motion of applying torque to shaft12through handle11. This effectively locks the rotation of handle11or shaft12relative to the other. To adjust the rotational position of handle11to shaft12, and vice versa, grip40may be adjusted or held in place so that the inner surface of grip40may apply a force against the outer surfaces514of springs81and82. Such a force causes springs81,82to uncoil about distal portion110of handle11, thereby enabling the rotation of handle11relative to shaft12(and vice versa). After reaching a desired rotational position, grip40may be released, which causes springs81,82to revert to their natural bias, holding shaft12relative to handle11in the new position. As a result, locking component30may naturally “lock” via the release of grip40. Thus, medical device1jmay be used in the same manner as the previously described medical device embodiments, except a user may hold grip40while adjusting the rotational position of handle11relative to shaft12(or vice versa).

It is noted that in another exemplary embodiment, coil springs, e.g., springs81and82, may be frictionally fitted around shaft12, with posts510interacting with features of handle11and grip40. Said features of handle11may be similar in shape and function as tabs32and34of locking component30. Such an embodiment may function in a similar manner as device1j, except shaft12may be rotated/manipulated relative to grip40.

Resistance components80are not limited to coil springs81,82, as shown inFIGS.9A-9C. In other exemplary embodiments, the springs may include posts extending radially inwards, or the spring wires may be of a square or rectangular cross section. Moreover, the springs may be in any number of whole or partial wraps such that the amount of friction increases when pressure is applied to posts510in one direction (e.g., against surface512) and decreases when applied to posts510in the other direction (e.g., against surface514). Posts510, on each end of a spring, may also occur at less than or greater than 360° of wrap. Furthermore, other similarly-functioning resistance components may be utilized in place of springs81,82, e.g., hose clamps. However, some similarly-functioning resistance components may require adjustments to the above-described configuration of rotating feature20, for the device to function in the same manner. For example, depending on the manner in which alternative resistance components tighten or loosen, said resistance components may be fitted onto a handle differently, or differently shaped locking components may be needed.

FIG.10shows an embodiment of medical device1wherein shaft12″ includes incremental markings to assist a user in determining the rotational position of shaft12″ relative to handle11. In other embodiments, handle11may also, or alternatively, include markings to help a user gauge the rotational position of shaft12. The markings inFIG.10indicate a numeric degree of rotation relative to the arrow marking provided on a distal end of handle11. However, markings are not limited to the examples provided inFIG.10. Markings are not particularly limited, and may include various combinations of numbers, letters, or words, indicating rotation of shaft12″ relative to handle11, and vice versa. It is noted that such markings may also be applied to any of the previously described medical device embodiments.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed device without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.