초록 ▼

A lithotripsy system, used to break calculi and stones, consisting of a flexible energy probe assembly, which can be inserted into a small and flexible endoscope, and an energy source. The flexible energy probe assembly consists of a target mass, an impact rod and a return spring. The energy source

A lithotripsy system, used to break calculi and stones, consisting of a flexible energy probe assembly, which can be inserted into a small and flexible endoscope, and an energy source. The flexible energy probe assembly consists of a target mass, an impact rod and a return spring. The energy source supplies an impact to the target mass which then transmits the energy from the impact rod to the stone. A return spring then restores the target mass and impact rod to their original position after each impact. The energy source can be a mechanical, electrical or pneumatic system.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A lithotripsy system, comprising:an energy probe assembly in combination with an energy source;said energy probe assembly including:a coupler body for connection to said energy source;a target mass located for reciprocating motion within said coupler body, said target mas

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A lithotripsy system, comprising:an energy probe assembly in combination with an energy source;said energy probe assembly including:a coupler body for connection to said energy source;a target mass located for reciprocating motion within said coupler body, said target mass adapted to receive impacts from said energy source;an elongate impact rod coupled to said target mass;an impact rod sheath surrounding at least a portion of said impact rod; said impact rod and impact rod sheath together forming a distal impact tip; anda return spring mounted between said target mass and said coupler body to bias said impact rod into a first position;said energy source including:a first hammer tube containing a first hammer and having a first end and a second end;a second hammer tube containing a second hammer and having a first end and a second end;a pneumatic oscillator;said first and second hammer tubes being connected at the first ends to said pneumatic oscillator and at the second ends to said coupler body;said pneumatic oscillator alternating between (i) pressurizing said first hammer tube and venting said second hammer tube thereby driving said first hammer into contact with said target mass and (ii) pressurizing said second tube and venting said first hammer tube thereby driving said second hammer into contact with said target mass, whereby the impact of said first and second hammers on said target mass transfers energy through said impact rod.