TODAY’S PATENT – METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURES

The Method and apparatus for performing minimally invasive surgical procedures was Yulun WangDarrin UeckerKeith LabyJeff WilsonCharles JordanJames WrightModjtaba Ghodoussi invented by on the 20^th August, 2002, bearing patent number US6436107B1.

A surgical system that may include a remotely controlled surgical instrument. The surgical instrument may be coupled to a tool driver that can spin and actuate the instrument. The instrument may include an actuator rod that is coupled to an end effector and detachably connected to a push rod. The push rod can move relative to the handle to actuate the end effector. The end effector may include a fixture that conforms to the shape of a needle. The handle can be secured to the tool driver by inserting pins into corresponding slots that are located on both the instrument and the tool driver. The instrument can be controlled by an operator through a pair of handles. Each handle may be mechanically balanced by a counterweight. The surgical system may also include a touchpad that allows the operator to enter parameters of the system.

The present invention relates to a system and method for performing minimally invasive cardiac procedures. More particularly, the present invention relates to a robotic system and surgical instruments that may be removably attached thereto, wherein said system aids in performing minimally invasive surgical procedures.