摘要 |
A medical retrieval device used to remove objects such as urinary and biliary calculi from the body comprising a handle assembly with a cable and a cable protection means. In a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly comprises a longitudinally stationary base portion and a thumb slide actuation means. A portion of the thumb slide actuation means is located between the distal and proximal ends of the handle base portion during the complete actuation cycle. Actuation of the thumb slide relative to the handle base portion causes the retrieval device to be actuated between the open and closed positions. The handle is preferably sized and configured to be held and operated comfortably with one hand. The light weight of the entire handle assembly minimizes potential damage to the small diameter flexible cable. In preferred embodiments, a series of openings in the handle base reduce weight, reduce material usage, and facilitate sterilization while maintaining strength. In a preferred embodiment, the cable extends out of a hole in the base portion in a loose fit arrangement, allowing radial movement of the cable by at least 0.5 mm (or 50% of the sheath diameter) relative to the base portion.
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