Collection filter for biopsy apparatus

Abstract

A filter element is provided for use with a tissue cutting device. The tissue cutting device includes a tissue collection trap in which the filter element is mounted. The filter element includes a body formed of a mesh material. The mesh material is constructed to allow for fluids to pass through a portion of the filter element while tissue samples excised by the cutting device are retained therein.

1 . A collection trap for a biopsy device, comprising: 
 a housing having a first end and a second end,    wherein said first end is largely open and is connected to a handpiece of the biopsy device; and    wherein said second end is largely closed.    
     
     
         2 . The collection trap of  claim 1 , wherein said second end of said housing further includes a port extending therethrough.  
     
     
         3 . The collection trap of  claim 2  wherein said port is connected to a vacuum generator.  
     
     
         4 . The collection trap of  claim 1  further including a mounting hub that is positioned around said second end of said housing.  
     
     
         5 . The collection trap of  claim 4  wherein said mounting hub further includes at least one mounting groove that receives at least one pin that is attached to said housing.  
     
     
         6 . The collection trap of  claim 5  wherein said housing further includes at least one wing to facilitate a twisting motion to engage the pin with the mounting groove.  
     
     
         7 . The collection trap of  claim 1  further including a filter element mounted within said housing, said filter element including a body formed of mesh material and having an open distal end and a closed proximal end.  
     
     
         8 . The collection trap of  claim 7  wherein said filter element is constructed from a medical grade material.  
     
     
         9 . The collection trap of  claim 7  wherein said mesh material is constructed to allow fluids to pass through a portion of said body while retaining tissue samples excised by the cutting device.  
     
     
         10 . The collection trap of  claim 7  wherein said mesh material allows for fluids to be aspirated through said proximal end and at least a circumferential portion adjacent said proximal end.  
     
     
         11 . The collection trap of  claim 1  wherein said first end of said housing is removably connected to said handpiece.