Method of Providing for the Minimization of Extravasation During Arthroscopic Surgery

Abstract

The devices and methods shown provide for the minimization of extravasation during arthroscopic surgery. The extravasation minimization device allows a surgeon to drain excess fluids from the soft tissue surrounding the surgical field while also providing a stable surgical portal for arthroscopic surgical instruments.

I claim: 
     
         1 . A method of performing arthroscopic surgery, said method comprising the steps of:
 providing an extravasation minimization device, said device comprising:
 a sleeve characterized by a distal end and proximal end having a central lumen sized and dimensioned to be removably disposed over an arthroscopic instrument; 
 a plurality of outwardly extending longitudinal ribs disposed over the exterior of the sheath having drainage lumens disposed therein; 
 a plurality of longitudinal channels disposed between the ribs, said channels having a plurality of drainage apertures in fluid communication with the drainage lumens; and 
 a manifold disposed on the proximal end of the sleeve in fluid communication with the drainage lumens; 
 wherein the plurality of drainage apertures permit excess fluid to be removed from tissue surrounding a surgical site; 
   providing an arthroscopic instrument suitable for performing an arthroscopic surgical procedure;   placing the arthroscopic instrument inside of the extravasation minimization device; and   performing an arthroscopic surgical procedure.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  further comprising providing a vacuum source in fluid communication with the manifold. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  further comprising providing a sink in fluid communication with the manifold. 
     
     
         4 . A method of performing arthroscopic surgery, said method comprising the steps of:
 providing an extravasation minimization device, said device comprising:
 a sleeve of wicking material characterized by a distal end and proximal end having a central lumen sized and dimensioned to be removably disposed over an arthroscopic instrument; and 
 an adapter disposed on the proximal end of the sleeve in fluid communication with the sleeve of wicking material; 
 wherein the wicking material permits excess fluid to be removed from tissue surrounding a surgical site; 
   providing an arthroscopic instrument suitable for performing an arthroscopic surgical procedure;   placing the arthroscopic instrument inside of the extravasation minimization device; and   performing an arthroscopic surgical procedure.   
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the extravasation minimization device further comprises an outer layer of non-stick material having a plurality of fenestrations disposed over the sleeve. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the extravasation minimization device further comprises a drainage lumen disposed within the sleeve of wicking material. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the sleeve of wicking material comprises an open cell foam having a smooth outer surface. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the sleeve of wicking material further comprises a plurality of fenestrations disposed on an outer surface of the sleeve. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the sleeve of wicking material has a “C” shaped cross-section. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the extravasation minimization device further comprises a slideable grommet disposed about an outer diameter of the sleeve. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 4  further comprising a vacuum source in fluid communication with the adapter. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 4  wherein the adapter is a manifold.