Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,915,154: A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
United States Patent 6,915,154, titled "Method and apparatus for performing intra-operative angiography," is a significant patent in the medical field, particularly in the area of surgical procedures. This patent, issued on July 5, 2005, describes innovative methods and apparatuses for conducting angiography during surgical operations. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent was filed on October 26, 2000, and granted nearly five years later. It addresses a critical need in surgical procedures by providing a method and apparatus for intra-operative angiography, which is essential for real-time visualization of blood vessels during surgery[1].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent encompasses several key aspects:
Method of Intra-operative Angiography
The method involves selecting a portion of body tissue to be analyzed, administering a fluorescent dye to the patient, and obtaining at least one image of the tissue using a fluorescence imaging system. This process allows surgeons to visualize blood vessels and other vascular structures in real-time, enhancing the accuracy and safety of surgical procedures[1].
Apparatus for Intra-operative Angiography
The apparatus includes a fluorescence imaging system, which may consist of a light source, a camera, and a display device. The system is designed to capture and display images of the fluorescent dye as it circulates through the blood vessels, providing immediate feedback to the surgeon[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the method of intra-operative angiography, including the steps of selecting tissue, administering the fluorescent dye, and obtaining images.
- Claim 10 outlines the apparatus for performing intra-operative angiography, detailing the components such as the light source, camera, and display device[1].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the details of the method and apparatus, such as the type of fluorescent dye used, the wavelength of the light source, and the type of imaging system employed[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Anticipation
The patent landscape for intra-operative angiography involves a review of prior art to ensure the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention. The patent office would have considered existing methods and apparatuses for angiography to determine whether the claimed invention was anticipated or obvious[2].
Related Patents and Applications
The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO allows users to view the patent family for this application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the broader context and any potential overlaps or conflicts with other patents[4].
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Claim Construction and Validity
The validity of the claims in this patent would be subject to legal scrutiny, including claim construction and the determination of whether the claims are definite and not overly broad. The Federal Circuit Court has established that claim construction is a question of law and receives de novo review on appeal[2].
Patent Scope and Quality
The scope of the patent is crucial in determining its quality and impact. Metrics such as independent claim length and count can be used to measure patent scope, with narrower claims often associated with a higher probability of grant and shorter examination processes[3].
Practical Implications
Surgical Applications
The method and apparatus described in this patent have significant practical implications for surgeons. Real-time visualization of blood vessels can improve surgical outcomes by reducing the risk of complications and enhancing precision[1].
Economic Impact
The economic impact of this patent includes potential reductions in healthcare costs by minimizing the need for additional procedures and improving patient recovery times. It also opens up new avenues for medical device manufacturers to develop and market related technologies.
Challenges and Controversies
Litigation and IPRs
Patents in the medical field are often subject to litigation and inter partes review (IPR) challenges. The validity and scope of the claims can be contested, leading to legal battles that can affect the patent's enforceability and the innovation landscape[2].
Ethical Considerations
The use of fluorescent dyes and advanced imaging systems raises ethical considerations, such as patient safety and the potential for adverse reactions. These factors must be carefully evaluated and addressed in the implementation of this technology.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Method and Apparatus: The patent introduces a novel method and apparatus for intra-operative angiography, enhancing surgical precision and safety.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The patent's validity and scope are subject to legal scrutiny, including claim construction and anticipation analyses.
- Practical Implications: The technology has significant practical benefits for surgeons and patients, including improved surgical outcomes and potential economic savings.
- Challenges and Controversies: The patent may face challenges through litigation and IPRs, and ethical considerations must be addressed.
FAQs
What is the primary purpose of United States Patent 6,915,154?
The primary purpose is to describe a method and apparatus for performing intra-operative angiography, enabling real-time visualization of blood vessels during surgery.
How does the method of intra-operative angiography work?
The method involves administering a fluorescent dye to the patient and using a fluorescence imaging system to capture and display images of the dye as it circulates through the blood vessels.
What are the key components of the apparatus described in the patent?
The apparatus includes a light source, a camera, and a display device, all part of a fluorescence imaging system.
What legal considerations are important for this patent?
Claim construction, validity, and potential challenges through litigation and IPRs are crucial legal considerations.
How does this patent impact surgical practices?
It enhances surgical precision and safety by providing real-time visualization of blood vessels, potentially reducing complications and improving patient recovery times.
Sources
- US6915154B1 - Method and apparatus for performing intra-operative angiography - Google Patents
- VASCULAR SOLUTIONS LLC v. MEDTRONIC, INC. - CAFC
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
