SURGICAL INSTRUMENT DOCKING DEVICE
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided A surgical instrument docking handset that includes a generally tubular shaped main body portion that has first and second opposite ends and defines a longitudinal axis. The article of manufacture further includes an instrument dock extending from the first end of the main body portion, and a light port extending from the second end of the main body portion. The instrument dock is generally tubular in shape and includes a threaded interior female connector.
1 . An article of manufacture comprising:
a. a generally tubular shaped main body portion having first and second opposite ends and defining a longitudinal axis,
b. an instrument dock extending from the first end of the main body portion, wherein the instrument dock is generally tubular in shape and includes a threaded interior female connector, and
c. a light port extending from the second end of the main body portion.
2 . The article of manufacture of claim 1 wherein the main body portion includes a fiberoptic core that extends from the light port to the first end of the main body portion.
3 . The article of manufacture of claim 2 wherein the fiberoptic core, instrument dock and light port are all aligned along the longitudinal axis of the main body portion.
4 . The article of manufacture of claim 3 wherein the instrument dock includes an exterior surface comprising a male connector.
5 . The article of manufacture of claim 4 wherein the male connector includes a ridge extending circumferentially therearound.
6 . The article of manufacture of claim 4 wherein the male connector includes means for securing an article to the exterior surface thereof.
7 . The article of manufacture of claim 6 wherein the instrument dock includes a plurality of teeth extending from the end thereof.
8 . The article of manufacture of claim 7 wherein the teeth extend in axial direction.