(under subclass 191) Subject matter wherein the dilator is enlarged, usually radially, either by the application of a mechanical force, or by the expansion of the material of which it is composed which expands upon introduction into the natural body orifice.
(1) Note. Self-expanding dilators which usually are compressed spring devices which expand upon placement in a body cavity are not considered to be expanded by the application of a mechanical force since no external mechanical force is applied to expand the device. Similarly, devices composed of material which expands by means of its chemical composition or body temperature are not classifiable in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
192+, for expandable dilators which are expanded by the application of fluid pressure.
202, for nasal dilators which are inserted in a compressed state and expand upon placement in the nostrils without the application of a mechanical force being applied thereto.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS
604, Surgery, 104+, for devices to expand body orifices for the purpose of introducing or removing material therefrom.