DE102017100312A1 - Electrosurgical device - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide an arrangement in which a surgical instrument having a shaft with an end effector mounted thereon is provided with a rotating wheel adapted to allow the user to position the shaft in a desired angular position during use to turn. In order to provide a compact and reliable mechanism, the rotary wheel, the outer edge of which is generally accessible on the outer surface of the instrument, has an internal space about the axis of the wheel within which a part of an actuating mechanism for the end effector is located. To permit rotation of the actuating mechanism with the end effector, the member disposed within the wheel rotatably engages the inner surface of the inner space within the wheel such that rotation of the wheel causes the user to rotate the actuating mechanism, which in turn causes the shaft rotates on which the end effector is mounted. Such an arrangement provides advantages by allowing otherwise unused space within the rotary wheel to be used to accommodate a portion of the end effector actuating mechanism, thereby improving the compactness of the device while still allowing rotation of the end effector and its associated actuating mechanism ,

Description

Field of the invention

Embodiments of the present invention described herein relate to an electrosurgical device, and more particularly to an electrosurgical forceps, wherein a mechanical blade provides a tissue cutting function in combination with electrosurgical electrodes that provide a tissue coagulation or sealing effect.

Background of the invention and prior art

Electrosurgical instruments offer advantages over conventional surgical instruments because they can be used for coagulation and sealing of tissues. Such an arrangement according to the prior art is made US 2015/223870 A1 which discloses an endoscopic bipolar forceps comprising a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an electrosurgical end effector assembly at its distal end which includes two jaw members for engaging tissue therebetween. Each jaw member is adapted to be connected to an electrosurgical energy source, thereby enabling the sealing of a tissue held between the jaw members. A drive assembly is received in the housing to move the jaw members. A movable handle is also provided such that movement of the handle actuates the drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. A knife channel is part of the end effector to allow forward and backward movement of a blade in the knife channel, again allowing tissue cutting.

Other prior art arrangements include the following: US 5,730,740 . US 5,104,397 . US 4,800,880 . WO 98/14124 . US 2012/0109186 . US 5,352,235 . WO 2014/074807 . US 7,846,161 . WO 2008/024911 . US 5,776,130 . US 6,039,733 . US 6,179,834 . US 7,131,971 . US 7,766,910 . EP 2628459 . US 2014/0221999 . US 7,083,618 . US 2009/0248020 . US 2015/0209103 . US 5,797,938 and US 7,101,373 ,

Brief description of the invention

Embodiments of the present invention provide an arrangement in which a surgical instrument having a shaft with an end effector mounted thereon is provided with a rotating wheel adapted to allow the user to position the shaft in a desired angular position during use to turn. In order to provide a compact and reliable mechanism, the rotary wheel, the outer edge of which is generally accessible on the outer surface of the instrument, has an internal space about the axis of the wheel within which a part of an actuating mechanism for the end effector is located. To permit rotation of the actuating mechanism with the end effector, the member disposed within the wheel rotatably engages the inner surface of the inner space within the wheel such that rotation of the wheel causes the user to rotate the actuating mechanism, which in turn causes the shaft rotates on which the end effector is mounted. Such an arrangement provides advantages by allowing otherwise unused space within the rotary wheel to be used to accommodate a portion of the end effector actuating mechanism, thereby improving the compactness of the device while still allowing rotation of the end effector and its associated actuating mechanism ,

In view of the above explanations, in one aspect, there is provided an embodiment of the invention having a rotary wheel for rotating a shaft of a surgical instrument, the rotary wheel having an outer fitting having an outer surface suitable for the fingers and / or An internal cavity having distal and proximal stops therein, an inner fitting received within the chamber and having connection means for securing the inner fitting to the shaft of the surgical instrument characterized in that one of the inner and outer shaped pieces is longitudinally slidable with respect to the distal and proximal stops, and that the inner and outer shaped pieces are rotatably interlocked with each other, so that the rotational movement of the outer shaped piece on the inner and on the inner mold piece is transferred to the shaft of the surgical instrument. The inner mold can form part of an actuator mechanism for an end effector, and thus its inclusion within the rotary wheel saves space and provides a compact mechanism.

In one embodiment, the outer surface is provided with a notched surface comprising a plurality of notches adapted to receive a user's fingers and thumb.

In one embodiment, the surgical instrument includes a drive shaft to move therethrough an end effector, the connecting means securing the inner fitting to the shaft of the surgical instrument can be, to arrange the drive shaft in a corresponding passage in the longitudinal direction within the inner mold. For this purpose, the inner mold may have a slot in the longitudinal direction with a generally T-shaped cross section to receive the drive shaft.

The inner fitting may, in some embodiments, be provided with an integral extension that is completely received within the chamber when the inner fitting comes against the distal stop and extends out of the chamber when the inner fitting comes against the proximal stop. The integral extension may have a generally T-shaped cross-section, and / or have a substantially uniform wall thickness in each direction.

In some embodiments, the distal and proximal stops are shoulders provided at or towards the distal and proximal ends of the chamber. At least one of the shoulders may be of such height that the outer fitting is capable of being connected and separated from the inner fitting by means of a snap-in connection. Such features significantly improve the ease and reliability of the assembly.

Likewise, the shoulder forming the proximal abutment may be of such height that the outer fitting is capable of being connected and separated from the inner fitting by means of a latching connection. Again, the arrangement is improved by such a feature.

In some embodiments, the inner mold is longitudinally displaceable relative to the outer mold, for example, to at least 2.5 mm, and in other embodiments may be displaceable relative to the outer mold to at least 5 mm. The displaceability of the inner mold provides working space for an actuating mechanism of the surgical instrument from which the inner mold can form part.

According to another aspect, there is also provided a surgical instrument comprising:
a handle,
an elongated shaft extending from the handle,
an end effector disposed at the distal end of the elongated shaft,
a drive shaft within the elongated shaft, the drive shaft being connected at its distal end to the end effector and at its proximal end to a component within the handle,
an actuating mechanism movable between a first position and a second position, wherein moving the actuating mechanism from its first position to its second position causes the drive shaft to move longitudinally to cause the end effector to move from a first state to a second state .
a rotating wheel for rotating the elongate shaft, the rotating wheel comprising:
an outer mold having an outer surface adapted to be touched by the fingers and / or thumb of a user, and an inner cavity containing distal and proximal stops therein, and
an inner fitting received within the chamber and having a passage through which the drive shaft extends;
characterized in that the inner or outer mold is longitudinally displaceable relative to the other mold between the distal and proximal stops, and the inner and outer molds are pivotally connected to each other so that rotational movement of the outer mold onto the inner mold and is transmitted from the inner mold to the drive shaft and thus to the shaft of the surgical instrument.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the invention provides a surgical instrument comprising: a handle; a shaft extending from the handle along a longitudinal axis of the instrument; an end effector at the distal end of the shaft; and a rotary wheel arranged to rotate the shaft in use; the rotary wheel having an interior cavity, the interior cavity having an end effector actuating mechanism at least partially therein, the actuation mechanism having at least a portion movable within the interior cavity when the mechanism is activated by a user in use. With such an arrangement, a compact mechanism is achieved where otherwise unused space within the rotary wheel is utilized to receive a portion of the actuating mechanism.

According to one embodiment, the rotary wheel is placed axially on the longitudinal axis, and the at least one part and the inner cavity of the rotary wheel have correspondingly rotatable intermeshing parts, so that a rotational movement of the rotary wheel can be transmitted to the at least one part, wherein the at least one part rotatable is connected to the shaft, wherein a rotational movement of the rotary wheel, a rotational movement of the shaft effected via the rotational movement of the at least one part.

In some embodiments, the rotary wheel has a notched outer surface having a plurality of notches adapted to receive a user's fingers. As described above, this results in an easy-to-use, ergonomic arrangement.

With respect to the manner in which the actuating mechanism operates within the wheel, the at least one portion of the actuating mechanism may be slidably movable within the internal cavity along the longitudinal axis, the slidable movement being part of the intended use of the actuating mechanism. Thus, the actuating mechanism operates within the volume of the rotary wheel.

With respect to the operating mechanism, the operating mechanism may further include: an operating handle rotatably mounted about a pivot; a first spring receiving part having therein a first spring receiving chamber, the spring receiving part being slidably mounted on the shaft, and having at least one actuating surface against which the operating handle acts; a feather; and the at least one portion disposed within the inner cavity of the rotary wheel, the at least one portion having therein a second spring receiving chamber, the spring disposed at one end within the first spring receiving chamber and at the other end within the second spring receiving chamber.

During operation, the arrangement is such that when the operating handle is operated by the user, the handle acts against the actuating surface of the first spring receiving member to move the first spring receiving member along the shaft in the proximal direction, and the spring in turn against the at least one within the at least one part is connected to the shaft, so that an axial movement of the part within the rotary wheel causes an axial movement of the shaft, whereby a functioning of the end effector is effected.

In an operating mode in which the end effector does not act on tissue, the spring does not substantially compress, and when moving the first spring receiving part, moves one part inside the inner space of the rotary wheel. For example, in such a mode where the end effector is a pair of tweezers, the tweezers may be caused to completely close.

In another mode of operation, when the end effector acts on tissue, the spring compresses, and as the first spring receiving member moves, only part of it moves within the internal space of the rotary wheel, thereby preventing excess force from compressing the spring is exerted by the end effector on the tissue. As such, the amount of force exerted by the end effector on the tissue may be controlled by the compressive force of the spring, and may be selected by a suitable spring selection.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters in the drawings refer to like parts, and wherein:

1 a side view of an electrosurgical instrument according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2 a side view of a handle of the electrosurgical instrument according to the embodiment of the present invention;

3 an exploded view of an electrosurgical instrument according to the embodiment of the present invention;

4 a cross-sectional view of the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 in an open arrangement;

5a a cross-sectional view of the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 in a closed arrangement;

5b a cross-sectional view of the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 in a closed arrangement with tissue clamped therein;

6 a cross-sectional view of a part of the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

7 a perspective view of the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

8a -F the assembly of a part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

9a Figure 3b shows cross-sectional views of a portion of the electrosurgical instrument 3 are;

10a C is a blade guide part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

11 a snap-in part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

12 a blade angle alignment part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

13a Figure 2b shows cross-sectional views of the blade angle alignment part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

14a B is a blade angle control wheel part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

15a -B the rotational movement of the blade angle control wheel of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

16a -D the rotational movement of the end effector of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

17 a cross-sectional view of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows and illustrates a wiring path;

18a -B show details of an electrical wiring path in the electrosurgical instrument 3 is used;

19 showing further details of an electrical wiring path in the electrosurgical instrument 3 is used;

20a Figure-b shows side views of part of the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 are;

21 a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 is;

22 a cross-sectional view of another part of the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

23 a partially transparent perspective view of the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 is;

24a C the assembly of a part of the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

25a C shows cross-sectional views of the cutting mechanism and the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

26a -F are cross-sectional views illustrating the operation of the latching mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 illustrate;

27 a diagram is that the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument off 3 illustrated;

28a -B line drawings are the cutting mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 illustrate;

29a -B is a blade angle alignment part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

30 a perspective view of a portion of the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 is;

31 a partial cross-sectional view of the cutting mechanism and the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 is;

32 a partial cross-sectional view cutting mechanism and the clamping mechanism of the electrosurgical instrument 3 is;

33 the blade angle control wheel part and the electrode control switch of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

34 the blade angle control wheel part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

35a Figure 3b shows the handle of the electrosurgical instrument of Figure 1 held by users with different sized hands;

36a -C the rotational movement of the end effector of the electrosurgical instrument 3 demonstrate;

37 the rotational movement of the blade angle control wheel of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows;

38 a schematic perspective view of an example of an end effector;

39 an enlarged perspective view of a part of the end effector 38 is;

40 a schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the end effector 38 is;

41 a schematic perspective view of an alternative end effector is;

42 an enlarged perspective view of a part of the end effector 41 is

43 a schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the end effector 41 is

44 Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of part of another alternative end effector;

45 Figure 12 is an illustration of an electrosurgical system including a generator and an instrument according to embodiments of the invention;

46 Furthermore, a snap-in part of the electrosurgical instrument 3 shows and

47a -E the distal end of the in the electrosurgical instrument 3 used cutting blade illustrated.

Description of the embodiments

An embodiment of the invention will now be described. First, a brief overview of the entire embodiment is given followed by detailed descriptions of certain aspects thereof.

1. Overview of the structure of the instrument

1 shows an electrosurgical instrument 1 according to an example of the present invention. The instrument 1 includes a proximal handle portion 10 an outer shaft 12 extending in a distal direction away from the proximal handle portion and a distal end effector assembly 14 which is attached to a distal end of the outer shaft. The end effector assembly 14 For example, it may be a set of opposing jaws arranged to open and close, and may include one or more electrodes disposed on or formed from their opposed inner surfaces, and which in use may have terminals for receiving an electrosurgical Radio frequency (RF) signal for sealing or coagulating tissue. The jaws are further provided with a slot or other opening in the opposed inner surfaces through which a mechanical cutting blade or the like may protrude upon activation by the user. When using the handle becomes 10 Activated by the user in a first manner to allow tissue between the jaws 14 in a second way to provide the electrodes with RF current to coagulate the tissue. The jaws 14 can be curved so that the active elements of the instrument 1 always visible. This is important in vessel sealing devices which are used to operate on body regions that complicate the user's view of the device during use. The handle 10 can be activated by the user in a third way, to cause the blade between the jaws 14 protruding, which cuts between these clamped tissue. Upon completion of the required cutting and sealing, the user may remove the tissue from the jaws 14 release.

The handle 10 includes, as in 2 shown, a housing 20 from two shell moldings 300 . 302 All for the operation and rotation of the jaws 14 , which involves coagulating and cutting tissue required components. The shell moldings in the assembled device are ultrasonically welded after arranging the internal components in their interior. The handle 10 includes a clamping handle 22 for clamping tissue between the jaws 14 , a trigger 24 for cutting the fabric, a switch 26 to enable and disable the RF supply to the electrodes in the jaws 14 for coagulation of tissue, and a rotary wheel 28 for turning the jaws 14 for reaching tissue at different angles. The handle 10 is constructed so that the instrument 1 and all its functions can only be operated with one hand, with all operating mechanisms easily accessible.

3 shows all features of instrument 1 which are required to perform its functions, including those in the two shell moldings 300 . 302 of the housing 20 Recorded. For clamping tissue between the jaws 14 becomes a clamping mechanism using the clamping handle 22 actuated. The clamping handle 22 further comprises a collar ring 304 who is a joint 306 which acts as a fulcrum around which the clamping grip 22 rotates. At the joint 306 it may be, for example, two outwardly directed pins in corresponding moldings 308 Engage the integral with the shell moldings 300 . 302 are formed so as to provide an anchor point to which the clamping grip 22 rotates. The clamping mechanism further comprises a collar ring molding 310 , a feather 312 and an inner molding 314 , as in 4 to 7 all of which are along a drive shaft 316 lined up.

The collar ring 304 includes a passage opening 318 in which the collar ring molding 310 is included. The opening 318 has a larger diameter at the top than below, with the collar ring molding 310 is arranged to be in the lower part of the opening 318 to be included, like 8a illustrated. When assembling fits the collar ring molding 310 easily through the larger part of the opening 318 so that the collar ring 304 between two flanges 800 . 802 is included, how 8b -C show. How out 8d shows, the collar ring 304 then pushed up to the smaller part of the through hole 318 with the collar ring molding 310 to engage. Is the joint 306 with the joint moldings 308 inside the case 20 connected, the collar ring molding 310 in the lower part of the opening 318 kept where it is inside the opening 318 can rotate freely.

The collar ring molding 310 , the feather 312 and the inner molding 314 be like in 6 shown between protruding elements 600 . 602 held so that they do not axially over these protruding elements 600 . 602 can move out. In this regard, the above elements are 602 at the proximal end of the drive shaft 316 Compressible to allow the drive shaft 316 through a canal 604 in the proximal end of the inner molding 314 runs. The drive shaft 316 is through the channel 604 pushed until he got an opening 606 achieved, the above elements 602 then no longer be compressed, so that they are flush with the walls of the drive shaft 316 issue. Instead, the preceding elements become 602 fanned out and push against the walls of the opening 606 so that the width of the protruding elements 602 about the diameter of the channel 604 extends beyond. Consequently, the drive shaft can 316 not through the channel 604 be withdrawn and is engaged.

The distance between the protruding elements 600 . 602 is chosen so that the spring 312 at least partially between the collar ring molding 310 and the inner molding 314 is compressed. This pre-compression is essential to ensure that the proper clamping load is applied when the clamping mechanism is activated, as described in more detail below. Both the collar ring molding 310 as well as the inner molding 314 include cavities 608 . 610 into which the spring 312 extends. In particular, a substantial proportion of the length of the collar ring molding takes 310 the feather 312 on. This arrangement leaves a longer spring 312 to what is important to make sure that the spring 312 never reaches its block length during use.

The main body of the drive shaft 316 lies inside the outer shaft 12 , wherein the distal end of the drive shaft 316 both with the distal end of the outer shaft 12 as well as with the jaws 14 connected is. The drive shaft 316 moves axially within the outer shaft 12 and by this axial movement become the jaws 14 moved from an open to a closed position, like out 4 and 5a evident. The drive shaft 316 is for example by a drive pin 400 in a cam slot 402 to the jaws 14 coupled, with the movement of the drive pin 400 in the cam slot 402 the jaws 14 moved between the open and closed positions. The connection between the drive shaft 316 , the outer shaft 12 and the jaws 14 done so that a rotational movement of the drive shaft 316 on the outer shaft 12 and the jaws 14 is transmitted.

The outer shaft 12 and the drive shaft 316 are at another point by a shank molding 320 connected. The shank molding 320 is in a version 322 of the housing 20 and thus connects the outer shaft 12 with the housing 20 , The outer shaft 12 is by any suitable means on the shank molding 320 attached, such as by latching projections 900 that with corresponding grooves 902 in the shank molding 320 interact as in 9b is shown. The drive shaft 316 is through an opening (not shown), which is connected to the T-shaped cross section of the drive shaft 316 is adjusted through the body of the stem molding 320 led as through 10a illustrated. The shank molding 320 is arranged so that it is in the socket 322 can rotate freely. The shank molding 320 can, for example, cylindrical flange elements 904 . 906 include in concentric mating surfaces 908 . 910 rotate in the shell moldings 300 . 302 are provided. Thus, the shank molding rotates 320 with the drive shaft 316 which in turn causes this rotational movement on the outer shaft 12 and the jaws 4 transfers. The shank molding 320 thus acts as a rotation guide and axial guidance for the drive shaft 316 ,

The clamping handle 22 includes a latching element 324 which is arranged to engage with a snap-fit molding 326 cooperate, which in the proximal end 328 of the housing 20 is present. The snap-in molding 326 may be by any suitable means, such as by a molding pin 330 that is integral with one of the shell moldings 300 . 302 is formed, as in 3 represented, or simply through the molding walls 1100 , which are integral with the shell molding 300 are trained, as in 11 shown to be held in place. Will the clamping handle 22 in the direction of the housing 20 pounded around the jaws 14 to close, the latching element occurs 324 in the case 20 over an opening 1102 and arrives with the latching molding 326 engaged to the clamping handle 22 to hold in this position. How out 26a to 26f shows, includes the latching molding 326 a two way spring 1104 and a cam path 1106 , along which the latching element 324 emotional. As in 46 illustrated, the latching mechanism can also be an override component 4600 include to allow the user, the latch member 324 manually release if it gets stuck, and a lock component 4602 to completely deactivate the locking mechanism. The override component 4600 and the blocking component 4602 can on the latch molding 326 provided or inside the case 20 be integrated.

As described above, the handle includes 10 also a rotary wheel 28 , where the wheel 28 is arranged to the inner molding 314 enclose. For this purpose, point the wheel 28 and the inner molding 314 interlocking elements 1200 . 1202 on, like out 12 evident. These interlocking elements 1200 . 1202 connect in such a way that the wheel 28 and the inner molding 314 rotate together, further including an axial movement of the inner molding 314 within the wheel 28 is possible, like out 13a -B. Thus, a rotation of the rotary wheel causes 28 the rotation of the inner molding 314 , thus resulting in the drive shaft 316 and the collar ring molding 310 be set in rotation. For stability reasons, includes the wheel 28 cylindrical surfaces 1204 which rotate on inner mating surfaces (not shown), which are integral with the shell moldings 300 . 302 are formed.

To give a user the turning of the jaws 14 to allow, the housing has 20 two openings 332 . 334 on, through the notched sections 336 of the wheel 28 extend. The two openings 332 . 334 are opposite each other on both sides of the handle and are trapezoidal. In particular, the trapezoidal openings have parallel sides which are at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the handle, and one of the parallel sides may be longer than the other, with the longer side at the front end of the opening and the shorter side at the rear end of the opening is present. The notched sections 336 are chamfered in a suitable manner, so that they are well adapted to the thumb or the fingers of the user. These are the notched sections 336 Cropped at an angle to the plane of rotation, as in 14a -B is shown. In particular, the angle of the chamfered portion of the notched portions should be substantially the angle of the outer casing in the region of the rotary wheel 28 correspond.

The wheel 28 also includes at least one stop element 1500 for limiting the degree of rotation, as in 5a -B is shown. The stop element 1500 occurs with stop parts 1502 . 1504 that are integral with the housing 20 are formed, interact. Will the wheel 28 turned, the stopper becomes 1500 through the stop parts 1502 . 1504 blocked, preventing further rotation. The stop parts 1502 . 1504 For example, you can limit the rotation of the wheel to 270 °. Similarly, the stem molding includes 320 also a stop element 1600 that with stop parts 1602 . 1604 interacts with the housing in one piece 20 are trained, as in 16a -D can be seen. The stop element 1600 of the stem molding 320 and its corresponding stop part 1602 . 1604 are in relation to the stop element 1500 of the wheel 28 and its corresponding stop parts 1502 . 1504 aligned so that the rotation is restricted to the same extent. This means that when turning the wheel 28 the radial point at which the stop element 1500 on the wheel 28 is blocked, coincides with the radial point at which the stop element 1600 on the shaft molding 320 is blocked. In 15b and 16a were the jaws 14 for example, from a neutral orientation (the in 16b shown) rotated 90 ° counterclockwise. This freedom of rotation means that the user can grasp tissue from different angles without the entire instrument 1 to have to turn.

As described above, the switch is 26 provided to the electrodes in the jaws 14 via a suitable circuit, such as two intrusion proof switches on a small printed circuit board (PCB) 338 , fed RF signal 26 to activate or deactivate. How out 17 is the PCB 338 with a connection cable 1700 connected to receive the RF output signal from a generator (not shown) and with electrical leads 1702 . 1704 to the RF current to the electrodes in the jaws 14 supply, such as with a line for the active electrode and a line for the counter electrode. As in 17 and 18a -B is shown, are the wires 1702 . 1704 below and around the stem molding 320 wrapped before entering a guide slot 1800 in the inner cavity 1802 of the stem molding 320 enter and the outer shaft 12 down run. The wrapping of the stem molding 320 with the wires 1702 . 1704 that way keeps the wires 1702 . 1704 in a compact arrangement, for easy assembly while rotating the drive shaft 316 to enable. Here are the cables 1702 . 1704 with the rotation of the drive shaft 316 unwound and wound up again. In addition to this includes one of the shell moldings 300 also two shaped compartments 1900 . 1902 , which are arranged consecutively to the line contacts 1904 . 1906 which contain the active lines and return lines 1702 . 1704 with the wiring 1908 . 1910 the intrusion protected switch 338 connect. The opposite shell molding 302 includes corresponding rib portions (not shown) around the contacts 1904 . 1906 in the subjects 1900 . 1902 to keep. Consequently, the two line contacts 1904 . 1906 longitudinally separated so that only one contact through each compartment 1900 . 1902 can run, creating a physical barrier between each compartment 1904 . 1906 and each line is provided. This will increase the risk of one through the contacts 1904 . 1906 caused damage to the insulation on one of the wires prevents and at the same time the contacts 1904 . 1906 even protected from fluids that the outer shaft 12 along and into the housing 20 be able to walk.

Referring to the cutting mechanism is a blade 340 for cutting between the jaws 14 trapped tissue in a middle lane 342 along the length of the drive shaft 316 provided. The mechanism for operating the blade 340 along the train 342 and between the jaws 14 gets over the trigger 24 actuated. The trigger 24 actuates a drive assembly consisting of a trigger molding 344 , a blade drive molding 346 , a blade collar ring molding 348 , a tension spring 350 and a blade molding 352 , The drive arrangement is between the shaft molding 320 and the handle collar ring 304 arranged the clamping mechanism. As in 20a -B is shown, the drive assembly acts as a staggered crank mechanism through which the user pushes on the trigger 24 applied force in an axial movement of the blade molding 352 along the drive shaft 316 which in turn is the fortified blade 340 drives.

How out 21 . 22 and 23 shows, is the blade molding 352 arranged to be in the blade collar ring molding 348 to be included. As 22 shows comprises the blade collar ring molding 348 a lip edge 2200 into a depression 2202 around the circumference of the blade molding 352 runs around, intervenes. As 23 shows, has the blade molding 352 a T-shaped opening 2300 for receiving the drive shaft 316 and the blade 340 on. The blade molding 352 further includes an inner cutout 2100 , as 21 shows, for the proximal end of the blade 340 , being the end of the blade 2102 shaped so that it is the inner cutout 2100 of the blade molding 352 fits to allow easy assembly, as in 24a -C. The blade molding 352 is opposite the blade collar ring molding 348 independently rotatable so that the two mold parts can rotate concentrically. Consequently, the blade molding is 352 able to with the drive shaft 316 to rotate.

The jaws 14 can be curved as described above. To allow the blade 340 must be pushed around the curvature while maintaining sufficient cutting ability, the friction force of the cutting blade 340 be minimized in the curved path. The frictional force is a product of the coefficient of friction of the blade 340 in the train 342 and the power generated by bending the blade 340 on the walls of the train 342 is exercised. This frictional force may be, for example, by adding a friction-reducing coating on both sides of the blade and / or preferably weakening the blade 340 for grading the flexibility of the distal end of the blade so that it extends along the path 342 can bend and at the same time remains rigid in the cutting force direction to be reduced. The preferred weakening may be, for example, by providing one or more openings 354 take place in the distal end, as in 3 and 47a C, or by grading the thickness of the blade 340 , as in 47d shown. Alternatively, as in 47e shown, structured laser cutouts 4712 or chemical etching in the distal end to adjust the flexural rigidity along the blade length, wherein the spacings of such cutouts may be constant or incrementally increased from the distal to the proximal end.

When used, blood and tissue may be in the distal end of the instrument 1 accumulate. In particular, blood and tissue can cause the blade 340 inside the drive shaft 316 stuck. Therefore, the distal end of the drive shaft 316 cut out sections 1000 . 1002 Include around the surface of the drive shaft 316 to which blood and tissue can adhere, as in 10b -C shown. For example, the cut-out portions may be such that the distal end includes two side walls without a base, or that the distal end includes a base having bifurcated side walls.

2. Operation of the instrument

Having described the overall structure of the device, the overall operation of the electrosurgical instrument will now be described 1 explained in the application. This is followed by another detailed Description of the structure and operation of certain aspects of the device.

As explained above, the handle 10 of the electrosurgical instrument arranged to i) tissue between a set of jaws 14 (ii) snap the jaws in place (if the user so desires), iii) electrodes in the jaws 14 supplying an RF signal to coagulate the tissue clamped between them, and iv) a blade 340 between the jaws 14 to move to cut the between these clamped tissue. The handle 10 can the jaws 14 also rotate to allow the user to pinch tissue at different angles without the entire handle 10 to have to turn. As a result, the tissue clamped between the jaws can be sealed using the same electrosurgical instrument before or while it is being cut. In addition, this effect can be achieved by the instrument with one-handed operation by the surgeon.

2.1 clamping mechanism

For clamping tissue between the jaws 14 the user presses the clamping handle 22 towards the proximal end 328 of the housing 20 until the latching element 324 with the snap-in molding 326 inside the case 20 engaged. This movement causes a pivoting drive handle 22 around its joint 306 , as in 8e -F, and pushes the edge of the collar ring 304 against the flange 800 to the collar ring molding 310 , the spring and the inner molding 314 along the drive shaft 316 to move in the proximal direction, as in 4 and 5a shown. As described above, the inner molding is 314 at the drive shaft 316 by means of the above elements 602 attached. Will thus the inner molding 314 pushed back axially, is also the drive shaft 316 moved axially, causing the pin 400 in the cam slot 402 the jaws 14 is moved, causing the jaws 14 getting closed. This is how the power of the drive handle 22 about the spring mechanism of collar ring molding 310 , Feather 312 and inner molding 314 on the drive shaft 316 transfer.

Is tissue between the jaws 14 trapped, as in 5b shown, causes the spring 312 a limitation of the force acting on the tissue. Is the axial movement of collar ring molding 310 , Feather 312 and inner molding 314 finished and the collar ring 304 keep pushing against the flange 800 , finally becomes the threshold compressive force of the spring 312 achieved, so that the spring 312 begins, between the collar ring molding 310 and the inner molding 314 to compress. Compress the spring 312 further, the drive handle can 22 be moved to the locked position, without any further force is exerted on the clamped tissue. That means the power of the drive handle 22 no longer on the drive shaft 316 is transmitted, but effectively by the spring 312 is absorbed. Thus, the spring provides 312 sure the right amount of force on the jaws 14 is transmitted. Without the spring 312 causes actuation of the drive handle 22 a continued increase in the drive shaft 316 and subsequently on the jaws 14 and the tissue transmitted power. Dis could cause mechanical damage to the tissue when the user uses the drive handle 22 pushes further to this with the latching element 324 to engage.

As explained above, the cavities act 608 . 610 in the collar ring molding 310 and the inner molding 314 together, to provide a larger spring 312 to enable. This allows for a larger spring stroke, leaving the spring 312 is not compressed to its jounce length during use. Reach the spring 312 her jounce length, she would no longer the through the drive handle 22 absorb applied force, and the force would reappear on the jaws 14 be transmitted.

2.2 latching mechanism

Is tissue between the jaws 14 sandwiched, the jaws can 14 be locked in a closed position by the latching element 324 on the drive handle with the latching molding 326 inside the case 20 is engaged, as in 26a -F. With the entry of the latching element 324 in the case 20 through the opening 1102 , Arrives the latching element 324 with the snap-in molding 326 engaged, causing the molding 326 in the case 20 pushed down and thereby the spring 1104 is pulled apart. As in 26b C, the latching element moves 324 at the side of the cam path 1106 up until it reaches its maximum position. At this point, the drive handle can 22 Do not squeeze further, and the spring 1104 pulls the catch molding 326 inside the case 20 back up, leaving the latching element 324 in the V-shaped compartment of the cam track 1106 is plugged in to the drive handle 22 in the compressed position and the jaws 14 to hold in the closed position, as in 26d shown.

In this locked position, the user's hand is free to operate the other functions of the instrument 1 as explained below.

To the latching element 324 out of the case 20 release and the jaws 14 To open the user must have the drive handle 22 in the direction of the housing 20 Press to lock the latch 324 from the compartment of the cam path 1106 to solve, as in 26e shown. The power of the spring 1104 pulls the catch molding 326 further into the housing 20 up, leaving the latching element 324 in the opposite direction to the side of the cam path 1106 down, like in 26e -F shown, and back from the opening 1102 moved out. The snap-in molding 326 then returns to its starting position inside the housing 20 back.

2.3 cutting mechanism

When the jaws 14 in a closed position, the user may want to cut the tissue sandwiched between them. To cut the fabric is a blade 340 by actuating the drive assembly between the jaws 14 advanced.

The drive assembly is a three-pivot point arrangement that functions as a slider crank mechanism. If the user pulls the trigger 24 back towards the case 20 , as in 25b -C, the trigger molding becomes 344 levered about a pivot point A, which on the housing 20 is anchored, such as in the form of outwardly directed pins 358 that with appropriate moldings 356 , which are integral with the shell moldings 300 . 302 out 3 are trained to be associated. As a result, the pivot point B, which is the trigger molding 344 and the drive molding 346 connects, pushed over its central position, causing the blade collar ring 348 , the blade molding 352 and the blade 340 with a force sufficient to make the blade 340 the trapped tissue can cut along the drive shaft 316 be offset. In this context, the on the trigger 24 applied force over the trigger molding 344 and the drive molding 346 on the blade collar ring 348 and the blade molding 352 transfer. As the pivot point B moves beyond the midpoint to its advanced position, the speed of the blade collar ring increases 348 and the blade molding 352 along the drive shaft 316 be offset, causing the on the blade 340 acting force is increased. Thus, the force with which the blade rises 340 cuts into the tissue without the user extra force on the trigger 24 exercises.

The shank molding 320 acts as a stop point for the blade collar ring 348 and the blade molding 352 , Consequently, the pivot point B remains with respect to the drive shaft 316 always above the other two pivot points A, C.

While operating the shutter 24 is that on the trigger 24 applied force sufficiently high to the compression force of the tension spring 350 overcome so that it extends along the same plane as the drive shaft 316 to an axial movement of the blade collar ring 348 and the blade molding 352 to enable. When releasing the trigger 24 becomes the tension spring 350 compressed again to retract the drive assembly to its original position. The tension is the tension spring 350 strong enough to the blade 340 retract through thick tissue without the user having to intervene.

2.4 Shaft rotation

During use, the user may need to access tissue from different angles without the entire instrument 1 to have to move. Because of this, the jaws are 14 advantageously by the rotary wheel 28 in terms of the handle 10 rotatable. This is especially beneficial when the jaws 14 be present on a curved path, as in 16a -D shown. As explained above, the wheel is 28 with the inner molding 314 about interlocking elements 1200 . 1202 connected so that the inner molding 314 with the wheel 28 rotates. Because the end of the drive shaft 316 with the inner molding 314 connected, the drive shaft rotates 316 as well, which subsequently also causes the jaws 14 be turned at its opposite end.

To enable this rotational movement without affecting the function of the clamping mechanism, the collar ring molding is 310 in the grip collar ring 304 independently rotatable, so that the collar ring molding 310 also with the drive shaft 316 rotates. Similarly, the blade molding is 352 for enabling rotation of the drive shaft 316 without affecting the function of the cutting mechanism in the blade collar ring 348 independently rotatable.

For transmitting the rotational movement to the outer shaft 12 is the shank molding 320 in his version 322 rotatable. As described above, the shank molding functions 320 as a rotation guide for controlling the rotational movement with respect to the shaft 316 along the entire length of the instrument 1 , In addition, the active lines and return lines are 1702 . 1704 inside the case 20 arranged to damage these wires 1702 . 1704 by preventing the rotating components. As described above, the leads are 1702 . 1704 around that Shank form part 320 wound to the degree of rotation of the drive shaft 316 to enable. Consequently, the lines become 1702 . 1704 unwound and again around the stem molding 320 wrapped when this rotates.

2.5 Electrode activation

Are the jaws 14 in a closed position, the user may want to coagulate and seal the tissue sandwiched between them. For this purpose, the user initiates electrode activation using the switch 26 on the case 20 , which is conveniently arranged so that the user simply clicks on the switch 26 while the device is operating with one hand. This will cause an RF signal to enter the electrodes in the jaws 14 supplied to coagulate and seal the tissue. The RF signal may have a pure or mixed waveform depending on the desired effect.

After an overview of the structure and operation of the entire device, now follow more detailed descriptions of the structure and operation of certain aspects thereof.

3. Construction and operation of the clamping mechanism

As described above, the proximal handle portion comprises 10 of the electrosurgical instrument 1 a first mechanism for actuating an aspect of a distal end effector assembly 14 so that the end effector assembly 14 changes between a first and a second state. In the end effector assembly 14 For example, it may be a set of opposing jaws 14 act, which are arranged to be opened and closed. The mechanism that triggers the movement of these jaws 14 is used, the so-called clamping mechanism, which is a drive handle 22 and two barrel-shaped moldings 310 . 314 with a spring compressed between them 312 includes, with all elements along an elongate rod 316 lined up between the jaws 14 and the handle 10 extends, as in 4 and 5a -B shown.

How out 8a shows, includes the drive handle 22 a collar ring 304 in which the collar ring molding 310 is included. The collar ring 304 includes an opening 318 that look like a keyhole or the number 8th is shaped. The opening 318 consists of two adjoining openings 804 . 806 , the upper opening 804 has a larger diameter than the lower opening 806 ,

The collar ring molding 310 is a cylindrical or barrel-shaped component with two flange sections 800 . 802 which are spaced longitudinally. The diameter of the proximal flange 800 is larger than that of the upper and lower openings 804 . 806 , The diameter of the distal flange 802 is smaller than the upper opening 804 but larger than the lower opening 806 ,

During assembly, first the collar ring molding 310 through the upper opening 804 introduced, as in 8b -C shown. Because the distal flange 802 smaller than the upper opening 804 , it passes through this easily, while the proximal flange 800 big enough to prevent the collar ring molding 310 completely through the top opening 804 is advanced. How out 8d shows, the collar ring 304 then pushed up to the lower opening 806 with the collar ring molding 310 to engage.

After assembly, the collar ring molding remains 310 inside the lower opening 806 of the collar ring 304 and is arranged so that its two flanges 800 . 802 on both sides of the collar ring 304 exist, as from 8e evident. Because the lower opening 806 a smaller diameter than both flanges 800 . 802 may, the collar ring molding 310 Do not be removed by simply passing through the bottom opening 806 is pushed. In contrast, the body of the collar ring molding 310 between the two flanges 800 . 802 a slightly smaller diameter than the lower opening 806 , Thus, the collar ring molding is 310 sufficiently loose in the lower opening 808 recorded to allow a rotational movement.

How out 8e As can be seen, the distance is in the longitudinal direction between the two flanges 800 . 802 only slightly larger than the thickness of the collar ring 304 so that this fits exactly between the flanges 800 . 802 is included. This will ensure that the movement of the drive handle 22 directly on the collar ring molding 310 and subsequently transferred to the other components of the clamping mechanism. This is especially essential to ensure that the jaws 14 on the movement of the drive handle 22 react and that there is no delayed reaction between actuation of the drive handle 22 and the movement of the jaws 14 gives.

Are the collar ring molding 310 and the drive handle 22 assembled, the remaining components can be joined together.

The drive shaft 316 is an elongated rod with one or more protruding elements 602 which are arranged at its proximal end, as in 6 shown. The above elements 602 are flexible extensions that extend from the surface of the drive shaft 316 are fanned out. That means the preceding elements 602 are deformable so that they are flush with the surface of the drive shaft 316 can be pressed, but return to their starting position when they are relieved of a drag. This allows easy pushing through the drive shaft 316 through all components of the clamping mechanism during assembly, as will be described below.

The collar ring molding 310 has a divided into two parts inner cavity. The first part is a narrow channel or slot 607 for receiving the drive shaft 316 , wherein the distal end of the collar ring molding 310 an opening 311 includes, as in 3 shown, which to the T-shaped cross-section of the drive shaft 316 fits. The diameter of the channel 607 is just a little further than the drive shaft 316 to provide a tight fit for better stability. When inserting the drive shaft 316 become the above elements 602 pressed flat to allow the drive shaft is pushed completely through.

The second part is a chamber 608 that is big enough to hold one end of the spring 312 take. The chamber 608 may be over any suitable part of the length of the collar ring molding 310 extend. The length of the chamber 608 For example, about 25% of the length of the collar ring molding 310 up to 75% of the length of the collar ring molding 310 be.

The chamber 608 is much larger than the Kragenringformteilkanal 607 so that the drive shaft 316 through the collar ring molding 310 is pushed, the protruding elements 602 once again extend outwards into their original structure when they enter the chamber 608 to reach.

The collar ring molding 310 and drive handle 22 Arrangement is made along the drive shaft 316 pushed until the collar ring molding 310 a second set of the above elements 600 reached. These protruding elements 600 have a greater width than the opening 311 on the collar ring molding 310 to form an obstacle that prevents the collar ring molding 310 continue along the drive shaft 316 emotional. For this purpose, the above elements must 600 be sufficiently stiff, so that the collar ring molding 310 not by applying force or pushing the protruding elements inward 600 can be pushed past this.

The drive shaft 316 is then through the middle of the spring 312 pushed. The feather 312 preferably has a diameter which is only slightly larger than that of the drive shaft 312 so a closer fit between the spring 312 and the drive shaft 316 provide. The feather 312 is then along the drive shaft 316 pushed until the end of the spring 312 the collar ring molding compartment 608 crowded.

The inner molding 314 is a cylindrical or barrel-shaped component with an internal cavity divided into two sections. The first section is a chamber 610 in which one end of the spring 312 so absorbed is that the spring 312 partly through the collar ring molding 310 and the inner molding 314 is enclosed. The second section is a narrow channel or slot 603 for receiving the proximal end of the drive shaft 316 , The channel 603 is in two parts 604 . 606 divided. The first part of the channel 604 is shaped so that it passes through the drive shaft 316 allows, with the flexible extensions 602 be pressed flat. For this purpose, the diameter of the first channel part 604 only slightly larger than that of the drive shaft 316 to provide a tight fit. The tight fit of the drive shaft 316 both in the collar ring molding channel 607 as well as in the channel 603 of the inner molding means that the drive shaft 316 firmly held in place. This will increase the stability of the drive shaft 316 in the case 20 especially to ensure maximum control of the end effector 14 is essential.

The second part of the canal 606 put a shoulder 605 ready, in which the above elements 602 can extend. Kick the drive shaft 316 through the channel 604 through and into the second channel part 606 The flattened protruding elements fan out 602 therefore again in their original uncompressed position. After the above elements 602 with the shoulder 605 of the second channel part 606 have engaged, the drive shaft 316 not through the first channel part 604 be withdrawn and thus in the inner molding 314 held. This requires the diameter of the second channel part 606 be sufficiently wide so that the protruding elements 602 over the diameter of the first channel part 604 extend beyond. To produce this locking connection is only on one side of the drive shaft 316 a protruding element 602 required.

This locking connection is designed so that any axial movement of the inner molding 314 on the drive shaft 316 is transmitted. Similarly, any rotational movement of the inner molding 314 , For example, by the around the inner molding 314 trained rotary wheel 28 , also on the drive shaft 316 transfer.

At the conclusion of the assembly of the clamping mechanism of the drive shaft 316 simply through the collar ring molding 310 , the feather 312 and finally the inner molding 314 pushed until the protruding elements 602 in the second channel part 606 engage.

After arranging along the drive shaft 316 are the collar ring molding 310 , the feather 312 and the inner molding 314 arranged so that the spring 312 partly from the collar ring molding 310 and the inner molding 314 is enclosed. By providing the Kragenringformteilkammer 608 and the chamber 610 the inner molding, wherein an essential part of the spring 312 can be absorbed, can be a longer spring 312 Can be used without extra space in the handle 10 is needed. The larger the Kragenringformteilkammer 608 and the chamber 610 of the inner molding, the longer the spring 312 , In addition, the distance between the protruding elements means 600 . 602 that the ends of the spring 312 through the end walls 612 . 614 the collar ring molding chamber 608 or the chamber 610 of the inner molding are compressed so that the spring 312 undergoes an initial pre-compression during installation. This is important to ensure that when the handle is pressed 22 to activate the clamping mechanism the right force on the jaws 14 is exercised.

In addition, the inner molding 314 in another barrel-shaped molding, such as the wheel 28 be included as in 13a -B shown. This is where the inner molding turns 314 with the wheel 28 but is free to move axially in the internal cavity 1300 of the wheel 28 between a first position, as in 13a represented, and a second position, as in 13b shown to move. Consequently, the rotation of the wheel turns 28 the inner molding 314 , which in turn is the driving shaft 316 and the jaws 14 rotates.

After joining all the components, the drive handle 22 in the case 20 to be built in. For this purpose, the drive handle 22 at his joint 306 connected to the housing. At the joint 306 it may be, for example, two outwardly extending pins, with corresponding joint moldings 308 , which are integral with the shell moldings 300 . 302 are trained, fit together. This provides an anchor point around the drive handle 22 can rotate.

Thus, the arrangement described above provides a mechanism for actuating the end effector assembly 14 ready, which can be assembled easily and safely without any additional components.

In the application, the user presses the drive handle 22 towards the proximal end 328 of the housing 20 , causing the drive handle 22 around his joint 306 is turned. The collar ring presses 304 against the proximal flange 800 , whereby the collar ring molding 310 is moved in the longitudinal direction. This longitudinal movement displaces the spring 312 , the inner molding 314 and the drive shaft 316 back toward the proximal end of the handle portion 10 , like out 5a evident. Because the drive shaft 316 with the jaws 14 is connected, for example by an arrangement of pen 400 and cam slot 402 , the jaws become 14 moved from the open to the closed position. The power of the drive handle 22 is doing about the spring mechanism of collar ring molding 310 , Feather 312 and inner molding 314 on the drive shaft 316 transfer. This spring mechanism is especially important as it limits the amount of jamming between the jaws 14 pinched tissue acting force causes.

When the drive handle is pressed 22 put the collar ring molding 310 , the feather 312 and the inner molding 314 their axial movement continues until either the inner molding 314 reaches its extreme proximal position, leaving the jaws 14 are completely closed, as in 5a represented, or the jaws 14 due to between these clamped tissue 500 can not be further closed, as in 5b represented, in which case the drive handle 22 is not fully actuated, so that he by the latching element 324 is held in place. The user presses the drive handle 22 Continue and push the collar ring 304 continue against the flange 800 , finally becomes the threshold compressive force of the spring 312 achieved, so that the spring 312 begins, between the collar ring molding 310 and the inner molding 314 to be squeezed as in 5b can be seen.

Will the spring 312 further compressed, the drive handle 22 be displaced to the latched position, without any further force on the clamped tissue 500 is exercised. That means the power of the drive handle 22 no longer on the drive shaft 316 is transmitted, but effectively by the spring 312 is absorbed. This puts the spring 312 sure the right amount of force on the jaws 14 is transmitted. Without the spring 312 causes the actuation of the drive handle 22 continued one Increase the on the drive shaft 316 and consequently on the jaws 14 and the tissue 500 applied force. This could cause mechanical damage to the tissue 500 lead when the user the drive handle 22 pushes it to engage the latch 324 bring to.

For this reason, the precompression of the spring 312 important to make sure that the spring 312 the power of the handle 22 absorbs as soon as the inner molding 314 reaches its axial end position. Similarly, a longer spring allows 312 a longer spring stroke, leaving the spring 312 is not completely compressed to its block length during use. Reach the spring 312 her block length, she would no longer be the one through the drive handle 22 absorb applied force and the force would reappear on the jaws 14 be transmitted.

To the jaws 14 to hold in its closed position, the latching element must 324 on the drive handle 22 with the snap-in molding 326 inside the proximal end 328 of the housing 20 be engaged as in 26a -F is shown.

11 shows that the latch molding 326 a single integrally molded component is a body portion 1108 , a spring element 1104 and a cam path 1106 includes. The proximal end 328 of the housing 20 has parallel walls 1100 on that one channel 1110 define in which the body section 1108 is included. The width of the channel 1110 is chosen so that the body section 1108 in the channel 1110 is held, but still able to while in the channel 1110 slide up and down as described below. For this purpose there is the snap-in molding 326 preferably of a low friction material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), to allow the body portion 1108 easy in the channel 1110 slides without sticking. For more stability in the channel 1112 can be a shaped pin 330 in the case 20 be provided, which with a cam slot 331 engaged on the body portion 1108 is provided as in 46 shown.

The feather 1104 is at the end of the body section 1108 placed and is arranged around the body section 1108 in the channel 1110 upwards towards the distal end of the housing 20 pretension. The feather 1104 may be of any suitable construction; For example, the spring 1104 have a curved shape or a loop shape, as in 11 shown. The cam path 1106 is one on the body section 1108 Molded projecting molding. The cam path 1106 includes a first cam surface 1112 , a groove 1114 and a second cam surface 1116 to form a V-shaped molding.

The latching element 324 consists of an arm 1118 that extends from the bottom of the drive handle 22 extends. The arm 1118 has a pen 1120 which is located at its end and is adapted to move along the cam path 1106 to move.

In the application, the latching element 324 over an opening 1102 in the case 20 brought in. The pencil 1120 arrives with the latching molding 326 engaged so that the body section 1108 in the canal 1110 pulled down, causing the spring 1104 is pulled apart. As in 26b -C, the pen moves 1120 along the side of the first cam surface 1112 until he reaches the top of the "V". At this point, the drive handle can 22 do not be pressed down further and the spring 1104 pulls the body section 1108 in the canal 1110 back up, leaving the pen 1110 in the groove 1114 abuts, causing the drive handle 22 held in the depressed position and the jaws 14 be kept in the closed position, as in 26d shown.

To the drive handle 22 to lock in place, therefore, the user only has to activate the drive handle in the fully depressed position, wait for the pin to clear 1110 in the groove 1114 engages, and then the drive handle 22 to solve. In this locked position, the user's hand is free to use other functions of the instrument 1 such as operating the cutting mechanism using the trigger 24 , Turning the jaws 14 using the rotary wheel 28 or actuating the electrodes in the jaws 14 using the switch 26 ,

To the latching element 324 out of the case 20 release and the jaws 14 To open, the user needs the drive handle 22 once again towards the case 20 to press. This will make the pen 1120 out of the groove 1114 released as in 26e shown. If the pen 1120 out of the groove 1114 occurs, pulls the force of the preloaded spring 1104 the body section 1108 in the canal 1110 back up so that the pin moves along the side of the second cam surface 1116 moves, as in 26e -F shown. If the pen 1120 the bottom of the second cam surface 1116 reached, he presses the body section 1108 continue in the canal 1110 up, so the pen 1120 again from the opening 1102 can occur. The body section 1108 can then return to its original position in the channel 1110 to return.

To the drive handle 22 To solve, the user only needs the drive handle 22 towards the proximal end of the housing 20 press and then the drive handle 22 return to its original open position.

Furthermore, the latch molding 324 an override button 4600 include, on the body section 1108 is integrally formed, as in 46 shown, with the override button 4600 is engaged so that the position of the cam path 1106 so that changes the pen 1120 automatically out of the groove 1114 kicks and the drive handle 22 releases. Thus, if the latch mechanism failed for some reason, the user would be able to access the drive handle 22 to solve the jaws 14 to open.

The body section 1108 Can also be equipped with an integrated locking bar 4602 be provided to allow the user to solve the entire latching mechanism, wherein the locking bar 4602 between a first and a second position is movable about the body portion 1108 in the canal 1110 manually move. If the locking bar 4602 is in the first position, is the body portion 1108 in its normal position so that the latch mechanism works as above. The user can then use the locking bar 4602 move to their second position, eliminating the body section 1108 in the canal 1110 is moved up, leaving the pen 1120 only the second cam surface 1116 can go through and thereby prevents it from being with the groove 1114 engaged.

Such a latching mechanism is also suitable for many Endeffektoranordnungen. For example, such a latch on the trigger 24 be provided for the cutting mechanism to the cutting blade 340 to hold in the activated position.

When releasing the latching element 324 can the drive handle 22 be moved back to its original position. This puts the collar ring 304 free the load on the proximal flange 800 is applied, and presses against the distal flange 802 , whereby the collar ring molding 310 is pulled back to its original axial position. Consequently, also the spring 312 , the inner molding 314 and the drive shaft 316 axially withdrawn, which in turn causes the jaws 14 returned to the open configuration.

4. Arrangement and operation of the cutting mechanism

Various features and aspects relating to the structure and operation of the cutting mechanism will now be described. As described above, the proximal handle portion comprises 10 of the electrosurgical instrument 1 a second mechanism for actuating a further aspect of a distal end effector assembly 14 , For example, the end effector assembly 14 a set of opposing jaws 14 and a blade 340 be with the distal end of the blade 340 is arranged to between the jaws 14 to slide around between these jaws 14 to cut clamped tissue. The mechanism used to move the blade 340 in a central train 341 of the drive shaft 316 is arranged to trigger, is the so-called cutting mechanism. The cutting mechanism includes a drive arm 2000 , a blade drive molding 346 , a blade collar ring molding 348 , a blade molding 352 and a tension spring 350 , which are all coupled together to form a 3-pivot pusher mechanism, as in FIG 20a -B as well 31 and 32 shown.

The drive arm 2000 is from a trigger 24 and the trigger molding 344 trained, the trigger 24 is a finger-gripping element for triggering the cutting mechanism and the trigger molding 344 a collar ring with a C-shaped side profile and an opening 364 is through which the drive shaft 316 is inserted. The point where the trigger 24 and the trigger molding 344 collide, forming a pivot point A around which the drive arm 2000 is turned. This first pivot point A is on the housing 20 anchored, for example by means of outwardly facing pins 358 that with appropriate moldings 356 that with the shell moldings 300 . 302 are integrally formed, are connected.

The distal end of the drive arm 2000 that is the end of the trigger molding 344 , is with the blade drive molding 346 pivotally connected to form a second pivot point B. The blade drive molding 346 is an H-shaped frame with two parallel arms and an intermediate strut. Thus, the parallel arms of the blade drive molding 346 at one end with the trigger molding 344 pivotally connected, for example by means of outwardly facing pins 366 and mating connectors 368 , At the opposite end are the parallel arms of the blade drive molding 346 also with the Klingenkragenringformteil 348 pivotally connected to form a third pivot point C, for example by means of outwardly facing pins 372 and matching connector 370 ,

As in 21 to 23 shown is the blade collar ring molding 348 a cylindrical or barrel-shaped component with a chamber 2104 in which the blade molding 352 sits, with the blade molding 352 a cylindrical or barrel-shaped component with a body 362 that is in the chamber 2104 of the blade collar ring molding 348 is fitted. The blade molding 352 further includes a flange 360 with a diameter larger than that of the chamber 2104 so that the flange 360 against the distal edge of the lip 2200 of the blade collar ring molding 348 comes into plant, as in 22 shown. As a result, the flange ensures 360 that the correct end of the blade molding 352 is introduced into the blade collar ring molding.

The body 362 is with a small groove 2202 provided around its circumference to provide a shoulder with the distal nose 2200 is engaged, so that the blade molding 352 and the blade collar molding 348 are connected to each other via a latching connection. The distal lip rim 2200 fits with the groove 2202 together to the blade molding 352 in the blade collar ring molding 348 while holding the blade molding 352 in the chamber 2104 can rotate freely. Thus, the blade molding 352 and the blade collar molding 348 free to rotate concentrically.

Once the blade collar ring molding 348 and the blade molding 352 are composed, the blade can 340 as in 24a -C shown. In this regard, the blade comprises molding 352 a T-shaped opening 2300 which extends along its length and is shaped to hold both the blade 340 as well as the drive shaft 316 as in 23 shown.

The proximal end of the blade 340 includes an engagement element 2102 which extends further than the general profile of the remaining part of the blade 340 that is, it is not in the same axial plane. As in 24c shown, the body includes 362 also a recess 2100 in which the engaging element 2102 is held. To allow for placement, the proximal end of the blade is 340 in a first point, the engagement element 2102 Opposite, cut off to a sloping edge 2400 and is at a second point adjacent to the engagement element 2102 cut out to a recessed section 2402 provide. Thus, the proximal end of the blade points 340 an L-shaped profile.

To the blade 340 in the arrangement of blade molding 352 and blade collar ring molding 348 to arrange, the blade becomes 340 at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the instrument 1 opposite the T-shaped opening 2300 aligned such that the engagement element 2102 and the sloping edge 2400 in the inner cavity 2404 of the blade molding 352 can be introduced as in 24a -B shown. Then the blade 340 pulled in a line with the longitudinal axis down to the engagement element 2102 in the recess 2100 to press, as in 24c shown. Thus, the engagement element 2102 effective with the shoulder 2406 of the blade molding 352 hooked, causing the proximal end of the blade 340 in the inner cavity 2404 is held.

The drive shaft 316 can then through the T-shaped opening 2300 be inserted, with the blade 340 in the central railway 342 is included as through 22 and 23 shown. Thus, by a longitudinal movement of the arrangement of blade collar ring molding 348 and blade molding 352 along the drive shaft 316 the blade 340 along the train 342 postponed.

To complete the blade-trigger assembly, a tension spring extends 350 between the blade collar molding 348 and the drive arm 2000 , for example by means of hooks 2002 . 2004 ,

In the application, the user pulls the trigger 24 back to the case 20 , as in 25b -C shown so that the drive arm 2000 is pivoted about the first pivot point A. Thereby, the second pivot point B is pushed forward in the distal direction, causing the drive molding 346 the arrangement of blade collar ring molding 348 and blade molding 352 pushes the drive shaft along. The on the trigger 24 exerted load is therefore on the trigger molding 344 and the drive molding 346 on the blade collar ring molding 348 and the blade molding 352 transfer. Because the proximal end of the blade 340 in the blade molding 352 held as described above, the blade slides 340 with the arrangement of blade collar ring molding 348 and blade molding 352 along the central railway 342 , As the blade molding 352 in the blade collar ring molding 348 is independently rotatable, the drive shaft 316 be rotated without affecting the operation of the cutting mechanism.

The functioning of the mechanism is optimized to ensure good force transmission at the beginning of the course of the blade 340 when the user's finger is stretched and less strong, and also at the end of the course of the blade 340 provide where more forces against the course of the blade 340 work, such as the power of the spring 350 , Friction within the web 342 and the force required to penetrate thick tissue. As based on 27 is seen by the user a constant force on the trigger 24 exercised. The mechanism transforms this triggering force into a high initial power of the blade 340 that decreases when the blade 340 along the train 342 is moved, and again increases when the blade 340 the jaws 14 reached. If the pivot point B is different from his retracted position moves to its advanced position, as in 28a -B shown, so that β> 90 °, therefore, the speed with which the blade collar ring 348 and the blade molding 352 along the drive shaft 316 be offset, increasing, reducing the power of the blade 340 is increased.

Thus, the mechanism is capable of the blade 340 with enough force to push on that between the jaws 14 effectively pinching trapped tissue without the user releasing the trigger 24 would have to apply additional force.

Furthermore, the cutting mechanism may require the blade 340 around a curved set of jaws 14 pushes around what the friction forces against the course of the blade 340 work, enlarged. The frictional force is a product of the coefficient of friction of the blade 340 within the railway 342 and the power of the blade 340 as a result of bending on walls of a course 342 exercises.

To reduce this frictional force, the lateral flexibility of the distal end of the blade may be stepped. Such graded flexibility can be achieved, for example, in which preferably the blade 340 weakened so that she is able to move along the track 342 to bend while remaining rigid in the direction of the cutting force. A preferred weakening may be, for example, by providing one or more openings or one or more slots 354 be reached in the distal end, as in 47a shown. Such openings may be of constant or varying size or shape, depending on the degree of flexibility required. For example, in 47b two adjacent openings 4702 . 4704 provided with different sizes, with the larger opening 4702 a higher degree of flexibility than the smaller opening 4704 , As another example are in 47c three openings 4706 . 4708 . 4710 provided by varying size and shape, with the largest opening 4706 located distally to provide increased flexibility in this region. A preferred weakening may also be achieved by grading the thickness of the blade 340 be reached, leaving the distal end of the blade 340 bevelled 4,700 is how in 47d shown.

Alternatively, patterned laser cuts 4702 or chemical etches are applied in the distal end to increase the flexural strength over a length of the blade 340 to control how in 47e whereby the distance between such cuts may be constant or may gradually increase from the distal to the proximal end.

Preferably, the blade is 340 subdivided into at least three regions of varying flexibility, for example, a distal region, a middle region, and a proximal region, wherein the distal region has greater lateral flexibility than the middle region, and the middle region has greater flexibility than the proximal region. For example, the distal region may be from a bevelled end 4,700 be formed to provide the greatest degree of flexibility; may be the middle region with an opening 354 be formed to provide a relatively lower degree of flexibility; and the proximal region may be formed by a solid rod to provide even less flexibility, as in US Pat 47a shown. In another, in 47b As shown, the distal region has a large opening 4702 to provide the greatest degree of flexibility; The middle region includes a smaller opening 4704 to provide reduced flexibility; and the proximal region is again a solid rod with the least amount of flexibility. The distal region, middle region, and proximal region may be obtained using any suitable combination of the preferred debuffing described above.

Another way to reduce the frictional force due to the curved path is to provide a low friction coating on at least one side of the distal end of the blade 340 applied. For example, the blade may be coated, for example, using physical vapor deposition (PVD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques with a low friction or non-adherent material, such as a PTFE composite or other low friction polymer composite ,

5. drainage openings

There are now various other features and aspects regarding the structure of the drive shaft 316 described. As described above, the drive shaft 316 an elongated rod with a T-shaped cross section, as in 10a shown. The drive shaft 316 includes a slot or a track 342 along its length, which is suitable for receiving a further elongated element, such as the cutting blade 340 used in the cutting mechanism described above. In one application, a sliding of the cutting blade 340 along the length of the drive shaft 316 causes the distal end of the cutting blade 340 between the jaws 14 to move to intersect clamped tissue.

Over time, blood and tissue may be in the distal end of the instrument 1 collect, especially along the outer shaft 12 and the drive shaft 316 , This accumulation of blood and Tissue can cause the blade 340 in the drive shaft 316 sticks, what the functioning of the instrument 1 , in particular the cutting mechanism, reduced. To prevent this are portions of the distal end of the drive shaft 316 cut out so that the contact surface between the drive shaft 316 and the blade 340 and thus also the surface on which blood and tissue can adhere is reduced.

These cut out sections may have openings like those in 10b -C elongated window shown 1000 . 1002 Be, so that the distal end of the drive shaft 316 includes a supportive base with bifurcated sidewalls. The cut-out sections can also become the base of the drive shaft 316 extend so that the distal end includes bifurcated sidewalls and an open bottom. To the degree of through these openings 1000 . 1002 to maximize provided drainage, the apertures preferably make more than 50% of the depth of the drive shaft 316 out.

Thus, these openings represent 1000 . 1002 Drainage openings between the central track 342 and the exterior of the drive shaft 316 ready.

6. Rotary knob and switch

There are now various other features and aspects related to the operation of the thumbwheel 28 (also referred to as a rotary wheel) described. The thumbwheel 28 is provided to allow the user the outer shaft 12 on which the end effector assembly 14 is appropriate to turn. To reduce the space required to create a more compact instrument, the internal volume becomes 1300 of the setting wheel 28 also used to provide a movement space for the inner molding 314 to provide a part of the previously described clamping mechanism. With such an arrangement, a more compact mechanism can be obtained.

In detail includes the wheel 28 (Also referred to here as a thumbwheel), a tooth-like plastic wheel with a variety of notched sections 336 which are arranged around its outside diameter. The thumbwheel 28 has the appearance of a gear, wherein the notched cut-out portions are arranged to accommodate a user's thumb in an ergonomic manner. In this regard and as in 13a . 13b , especially in 14a In more detail, the notched portions lie in use at an angle to the plane of rotation of the thumbwheel, so that in general the thumbwheel or rotary wheel 28 has a slightly frusto-conical shape, which is wider at an end remote from the user than at the user's near end. The notched sections 336 each extend from the distal edge of the thumbwheel to the proximal edge and are curved in shape or saddle-like to receive a user's thumb in use. How detailed in 14a shown, fits the angular shape of the notched sections 336 for achieving the truncated cone shape of the rotary wheel 28 , generally to the angle of the body of the instrument. In 14a the dotted lines illustrate the angular shape of the notches 336 around the edge of the wheel 28 which can be viewed in the distal direction tangential to the angle of the outer walls of the instrument at the point around the wheel, and in particular the portion of the outer walls of the instrument, immediately in front of the wheel. Such an arrangement, in which the angled notches of the outer edge of the rotary wheel to the angle of the wall of the instrument fit around the wheel, provides a comfortable and ergonomic shape that is easy to use by the surgeon.

In terms of the number of notched sections 336 around the outer diameter of the wheel 28 For example, as shown in one embodiment, eight notched portions are evenly spaced about the outer diameter of the wheel. In other embodiments, a lesser or greater number of notched portions may be used, for example, only six or seven, or even nine or ten. If a bigger bike 28 can be used, a larger number of notched sections 336 be provided, and conversely, if a smaller wheel is to be used, the number of sections may be smaller. In this regard, the actual size of each notched section should be 336 typically remain the same because the notched portions have been ergonomically selected to comfortably accommodate a user's thumb.

With regard to the positioning of the setting wheel 28 within the instrument, as in 2 shown is the rotary or thumbwheel 28 vertically aligned below the switch 26 positioned and spaced from the setting wheel in a direction orthogonal to a longitudinal axis, for example, through the longitudinal direction of the drive shaft 316 is defined. In particular, the handset is located 26 directly on an axis orthogonal to this longitudinal axis and also by the thumbwheel 28 passes through. Furthermore, as in 14a and 14b shown, the switch 26 dimensioned relatively large and extends over the wheel from one side of the upper surface of the instrument to the other. The desk 26 is curved in nature to generally conform to the curved upper surface of the outer wall of the instrument, and has ridges, grooves, or other raised projections on its outer surface to assist the user in gripping the switch so as to grip it with its counterpart Thumbs up to press. The surface of the switch 26 is relatively large, more than 3cm ² or even 5cm ² . This provides a large surface area to allow for ergonomic activation by the user. The vertical orientation of the switch 26 immediately above the setting wheel 28 also allows ergonomic activation. As explained elsewhere, the switch serves 26 when applied to cause the end effector to receive an RF coagulation signal for coagulating a tissue therein.

With regard to the ergonomics of the switch and the setting wheel are 35a and 35b two corresponding representations of different users with hands of different sizes. As shown, the switch 26 since it has a relatively large area, it is easy to operate by users with hands of different sizes, while at the same time the clamping grip 22 (and the blade trigger 24 if desired).

Back to 12 as described above, the thumbwheel 28 an internal cavity 1300 on when using in the inner molding 314 is included. As previously described, the inner molding comprises 314 an inner molding chamber 610 and has a T-shaped severed portion 1208 in it, through the drive shaft 316 is received and attached as described above. The inner molding 314 is in the inner cavity of the wheel 28 engaged, and they are flanges 1206 , as in 12 such as 29a and 29b shown to the outer edge of the cylindrical inner cavity 1300 of the setting wheel 28 provided around to the inner molding 314 in the cavity to hold in place as soon as it is incorporated therein. The inner cavity 1300 of the setting wheel 28 is also with locking elements 1200 provided with corresponding locking elements 1202 interact around the outer circumference of the inner cylindrical molding 314 are provided. The respective locking elements 1200 and 1202 include respective raised step portions circumferentially around the inner surface of the cavity side by side 1300 fit when the wheel 28 and the inner cylindrical molding 314 are in the correct rotational alignment relative to each other. The respective locking elements 1200 and 1202 are provided so that in use the inner cylindrical molding 314 from side to side inside the inner cavity of the wheel 28 slide, but not in the wheel 28 can rotate. Instead, the interacting locking elements act 1202 and 1200 such that the inner molding 314 with the wheel 28 rotates when this is rotated. In this way, any torque that is the wheel 28 by the user 28 is awarded to the inner molding 314 and then on the drive shaft 316 to rotate the drive shaft carrying the end effector. 29a and 29b show the inner molding 314 placed in the inner cavity of the thumbwheel 28 is introduced, and illustrate how the inner molding 314 inside the inner cavity 1300 of the wheel 28 can slide axially.

13a and 13b also show in more detail how the inner molding 314 is able to move inside the inner cavity 1300 of the wheel 28 to move. As described above, the drive shaft occurs 316 through the T-shaped opening 1208 in the inner molding 314 through and is therein by means of projecting snap-lock or snap-in elements 602 , which are provided on the end of the drive shaft secured. The latching or locking elements 602 are in the form of spring metal tabs, which are also able to, through the T-shaped opening 1208 in the inner molding 314 through, and then in a second channel part 606 of the inner mold part, which forms a cavity which allows the spring tabs to spring apart, thereby securing the drive shaft inside the inner mold part. The inner molding 314 is then in the inner cavity of the thumbwheel 1208 pressed and by the locking projections 1206 held in place as described above. The inner molding may be inside the inner cavity 1300 move axially to engage the inner surface of the distal wall of the wheel 28 to come, as in 13a shown, or, at its opposite end of the course, in abutment against the engagement elements 1206 to come at the distal edge of the wheel. Thus, the inner molding 314 with a degree of axial sliding movement within the cavity of the thumbwheel 28 provided as part of the mechanism to control the force exerted by the user on material contained within the jaws, as described above.

The locking property of the inner molding 314 in the inner cavity of the setting wheel 28 improves the assembly of the device immensely, and makes the assembly of the device significantly easier and thus cheaper. To position the wheel in the housing, as in 33 shown is the outer distal wall 1310 of the setting wheel 28 with an inner support wall 1320 , which is provided as a projection from the housing of the device, concentric and aligned. This also allows easy and accurate assembly and positioning of the wheel 28 inside the case.

7. Rotation control of the drive shaft

As explained above, the stem is 12 with the end effector 14 rotatable on it to allow the end effector into desired Rotational positions for cutting and coagulating tissue to be moved. However, in order for the cable connections to the end effector not to be overstressed by over-rotation of the shaft in one direction, so that the wiring is wound or twisted or under excessive load, there is a mechanism for controlling the rotation of the shaft 12 required, in particular to limit the rotation and thus to prevent excessive burden on the wiring. In addition, by a positive control of the rotation of the shaft 12 Improves the ergonomic experience of the instrument in the application and the quality perception of the user.

In order to provide rotational control of the shaft, in one embodiment, an assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat 15a and 15b such as 16a to 16d is shown used. In relation to 15 Here is the thumbwheel 28 with notched sections 36 on its proximal surface (ie, back surface facing the user) with a ring 1506 provided by the proximal surface concentric with the axis of the wheel 28 aligned, slightly sticking out. The ring 1506 rests on guide stop elements when used 1502 and 1504 , which are projections on the inner surface of the outer housing, which protrude to match the outer circumference of the ring 1506 to get in touch. Because of their positioning on the housing with respect to the axis of the ring is the stopper part 1502 smaller than the stopper part 1504 but both stop parts 1502 and 1504 each have angled upper guide surfaces 1510 and 1512 on (see 15a ), which coincides with the outer peripheral surface of the ring 1506 , which form part of the setting wheel in contact, and help to support and guide the wheel in its rotation.

In addition to providing a guiding function, the stop members function 1502 and 1504 Also as a stop member to prevent the rotation of the thumbwheel on the angular position of the stop parts addition. In this regard, the ring is 1506 with a rectangular stop projection extending radially therefrom 1500 Mistake. If the thumbwheel 28 is turned, the stop tab comes 1500 against corresponding stop surfaces 1514 and 1516 the stop parts 1502 and 1504 in Appendix. The abutment surfaces are at an angle to parallel to the rectangular stop projection 1500 when the stop position is positioned at an angle to abut against it.

The arranged as described above stop parts 1502 and 1504 are positioned and of such length that they are a known degree of rotation of the wheel 28 from the stop part 1500 to the stop element 1502 provide. In the currently described and in 15a and 15b The arrangement shown are the stop parts 1502 and 1504 Positioned on the housing at a distance from each other to allow the wheel to rotate 270 ° from stop to stop. The amount of rotation can be easily varied by increasing or decreasing the distance between the abutment members, the abutment members being adjusted in length and angle of the guide and abutment surfaces to meet substantially perpendicular to the wheel and the abutment members, respectively. For example, the stop members may be positioned and shaped to provide angular rotation of the wheel between 250 ° and 300 °.

The above describes the rotation control applied to the thumbwheel (and then, via the thumbwheel, the shaft). 16a to 16d show a further rotation control mechanism acting on the stem at the opposite end of the stem using the stem molding 320 is applied. Here is the shank molding with a protruding from this, rectangular stop element 1600 , Mistake. The inner surface of the outer housing is further provided with corresponding shaped stop members 1602 and 1604 provided, which are shown in the form of a part with steps that provide corresponding abutment surfaces, the rectangular stop element 1600 corresponding parallel stop surfaces in corresponding angular positions of the shank molding 320 Offer. In the example shown, the shaped stop members are positioned on the housing and provide the stop member 1600 corresponding stop surfaces to a rotation of 270 ° of the shaft 12 allowing the end effector to move from stop to stop. In further embodiments, the shaped stop members 1602 and 1604 be positioned to the stop element 1600 in other rotational angular positions of the molding 320 To provide abutment surfaces to provide a greater or lesser degree of rotation, for example from 180 ° to 360 °, or more preferably from 250 ° to 300 °, or most preferably 270 °.

The corresponding, in the wheel 28 and in the stem molding 320 provided rotation control mechanisms may be provided independently of each other, that is, they need not be both provided in a particular embodiment, but it may be provided only one or the other to provide a rotation control of the shaft. However, it is advantageous in terms of the operation and quality perception of the device, if in a device both rotation control mechanisms are provided and oriented such that they stop in both directions of rotation of the rotation provide according to the same points. Such an arrangement means that the rotation of the shaft at both ends of the handle portion 10 is independently stopped, and it becomes very difficult for a user to force another undesired rotation of the shaft beyond the allowable limits given by the stops.

An alternative rotation control mechanism is in 36 and 37 shown. 36 again shows the stem molding 320 but here is the molding with a ring 3220 provided on which a extending from this in the radial direction primary rectangular stop element 3202 and secondary position markers 3204 . 3206 and 3208 are mounted, which are arranged substantially, preferably in orthogonal positions, equiangularly around the ring. The secondary position markers 3204 . 3206 and 3208 Form small raised protrusions that are not big enough to be in abutment with the abutment surfaces 3212 and 3214 get.

The stop surfaces 3212 and 3214 are provided as integral with the outer housing moldings and are positioned here to a rotation of the shank molding 320 to allow 180 °. In this regard, the stopper reaches 320 at the ends of the rotation area against the stop surfaces 3212 and 3214 in abutment to prevent further rotation of the stem molding. Thus, as in 36a to 36c shown, the stem molding 320 that the shaft 12 rotates over 180 ° to allow rotational positioning of the end effector as desired.

Further provided is a resilient projection 3216 comprising a plastic projection of substantially triangular cross-section extending from the mold-forming abutment surface 3214 extends upward, so that its tip an outer peripheral surface of the ring 3220 touched. The secondary position markings in the form of the small raised projections press against the tip of the resilient projection when the skirt molding 320 which causes the tip of the resilient projection to move out of its rest position so that the corresponding projection can move past the tip. The effect of this process is to provide some feedback to the user since the user must expend more force to move the mechanism beyond the rotational positions where the raised projections contact the tip of the resilient projection because sufficient force must be provided so that the tip of the resilient projection bends so that the projection can move past the tip. The result is that the user perceives an increase in the force required to rotate the shaft beyond the rotational positions of the raised protrusions, and thus provides the user in an intuitive manner with an indication of the rotational position of the shaft and thus the end effector , Such a haptic feedback mechanism thus allows a user-friendly and easy operation of the device.

37 shows the corresponding wheel 28 for the mechanism in 36 , Here is the wheel also with respective small attacks 3222 provided orthogonally at 90 ° intervals around the thumbwheel. A similar mechanism can be used for the springy projection 3216 be provided, which extends from the housing to a similar haptic feedback as in the case of the shank molding 320 provide. In such an arrangement, haptic feedback is provided on the rotational position of the shaft from both ends of the handle, and thus the perception of the device by the user is improved.

8. Wiring

At this point should be more features and aspects related to the wiring within the handle 2 to be discribed. As described above, the button is 26 provided to the RF signal for operating the electrodes in the Endeffektoranordnung 14 to activate and deactivate via a suitable circuit, for example via two switches protected against intrusion on a small PCB 338 , As in 17 shown is the PCB 338 with a connection line 1700 for receiving the RF output from a generator (not shown) and electrical wiring 1702 . 1704 for providing the RF current for the electrodes in the jaws 14 connected, for example, a cable for the active electrode and one for the counter electrode.

In the arrangement is the wiring 1702 . 1704 from the electrodes the outer shaft 12 down, the drive shaft 316 along and up to the stem molding 320 led as through 17 shown. As in 9b shown is the stem molding 320 a cylindrical or barrel-shaped component with an opening 912 at the distal end, around the outer shaft 12 take. The outer shaft 12 is on the stem molding 320 fastened, for example by locking projections 900 that with corresponding grooves 902 in the shaft molding 320 cooperate. When the stem molding 320 rotates, thus rotating the outer shaft 12 with him. The shank molding 320 further includes another opening 914 at the proximal end, with the opening 914 a T-shape to the drive shaft 316 take up, the drive shaft 316 through the inner cavity 1802 of the stem molding 320 through and the length of the outer shaft 12 extends down. Thus, the drive shaft 316 able to within the stem molding 320 and the outer shaft 12 to glide, but every rotational movement of the drive shaft 316 is on the stem molding 320 and then the outside shaft 12 transfer.

As in 18a shown are the electrode cables 1702 . 1704 from the inner cavity 1802 through an opening 1800 in the wall of the stem molding 320 before going over and around the body 1804 of the stem molding 320 are wound. Such winding of the cables 1702 . 1704 around the stem molding 320 keeps the cables 1702 . 1704 in a compact arrangement, to prevent the cables 1702 . 1704 when assembling the rest of the instrument 1 are a hindrance. Furthermore, the winding of the cable means 1702 . 1704 around the stem molding 320 that when the stem molding 320 with the drive shaft 316 rotates the cables 1702 . 1604 unwind with the rotation and rewind without the cables 1702 . 1702 be overstretched and thus shorted. In particular, allows the winding of the cable 1702 . 1704 in this particular way up to 270 ° rotation, as in terms of 15a -Federation 16a -D described.

The electrical wiring 1702 . 1704 is then along the top of the case 20 directed. In this regard, one of the shell moldings 300 with two compartments 1900 . 1902 provided, which are arranged side by side to the cable contacts 1904 . 1906 Include the active and the return cable 1702 . 1704 with the wiring 1908 . 1910 the intrusion protected switch 338 connect. All electrical cables 1702 . 1704 . 1908 . 1910 are in the subjects 1900 . 1902 into and around this, so only one contact 1904 . 1096 in every subject 1900 . 1902 is included. The guiding of the cables can be done by guide sections 1912 . 1014 . 1916 be relieved that a set of cables 1702 . 1910 around the exterior of the subjects 1900 . 1902 lead around. In each compartment is the respective active cable 1702 with the cable 1908 aligned in the longitudinal direction, and the return cable 1704 is with the cable 1910 aligned in the longitudinal direction.

Consequently, the two cable contacts 1904 . 1906 separated longitudinally, leaving only one contact through each compartment 1900 . 1902 can pass, creating a physical barrier between each contact 1904 . 1906 and the cabling is provided. This eliminates the risk of damaging the insulation of one of the cables through the contacts 1904 . 1906 even.

The cables 1702 . 1704 . 1908 . 1708 are all over small openings 1918 . 1920 . 1922 . 1924 in the walls of the compartments in their respective compartments 1900 . 1902 brought in. Preferably, the dimensions of the openings 1918 . 1920 . 1922 . 1924 such that only one electrical cable passes through. The opposite shell molding 302 also includes corresponding rib members (not shown) around the contacts 1904 . 1906 in the subjects 1900 . 1902 so that it forms a substantially sealed housing. This is important to the permeability of the subjects 1900 . 1920 minimize to the contacts 1904 . 1906 to protect against any fluid that is the outer shaft 12 along and into the housing 20 what could be a short circuit of contacts 1904 . 1906 would cause.

9. End effector arrangements

Exemplary end effector arrangements that may be used with the apparatus will now be described. The examples to be described are only mentioned for the sake of completeness, and it is clear that further end effector designs can be used with the instrument, as far as they are capable of, from the drive shaft 316 to be driven. That is, embodiments of the invention are not limited to the specific end-effector described herein, but other end effector designs may be used.

38 to 44 show exemplary instruments in which electrically conductive stop elements are arranged on one or both of the sealing electrodes. In relation to 38 includes an end effector commonly associated with 3801 is characterized, an upper jaw 3802 that with a lower jaw 3803 around a pivot point 3804 pivotally connected around. flanges 3805 are at the proximal end of the upper jaw 3802 present while flanges 3806 at the proximal end of the lower jaw 3803 available. The flanges 3805 and 3806 each have slots 3807 on, through which a drive pin 8th extends, so that a proximal and distal movement of the drive pin 3808 (By means of a drive mechanism (not shown)) pivoting of the jaws 3802 . 3803 between an open and a closed position causes.

A metallic clamping piece 3809 is on the inner surface of the upper jaw 3802 present while on the inner surface of the lower jaw 3803 a metallic clamping piece 3810 is available. When the jaws 3802 . 3803 swing into their closed position, get the metallic clamps 3809 . 3810 close together to capture tissue (not shown) between each other.

The upper clamping piece 3809 has a generally planar surface, except for an elongated recess (in 38 not to be seen), which runs along its length. The lower clamping piece 3810 has a corresponding recess 3811 on, with the depressions in the clamping pieces 3809 . 3810 to absorb the longitudinal movement of a cutting blade (not shown). The lower clamping piece 3810 is also with a variety of metallic stop elements 3812 provided along the length of the clamping piece and on both sides of the recess 3811 are arranged. The stop elements 3812 should now be referring to 39 and 40 be described in more detail.

Each metallic stop element 3812 consists of the upper bulge of a stop element 3813 that in an insulating element 3814 is received so that it einhaust the stop element, which it from the rest of the clamping piece 3810 isolated. Each insulating element 3814 and stop element 3813 is in a corresponding opening 3851 that in the clamping piece 3810 is present, arranged so that the upper portion of the insulating an insulating ring 3816 around each stop element 3812 formed.

When the jaws 3802 . 3803 be moved to their closed position (as in 40 shown), touch the stop elements 3812 the upper clamping piece 3809 wherein a distance between the upper and lower clamps of between 20μm and about 350μm (0.00079 inches to about 0.014 inches) is maintained. When applying an electrosurgical coagulation tension between the clamping pieces 3809 . 3810 applied, and the distance between the clamping pieces ensures effective sealing of between the jaws 3802 . 3803 detected tissue. At the same time an electrical shorting between the clamping pieces is prevented because the stop elements 3812 be electrically isolated so that they do not have the same electrical potential as the rest of the clamping piece 3810 wear. The metallic stop elements 3812 are rigid, which allows a consistent separation of the surfaces of the clamping pieces, while it is feasible that the electrical potential of the stop elements 3813 is monitored to detect when the upper clamp 3809 Touch to indicate closing of the jaws.

41 to 43 show an alternative arrangement in which the metallic stop elements 3812 directly on the lower clamping piece 3810 are attached, without the insulating elements surrounding the stop elements. In this arrangement are insulating elements 3817 on the upper clamping piece 3809 provided in corresponding relation to each of the stopper members. In this way, the insulating ensure 3817 when the jaws 3802 . 3803 are closed, that there is no electrical shorting between the upper clamping piece 3809 and the lower clamp 3810 comes. The metallic stop elements 3812 ensure that the proper separation of the jaws is maintained during the application of the electrosurgical energy to seal tissue captured between the jaws.

44 Finally, shows another alternative in which the metallic stop elements 3812 again directly on the lower clamping piece 3810 are attached. In this arrangement is a metallic counter-holder 3818 arranged opposite each stop element, each metallic counter-holder 3818 from an insulating element 3819 surrounded by the rest of the upper clamping piece 3809 to be isolated. When the jaws are closed, metal-to-metal contact occurs between the stop members 3812 and the metallic counterparts 3818 , wherein the insulation of the anvils ensures that an electrical shorting between the clamping pieces 3809 . 3810 is prevented again. Again, the electrical potential of each of the metallic snubbers can be monitored to detect when they assume the potential of the lower clamp, indicating the closing of the jaws.

10. Electrosurgical system

With reference to 45 is provided that the instrument 1 when used with an electrosurgical generator 4500 It has a controllable radio frequency (RF) source therein (not shown) which, in use, generates an RF coagulation signal that coagulates or seals tissue when passing across the electrodes of the end effector of the instrument 1 is created. The electrosurgical generator 4500 includes control input switch 4504 and 4502 each to allow the generator to be turned on and off and to control the power of the RF coagulation signal to the instrument 1 is allowed to permit. In this regard, the electrosurgical generator 4500 a conventional one.

The instrument 1 is in the application with the generator 4500 through a control and power supply line 4506 which includes separate electrical leads to supply an RF signal to the end effector of the instrument 1 via the inner wiring described above, and also to receive a control signal from the switch 26 of the instrument 1 to allow the electrosurgical generator to generate an RF coagulation signal to the instrument 1 issue. In use, the surgeon activates the generator via an on-off switch 4504 and selects the coagulation or sealing signal strength to be generated by the internal RF source using buttons 4502 out. During a surgical procedure with the instrument, when a sealing or coagulation RF signal is required at the end effector, the surgeon drives the generator to generate such a signal by turning on the switch 26 of the instrument, then the generated RF signal is transmitted through the electrical leads 4506 forwarded to the end effector. That is, pressing the switch 26 in use, supplying an RF coagulation or sealing signal to the appropriate electrodes contained in the end effector.

11. Summary

Therefore, in light of the above, embodiments of the invention provide an advanced electrosurgical tweezer instrument that allows easy and ergonomic one-handed operation by the user, provides rotational flexibility of the end effector, controls the force applied by the end effector to the sensed tissue to prevent application of excessive force and allow convenient mechanical cutting of the sensed tissue while at the same time providing electrosurgical coagulation or sealing of the tissue. In addition, the instrument has been designed to be easy and inexpensive to assemble while providing a compact instrument thanks to the efficient use of available space in the respective internal activation mechanism.

Various other modifications of the embodiments described above, whether by addition, elimination or replacement, will be apparent to those skilled in the art to provide additional embodiments, each and all of which are within the scope of the appended claims.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

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Claims (22)

A rotary wheel for rotating a shaft of a surgical instrument, the rotary wheel comprising: an outer mold having an outer surface adapted to be touched by the fingers and / or thumb of a user, and an inner cavity containing distal and proximal stops therein; an inner fitting received within the chamber and having connection means for securing the inner fitting to the shaft of the surgical instrument; characterized in that one of the inner and outer shaped pieces is longitudinally slidable with respect to the distal and proximal stops, and that the inner and outer shaped pieces are rotatably interlocked with each other, so that the rotational movement of the outer shaped piece on the inner and on the inner shaped piece is transmitted to the shaft of the surgical instrument. A rotary wheel according to claim 1, wherein the outer surface is provided with a notched surface comprising a plurality of notches adapted to receive a user's fingers and thumb. A rotary wheel according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the surgical instrument comprises a drive shaft to move therethrough an end effector, wherein the connecting means for securing the inner mold to the shaft of the surgical instrument include the drive shaft in a respective passageway to be arranged longitudinally within the inner mold. A rotary wheel according to claim 3, wherein the inner mold has a slot in the longitudinal direction with a generally T-shaped cross section to receive the drive shaft. A rotary wheel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner mold is provided with an integral extension which is completely received within the chamber when the inner mold comes against the distal stop and extends out of the chamber when the inner mold is against the proximal stop comes. A rotary wheel according to claims 4 and 5, wherein the integral extension has a generally T-shaped cross-section. A rotary wheel according to claim 6, wherein the integral extension has a substantially uniform wall thickness in each direction. A rotary wheel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distal and proximal stops are shoulders provided at or towards the distal and proximal ends of the chamber. A rotary wheel according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the shoulders is of such height that the outer fitting is capable of being connected and disconnected from the inner fitting by means of a latching connection. A rotary wheel according to claim 9, wherein the shoulder forming the proximal stop is of such height that the outer fitting is capable of being connected and separated from the inner fitting by means of a latching connection. A rotary wheel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner mold is longitudinally displaceable relative to the outer mold. A rotary wheel according to claim 11, wherein the inner mold is displaceable relative to the outer mold until at least 2.5 mm in the longitudinal direction. A rotary wheel according to claim 12, wherein the inner mold is displaceable relative to the outer mold until at least 5 mm in the longitudinal direction. A surgical instrument, comprising: a handle, an elongate shaft extending from the handle, an end effector disposed at the distal end of the elongate shaft, a drive shaft within the elongated shaft, the drive shaft having at its distal end the end effector and at its proximal end is connected to a component within the handle, an actuating mechanism movable between a first position and a second position, wherein moving the actuating mechanism from its first position to its second position causes the drive shaft to move longitudinally to cause the end effector to move from a first state to a second state, a rotary wheel to rotate the elongated shaft, the rotary wheel comprising: an outer mold having an outer surface suitable from the fingers and or thumbs of a user to be touched, and an inn ng A hollow chamber having therein distal and proximal stops, and an inner fitting received within the chamber and having a passage through which the drive shaft extends, characterized in that the inner or outer fitting is longitudinally relative to the other one Shaping piece is displaceable between the distal and proximal stops, and that the inner and outer mold pieces are rotatably connected to each other, so that a rotational movement of the outer mold is transferred to the inner mold and from the inner mold to the drive shaft and thus to the shaft of the surgical instrument , A surgical instrument which has: a handle; a shaft extending from the handle along a longitudinal axis of the instrument; an end effector at the distal end of the shaft; and a rotary wheel arranged to rotate the shaft in use; wherein the rotary wheel has an internal cavity, the internal cavity having an actuating mechanism for the end effector at least partially therein, the actuating mechanism having at least one part movable within the internal cavity when activated by a user in use. A surgical instrument according to claim 15, wherein the at least a portion and the inner lumen of the rotary wheel have correspondingly rotatable interengaging portions for rotational movement of the rotary wheel to be transmitted to the at least one portion, the at least one portion rotatably connected to the shaft wherein a rotational movement of the rotary wheel causes a rotational movement of the shaft via the rotational movement of the at least one part. A surgical instrument according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the rotary wheel has a notched outer surface having a plurality of notches adapted to receive a user's fingers. A surgical instrument according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the at least a portion of the actuating mechanism is slidably movable within the internal cavity along the longitudinal axis. A surgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein the actuating mechanism further comprises: an operating handle which is rotatably mounted about a pivot point; a first spring receiving part having therein a first spring receiving chamber, the spring receiving part being slidably mounted on the shaft, and having at least one actuating surface against which the operating handle acts; a feather; and the at least one portion disposed within the inner cavity of the rotary wheel, the at least one portion having therein a second spring receiving chamber, the spring disposed at one end within the first spring receiving chamber and at the other end within the second spring receiving chamber. A surgical instrument according to claim 19, wherein the arrangement is such that when the operating handle is operated by the user, the handle acts against the actuating surface of the first spring receiving member to move the first spring receiving member along the shaft in the proximal direction, and the spring in turn against the at least one disposed within the inner cavity of the rotary member portion, wherein the at least one part is connected to the shaft, so that an axial movement of the part within the rotary wheel causes an axial movement of the shaft, whereby a functioning of the end effector is effected. A surgical instrument according to claim 20, wherein when the end effector does not act on tissue, the spring does not substantially compress, and the one part moves within the inner space of the rotary wheel together with the first spring receiving part. A surgical instrument according to claim 20 or 21, wherein when the end effector acts on tissue, the spring compresses and the part moves only partially within the internal space of the rotary wheel upon movement of the first spring receiving member, thereby preventing compression of the spring will cause excess force to be exerted by the end effector on the tissue.

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