Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to articulatable surgical instruments. Some embodiments comprise an end effector to treat tissue, where the end effector comprises an ultrasonic blade. A hollow shaft may extend proximally from the end effector along a longitudinal axis. A waveguide may extend through the shaft and may be acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic blade. The waveguide may comprise a distally positioned flange positioned within the hollow shaft proximally from the blade and may be held stationary at a first pivot point positioned within the hollow shaft proximally from the flange. A reciprocating wedge may be positioned within the hollow shaft such that distal motion of the wedge pushes the wedge between the flange and the hollow shaft, causing the ultrasonic blade to pivot about the first pivot point in a first direction.

Abstract: Various example embodiments described herein are directed to articulating surgical instruments for treating tissue comprising an end effector and a shaft extending proximally from the end effector along a longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, the shaft comprises a plurality of transverse spacer members as well as first and second rotatable members extending through at least a portion of the plurality of transverse spacer members. The first and second rotatable members may both be biased away from the longitudinal axis such that their respective directions of bias vary with rotation of the first rotatable member. When the respective directions of bias of the first and second rotatable members oppose one another, the shaft may be substantially straight. When the respective directions of bias of the first and second rotatable members are aligned with one another, the shaft may articulate away from the longitudinal axis in the direction of the alignment.

Abstract: An ultrasonic assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation, and fine dissection required in fine and delicate surgical procedures. The balanced blade provides a rounded distal end and concave edges to promote fine dissection and cutting in a variety of surgical procedures. The blade is curved for improved visibility at the blade tip and is designed to provide a multitude of tissue effects: coagulation, cutting, dissection, spot coagulation, tip penetration and tip scoring. The assembly features hand activation configured to provide an ergonomical grip and operation for the surgeon. The assembly further features user selectable blade rotation. A finger switch is placed in the range of the natural axial motion of the user's index finger, whether gripping the surgical instrument right-handed or left handed.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising a trigger configured to be actuated by a proximally directed force and by a distally directed force. The trigger may comprise a proximal trigger portion having a first length and a distal trigger hook comprising a distal portion having a second length. The second length may be less than the first length. The distal trigger hook may be coupled to the proximal trigger portion.

Abstract: A surgical instrument handle assembly includes a housing having a proximal end and a distal end. A proximal opening is formed at the proximal end of the housing. A distal opening is formed at the distal end of the housing. The proximal and the distal openings define a longitudinal axis. A handle extends downwardly from the longitudinal axis. The handle defines a proximal contact surface, a saddle surface, and a stabilization tail. A trigger is pivotally attached to the housing and is pivotally moveable relative to the handle.