ELECTROSURGICAL FORCEPS
An electrosurgical forceps includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. A pivot couples the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. The jaw members are configured to facilitate tissue treatment, tissue division, and blunt tissue dissection.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/158,951, filed Oct. 12, 2018, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUNDThe present disclosure relates to electrosurgical instruments and, more particularly, to an electrosurgical forceps that facilitates tissue treatment, tissue division, and blunt tissue dissection.
A surgical forceps is a plier-like instrument which relies on mechanical action between its jaws to grasp tissue. Electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to treat tissue, e.g., coagulate, cauterize, and/or seal tissue.
Typically, once tissue is treated, the surgeon has to accurately sever the treated tissue. Accordingly, many electrosurgical forceps have been designed which incorporate a knife configured to effectively divide tissue after treating tissue. Of course, the knife may also be utilized to divided tissue without or prior to tissue treatment.
Electrosurgical forceps are also often utilized for blunt tissue dissection such as, for example, in order to provide access to underlying tissue(s) to be treated and/or divided.
A design challenge is thus presented with respect to the design of an electrosurgical forceps and, more specifically, with respect to striking a balance between the benefits that certain features may provide to facilitate some aspects (tissue treatment, tissue division, and/or blunt tissue dissection, for example), versus the challenges that such features may provide to other aspects (tissue treatment, tissue division, and/or blunt tissue dissection, for example).
SUMMARYAs used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion that is being described which is further from a surgeon, while the term “proximal” refers to the portion that is being described which is closer to a surgeon. Further, to the extent consistent, any of the aspects described herein may be used in conjunction with any or all of the other aspects described herein.
An electrosurgical forceps provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. Each of the first and second jaw members includes a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion. A pivot couples the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. A ratio of a width of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members to a length of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members is in a range of from about 1.45 to about 1.70.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is in a range of from about 1.50 to about 1.65; in another aspect, the ratio is in a range of from about 1.55 to about 1.60; in still another aspect, the ratio is about 1.57.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse, and the curved distal perimeter defines a half-circumference of the half-ellipse.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the width is a minor diameter of the half-ellipse and/or the length is a major radius of the half-ellipse.
In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members is curved along a portion of a length thereof.
In still another aspect of the present disclosure, a lockbox configuration surrounds the pivot.
Another electrosurgical forceps provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. Each of the first and second jaw members includes a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion. A pivot couples the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. A ratio of a length of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members to a height defined between the outwardly-facing sides of the first and second jaw members at the distal tip portions thereof in the closed position is in a range of from about 2.25 to about 2.55.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is in a range of from about 2.30 to about 2.50; in another aspect, the ratio is in a range of from about 2.35 to about 2.45; in still another aspect, the ratio is about 2.40.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse, the curved distal perimeter defines a half-circumference of the half-ellipse, and the length is a radius of the half-ellipse.
In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the height is measured at a diameter of the half-ellipse of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members.
In still another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members is curved along a portion of a length thereof.
In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, in the closed position, the distal tip portions of the first and second jaw members define a gap distance therebetween of equal to or less than about 0.025 inches.
Still another electrosurgical forceps provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. Each of the first and second jaw members defines a longitudinal axis and a curved distal section curving off of the longitudinal axis. The curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines a length and includes a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion. A pivot couples the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. A ratio of the length of the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members to a distance the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members is displaced from the respective longitudinal axis of that jaw member is in a range of from about 2.40 to about 2.80.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is in a range of from about 2.50 to about 2.70; in another aspect, the ratio is in a range of from about 2.55 to about 2.65; in still another aspect, the ratio is about 2.60.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse, the curved distal perimeter of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-circumference of the half-ellipse, and the length and the distance are measured to a point where a symmetrically bisecting radius of the half-ellipse meets the curved distal perimeter.
In still another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members further includes a straight proximal section centered on the longitudinal axis thereof, the curved distal section extending from the straight proximal section. In aspects, the straight proximal section defines a length of up to about 0.125 inches.
In yet another aspect, the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines an angle of curvature of about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees; in aspects, about 17 degrees to about 23 degrees; and, in other aspects, about 19 degrees to about 21 degrees.
Another electrosurgical forceps provided in accordance with the present disclosure includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. Each of the first and second jaw members defines a longitudinal axis and a curved distal section curving off of the longitudinal axis. The curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines a width at the proximal end thereof. The curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members includes a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion. The distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a diameter transversely thereacross. A pivot couples the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. A ratio of the width of the proximal end of the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members to the width of the diameter of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members is in a range of from about 1.60 to about 2.00.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is in a range of from about 1.70 to about 1.90; in another aspect, the ratio is in a range of from about 1.75 to about 1.85; in yet another aspect, the ratio is about 1.80.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse, the curved distal perimeter of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-circumference of the half-ellipse, and the diameter of each of the first and second jaw members is a full diameter of the half-ellipse.
In still another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members further includes a straight proximal section centered on the longitudinal axis thereof, the curved distal section extending from the straight proximal section. In aspects, the straight proximal section defines a length of up to about 0.125 inches.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the straight proximal section defines a substantially constant width equal to the width of the proximal end of the curved distal section.
In yet another aspect, the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines an angle of curvature of about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees; in aspects, about 17 degrees to about 23 degrees; and, in other aspects, about 19 degrees to about 21 degrees.
Still yet another electrosurgical forceps provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. Each of the first and second jaw members includes an opposed, inwardly-facing side having a proximal end and a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion. A pivot couples the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. A ratio of a height of the first and second jaw members at the proximal ends of the inwardly-facing sides of the first and second jaw members to a height of the first and second jaw members at the distal tip portions of the first and second jaw members is in a range of about 1.80 to about 2.10.
In an aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is in a range of from about 1.85 to about 2.05; in another aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is in a range of from about 1.90 to about 2.00; in still another aspect of the present disclosure, the ratio is about 1.94.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse with the curved distal perimeter of each of the first and second jaw members defining a half-circumference of the half-ellipse. In such aspects, the height of the first and second jaw members at the distal tip portions thereof is measured at a full diameter of the half-ellipse of each of the first and second jaw members.
In still another aspect of the present disclosure, a lockbox configuration surrounds the pivot and the proximal end of the inwardly-facing side of each of the first and second jaw members is defined at the point where at least one of the first or second jaw members extends distally from the lockbox configuration.
In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members is curved along a portion of a length thereof.
Another electrosurgical forceps provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes first and second shaft members and first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members. Each of the first and second jaw members includes a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion. A pivot coupling the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. Each of the first and second jaw members defines a stiffness as measured between at least one of: a center of the pivot and a point within the area of the respective jaw member or a proximal end of the respective jaw member to a point within the area of the respective jaw member, of from about 80 lb/in to about 300 lb/in.
In aspects, the stiffness of the first jaw member is from about 80 lb/in to about 180 lb/in and/or the stiffness of the second jaw member is from about 110 lb/in to about 225 lb/in. The stiffnesses of the jaw members may be similar (in embodiments, about the same) or may be different.
In another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members includes an opposed, inwardly-facing surface. In such aspects, the stiffness of each of the first and second jaw members is measured in a direction normal to the respective opposed, inwardly-facing surface thereof.
In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the first and second jaw members is curved along a portion of a length thereof.
In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the stiffness of each of the first and second jaw members is measured in a direction normal to a direction of curvature of the first and second jaw members.
In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a lockbox configuration surrounds the pivot and the proximal end of the inwardly-facing side of each of the first and second jaw members is defined at the point where at least one of the first or second jaw members extends distally from the lockbox configuration.
Various aspects and features of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings wherein like numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views:
Referring generally to
Continuing with reference to
Referring to
Inner frame 114 defines one or more location apertures 115c, a trigger aperture 115d, and a longitudinal slot 115e that each extend through both body plate 115a and reinforcing plate 115b. The one or more location apertures 115c are configured to receive corresponding posts 117 of outer housing 116 to locate and maintain inner frame 114 in position within outer housing 116. Body plate 115a extends distally beyond reinforcing plate 115b to enable attachment of jaw support 212 of jaw member 210 thereto, e.g., via staking or other suitable engagement. The portion of body plate 115a that extends distally beyond reinforcing plate 115b further defines a pivot aperture 115f extending transversely therethrough. A stop protrusion 115g extends from inner frame 114 into pivot aperture 115f, as detailed below. Body plate 115a of inner frame 114 further defines a longitudinal channel 115h oriented towards reinforcing plate 115b such that reinforcing plate 115b encloses a portion of longitudinal channel 115h.
With additional reference to
Distal portion 217a of insulative housing 216 of jaw member 210 extends about the periphery of tissue-contacting plate 214 and defines a main section 218a, a raised section 218b, and a beak section 218c. Main section 218a of distal portion 217a of insulative housing 216 extends on either side of tissue-contacting plate 214 and is offset relative thereto such that tissue-contacting plate 214 is raised relative to main section 218a. Raised section 218b of distal portion 217a of insulative housing 216 extends distally from main section 218a on either side of tissue-contacting plate 214 and is still recessed relative to tissue-contacting plate 214 but is closer to being co-planar with tissue-contacting plate 214 as compared to main section 218a. Beak section 218c of distal portion 217a of insulative housing 216 is disposed distally of tissue-contacting plate 214 and extends to or beyond tissue-contacting plate 214. Beak section 218c inhibits tissue from entering the area between jaw members 210, 220 of end effector assembly 200 when end effector assembly 200 is disposed in the closed position and utilized for blunt dissection (see
Referring to
Continuing with reference to
Turning to
Elongated body portion 125a defines a flexibility, e.g., is flexible an amount according to a spring constant thereof, thus enabling flexure of elongated body portion 125a in response to application of a jaw force at jaw member 220. This configuration enables the application of a jaw force within a particular range, e.g., between about 3 kg/cm2 and about 16 kg/cm2, when shaft members 110, 120 are disposed in the approximated position corresponding to the closed position of jaw members 210, 220. Referring also to
Referring to
As illustrated in
With reference to
Referring also to
Cap 134 of pivot member 130 defines a location recess 134′ therein, as illustrated in
Turning to
Referring to
Biasing spring 158 may be configured as an extension spring or other suitable biasing spring 158 and is engaged at a distal end portion thereof to first linkage 154 and at a proximal end portion thereof to a support plate 166. Support plate 166 includes handle 118 of shaft member 110 integrally formed therewith or otherwise engaged thereto, and may be secured within outer housing 116 in any suitable fashion, e.g., via protrusion-aperture engagement. Support plate 166 provides increased structural support to shaft member 110 to inhibit splaying of shaft members 110, 120 during use. Shaft member 120 similarly includes a support plate 168 integrally formed with or otherwise engaging handle 128 of shaft member 120 and secured to outer housing 126, although support plate 168 need not extend distally as with support plate 166 (see
Biasing spring 158 biases first linkage 154 towards a first orientation, corresponding to the un-actuated position of triggers 152 and the proximal-most position of second linkage 156, thereby biasing knife 140 towards the retracted position. Upon rotation of either of triggers 152 relative to shaft member 110, first linkage 154 is rotated against the bias of biasing spring 158 to thereby urge second linkage 156 distally such that pivot pin 163 is driven distally though longitudinal slot 115e to urge knife 140 from the retracted position towards an extended position, wherein knife 140 extends through slot 136 of pivot member 130 and channels 215a, 225 of jaw members 210, 220 (
With reference to
Knife deployment mechanism 1150 is disposed within outer housing 116 of shaft member 110 with the exception of the opposed triggers which extend from either side of outer housing 116. First linkage 1154 is configured for positioning on one side of inner frame 114 of shaft member 110 and includes a pair of integral (or otherwise engaged) pivot bosses 1161 extending from either side thereof at a first end portion of first linkage 1154. One of the pivot bosses 1161 extends through inner frame 114 and each pivot boss 1161 extends through an aperture defined through outer housing 116 of shaft member 110 to enable engagement of the opposed triggers thereon.
A proximal end portion of second linkage 1155 is pivotably coupled to first linkage 1154 at a second end portion of first linkage 1154 and a distal end portion of second linkage 1155 is pivotably coupled to a proximal end portion of third linkage 1156 via a pivot pin 1159. Either or both ends of pivot pin 1159 are received within an arcuate track 1160 defined on the interior surface of either or both sides of outer housing 116. Third linkage 1156 is pivotably coupled to knife 140 at a distal end of third linkage 1156.
Biasing spring 1158 may be configured as an extension spring and is engaged at a distal end portion thereof to first linkage 1154 and is fixed within shaft member 110 at a proximal end portion thereof so as to bias first linkage 1154 towards a first orientation, corresponding to the un-actuated position of the triggers and the proximal-most position of second and third linkages 1155, 1156, thereby biasing knife 140 towards the retracted position.
Upon rotation of either of the triggers relative to shaft member 110, first linkage 1154 is rotated against the bias of biasing spring 1158 to thereby urge second linkage 1556 distally (urging pivot pin 1159 distally through arcuate track 1160) to thereby urge third linkage 1156 distally such knife 140 is driven distally from the retracted position towards the extended position.
With reference to
Knife deployment mechanism 2150 is disposed within outer housing 116 of shaft member 110 with the exception of opposed triggers 2152 which extend from either side of outer housing 116. First linkage 2154 includes a pair of integral (or otherwise engaged) pivot bosses 2161 extending from either side thereof at a first end portion of first linkage 2154. Pivot bosses 2161 extend through apertures defined through outer housing 116 of shaft member 110 to enable engagement of opposed triggers 2152 thereon.
A proximal end portion of second linkage 2155 is coupled to first linkage 2154 at a second end portion of first linkage 2154 via a pin-slot engagement 2159. A distal end portion of second linkage 2155 is pivotably coupled to a proximal end portion of third linkage 2156. Third linkage 2156 is pivotably coupled to knife 140 at a distal end of third linkage 2156. The biasing spring is configured to bias first linkage 2154 towards a first orientation, corresponding to the un-actuated position of triggers 2152 and the proximal-most position of second and third linkages 2155, 2156, thereby biasing knife 140 towards the retracted position.
Upon rotation of either of triggers 2152 relative to shaft member 110, first linkage 2154 is rotated against the bias of the biasing spring to thereby urge second linkage 2155 distally (as the pin of pin-slot engagement 2159 is pivoted and slid through the slot of pin-slot engagement 2159), to thereby urge third linkage 1156 distally such knife 140 is driven distally from the retracted position towards the extended position.
Referring generally to
Referring to
Knife 140 further includes a partial etch 149d extending along a portion of distal body 146 and distal cutting potion 148 of knife 140. Partial etch 149d may extend along either or both sides of knife 140. Partial etch 149d is configured to inhibit wear of knife 140, to promote flexibility to facilitate translation of knife 140 through knife channels 215a, 225 of jaw members 210, 220 (see
In use, distal body 146 of knife 140 is configured to reciprocate through slot 136 of pivot member 130 (
Referring to
Distal body 1146 of knife 1140, as illustrated in
Distal bodies 2146, 3146 of knives 2140, 3140 (
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Turning to
With momentary reference to
Referring to
With reference to
Referring to
Turning to
Referring to
With shaft members 110, 120 sufficiently spaced-apart from one another, finger 176 of knife lockout 170 is spaced-apart from outer housing 126 of shaft member 120 such that cantilever arm 174 is disposed in its at-rest position. In the at-rest position, cantilever arm 174 extends along and in generally parallel orientation relative to longitudinal slot 115e of inner frame 114 of shaft member 110. Further, nook 178 is disposed at the proximal end of longitudinal slot 115e and receives the portion of pivot pin 163 that extends from second linkage 156 through longitudinal slot 115e therein. As such, vertical proximal wall 179b of stop 179 inhibits distal advancement of pivot pin 163 in the at-rest position of cantilever arm 174 and, accordingly, inhibits deployment of knife 140.
In order to disengage knife lockout 170 to permit deployment of knife 140, shaft members 110, 120 are sufficiently approximated such that a portion of outer housing 126 of shaft member 120 contacts finger 176 of knife lockout 170 and urges finger 176 further into housing 116 of shaft member 110. As finger 176 is urged further into housing 116, cantilever arm 174 is flexed such that nook 178 is withdrawn from about pivot pin 163 and vertical proximal wall 179b of stop 179 is removed from the path of pivot pin 163. Once this has been achieved, knife deployment mechanism 150 may be actuated, as detailed above, to advance pivot pin 163 distally through slot 115e to deploy knife 140 from the retracted position towards the extended position.
Should shaft members 110, 120 be moved apart from one another sufficiently such that shaft member 120 no longer urges finger 176 to flex cantilever arm 174, cantilever arm 174 is resiliently returned to its at-rest position. If knife 140 is disposed in the retracted position at this point, nook 178 is returned to surrounding engagement about pivot pin 163. However, if knife 140 is disposed in the deployed position or a partially-deployed position, the return of cantilever arm 174 to its at-rest position does not re-capture pivot pin 163. Rather, upon subsequent return of knife 140 to the retracted position, pivot pin 163 is moved proximally and into contact with angled distal wall 179a of stop 179, camming therealong and urging cantilever arm 174 to flex from the at-rest position sufficiently so as to enable pivot pin 163 to return to the proximal end of longitudinal slot 115e. Once pivot pin 163 reaches this position, cantilever arm 174 is returned to the at-rest position and, as a result, nook 178 is returned to surrounding engagement about pivot pin 163, thereby locking-out knife 140 until shaft members 110, 120 are once again sufficiently approximated. The biasing force of biasing member 158 is sufficient to move pivot pin 163 proximally to deflect cantilever arm 174 and reset knife lockout 170 as detailed above. As such, resetting of knife lockout 170 occurs automatically (if shaft members 110, 120 are sufficiently spaced-apart) upon return of knife 140 to the retracted position.
With reference to
Turning to
PCB 184 of switch assembly 180 includes a board body 185 defining a first end portion 186a, a second end portion 186b, and a central portion 186c. Central portion 186c of board body 185 is configured to receive activation button 182 thereon. More specifically, central portion 186c defines apertures 187a (or other suitable engagement features) to enable snap-fitting (or other suitable mechanical engagement) of activation button 182 thereon. Central portion 186c further defines circuit traces 187b such that, upon mechanical engagement of activation button 182 thereon, activation button 182 is also electrically coupled to PCB 184. This configuration facilitates assembly and reduces the possibility of improper connections. Circuit traces 187b extend from central portion 186c towards first end portion 186a of board body 185 on both the upper and lower faces of board body 185 to enable connection of a pair of lead wires 310 (only one of which is shown) of electrosurgical cable 300 thereto, e.g., via soldering. Circuit traces 187b also extend from central portion 186c towards second end portion 186b of board body 185 on both the upper and lower faces of board body 185. A quick-connect receptacle 188 is disposed on each of the upper and lower faces of body board 185 towards second end portion 186b thereof in electrical communication with circuit traces 187b. Quick-connect receptacles 188 facilitate engagement of lead wire receptacles 189 (only one of which is shown) therewith, thus facilitating coupling of the lead wires 310 of jaw members 210, 220 with switch assembly 180. More specifically, lead wire receptacles 189 are configured to slide into snap fit or other suitable engagement with quick-connect receptacles 188 to both mechanically engage lead wire receptacles 189 with PCB 184 and electrically couple the lead wires 310 of jaw members 210, 220 to corresponding portions of circuit traces 187b. As a result of the above-detailed configuration of switch assembly 180, activation of activation button 182 initiates the supply of energy from the energy source (not shown) to jaw members 210, 220 such that such energy may be conducted through tissue grasped between tissue-contacting plates 214, 224 of jaw members 210, 220 to treat tissue (see
Referring to
With initial reference to
Turning to
With reference to
Referring to
Turning to
Once assembly is completed, e.g., as detailed above, testing may be performed to ensure proper operation of forceps 100. Such testing may include jaw force testing; testing using a gauge pin (not shown) to test the maximum jaw aperture between jaw members 210, 220 at the distal tips thereof; cut testing of the knife 140 using cut test media (not shown); testing of the gap distance between the tissue-contacting plates 214, 224 of jaw members 210, 220 (as set by the one or more stop members 215b and/or beak sections 218c of jaw members 210, 220) in the approximated position thereof at various positions along the lengths of jaw members 210, 220; and/or performing electrical continuity testing.
Referring to
Turning now to
Referring in particular to
As illustrated in
A width to length ratio of distal tip portion 280 is, in embodiments, from about 1.45 to about 1.70, in other embodiments, from about 1.50 to about 1.65 and, in still other embodiments, from about 1.55 to about 1.60. In other embodiments, the ratio is about 1.57. The width dimension “W1” of distal tip portion 280 is the largest width of distal tip portion 280 defined transversely across jaw member 220 and, thus, is defined by full diameter 284. The length dimension “L3” of distal tip portion 280 is defined longitudinally along jaw member 220 and, thus, is defined by radius 286, which extends from full diameter 284 to the distal end of jaw member 220. Thus, in embodiments, the above ratio ranges may likewise apply to the ratio of the full diameter of the half-ellipse “E” of distal tip portion 280 to the radius of the half-ellipse “E” of distal tip portion 280. The use of “about” with respect to the above-noted ratios and otherwise herein accounts for generally accepted manufacturing, use, environmental, and measurement tolerances.
Referring also to
Turning to
Jaw member 220 defines a curvature along at least a portion of the length thereof and, more specifically, may include a proximal straight section 292 defining a longitudinal axis 294 and a distal curved section 296 that curves off of longitudinal axis 294. The proximal straight section 292 may define a length of about 0.0 inches to about 0.125 inches. Proximal straight section 292, in embodiments where provided, is centered about longitudinal axis 294 (at least as viewed from a top or bottom view of jaw member 220) and defines a substantially constant width “W2” (wherein the use of “substantially” herein accounts for generally accepted manufacturing, use, environmental, and measurement tolerances). This width “W2” is measured transversely across jaw member 220. A ratio of the width “W2” of proximal straight section 292 to the width “W1” of distal tip portion 280 (detailed above), in embodiments, is from about 1.60 to about 2.00, in other embodiments, from about 1.70 to about 1.90 and, in still other embodiments, from about 1.75 to about 1.85. In other embodiments, the ratio is about 1.80. In embodiments where no proximal straight section 292 is provided (i.e., where the proximal straight section 292 defines a length of 0.0 inches), the longitudinal axis 294 is defined longitudinally through the mid-point transversely across the proximal end of jaw member 220, e.g., across the proximal edge of the tissue-contacting plate 224 of jaw member 220. In such embodiments, the width “W2” is defined transversely across the proximal end of jaw member 220, e.g., across the proximal edge of the tissue-contacting plate 224 of jaw member 220, with the above-noted ratios applying similarly.
Distal curved section 296 of jaw member 220 defines a length “L4,” as measured along the longitudinal axis 294 from the position where jaw member 220 begins to curve to the position where a radius 286 of distal tip portion 280 (which symmetrically bisects distal tip portion 280) intersects curved distal perimeter 282 of distal tip portion 280. Distal curved section 296 further defines a distance of curvature “D1,” as measured transversely from the longitudinal axis 294 to the position where radius 286 of distal tip portion 280 meets curved distal perimeter 282 of distal tip portion 280. A ratio of the length “L4” of distal curved section 296 of jaw member 220 to the distance of curvature “D1” of distal curved section 296 of jaw member 220, in embodiments, is from about 2.40 to about 2.80, in other embodiments, from about 2.50 to about 2.70 and, in still other embodiments, from about 2.55 to about 2.65. In other embodiments, the ratio is about 2.60.
Turning momentarily to
In embodiments where jaw member 220 includes a proximal straight portion 292, and, thus, distal curved section 296 of jaw member 220 constitutes only a portion of tissue-contacting plate 224, proximal transverse center point “A” of knife channel 225 is defined at the transverse line “T” dividing the proximal straight section 292 from the distal curved section 296 (see
With additional reference to
Referring still to
A ratio of the length “L1” extending from the midpoint of pivot member 130 to the distal end of distal tip of jaw members 210, 220 (see
Referring generally to
Stiffness, more specifically, is measured as displacement of distal tip portion 280 in response to a force applied at distal tip portion 280 in a direction substantially normal to the tissue-contacting surface of the jaw member 210, 220. The displacement may be measured relative to the center of pivot 130 or, in other embodiments, may be measured relative to the position where jaw member 210 emerges from distal clevis portion 125c, as viewed from a side view of jaw members 210, 220.
Overall, the stiffness of either or both jaw members 210, 220, from either measurement point, may be from about 80 lb/in to about 300 lb/in; in embodiments, from about 90 lb/in to about 250 lb/in; and, in embodiments, from about 100 lb/in to about 200 lb/in. The jaw members 210, 220 may have similar or different stiffnesses. The stiffness of jaw member 210 as measured relative to the center of pivot 130 may be, in embodiments, from about 80 lb/in to about 160 lb/in; in other embodiments, from about 100 lb/in to about 140 lb/in; and in still other embodiments, from about 110 lb/in to about 130 lb/in. The stiffness of jaw member 210, as measured relative to the position where jaw member 210 emerges from distal clevis portion 125c may be, in embodiments, from about 100 lb/in to about 180 lb/in; in other embodiments, from about 120 lb/in to about 160 lb/in; and, in yet other embodiments, from about 130 lb/in to about 150 lb/in.
The stiffness of jaw member 220 as measured relative to the center of pivot 130 may be, in embodiments, from about 110 lb/in to about 190 lb/in; in other embodiments, from about 130 lb/in to about 170 lb/in; and in still other embodiments, from about 140 lb/in to about 160 lb/in. The stiffness of jaw member 220, as measured relative to the position where jaw member 210 emerges from distal clevis portion 125c may be, in embodiments, from about 145 lb/in to about 225 lb/in; in other embodiments, from about 165 lb/in to about 205 lb/in; and, in yet other embodiments, from about 175 lb/in to about 195 lb/in.
The various embodiments disclosed herein may also be configured to work with robotic surgical systems and what is commonly referred to as “Telesurgery.” Such systems employ various robotic elements to assist the surgeon and allow remote operation (or partial remote operation) of surgical instrumentation. Various robotic arms, gears, cams, pulleys, electric and mechanical motors, etc. may be employed for this purpose and may be designed with a robotic surgical system to assist the surgeon during the course of an operation or treatment. Such robotic systems may include remotely steerable systems, automatically flexible surgical systems, remotely flexible surgical systems, remotely articulating surgical systems, wireless surgical systems, modular or selectively configurable remotely operated surgical systems, etc.
The robotic surgical systems may be employed with one or more consoles that are next to the operating theater or located in a remote location. In this instance, one team of surgeons or nurses may prep the patient for surgery and configure the robotic surgical system with one or more of the instruments disclosed herein while another surgeon (or group of surgeons) remotely control the instruments via the robotic surgical system. As can be appreciated, a highly skilled surgeon may perform multiple operations in multiple locations without leaving his/her remote console which can be both economically advantageous and a benefit to the patient or a series of patients.
The robotic arms of the surgical system are typically coupled to a pair of master handles by a controller. The handles can be moved by the surgeon to produce a corresponding movement of the working ends of any type of surgical instrument (e.g., end effectors, graspers, knifes, scissors, etc.) which may complement the use of one or more of the embodiments described herein. The movement of the master handles may be scaled so that the working ends have a corresponding movement that is different, smaller or larger, than the movement performed by the operating hands of the surgeon. The scale factor or gearing ratio may be adjustable so that the operator can control the resolution of the working ends of the surgical instrument(s).
The master handles may include various sensors to provide feedback to the surgeon relating to various tissue parameters or conditions, e.g., tissue resistance due to manipulation, cutting or otherwise treating, pressure by the instrument onto the tissue, tissue temperature, tissue impedance, etc. As can be appreciated, such sensors provide the surgeon with enhanced tactile feedback simulating actual operating conditions. The master handles may also include a variety of different actuators for delicate tissue manipulation or treatment further enhancing the surgeon's ability to mimic actual operating conditions.
From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the same. While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.
Claims
1. An electrosurgical forceps, comprising:
- first and second shaft members;
- first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members, each of the first and second jaw members defining a longitudinal axis and a curved distal section curving off of the longitudinal axis, the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defining a width at the proximal end thereof, the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members including a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defining a diameter transversely thereacross; and
- a pivot coupling the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position,
- wherein a ratio of the width of the proximal end of the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members to the width of the diameter of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members is in a range of from about 1.60 to about 2.00.
2. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the ratio is in a range of from about 1.70 to about 1.90.
3. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the ratio is in a range of from about 1.75 to about 1.85.
4. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the ratio is about 1.80.
5. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse, wherein the curved distal perimeter of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-circumference of the half-ellipse, and wherein the diameter of each of the first and second jaw members is a full diameter of the half-ellipse.
6. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second jaw members further includes a straight proximal section centered on the longitudinal axis thereof, the curved distal section extending from the straight proximal section.
7. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 6, wherein the straight proximal section defines a length of up to about 0.125 inches.
8. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 6, wherein the straight proximal section defines a substantially constant width equal to the width of the proximal end of the curved distal section.
9. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines an angle of curvature of about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees.
10. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines an angle of curvature of about 17 degrees to about 23 degrees.
11. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein the curved distal section of each of the first and second jaw members defines an angle of curvature of about 19 degrees to about 21 degrees.
12. An electrosurgical forceps, comprising:
- first and second shaft members;
- first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members, each of the first and second jaw members including an opposed, inwardly-facing side having a proximal end and a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion; and
- a pivot coupling the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position,
- a ratio of a height of the first and second jaw members at the proximal ends of the inwardly-facing sides of the first and second jaw members to a height of the first and second jaw members at the distal tip portions of the first and second jaw members is in a range of about 1.80 to about 2.10.
13. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein the ratio is in a range of from about 1.85 to about 2.05.
14. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein the ratio is in a range of from about 1.90 to about 2.00.
15. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein the ratio is about 1.94.
16. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defines a half-ellipse with the curved distal perimeter of each of the first and second jaw members defining a half-circumference of the half-ellipse, and wherein the height of the first and second jaw members at the distal tip portions thereof is measured at a full diameter of the half-ellipse of each of the first and second jaw members.
17. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12, further comprising a lockbox configuration surrounding the pivot, wherein the proximal end of the inwardly-facing side of each of the first and second jaw members is defined at the point where at least one of the first or second jaw members extends distally from the lockbox configuration.
18. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein each of the first and second jaw members is curved along a portion of a length thereof.
19. An electrosurgical forceps, comprising:
- first and second shaft members;
- first and second jaw members extending distally from the respective first and second shaft members, each of the first and second jaw members including an opposed, inwardly-facing side having a proximal end and a distal tip portion defined as an area within a concave side of a curved distal perimeter of the distal tip portion, the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members defining a diameter transversely thereacross; and
- a pivot coupling the first and second shaft members with one another such that the first and second shaft members are movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to move the first and second jaw members relative to one another between an open position and a closed position,
- wherein a ratio of a width of the proximal end of each of the first and second jaw members to a width of the diameter of the distal tip portion of each of the first and second jaw members is in a range of from about 1.60 to about 2.00, and
- wherein a ratio of a height of the first and second jaw members at the proximal ends of the inwardly-facing sides of the first and second jaw members to a height of the first and second jaw members at the distal tip portions of the first and second jaw members is in a range of about 1.80 to about 2.10.
20. The electrosurgical forceps according to claim 19, wherein each of the first and second jaw members defines a longitudinal axis and a curved distal section curving off of the longitudinal axis, the proximal end of each of the first and second jaw members is defined at the proximal end of the curved distal section.
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 1, 2022
Publication Date: Oct 20, 2022
Inventors: Grant T. Sims (Boulder, CO), Benjamin R. Arts (Lafayette, CO), Kelley D. Goodman (Erie, CO), David M. Keffeler (Niwot, CO), Craig V. Krastins (Arvada, CO), Robert F. McCullough, Jr. (Boulder, CO), Daniel W. Mercier (Erie, CO), Jennifer L. Rich (Parker, CO)
Application Number: 17/856,001