Abstract: A surgical instrument is described that incorporates bipolar electrodes on opposing shearing members for passing a high frequency current through the tissue for causing hemostasis of the tissue and for cutting the tissue. An electrically insulating material is interposed between the shearing members so that the electrodes are spaced apart from 0.002 to 0.050 inches and the current passes between the opposing electrodes through the tissue and not between the opposing shearing surfaces. The insulating material has a higher hardness than the opposing members to reduce wear of the insulation and provide a self-sharpening feature. Methods of simultaneously causing tissue and severing tissue are also provided. The use of a constant voltage high frequency power supply to deliver current to the tissue to cause hemostasis is described in conjunction with those methods.

Abstract: An endoscopic instrument comprising an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end. Actuating mechanism is located at the proximal end and operating mechanism at the distal end. The operating mechanism comprises a pair of V-shaped jaw members, a cautery wire associated with jaw members to incise tissue gripped by the jaws and a mucosa-protecting balloon attached to and movable with one of the jaw members.

Abstract: Endoscopic surgical instruments are provided that have bipolar electrodes on opposing movable members for passing a high frequency current through tissue for simulataneously severing or manipulating the tissue and causing hemostasis of the tissue. An electrically insulating material is interposed between the movable members so that the electrodes are spaced apart from 0.002 to 0.050 inches and the current passes between the opposing electrodes through the tissue. Methods of endoscopically achieving hemostasis while simultaneously, manipulating and cutting tissue are also provided. Use of a constant voltage high frequency power supply to deliver current to the tissue to cause hemostasis is described in conjunction with those methods.

Abstract: A monopolar electrosurgical instrument for utilization with endoscopic and laparoscopic surgical procedures. The instrument is structured so as to substantially eliminate the adverse effects occasioned by capacitive coupling between the instrument and tissue adjacent thereto within the body being operated upon. Capacitive coupling is controlled through the implementation of the shaft structure itself with an electrically insulative polymeric material of low dielectric constant which is combined with a current conductor centrally disposed therein which is of minimum diameter effective to carry requisite current to a working tip. A shield arrangement may be provided such as a coextruded electrically conductive wire mesh surmounting the internally disposed electrical conductor. This shield, in one embodiment may be coupled with return ground employing electrical connectors which assure proper coupling with source and ground.

Abstract: A multifunctional instrument for performing endoscopic operations has an rator hand grip (11) and an instrument socket (12) on which an instrument body (13) with a multilumen tube (14) which can be guided through a trocar is mounted. The operator hand grip (11) extends transverse to the central axis (15) of the instrument body (13). The instrument body (13) is rotatable about the central longitudinal axis (15) relative to the instrument socket (12), which is fixedly connected to the operator hand grip (11), and securely holdable in the selected rotational position.

Abstract: An improved electrode assembly for a resectoscope includes at least one electrical lead that connects at a proximal end via a handle of the resectoscope to an electrosurgical generator to receive electrical power. The electrode assembly further includes an electrode tip at a distal end. The electrode tip has a surface that includes at least one aperture and preferably multiple apertures that extend through the tip. The aperture serves to increase the area of the electrode tip relative to its mass thereby increasing the performance of the electrode for cutting, ablating, vaporizing, or coagulating tissue. The electrode tip performs these functions with relatively lower power requirements compared to conventional resectoscope electrodes.

Abstract: Endoscopic surgical instruments are provided that have bipolar electrodes on opposing movable members for passing a high frequency current through tissue for simulataneously severing or manipulating the tissue and causing hemostasis of the tissue. An electrically insulating material is interposed between the movable members so that the electrodes are spaced apart from 0.002 to 0.050 inches and the current passes between the opposing electrodes through the tissue. Methods of endoscopically achieving hemostasis while simultaneously, manipulating and cutting tissue are also provided. Use of a constant voltage high frequency power supply to deliver current to the tissue to cause hemostasis is described in conjunction with those methods.

Abstract: An improved electrode for use in medical procedures requiring tissue removal. At least one gear shaped element is provided and mounted onto a distal tip region of a wire loop electrode. The gear shaped element distributes current at a tissue/electrode interface and enables the electrode to cut through substantial quantities of tissue while simultaneously creating a substantial rim of coagulation within an area of cut tissue.

Abstract: A roller (20) for an electrocautery probe or electrode (30), such as of the type used with a resectoscope. The roller (20) generally has a conductive body with an axis of rotation (26) and a surface with a circular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation (26). The roller (20) further includes surface features (22) for generating circular-shaped areas of focused current concentration (24) in a radial direction relative to the axis of rotation (26) of the roller (20). For this purpose, recesses can be formed in the surface of the roller (20), with each recess defining a circular-shaped edge at the roller surface. Examples of suitable recesses include cylindrically-shaped perforations and concave impressions in the surface of the roller (20).

Abstract: A robotic system that moves a surgical instrument in response to the actuation of a foot pedal that can be operated by the foot of a surgeon. The robotic system has an end effector that is adapted to hold a surgical instrument such as an endoscope. The end effector is coupled to a robotic arm assembly which can move the endoscope relative to the patient. The system includes a computer which controls the movement of the robotic arm in response to input signals received from the foot pedal.

Abstract: The instant invention is a shielded monopolar electrosurgical instrument for use in laparoscopic and the like surgical procedures. The instrument consists of a rigid outer metallic shield which operates as a conductive coaxial shield and is connected to a patient return electrode of an electrosurgical generator. The use of a coaxial shield coupled to the patient return electrode on the outer surface of the instrument eliminates the need for an outer insulative coating. The shield houses a conductive wire positioned through the center of the shield which is coupled to the active lead from the electrosurgical generator. Between the wire and the shield is placed an insulating sleeve. The tip of the instrument is interchangeable and the instrument may be used in conjunction with a form fitting handle providing the surgeon with finger holes in order to apply pressure to the instrument for operation of grasping items when such a tip is employed.

Abstract: A surgical instrument electrode having a tissue cutting edge disposed along a front portion and a gap having a depth extending along an axis passing through the front portion and a rear portion wherein the depth terminates in a region between the front portion and the rear portion. With such an arrangement, relatively deep gaps may be formed in the electrode without requiring a corresponding increase in the bluntness of the tissue cutting edge. In addition, the electrode has a cross-sectional shape substantially continuously changing along a portion of the electrode from a substantially circular cross-section at a distal end to a substantially rectangular cross-section along the tissue cutting edge. Due to the continuous nature of the change, undesirable electrical arcing due to the shape change is substantially reduced, and is in effect removed.

Abstract: An actuator for an endoscopic instrument includes a handle having a through bore with a distal keyway and a lever which is pivotally coupled to the handle. A proximal tube sleeve is insert molded or press fit to the proximal end of the instrument tube. The tube sleeve has a pair of ramped thread-like projections and a pair of distally facing wedge-like projections all of which pass through the keyway in the handle. A proximal stop ring on the tube sleeve prevents the tube sleeve from passing completely through the handle. A ferrule having a pair of interior threadlike projections threadably engages the tube sleeve and is frictionally engaged by the wedge-like projections. A ferrule locking cap having a proximal inner groove and a distal flange fits in the annular space between the tube sleeve and the ferrule. The proximal groove engages a locking ring on the tube sleeve and splines on the tube sleeve and the ferrule frictionally engage the cap.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cauterizing small vessels through small incisions or puncture openings is described. The apparatus is comprised of a pair of elongate electrodes capable of being inserted into a hollow needle. In a preferred embodiment, the elongate electrodes are disposed within a tube that is slidable in a longitudinal direction between a proximal position, in which the tube releases the electrodes into an outwardly biased position, and a distal position in which the electrodes are enclosed by the tube. The device is introduced into a body cavity with the tube in the distal position. The tube is then moved to its proximal position to release the electrodes, and a vessel is grasped using hooks at the electrode tips. A different electrical polarity is applied to each electrode, causing current to pass through the vessel from one electrode to the other to cauterize the vessel.

Abstract: An endoscope for use in the removal of tumors from hollow body organs such as the bladder. The endoscope consists of a sheath (49) through which extends a telescope (40) and a suction diathermy tube (2, 31, 60) the non-operation end (3, 33) of which communicates with a suction device. Provision (51, 52) is made for an irrigation fluid to be passed through the endoscope. The diathermy tube (2, 31, 60) has an electrode tip (7, 8) which may be formed from electrically conducting resistance wire connected (5, 39, 63) to a diathermy machine. The electrode tip is found adjacent an aperture (4, 9, 41) at the operative of the tube whereby tissue can be immediately removed by suction after severance by the electrode tip. The degree of suction applied to the tube (2, 31, 61) is controlled by a finger hole (38a, 55, 66) located at or near the end (3, 33) of the tube (2, 31, 61).

Abstract: A surgical endoscopic instrument has a stem portion and a handle portion and an operating insert axially extending through both of those portions. The insert carries at least one hf operating electrode which can project beyond the distal end of the stem portion. An insulated electrical conductor extends along the length of the operating insert to connect the electrode to a plug subassembly forming the proximal end of the operating insert. The plug subassembly is electrically connected to a removable jack with a connection cable leading to an hf energy source. The operating insert is rotatably supported inside the implement and the jack is non-rotatably coupled to the plug subassembly which is itself non-rotatably linked to the operating insert.

Abstract: An illuminated intraocular surgical instrument having a grip and a tubular member supported by the grip and extending outwardly from its first end. A surgical tool has a shaft extending from within the tubular member outwardly from the distal end of the member to a free end. The shaft of the tool extends generally along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member as it exits the member through its open distal end. A plurality of light conducting fibers extending through the tubular member have terminal ends located generally at the distal end of the member. The light fibers are arranged at the open distal end of the tubular member generally around the shaft of the tool within the tubular member to illuminate the portion of the surgical tool disposed outwardly of the distal end of the tubular member and the area of operation, and to inhibit the casting of shadows by the surgical tool in the area of operation.

Abstract: In a method for removing a myoma, an antenna electrode is placed into a patient so that the antenna electrode is in contact with the patient's uterus. A cutting electrode is also inserted into the patient and placed into contact with uterine tissues about a myoma. The antenna electrode and the cutting electrode are energized with radio frequency energy so that the cutting electrode cuts through the uterine tissues.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument is provided for cauterization and/or welding of tissue of varying impedances, thicknesses and vascularity especially in the performance of endoscopic procedures. The instrument compresses the tissue in the compression zone between first interfacing surface and second interfacing surfaces. The compression zone is formed by an insulator which forms a compression ridge in one of the interfacing surfaces and separates first and second electrically opposite electrodes. A preferred application of the invention is in a cutting instrument wherein a hemostatic line is formed using RF along a cut line.

Abstract: An endoscopic instrument includes a small diameter hollow tube, an axially displaceable wire extending through the tube, a manual actuator coupled to the proximal ends of the tube and wire for axially displacing the wire relative to the tube, a first end effector mechanically coupled to the distal end of the tube and having a proximal portion which is provided with a curved guiding channel which receives and guides a distal portion of the wire, and a second end effector mechanically coupled to the distal end of the displaceable wire and rotatably coupled to the first end effector. When arranged as a bipolar instrument, the tube and pull wire are conductive, the pull wire is covered with an electrically insulating sheath except at its very distal end, the first end effector is conductive and partially insulated and is electrically coupled to distal end of tube, and the second end effector is conductive and partially insulated and electrically coupled to the distal end of the pull wire.

Abstract: A safety shield for use in laparoscopic or like electrosurgical procedures where the shield surrounds the active electrode and extends from a trocar or the like to the field of view of the surgical procedure. The shield is connected to the return lead via a low impedance path which includes monitor circuitry for determining whether the shield current is associated with an abnormal condition. The shield may also serve as a structural element of the instrument and be connected to the instrument body so that the instrument is maintained at or near patient potential. Moreover, a unitary connector is provided whereby connection to the active electrode and shield may be made by a single connector. Attached to the connector is a cable in which both the active and shield conductors are contained for at least a distance sufficient to minimize clutter in the operative site.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument is provided for cauterization and/or welding of tissue of varying impedances, thicknesses and vascularity especially in the performance of endoscopic procedures. The instrument compresses the tissue between an electrode associated with a first pole of a bipolar energy source located on one interfacing surface off a first element, and a second interfacing surface of a second element. The first and second elements are used to engage and compress tissue between the first and second interfacing surfaces. A second electrode associated with a second pole is located one of the two interfacing surfaces. The first electrode is either recessed into the first tissue contacting surface and/or offset from the second electrode on the same or opposing surfaces. A preferred application of the invention is in a cutting instrument wherein a hemostatic line is formed along a cut line using RF energy.

Abstract: A multiple tool laparoscopic surgical instrument that includes a hand piece, an outer conduit connected to the hand piece, four inner conduits within the outer conduit, an interior channel within the outer conduit, a hypodermic needle housed at least partially within a first one of the inner conduits, an electrocautery cutting tool housed at least partially within a second one of the inner conduit, and a needle electrode housed at least partially within a third one of the inner conduits. In operation, the interior channel of the outer conduit, which is connected to an external source of irrigating fluid and a suction device, is used to provide gentle irrigation as well as suction. A fourth one of the inner conduits, which preferably has a cross sectional area smaller than that of the interior channel of the outer conduit, is also connected to an external source of irrigating fluid to provide more vigorous irrigation.

Abstract: An endoscope and tool therefore which provides a shroud for the protection of the viewing end of an endoscope. The shroud is curved and extends forward of and around the viewing end of an endoscope. This configuration vastly reducing tissue traumatization as tissue is "guided" about the smooth curved outer edges of the shroud. Therefore, the surgeon may use the shroud to separate tissue to improve the view through the endoscope without fear of injuring the patient. Further, even though the shroud extends around the viewing end of the endoscope, viewing remains unobscured as there is a cut-away section in the shroud through which the endoscope receives its image. Additionally, the shroud is capable of being equipped with surgical tools to assist in slicing, cauterizing, and biopsy removal, thereby permitting the surgeon to perform more activities and reducing the need for an assisting surgeon.

Abstract: A trocar obturator includes a hollow tube having a substantially solid, optically clear tip attached thereto. A distal cutting end of the tip is formed by a pair of opposing, angularly oriented surfaces which converge to a line at that point with a cutting element disposed along the line. For electrosurgical operation, an electrode is positioned along the line. The tip serves as a viewing window and defines a viewing port at its proximal end for an endoscope inserted into the hollow obturator tube for viewing a tissue wall as it is penetrated. The trocar obturator tip may include an axial bore extending between its proximal and distal ends with a viewing rod within the bore for viewing the area ahead of the tip. Here again, the distal cutting end of the tip may be formed by a pair of opposing angularly oriented surfaces which converge to a line. Two cutting elements extend linearly along the distal end of the tip, one on either side of the bore.

Abstract: A grooved roller forming part of an electrode for use with a resectoscope is shown. The electrode includes an electrode lead member having an elongated conductor member. The elongated conductor member has a first end and a second end with an insulative cover extended therebetween. The first end has a protruding electrode adapted to be electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator and the second end terminates in an active member. An electrode support member is operatively connected to the active member. The electrode support member has an elongated semi-rigid bifurcated arm terminating in a conductive core spaced a predetermined distance from the active member. The bifurcated arm is covered with an insulative material except at the distal end where the grooved roller is located. The electrode support member has a grooved roller having a central opening extending therethrough for rotatably mounting the grooved roller on the conductive core of the support member.

Abstract: An electrosurgical tool comprises a retractable cutting element moveable along a linear cutting path and an electrical energy supply source which communicates electrical energy (e.g., radio frequency energy) through the cutting element and to tissue adjacent the cutting element. The cutting element may be formed of a sharp or non-sharpened material. During surgical procedures the electrosurgical cutting device is able to simultaneously cut tissue and cauterize, or fuse, the tissue in areas adjacent the incision through the application of electrical energy. The effect is a reduced amount of bleeding associated with surgical procedures and an enhanced ability to control and eliminate bleeding. Optionally, the electrosurgical cutting device may also include a supply of surgical staples which are deployed simultaneously with the cutting action and delivery of electrosurgical energy to adjacent tissue.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes an electrode assembly which is detachably combined with an aspiration/irrigation cannula. The electrode assembly includes a shaft having an electrode tip at its distal end and a connector plug at its proximal end. A sleeve slidably and rotatably received on the proximal end of the shaft includes connecting means for securing to a proximal housing on the cannula. The system includes both the cannula and electrode assembly and is useful in performing electrosurgical procedures as part of minimally invasive surgical operations. A non-conductive cannula and valve housing are also provided which prevent capacitive coupling between the cannula and a monopole electrode.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for a resectoscope includes, a cutting electrode with a loop distal tip and a coagulation electrode with a loop distal tip. A support frame connects the cutting and coagulation electrodes to an energy source which supplies energy from the energy source to the electrodes. The coagulation electrode provides tissue coagulation simultaneously while the cutting electrode cuts tissue. A resectoscope is disclosed which includes the electrode assembly. The resectoscope includes a sheath with a sheath lumen, a working element, and a visualization apparatus.

Abstract: A robotic system that moves a surgical instrument in response to the actuation of a control panel that can be operated by a surgeon. The robotic system has an end effector that is adapted to hold a surgical instrument such as an endoscope. The end effector is coupled to a robotic arm assembly which can move the endoscope relative to a patient. The system includes a computer which controls the movement of a robotic arm in response to input signals received from the control panel. The robotic system is mounted to a cart which can be wheeled to and from an operating table. The cart has a clamping mechanism which attaches the cart to the table. The system also contains a spring loaded mount plate that allows the robotic arm to be rotated and adjusted relative to the cart and the patient. Both the robotic arm and the control panel are encapsulated by protective bags that prevent the system from being contaminated.

Abstract: A method of removing abnormal tissue from the gastrointestinal tract of a patient, comprises the steps of introducing an endoscope into the, patient's gastrointestinal tract and applying suction to such abnormal tissue to pull the abnormal tissue into a ligator at the distal end of said endoscope. A ligation band is then applied to the base of the abnormal tissue within the ligator to form a polyp. An electro-surgical snare is then used to sever the polyp from the surrounding tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an instrument is provided. The device may be a cutting tool for use in surgery, or other type of device applied to transform a specific object located in a defined area. The apparatus comprises a marker having a predetermined color. The marker is applied to the specific device or tool to form a marked device. An imager generates video signals representing a color image of the defined area. A color detector processes the imager signals to detect a range of colors in the image represented by the imager signals. The range of colors includes the predetermined color. The color detector provides an output signal representing instances of signals in the detected color range. A detection mechanism processes the output signal of the color detector to provide an indication of whether the detected instances represented by the output signal conform to the marked device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an ablation catheter which controls the temperature and reduces the coagulation of biological fluids on a tip of a catheter, prevents the impedance rise of tissue in contact with the catheter tip, and maximizes the energy transfer to the tissue, thereby allowing an increase in the lesion size produced by the ablation. The ablation catheter includes a tip for applying electrical energy to biological tissue. Passages are positioned within the tip in a variety of manners for directing a fluid flow through the tip to the exterior surface of the tip to control the temperature and form a protective fluid layer around the tip. Monitoring structure is also positioned within the tip for measurement of the electrical potentials in a biological tissue. Ablation electrode structure is also positioned within the tip for application of ablative energy to the biological tissue.

Abstract: A handpowered, low cost, disposable laparoscopic surgical tool has a proximal hand engageable unit, an elongate extension unit and a distal jaw unit. Pulling a trigger of the hand engageable unit forwards an extension rod in the extension unit to pivot the jaws together. In one embodiment of the invention, the handle unit is primarily of molded plastic material for low cost and disposability. In an embodiment, electrocautery contact with the extension unit is through a bendable spring element. In an embodiment specially shaped links and connected jaw portions improve strength and control in opening and closing the jaws.

Abstract: A bipolar roller electrode has a non-conductive base upon which two electrical conductors are placed with a gap between the conductors. The electrode is provided with a blind hole at each end thereof for rotatably mounting it between a pair of arms. Each of the two conductors preferably extends into or forms a part of a respective blind hole. An electrocautery probe according to the invention includes a pair of electrically conductive arms between which the electrode is mounted with each of the arms entering one of the blind holes in the electrode. The arms are mechanically joined but electrically isolated and their proximal ends are individually coupled to a pair of electrode leads. A non-conductive or insulated mounting sleeve is preferably provided intermediate of the arms and the leads for slideably coupling the probe to a resectoscope. The distal end of each arm of the probe enters a respective blind hole in the roller electrode and makes electrical contact with a respective one of the two conductors.

Abstract: An inflatable dissector and method for bluntly dissecting and electro-cauterizing a plane between the anterior chest wall and the overlying pectoralis major muscle to facilitate a breast implant procedure. The instrument includes an elongate blunt-tipped probe member and carries a distal expandable sleeve with an electrode grid on its surface. The blunt tip of the guide is advanced distally along a plane in the interior of the body thereby creating a small diameter dissected track. The distal inflatable sleeve is expanded to dissect the plane and an electrical current is introduced into the electrode grid to cauterize around the surface of the dissected space. A dual-port cannula assembly and an electro-cauterizing "inside-out" trocar are provided to safely make an additional incision under endoscopic vision from the inside of the dissected plane to the outside of the body from a single skin incision.

Abstract: A "V" shaped grooved roller forming part of an electrode for use with a resectoscope is shown. The electrode includes an electrode lead member having an elongated conductor member. The elongated conductor member has a first end and a second end with an insulative cover extended therebetween. The first end has a protruding electrode adapted to be electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator and the second end terminates in an active member. An electrode support member is operatively connected to the active member. The electrode support member has an elongated semi-rigid bifurcated arm terminating in a conductive core spaced a predetermined distance from the active member. The bifurcated arm is covered with an insulative material except at the distal end where the grooved roller is located. The electrode support member has a grooved roller having an outer surface and at least one circumferentially extending "V" shaped slot formed in the outer surface thereof.

Abstract: An instrument for use in endoscopic surgery is provided. The instrument has a heating element with a working surface for providing hemostasis at an auto-regulated temperature. The working surface may include a tapered edge for providing thermally-enhanced cutting and a non-stick coating for operating the instrument at low auto-regulation temperatures. A process for making the instrument is also provided. Additionally, a method of performing endoscopic surgery on a patient's internal tissue is also provided.

Abstract: A grooved slider forming part of an electrode for use with a resectoscope is shown. The electrode includes an electrode lead member having an elongated conductor member. The elongated conductor member has a first end and a second end with an insulative cover extended therebetween. The first end has a protruding electrode adapted to be electrically connected to an electrosurgical generator and the second end terminates in an active member. An electrode support member is operatively connected to the active member. The electrode support member has an elongated semi-rigid bifurcated arm terminating in a conductive core spaced a predetermined distance from the active member. The bifurcated arm is covered with an insulative material except at the distal end where the grooved slider is located. The electrode support member has a grooved slider having a central opening extending therethrough for fixedly mounting the grooved slider on the conductive core of the support member.

Abstract: A surgical device for stapling and fastening body tissues, comprises an insertion section extending from an operation section for insertion into a body cavity, stapling member connected to a distal end of the insertion section, for treating body tissues with a high-frequency current within a body cavity. The stapling member includes an anvil and a cartridge between which the tissues are sandwiched, and a cutter. Staples are applied to the anvil from the cartridge for stapling the tissues and the cutter cuts the tissue while it applies a high-frequency current thereto.

Abstract: An article for tissue-specific delivery of therapeutic agents constitutes a substrate of a material that is biodegradable in situ in human tissue, which substrate is configured into a projectile and proportioned for insertion into a channel of an endoscope, the substrate having incorporated thereinto selectable therapeutic agents to be delivered, the projectile including, upon an exterior surface, a capacity for tissue affixation to the tissue of interest.

Abstract: A surgical laparoscopic apparatus comprises a protector tube (11) and a hgrip (12) mounted onto the rear end thereof. At least one rod-shaped instrument (13) is arranged in an axially removable way in an axial guide channel (14) provided in the protector tube (11) and the handgrip (12). A dual purpose flushing/suction channel (15) extends parallel thereto in the protector tube (11) and partially also in the handgrip (12) and passes through the handgrip (12) to external flush and suction connectors (16, 17). A twin-position three-way valve (19) is arranged in the handgrip adjacent to the guide channel (14) and, in the one position, connects the flushing/suction channel (15) to the flush and suction connectors (16, 17) and, in the other position, connects the guide channel (14) to the flush connector or suction connector (16, 17).

Abstract: A double acting bipolar endoscopic scissors includes a hollow tube with an integral clevis and a bipolar push rod extending therethrough. The tube is rotatably mounted in a handle member which is provided with a manual actuation lever. The bipolar push rod includes a pair of spaced apart rods which are insulated along substantially their entire lengths by polypropylene sheaths, and which are insert molded in a distal insulating collar near their distal ends, in a proximal insulating collar near their proximal ends, and in a plurality of non-conductive cylinders therebetween. The distal collar includes a flattened distal portion and the distal ends of the rods are bent approximately 90 degrees and exit the flattened portion. A pair of scissor blades are mounted in the clevis with an axle screw and a nut and are insulated from the clevis and the axle screw. One of the scissor blades has a ceramic coating on its face to insulate it from the other scissor blade.

Abstract: An electrocautery probe includes a distal loop electrode mounted between a pair of arms which are joined at their proximal ends to an electrode lead, and a mounting sleeve for slideably coupling the probe to the guide tube of a resectoscope. The loop electrode is formed with a relatively broad lower surface defining a sharp distal edge and a sharp proximal edge. The electrode may have a triangular cross section or a cross section which is defined by an upper convex surface and a lower flat surface. A presently preferred embodiment of the electrode has a triangular cross section with a lower base surface approximately 0.039-0.043 inches wide, a distal upper surface extending approximately 0.018-0.022 inches from the base, and a proximal upper surface which extends approximately 0.063-0.067 inches from the distal upper surface to the lower base surface. The electrode thereby defines a sharp distal edge having an angle of approximately 95.degree., and a sharp proximal edge having an angle of approximately 30.

Abstract: A method for producing an exceptionally durable electrical insulation coating for electro-surgical instrumentation with excellent insulative properties in the 500 KHZ to 1 MHZ frequency range which can drastically reduce, if not totally eliminate, many problems of current electrical insulation materials in use. A process of ceramic plasma deposition is used. A thin ceramic coating can be readily applied to new or existing mono/bipolar surgical instrumentation.

Abstract: An electrocautery probe includes a pair of arms between which a roller electrode is mounted. The arms are joined at their proximal ends to an electrode lead and a mounting sleeve is provided intermediate of the arms and the lead for slideably coupling the probe to a resectoscope. According to the invention, the roller electrode is provided with a plurality of longitudinal surface grooves which increase surface area of the electrode and also enhance traction of the electrode. Other embodiments of the invention have eccentric convex or concave surfaces to further increase the surface area of the electrode. The electrodes according to the invention are preferably made of copper, chromium cobalt, or carbonless stainless steel. They preferably have an overall diameter of from about 0.115 to about 0.187 inches and an overall length of from about 0.110 to about 0.120 inches.

Abstract: An electrophysiology catheter (20) comprises a shaft (22) having a first bending stiffness and a deflectable tip (28) secured to the distal end (24) of the shaft with a second bending stiffness less than the first bending stiffness. At least one electrode (34, 36) is mounted to the tip for delivering current to or monitoring electrical activity of tissue. A manipulator wire (58) is coupled to the distal end of the deflectable tip, whereby the deflectable tip may be deflected by axial force applied to the manipulator wire. A stiffener member (66) is axially slidable relative to the tip so as to adjust the tip curvature without removing the catheter from the body. The catheter may further include a core wire (72) configured to rotate the deflectable tip about a longitudinal axis (2) without rotating the proximal end (26) of the catheter shaft, wherein the distal end of the deflectable tip remains in a substantially constant axial position, preferably in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A high-frequency cauterizing apparatus comprises a high-frequency power supply device, having a plurality of high-frequency output modes, for generating a high-frequency current, at least one medical treatment instrument to be connected to the high-frequency power supply device, a detector for detecting connection of the medical treatment instrument to the high-frequency power supply device, a control signal generator for identifying the type of the medical treatment instrument on the basis of a detection signal from the detector and generating a control signal, and a controller for controlling a high-frequency output from the high-frequency power supply device on the basis of the control signal generated from the control signal generator.

Abstract: A robotic system that moves a surgical instrument in response to the actuation of a foot pedal that can be operated by the foot of a surgeon. The robotic system has an end effector that is adapted to hold a surgical instrument such as an endoscope. The end effector is coupled to a robotic arm assembly which can move the endoscope relative to the patient. The system includes a computer which controls the movement of the robotic arm in response to input signals received from the foot pedal.

Abstract: An endoscopic surgical instrument having a handle assembly, a body portion, and a tool mechanism in which a pivoting handle pivots about a stationary handle to open and close the tool mechanism. The instrument includes a rotatable body portion, in which a rotation knob is provided on the instrument at the stationary handle so that the user may rotate the body portion, and consequently the tool mechanism, using a single hand. Furthermore, an electrocautery connection is provided which is positioned out of the line of sight of the surgeon, so that the surgeon may have an unobstructed view to the surgical site. The pivoting handle is provided with a rotatable connection point for connecting the slidable rod member to essentially eliminate radial deflection of the rod within the outer tube during opening and closing of the handles.