With Forceps Or Tweezers Patents (Class 606/51)
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Patent number: 9113905Abstract: A bipolar forceps for sealing tissue includes an end effector assembly having opposing first and second jaw members each having a proximal end and a distal end. A first electrically conductive surface having two or more conductive sealing plates and a dielectric layer is operably coupled to the first jaw member. Each sealing plate is connected to a reactive element and positioned along the first electrically conductive surface from the proximal end to the distal end. The reactive element of the sealing plate have different impedances. A second electrically conductive surface having one or more conductive sealing plates is operably coupled to the second jaw member. Each electrically conductive surface on the jaw members connects to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the sealing plates are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2013Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Nicole McKenna, Robert H. Wham
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Patent number: 9101385Abstract: A surgical tool can comprise an end effector, a shaft assembly, a rotatable drive shaft, a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. The end effector comprises first and second jaw members that are pivotable relative to one another from an open position to a closed position and an electrode positioned on the first jaw member. The shaft assembly extends proximally from the end effector, is at least partially hollow, and defines an inner wall. The rotatable drive shaft extends proximally within the shaft assembly. The first electrical contact is coupled to the inner wall of the shaft assembly and positioned around at least a portion of the drive shaft. The second electrical contact is coupled to and rotatable with the drive shaft. The second electrical contact is positioned to be electrically connected to the first electrical contact as the drive shaft rotates.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: August 11, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Chester O. Baxter, III
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Patent number: 9078703Abstract: A spinal implant (200) including first spinal attachment member (201) for attaching to a first spinal portion, second spinal attachment member (202) for attaching to a second spinal portion, and a post-implantation variable dimension rod disposed between the first and second spinal attachment members, which is operable after completing surgery in which said spinal implant was installed into a patient, to cause relative movement between the first and second spinal attachment members.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2010Date of Patent: July 14, 2015Assignee: SPINE21 LTD.Inventor: Uri Arnin
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Patent number: 9072524Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members configured to grasp tissue therebetween and conduct energy through tissue grasped therebetween to treat tissue. An insulative tubular member is movable relative to the end effector assembly between a retracted position, wherein the insulative tubular member is positioned proximally of the end effector assembly, and an extended position, wherein the insulative tubular member is disposed about the end effector assembly. A monopolar member is selectively deployable relative to the end effector assembly from a first position to a second position, wherein, in the second position, a portion of the monopolar member extends distally from the end effector assembly and the insulative tubular member for applying energy to tissue to treat tissue.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2012Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: David N. Heard, Tony Moua, Scott F. Alexander, Christopher T. Rusin, Jonathan A. Coe, John J. Kappus, Peter M. Mueller, Raymond A. Sirianne, Kellie F. Payne, William H. Nau, Jr., Duane E. Kerr
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Patent number: 9066722Abstract: An instrument (10) for fusing and severing vessels in accordance with the invention comprises a first branch (19) with a first electrode (33) and a second branch 20 that is supported so as to be movable toward and away from the first electrode (33), wherein the second branch (20) has a longitudinal slit (31). A knife (21) is arranged in said slit so as to be movable longitudinally relative to the shaft (11). The knife (21) is associated with a vertical adjustment mechanism (54) for adjusting the knife (21) perpendicularly to the longitudinal movement as a function of the longitudinal movement of said knife. As a result of this, a premature dulling of the tip (28b) or the sliding edge (28a) of the knife 21 due to contact with the ceramic base body (23) or the edges or the step (55) is avoided.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2013Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: ERBE ELEKTROMEDIZIN GMBHInventor: Waldemar Wandel
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Patent number: 9066741Abstract: A robotic surgical instrument comprising: (a) a first jaw including a first bipolar electrical lead; (b) a second jaw including a second bipolar electrical lead; (c) a robotic arm operatively coupled to the first jaw and the second jaw, the robotic arm including a coupling mounted to the first and second jaws that allows the first jaw to be repositioned with respect to the second jaw; and, (d) a surgical tool head including a first electrical load in electrical communication with a first and second electrical terminals, the first surgical tool head adapted to be mounted to the first and second jaws to establish a first junction between the first bipolar electrical lead and the first electrical terminal and a second junction between the second bipolar electrical lead and the second electrical terminal.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2012Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: AtriCure, Inc.Inventors: Salvatore Privitera, Matthew Monti, Adam Harp, Jason Iain Glithero, William J. Abner, Jeffrey Stone
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Patent number: 9050099Abstract: A surgical jaw instrument having two jaw pieces mounted at the distal end section of a shaft for relative reciprocal displacement, whereby at each displaced jaw piece a sliding rod is fastened at an incline to the axis of the shaft, to which a displaceable sliding element can be connected parallel to the axis of the shaft in such a way that upon displacement of the sliding element, the jaw pieces are relatively reciprocally displaced wherein a second sliding element is mounted at the first sliding element, diametrically opposed relative to the sliding rod.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2010Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBHInventor: Hannes Miersch
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Patent number: 9044242Abstract: A bipolar forceps may include a first forceps arm having a first forceps arm aperture, a first forceps jaw, and a first forceps arm conductor tip; a second forceps arm having a second forceps arm aperture, a second forceps jaw, and a second forceps arm conductor tip; and an input conductor isolation mechanism having a first forceps arm housing and a second forceps arm housing. The first forceps arm may be disposed in the first forceps arm housing and the second forceps arm may be disposed in the second forceps arm housing. An application of a force to a lateral portion of the forceps arms may be configured to close the forceps jaws. A reduction of a force applied to a lateral portion of the forceps arms may be configured to open the forceps jaws.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2013Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: Kogent Surgical, LLCInventors: Gregg D Scheller, John M Schallert
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Publication number: 20150148802Abstract: An endoscopic forceps is provided. The endoscopic forceps includes a housing having a shaft that extends therefrom that defines a longitudinal axis therethrough. The shaft has a first tube with a bent portion having a contour. A second tube is disposed within the first tube. An end effector assembly operatively connected to a distal end of the first tube has a pair of first and second jaw members. The first and second jaw members including respective cam slots defined therein with a cam pin movable therein. The shaft is translatable along the longitudinal axis to straighten the bent portion of the first tube to move the bent portion of the first tube from an articulated configuration to a non-articulated configuration. The second tube is translatable along the longitudinal axis to move the first and second jaw members from the open configuration to the clamping configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2015Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventor: DAVID M. GARRISON
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Publication number: 20150148798Abstract: An electrosurgical device comprising: (a) forceps including: (i) a first working arm and (ii) a second working arm; (b) a blade electrode; wherein the electrosurgical device is capable of being switched between a first electrical configuration so that the electrosurgical device delivers a first therapy current through the first working arm, the second working arm, or both, and a second electrical configuration so that the electrosurgical device delivers a second therapy current through the blade electrode; and wherein the first working arm and the second working arm of the forceps are immobilized in the second electrical configuration so that both the forceps and the first therapy current are disabled.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2015Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventors: Ryan Windgassen, Kester J. Batchelor
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Publication number: 20150148801Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical forceps device having a handle at the proximal end and forceps jaws at the distal end is described. These two ends are connected via an elongated tubular section that houses the actuating member for controlling the motion of the forceps at the distal end relative to the motion of the proximal handle. A dovetail member connects the forceps to a shaft that is slidably disposed in the tubular section at the distal end of the device, where the tubular section constrains the motion of the two jaws perpendicular relative to the axial direction. A coupling member is attached to the actuating member where drive slots interact with the drive pins on the forceps, whereby squeezing the handle causes the desired relative parallel opening or closing motion of the forceps jaws.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2014Publication date: May 28, 2015Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIAInventors: Kiarash Shahlaie, Elizabeth Lim, Jonathan Oakden, Paul Riemenschneider, Travis Schraeder
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Patent number: 9039704Abstract: A forceps includes first and second shaft members, each having a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. The first and second shaft members are pivotably coupled to one another toward the distal ends thereof and are moveable relative to one another between an open position and a closed position for moving the jaw members between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position. A knife assembly including a handle and a knife extending from the handle is also provided. The knife assembly is selectively translatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the knife extends between the jaw members. The handle is disposed between the first and second shaft members and is configured to block further closure of the first and second shaft members beyond the closed position, thereby defining a minimum gap distance between the jaw members.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2011Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: Daniel A. Joseph
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Patent number: 9039705Abstract: A medical treatment device to treat body tissues for conjugation, includes at least a pair of holding members configured to hold the body tissues, an energy output portion provided in at least one of the holding members and connected to an energy source to form a joined portion by supplying energy to the body tissues held by the pair of holding members and joining the body tissues, and a conjugation coating portion to a region from a neighborhood of a joined portion to coat joined surfaces with a substance capable of preventing fluid from invading during or after the body tissues being joined by adding the energy to the body tissues.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2012Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.Inventor: Tomoyuki Takashino
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Publication number: 20150141992Abstract: Surgical tools are disclosed that include a first handle having a first recess, a second handle having a second recess, a first tip disposed in the first recess and extending distally, and a second tip disposed in the second recess and extending distally. The first tip has a first external surface and a first internal surface. The second tip has a second external surface and a second internal surface. The surgical tool has a first configuration wherein the surgical tool operates as forceps. The surgical tool has a second configuration wherein the surgical tool operates as scissors. The first internal surface can be moved adjacent to the second internal surface to permit rotation of the first tip relative to the first recess and permit rotation of the second tip relative to the second recess. The rotation of the first tip and the second tip transitions the surgical tool between the first configuration and the second configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2014Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventor: Ryan D. Smith
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Publication number: 20150141993Abstract: The present disclosure relates to electrosurgical instruments for use in sealing various tissues. The instrument includes a housing having a shaft attached thereto and an end effector assembly attached to a distal end of the shaft, wherein the end effector assembly includes first and second jaw members attached thereto. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position for approximating tissue to at least one additional position for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members have an elastomeric material disposed on an inner facing tissue contacting surface thereof with the elastomeric materials including an electrode disposed therein. The electrodes are offset a distance X relative to one another such that when the jaw members are closed about the tissue and when the electrodes are activated, electrosurgical energy flows through the tissue in a generally coplanar manner relative to the tissue contacting surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2015Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventors: DAVID A. SCHECHTER, KRISTIN D. JOHNSON
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Patent number: 9033982Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a housing having an elongated shaft extending distally therefrom. An end effector for treating tissue is supported by the elongated shaft. One or more tensile members extend at least partially through the elongated shaft. A proximal end of a tensile member is operatively coupled to at least one actuator and a distal end is operatively coupled to the end effector such that manipulation of the actuator induces movement of the tensile member to move the end effector. A de-tensioning mechanism is operatively associated with the tensile member to move the tensile member between a first relaxed configuration and a second stressed configuration. The de-tensioning mechanism includes a spacer insertable into a cavity defined in the housing to move the tensile member to the first relaxed configuration and removable from the cavity to move the at least one tensile member to the second stressed configuration.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2013Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: James S Cunningham, Eric Jones
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Patent number: 9033983Abstract: A treatment system includes a seal member, a maintaining member and a control section, and is configured to exert energy to a living tissue to treat the living tissue. The seal member is configured to join a sealed region which seals desirable regions of at least two living tissues when the energy is exerted to the sealed region. The maintaining member is configured to maintain the living tissues in the vicinity of the sealed region being brought into contact with each other when the energy is exerted to the living tissues. The control section is configured to offset energy output timings of the seal member and the maintaining member.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2010Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.Inventors: Tomoyuki Takashino, Koji Iida, Toru Nagase
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Publication number: 20150133929Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members. One or both of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One or both of the jaw members includes a jaw frame including an engagement recess defined on each lateral side thereof and a replaceable component configured for slidable positioning about the jaw frame. The replaceable component includes an outer jaw housing having an engagement tang disposed on each lateral side thereof. The engagement tangs are configured to engage the engagement recesses of the jaw frame upon slidable positioning of the replaceable component about the jaw frame to secure the replaceable component to the jaw frame. The replaceable component includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate engaged to the outer jaw housing to define a tissue sealing surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2015Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: ALLAN J. EVANS, PETER M. MUELLER, PETER D. GADSBY
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Publication number: 20150133928Abstract: An end effector assembly includes a first jaw member and a second jaw member. The first and second jaw members are operably movable relative to one another between an open position and a clamped position. The first and second jaw members each include an electrically conductive plate. The electrically conductive plates of the first and second jaw members oppose each other and are configured to conduct energy through tissue clamped therebetween. The first jaw member further includes an insulative spacer having a rib and a conductive strip. The rip extends from a surface of the insulative spacer towards the electrically conductive plate. The conductive strip is integrally formed on a surface of the rib to contact the electrically conductive plate. The conductive strip is configured to transmit an electrical potential to the electrically conductive plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2014Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventor: PURVISH SONI
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Publication number: 20150133930Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a housing that supports an elongated shaft. A selectively movable drive rod extends through the elongated shaft and carries a cam pin in a longitudinal direction. An end effector for surgically treating tissue is supported by the elongated shaft and includes upper and lower jaw members pivotally coupled to one another about a pivot axis. The upper jaw member includes a first pair of laterally spaced flanges, and the lower jaw member includes a second pair of laterally spaced flanges defining a camming slot for engaging the cam pin. The flanges are arranged in an offset configuration where one flange of the upper jaw member is positioned on a laterally exterior side of a corresponding flange of the lower jaw member, and the other flange of the upper jaw member is positioned on a laterally interior side of the other flange of the lower jaw member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2015Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: JAMES D. ALLEN, IV, EDWARD M. CHOJIN, JOSEPH D. BUCCIAGLIA
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Patent number: 9028495Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an elongated shaft having a proximal structural member and a proximal drive member that is selectively movable with respect to the proximal structural member. A modular end effector is removably coupled to the elongated shaft, and has a distal structural member and a distal drive member that is operatively coupled to a pair of jaw members. A separable joint is defined between the elongated shaft and the end effector. The separable joint includes laterally prominent and laterally indented portions of each of the proximal and distal structural members and of each of the proximal and distal drive members. The structural members are interlocked to resist longitudinal separation and permit lateral separation. The drive members are movable relative to structural members to move the separable joint to a locked configuration wherein the drive members prohibit lateral separation of the structural members.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2010Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Peter M. Mueller, Allan J. Evans
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Patent number: 9028492Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a handle coupled to a source of electrosurgical energy. A pair of opposed jaw members is operatively coupled to a distal end of the handle such that the jaw members selectively move between open and closed positions. A base supported on one of the jaw members includes a mechanical mating feature and an electrically conductive region in electrical communication with the source of electrosurgical energy. A selectively removable seal plate includes a complementarily engaging a mechanical mating feature and an electrically conductive region positioned to contact the electrically conductive region of the base when the mechanical mating features of the base and seal plate are engaged. The complimentarily-engaging mechanical mating features include a pair of spaced protrusions and a pair of spaced recesses open to opposing sides of the base or the seal plate such that the seal plate may be twisted onto the base.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2011Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Duane E. Kerr, Allan J. Evans, Arlan J. Reschke, Robert M. Sharp, William H. Nau, Jr., Glenn A. Horner, Mark J. Huseman
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Patent number: 9028494Abstract: A surgical tool can comprise an interchangeable end effector, a handle assembly, and a shaft assembly. The interchangeable end effector may comprise a first jaw member including a first electrode, and a second jaw member including a second electrode. The first jaw member may be moveable relative to the second jaw member between a first position and a second position. The handle assembly may be proximal to the surgical end effector. The shaft assembly may extend between said handle assembly and the interchangeable end effector. The shaft assembly may comprise a rotary drive shaft configured to transmit rotary motions. The rotary drive shaft may be selectively axially moveable relative to the shaft assembly between a plurality of discrete positions. A coupling arrangement may be for releasably attaching the interchangeable end effector to the shaft assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III
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Patent number: 9028491Abstract: An electrosurgical handpiece comprising a squeezable handle connected to extend and retract bipolar electrodes from a rigid tubular member. The bipolar electrodes comprise active separable distal ends and connecting links configured such that when the handle is unsqueezed, the active distal ends protrude from the distal end of the first tubular member and are adjacent one another, and when the handle is fully squeezed, the active distal ends are fully extended outwardly from the first tubular member and separate, and when the handle is relaxed but still partially squeezed, the active distal ends come together and touch first at their extreme ends and then touch over a broader area in a position to grasp tissue for receiving electrosurgical currents.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2008Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Inventor: Alan G. Ellman
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Patent number: 9028500Abstract: The invention relates to a surgical instrument, in particular a sliding shaft instrument, with a main part, and a moveable part relative thereto, with a handle attached to the main part, comprising a fixed grip and a grip actuating the moveable part, with at least one guide, through which, in relation to the main part, the moveable part is moveable between an initial position and a working position, and with a sliding surface attached to the movable part and pointing towards the main part, the sliding surface being slid along a guide surface attached to the main part and pointing towards the sliding surface, with at least the sliding surface or the guide surface are assigned to each other for the formation of a washable gap.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2010Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Thomas Tontarra Grundstuecksverwaltungs GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Thomas Tontarra, Alberto Petrella
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Patent number: 9028493Abstract: A method of performing surgery includes the steps of providing a forceps having a housing including a shaft that extends therefrom and at least one handle moveable relative to the housing and providing an end effector assembly configured to selectively engage a distal end of the shaft. The method also includes the steps of inserting the forceps through a first opening formed in a body; inserting the end effector assembly through a second opening formed in the body; engaging the end effector assembly with the distal end of the shaft in vivo; and actuating the end effector assembly by moving the handle relative to the housing. The method may also include the steps of providing a coupling at the distal end of the shaft, and engaging, via the coupling, the distal end of the shaft with the end effector assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Patrick L. Dumbauld, Edward Cosgriff
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Patent number: 9023044Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument includes a first jaw member with a first electrode area and a second electrode area and a second jaw member, such that at least either the first jaw member or the second jaw member can be pivoted around a pivot axis in such a way that the jaw members can be approached to one another or distanced from one another, so that the first jaw member can be rotated in relation to the second jaw member around a rotation axis between a first predetermined working position and a second predetermined working position, so that in the first working position the first electrode area of the first jaw member is facing the second jaw member and so that in the second working position the second electrode area of the first jaw member is facing the second jaw member.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2012Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Bernd Emmerich
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Patent number: 9023043Abstract: An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end movable about a pivot from a first position disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue. A movable handle actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. One (or both) of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting electrical energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on an exterior surface of one or both jaw members and about the pivot and at least one retention element is configured to operably couple to both a proximal end of the jaw members and a distal end of the flexible insulating boot.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Dylan Hushka, Patrick L. Dumbauld, Robert S. Wagner, Paul Guerra
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Patent number: 9017370Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members and a knife body. The first and second jaw members have a curved configuration and are disposed in opposed relation to each other. One or both of the jaw members include a ledge, a first knife channel and a second knife channel. The ledge is disposed along the length of one of the jaw members. The first knife channel is defined along the length of a portion of the ledge. The second knife channel is defined along the length of a portion of the jaw member, and below a bottom portion of the ledge such that the ledge covers a portion of the second knife channel. The knife body includes a knife blade at a distal end thereof and a recessed portion proximal to the knife blade.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Arlan J. Reschke, Jeffrey M. Roy
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Publication number: 20150112336Abstract: A bipolar forceps may include a first forceps arm having a first forceps arm aperture, a first forceps jaw, and a first forceps arm conductor tip; a second forceps arm having a second forceps arm aperture, a second forceps jaw, and a second forceps arm conductor tip; and an input conductor isolation mechanism having a first forceps arm housing and a second forceps arm housing. The first forceps arm conductor tip may be configured to conduct current only at a medial portion of the first forceps arm. Illustratively, the second forceps arm conductor tip may be configured to conduct current only at a medial portion of the second forceps arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2014Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventors: Gregg D. Scheller, Brett D. Smith
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Patent number: 9011437Abstract: A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The surgical instrument may have a indicator to provide feedback signals during the operational stroke. The feedback signals assist in regulating the rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Scott A. Woodruff, Patrick A. Weizman, Gwendolyn P. Payne, Donna L. Korvick, David K. Norvell
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Patent number: 9011436Abstract: An electrosurgical forceps includes a handle having a shaft extending therefrom defining a longitudinal axis. The handle is selectively movable to translate movement of the shaft along the longitudinal axis to actuate a pair of laterally spaced first and second jaw members pivotably connected to a distal end of the shaft. The first and second jaw members are moveable from an open position, wherein the first and second jaw members are in spaced relation relative to a stationary jaw member, to a closed position wherein the first and second jaw members cooperate with the stationary jaw member to grasp tissue therebetween. Each of the jaw members is adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source to conduct energy through tissue grasped therebetween to effect a tissue seal.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: David M. Garrison
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Patent number: 9011427Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a handle assembly housing a wireless circuit board. The wireless circuit board transmits a signal to a set of safety glasses worn by a surgeon using the surgical instrument during a procedure. The signal is received by a wireless port on the safety glasses. One or more lighting devices on a front lens of the safety glasses change color, fade, or glow in response to the received signal to indicate information to the surgeon about the status of the surgical instrument. The lighting devices are disposable on peripheral edges of the front lens to not distract the direct line of vision of the surgeon.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2011Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Daniel W. Price, Cory G. Kimball
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Publication number: 20150094720Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members moveable with respect to one another between an open position and a closed position. A knife channel having a body and a base is defined within each jaw member. A knife assembly includes a knife having a bifurcated distal end. The bifurcated end includes first and second cutting members each defining an opposed cutting surface and having a tab at a free end thereof for translation through the base of a knife channel. The knife is translatable into the channels when the jaw members are in the closed position such that the cutting members are approximated when translated through the channels. The knife is also translatable into the channels when the jaw members are in the open position such that the cutting members are flexed apart when translated through the jaw members.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2014Publication date: April 2, 2015Inventors: KATHY E. ROOKS, GLENN A. HORNER, DUANE E. KERR, JEFFREY R. TOWNSEND, WILLIAM H. NAU, Jr., DAVID M. GARRISON, EDWARD M. CHOJIN
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Patent number: 8992526Abstract: Surgical instruments are provided for performing laparoscopic or similar minimally invasive operations, including two clamping parts, which can move towards one another and which have clamping surfaces for gripping tissue when they are closed. A cutting device has a cutting edge that, in a cutting direction, can be displaced relative to the clamping parts for cutting the gripped tissue. In such an instrument the cutting direction extends at an acute angle to the clamping surfaces when they are closed.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2005Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Erbe Elektromedizin GmbHInventors: Achim Brodbeck, Dieter Hafner
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Publication number: 20150082624Abstract: A method of preparing a surgical system for surgery includes inserting a battery assembly into an inner chamber of an aseptic bag through an open end of the aseptic bag, positioning a portion of a housing of a surgical instrument through the open end of the aseptic bag, coupling the battery assembly to the surgical instrument, and sealing the open end of the aseptic bag. The battery assembly is coupled to the surgical instrument while the battery assembly is within the inner chamber of the aseptic bag. When the open end of the aseptic bag is sealed the battery assembly is encapsulated within the inner chamber of the aseptic bag. A generator of the surgical system may additionally or alternatively be encapsulated similarly.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2014Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: JASON L. CRAIG, NICOLAS F. ROUSSEAU
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Publication number: 20150088131Abstract: A manually operable HF instrument in bipolar construction includes a jaw part having two electrode legs which can be moved relative to each other like pincers or scissors, and an instrument handle for operating and activating the jaw part. A separate electrode mount is articulated on at least one electrode leg of the jaw part so as to be able to pivot relative to it, an electrode in turn being elastically/pliably installed on the electrode mount.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2013Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Dieter Weisshaupt, Christoph Rothweiler
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Publication number: 20150080880Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument includes a housing, an elongated shaft, and an end-effector assembly. The proximal end of the shaft is operably associated with the housing. The end-effector assembly is operably coupled to the distal end of the shaft and includes first and second jaw members. Each of the first and second jaw members includes a sealing plate and a bipolar electrode. Either one or both of the first and second jaw members is movable from a position in spaced relation relative to the other jaw member to at least one subsequent position wherein the sealing plates cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The electrosurgical instrument includes a semiconductor switch operably coupled to at least one of the sealing plates and at least one of the bipolar electrodes. The semiconductor switch is configured to enable user selection between energizing the at least one sealing plate or the at least one bipolar electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2014Publication date: March 19, 2015Applicant: COVIDIEN LPInventors: JOE D. SARTOR, DANIEL FRIEDRICHS
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Publication number: 20150080868Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to battery unit for use with surgical instruments. The battery units may comprise a plurality of cells and include a translatable discharge drain. When attached to the surgical instrument, the discharge drain may electrically connect an anode of the battery unit to a cathode of the battery unit, for example, via a resistive element in order to drain the battery unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2014Publication date: March 19, 2015Inventor: Wendy A. Kerr
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Publication number: 20150080879Abstract: A medical device includes an end effector configured to apply bipolar energy to target tissue along a working portion thereof and a fluid control system to control the flow of a fluid produced when the end effector applies the bipolar energy to heat the target tissue. The fluid control system includes a fluid path element defining a fluid path, a distal fluid port configured to intake the fluid adjacent to the working portion of an end effector for transport through the fluid path, and a proximal fluid port configured to intake the fluid transported through the fluid path and to exhaust the transported fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2013Publication date: March 19, 2015Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Gregory A. Trees, Susan G. Arshonsky, Jonathan T. Batross, Chad P. Boudreaux, Edward G. Chekan, Catherine A. Corbett, Craig T. Davis, Alex W. Kiturkes, Terry A. McFarland, David A. Monroe, John M. Sarley, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, John B. Schulte, Foster B. Stulen, Aaron C. Voegele, William B. Weisenburgh, II, Tamara Widenhouse, David A. Witt
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Patent number: 8979845Abstract: Electrosurgical forceps for efficiently severing of hollow organs, in particular vessels. The electrosurgical forceps have a first branch and a second branch for gripping the hollow organ. The forceps have at least one neutral electrode on the second branch, at least one first coagulation electrode and a second coagulation electrode that is disposed on the first branch for applying a first HF current by means of the coagulation electrode, and at least one cutting device, which is arranged between the coagulation electrodes in order to sever the hollow organ in a cutting region. The cutting device has a cutting electrode for applying a second HF current between the cutting and neutral electrodes. The coagulation electrodes are arranged spaced apart from one another in such a way that the first HF current does not flow through or only a minor amount of the same flows through the cutting region.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Erbe Elektromedizin GmbHInventors: Daniel Schäller, Klaus Fischer, Dieter Hafner
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Patent number: 8979843Abstract: A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by a linear actuator, for example.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Richard W. Timm, Robert J. Laird, Omar J. Vakharia, Suzanne E. Thompson, Gavin M. Monson, John V. Hunt
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Patent number: 8979890Abstract: A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue may comprise a handle, a trigger, an electrical input, and a shaft extending from the handle. The surgical instrument may comprise an end effector first and second tissue engaging surfaces that are slanted with respect to a transection plane. The end effector may, for example, have an electrode defining a V-shaped cross sectional profile. The end effector may comprise a plurality of raised surfaces that are received by a plurality of indentions when the end effector is in the closed position. The end effector may comprise a cutting member having a plurality of bands.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2010Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventor: Chad P. Boudreaux
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Patent number: 8979844Abstract: A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by an electromagnetic brake.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2010Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Bradley E. White, John F. Cummings, Cory G. Kimball, Andrew T. Beckman, Christopher J. Schall, Al Mirel
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Publication number: 20150066027Abstract: A method includes providing a bipolar energy source, a monopolar energy source, a bipolar assembly, and a monopolar assembly. The method further includes moving the monopolar assembly to a retracted position. Moving the monopolar assembly to the retracted position couples the bipolar energy source to the bipolar assembly and decouples the monopolar energy source from the monopolar assembly. The method further includes moving the monopolar assembly to a deployed position. Moving the monopolar assembly to the deployed position decouples the bipolar energy source from the bipolar assembly and couples the monopolar energy source to the monopolar assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: COVIDIEN LPInventors: DAVID M. GARRISON, DYLAN R. KINGSLEY, TONY MOUA
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Patent number: 8968306Abstract: A forceps includes a disposable shaft and a reusable shaft. The shafts each including a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. The shafts are releasably coupled to one another about a pivot and are moveable relative to one another for moving the jaw members between an open position and a closed position. The disposable shaft includes a first tissue sealing plate disposed thereon and an electrical, connector coupled thereto that includes a plurality of wires extending therethrough and into the disposable shaft member. One or more wires is coupled to the first tissue sealing plate and one or more wires is coupled to a second tissue sealing plate that is configured for releasable engagement with the jaw member of the reusable shaft member. The tissue sealing plates are adapted to conduct energy through tissue for sealing tissue grasped between the jaw members.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: Jeffrey R. Unger
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Patent number: 8968316Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly and one or more cutting blades. The end effector assembly defines a longitudinal axis and has a pair of jaw members selectively positionable relative to one another about a pivot. One or more of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive tissue engaging surface adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source. One or more of the jaw members includes two or more blade channels defined therein and extending therealong. The one or more cutting blades are selectively movable within one or more of the two or more blade channels.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Jeffrey M. Roy, Rebecca Coulson
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Patent number: 8968305Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly defining a longitudinal axis and including a pair of jaw members disposed in opposing relation relative to one another. At least one jaw member is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes a jaw housing and an opposed electrically conductive sealing surface. The opposed sealing surfaces define a sealing area therebetween. A cutting mechanism is disposed on the jaw housing of one of the jaw members opposite the respective sealing surface and is configured to cut tissue externally-positioned relative to the sealing area upon translation of the cutting mechanism with respect to tissue.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Patrick L. Dumbauld, Glenn A. Horner, Duane E. Kerr, Kathy E. Rooks, Jessica E. C. Olson
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Patent number: 8968308Abstract: An end effector assembly adapted to couple to an electrosurgical instrument, the end effector assembly including a pair of opposing jaw members pivotably attached about a pivot member and moveable from a first spaced position to a second grasping position. Each jaw member includes a jaw housing and a seal plate formed on an inner surface of the jaw member including at least two seal plate segments extending along a substantial portion of the length of the jaw members. An insulating member is positioned between adjacent seal plate segments and configured to provide electrical isolation between adjacent seal plate segments. Each sealing plate segment is adapted to selectively connect to an electrosurgical energy source and form part of an electrosurgical energy delivery circuit.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Glenn A. Horner, Christina A. Oliver, Kim V. Brandt
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Patent number: 8968311Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a housing that supports an elongated shaft. A selectively movable drive rod extends through the elongated shaft and carries a cam pin in a longitudinal direction. An end effector for surgically treating tissue is supported by the elongated shaft and includes upper and lower jaw members pivotally coupled to one another about a pivot axis. The upper jaw member includes a first pair of laterally spaced flanges, and the lower jaw member includes a second pair of laterally spaced flanges defining a camming slot for engaging the cam pin. The flanges are arranged in an offset configuration where one flange of the upper jaw member is positioned on a laterally exterior side of a corresponding flange of the lower jaw member, and the other flange of the upper jaw member is positioned on a laterally interior side of the other flange of the lower jaw member.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2012Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: James D. Allen, IV, Edward M. Chojin, Joseph D. Bucciaglia