With Forceps Or Tweezers Patents (Class 606/51)
  • Patent number: 9204992
    Abstract: A treatment system includes a holding section that has a heat generation section for applying thermal energy and holds a living tissue, a signal output section that supplies a drive signal to the heat generation section, a signal detection section that detects the drive signal, a signal extraction section that extracts an extracted signal of a predetermined frequency band from the drive signal detected by the signal detection section, a fault detection section that detects when a precursory phenomenon of a fault of the heat generation section the extracted signal reaches or exceeds a predetermined threshold, and a control section that performs control, when the fault detection section detects the precursory phenomenon, so as to reduce power of the drive signal supplied from the signal output section to the heat generation section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Honda, Takashi Irisawa, Sadayoshi Takami, Toshifumi Katsuragi, Kazue Tanaka
  • Patent number: 9198710
    Abstract: A treatment system includes a treatment instrument that has a pair of freely openable/closable holding sections for applying thermal energy generated by a heat generation section to a living tissue LT held between the holding sections, a signal output section that supplies an alternating current drive signal to the heat generation section, a setting section that sets a target temperature of the heat generation section, a signal detection section that detects a current and a voltage of the drive signal, a control section that controls a temperature of the heat generation section by adjusting power of the drive signal, a signal extraction section that extracts a direct current component from the drive signal detected by the signal detection section and a fault detection section that detects a precursory phenomenon of a fault of the heat generation section based on the extracted signal extracted by the signal extraction section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Honda, Takashi Irisawa, Sadayoshi Takami, Toshifumi Katsuragi, Kazue Tanaka
  • Patent number: 9192433
    Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided and includes a housing having a shaft. An end effector assembly operatively connects to the shaft and has a pair of first and second jaw members. A jaw insert is operably associated with the first and second jaw members. The jaw insert includes one or more cam slots defined therein configured to receive a cam pin that upon movement thereof rotates the first and second jaw members from an open position to a clamping position and an opening defined therein configured to securely house a pivot pin that provides a point of pivot for the first and second jaw members. The jaw insert is manufactured from an insulative medium to dielectrically isolate the first and second jaw members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Duane E. Kerr, Glenn A. Horner
  • Patent number: 9192421
    Abstract: A forceps includes first and second shaft members and a trigger assembly. The first and second shaft members each have a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. One or both of the jaw members are moveable to position the jaw members between an open position and a closed position. One of the jaw members is configured for reciprocation of a blade therethrough. The trigger assembly is movable between unactuated and actuated positions to selectively translate the blade between a retracted position and one or more extended positions. The blade extends at least partially through one or both of the jaw members in the one or more extended positions such that when the blade is disposed in the one or more extended positions, the trigger assembly is configured to move to the unactuated position upon movement of the jaw members from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: David M. Garrison
  • Patent number: 9186206
    Abstract: An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft that extends from a housing of the electrosurgical forceps. An end effector assembly is operably coupled to a distal end of the shaft and includes a pair of first and second jaw members. Each jaw member has a jaw housing and an electrosurgical seal plate. The first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member from an open configuration to a clamping configuration. The first jaw member includes an elongated channel defined in its respective jaw housing and extends along a length thereof. A drive assembly operably couples to the first jaw member via a drive rod that is engageable with the elongated channel to move the first jaw member from the open configuration to the clamping configuration and to provide a closure force between the jaw members when the jaw members are in the clamping configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: John R. Twomey, James D. Allen, IV, Edward M. Chojin, Dylan R. Kingsley, Jeffrey R. Unger
  • Patent number: 9179938
    Abstract: A method of assembling a system for manipulating the skeletal system includes obtaining a monolithic member having opposing ends, one end including a housing having an axially extending cavity. A distraction rod is obtained that has opposing ends, a first end having an inner threaded cavity. A rotatable, radially poled magnet is rotationally coupled to a lead screw having threads. The threads of the lead screw are engaged with the threaded cavity of the distraction rod. The magnet and at least a portion of the first end of the distraction rod are inserted into the axially extending cavity such that the distraction rod and the monolithic member are in coaxial relation to one another. The magnet is axially locked in relation to the monolithic member, wherein the axially locked magnet is capable of rotation. The distraction rod is rotationally locked in relation to the monolithic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: Ellipse Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Pool, Arvin Chang
  • Patent number: 9168088
    Abstract: An end effector of a forceps includes first and second jaw members movable between spaced-apart and approximated positions for grasping tissue. Each jaw member includes a tissue sealing plate that is selectively energizable. The tissue sealing plates are configured to conduct energy therebetween and though tissue to seal tissue. A knife includes a distal surface and an upper surface. The knife is selectively translatable between a retracted position and an extended position wherein the knife extends between the jaw members. The distal surface is configured for dynamic tissue cutting upon translation of the knife from the retracted to the extended position. The upper surface is configured for static tissue cutting with the knife in the extended position. The knife is selectively energizable and is configured to conduct energy between the knife and one or both of the tissue sealing plates and through tissue to electrically cut tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Roy, Rebecca J. Coulson, Sara E. Anderson, Robert M. Sharp
  • Patent number: 9149323
    Abstract: A method of fusing biomaterial and tissue using radiofrequency energy includes the steps of: providing a vessel sealing instrument having opposing jaw members which are movable relative to one another to compress tissue therebetween. The vessel sealing instrument includes at least one stop member affixed thereto for regulating the distance between the opposing jaw members. The method also includes the steps of: providing a biomaterial; positioning the biomaterial in abutting relation to tissue; approximating the biomaterial and tissue between the jaw members; compressing the biomaterial and tissue between the jaw members under a working pressure within the range of about 3 kg/cm2 to about 16 kg/cm2; and energizing the jaw members with radiofrequency energy to effectively fuse the biomaterial and the tissue such that the biomaterial and the tissue reform into a single, fused mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventor: Ali Baily
  • Patent number: 9125662
    Abstract: Surgical end effectors are disclosed having an end effector and a shaft assembly coupled proximal to the end effector. The end effector has a first jaw member, a second jaw member, and a closure mechanism configured to move the first jaw member relative to the second jaw member. The shaft assembly has an articulation joint and/or a head rotation joint. The articulation joint is configured to independently articulate the end effector in a vertical direction and a horizontal direction. The head rotation joint is configured to independently rotate the end effector. The surgical instrument also has at least one active electrode disposed on at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member, and is configured to deliver RF energy to tissue located between the first jaw member and the second jaw member when in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 9125664
    Abstract: A jaw member for use with an electrosurgical forceps includes a support member having a first surface and a pair of depending sides which extend therefrom forming a generally U-shaped configuration. The free end of the sides each including a flange which extends outwardly therefrom which is designed to attach to an electrically conductive plate such that the plate bridge the two flanges to enclose the U-shaped support member to form a box-like skeleton having a cavity defined therein. An insulative material is disposed within the cavity and an insulative cover is disposed about a periphery of the box-like support skeleton to insulate surrounding tissue during activation of the conductive plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Edward M. Chojin
  • Patent number: 9113882
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a pair of jaw members configured for use with an electrosurgical forceps is provided. One or more pairs of seal plates are stamped from a sheet metal. The seal plates are positioned into respective mold cavities. An insulative substrate is introduced into the respective mold cavities. The insulative substrate is allowed to harden in the respective mold cavities to form respective jaw housings with seal plates secured thereto. The jaw housings are removed from the respective mold cavities to form a pair of jaw members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: John R. Twomey, James D. Allen, IV
  • Patent number: 9113905
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Nicole McKenna, Robert H. Wham
  • Patent number: 9113940
    Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members, a blade, a lever member operably coupled to the end effector, a trigger member operably coupled to the blade and defining an actuation path therealong. A trigger safety member is pivotably coupled to the lever member such that, when the lever member is disposed in an initial position, the trigger safety member is disposed in a position blocking the trigger member. When the lever member is disposed in a compressed position, the trigger safety member is disposed in a position, wherein the trigger safety member is displaced from the actuation path to permit movement of the trigger member, wherein the safety member rotates relative to the lever member as a function of movement of the lever member to block/unblock the trigger member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: John R. Twomey
  • Patent number: 9113889
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method of manufacturing an end effector assembly, the method comprising the steps of providing a pair of opposing first and second jaw members including a tissue contacting plate disposed thereon having a longitudinal channel defined therealong, providing a first electrically conductive cutting plate disposed on at least the first jaw member below the tissue contacting plate, stamping the first electrically conductive cutting plate to define a cutting element, bending the cutting element about a bending region such that the cutting element extends along the first electrically conductive cutting plate and into the longitudinal channel of the at least the first jaw member, and applying an insulative material to a portion of the first electrically conductive cutting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Arlan J. Reschke
  • Patent number: 9101385
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 9078703
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: SPINE21 LTD.
    Inventor: Uri Arnin
  • Patent number: 9072524
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: 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
  • Patent number: 9066722
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: ERBE ELEKTROMEDIZIN GMBH
    Inventor: Waldemar Wandel
  • Patent number: 9066741
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: AtriCure, Inc.
    Inventors: Salvatore Privitera, Matthew Monti, Adam Harp, Jason Iain Glithero, William J. Abner, Jeffrey Stone
  • Patent number: 9050099
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: OLYMPUS WINTER & IBE GMBH
    Inventor: Hannes Miersch
  • Patent number: 9044242
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: Kogent Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Gregg D Scheller, John M Schallert
  • Publication number: 20150148798
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2015
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Ryan Windgassen, Kester J. Batchelor
  • Publication number: 20150148802
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: DAVID M. GARRISON
  • Publication number: 20150148801
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Kiarash Shahlaie, Elizabeth Lim, Jonathan Oakden, Paul Riemenschneider, Travis Schraeder
  • Patent number: 9039705
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventor: Tomoyuki Takashino
  • Patent number: 9039704
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Daniel A. Joseph
  • Publication number: 20150141993
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: DAVID A. SCHECHTER, KRISTIN D. JOHNSON
  • Publication number: 20150141992
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Ryan D. Smith
  • Patent number: 9033983
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Takashino, Koji Iida, Toru Nagase
  • Patent number: 9033982
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: James S Cunningham, Eric Jones
  • Publication number: 20150133928
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: PURVISH SONI
  • Publication number: 20150133930
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: JAMES D. ALLEN, IV, EDWARD M. CHOJIN, JOSEPH D. BUCCIAGLIA
  • Publication number: 20150133929
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: ALLAN J. EVANS, PETER M. MUELLER, PETER D. GADSBY
  • Patent number: 9028492
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Duane E. Kerr, Allan J. Evans, Arlan J. Reschke, Robert M. Sharp, William H. Nau, Jr., Glenn A. Horner, Mark J. Huseman
  • Patent number: 9028495
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Peter M. Mueller, Allan J. Evans
  • Patent number: 9028494
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 9028500
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Thomas Tontarra Grundstuecksverwaltungs GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Thomas Tontarra, Alberto Petrella
  • Patent number: 9028493
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Patrick L. Dumbauld, Edward Cosgriff
  • Patent number: 9028491
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Alan G. Ellman
  • Patent number: 9023043
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Dylan Hushka, Patrick L. Dumbauld, Robert S. Wagner, Paul Guerra
  • Patent number: 9023044
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Bernd Emmerich
  • Patent number: 9017370
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Arlan J. Reschke, Jeffrey M. Roy
  • Publication number: 20150112336
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Gregg D. Scheller, Brett D. Smith
  • Patent number: 9011427
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel W. Price, Cory G. Kimball
  • Patent number: 9011436
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: David M. Garrison
  • Patent number: 9011437
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott A. Woodruff, Patrick A. Weizman, Gwendolyn P. Payne, Donna L. Korvick, David K. Norvell
  • Publication number: 20150094720
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: KATHY E. ROOKS, GLENN A. HORNER, DUANE E. KERR, JEFFREY R. TOWNSEND, WILLIAM H. NAU, Jr., DAVID M. GARRISON, EDWARD M. CHOJIN
  • Patent number: 8992526
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Erbe Elektromedizin GmbH
    Inventors: Achim Brodbeck, Dieter Hafner
  • Publication number: 20150082624
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: JASON L. CRAIG, NICOLAS F. ROUSSEAU
  • Publication number: 20150088131
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Dieter Weisshaupt, Christoph Rothweiler