SURGICAL INSTRUMENT

专利摘要:
surgical instruments with fluid management system. Various surgical instruments are presented. at least one surgical instrument includes an instrument mounting portion configured for mounting to a robotic surgical system. the instrument mounting portion includes an interface to form a mechanical and electrical interface with the surgical instrument adapted for use with the robotic surgical system. a fluid management system is contained within the instrument mounting portion. the fluid management system includes a first container for containing a first fluid agent to be dispensed.
公开号:BR112014032923B1
申请号:R112014032923-0
申请日:2013-06-13
公开日:2021-09-08
发明作者:Chad P. Boudreaux；Foster B. Stulen；Kevin L. Houser；Craig N. Faller；Sora Rhee
申请人:Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED ORDERS
[001] This application is related to the following simultaneously filed US patent applications, which are incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety:
[002] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled "Haptic Feedback Devices for Surgical Robot", Attorney Document No. END7042USNP/110388,
[003] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled "Lockout Mechanism for Use with Robotic Electrosurgical Device", Attorney Document No. END7043USNP/110389,
[004] US patent application serial no., entitled "Closed Feedback Control for Electrosurgical Device", attorney document no. END7044USNP/110390,
[005] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled "Surgical Instruments with Articulating Shafts", Attorney Document No. END6423USNP/110392,
[006] US patent application serial no., entitled "Ultrasonic Surgical Instruments with Distally Positioned Transducers", attorney document no. END6819USNP/110393,
[007] US Patent Application Serial No., entitled "Surgical Instruments with Articulating Shafts", Attorney Document No. END7047USNP/110394,
[008] US patent application serial no., entitled "Ultrasonic Surgical Instruments with Distally Positioned Jaw Assemblies", attorney document no. END7048USNP/110395,
[009] US patent application serial no., entitled "Surgical Instruments with Articulating Shafts", attorney document no. END7049USNP/110396, and
[0010] US patent application serial no. entitled "Ultrasonic Surgical Instruments with Control Mechanisms", attorney document no. END7050USNP/110397. BACKGROUND
[0011] Various modalities refer to surgical devices, including various fluid management systems intended for use with surgical devices.
[0012] Ultrasonic surgical devices, such as ultrasonic scalpels, are used in many applications in surgical procedures because of their unique performance characteristics. Depending on device-specific configurations and operating parameters, ultrasonic surgical devices can substantially simultaneously provide tissue transection and coagulation homeostasis, desirably minimizing patient trauma. An ultrasonic surgical device comprises a proximally positioned ultrasonic transducer and an instrument coupled to the ultrasonic transducer, with a distally mounted end actuator comprising an ultrasonic blade for cutting and cauterizing tissue. The end actuator is typically coupled to a handle and/or a robotic surgical implement via a rod. The blade is acoustically coupled to the transducer via a waveguide extending through the rod. Ultrasonic surgical devices of this nature can be configured for use in open, laparoscopic or endoscopic surgical procedures, including robotically assisted procedures.
[0013] Ultrasonic energy cuts and coagulates tissues using temperatures lower than those used in electrosurgical procedures. Vibrating at high frequencies (eg, 55,500 times per second), the ultrasonic blade denatures tissue protein to form a sticky clot. Pressure exerted on tissues by the surface of the lamina flattens the blood vessels and allows the clot to form a hemostatic seal. A surgeon can control the speed of cutting and coagulation through the force applied to tissues by the tip actuator, the time the force is applied, and the excursion level selected for the tip actuator.
[0014] In addition, electrosurgical devices are used in many surgical applications. Electrosurgical devices apply electrical energy to tissues in order to treat them. An electrosurgical device may comprise an instrument with a distally mounted end actuator comprising one or more electrodes. The end actuator can be positioned against the tissue so that electrical current is introduced into the tissue. Electrosurgical devices can be configured for bipolar or monopolar operation. During bipolar operation, current is introduced into the tissue and returned from the tissue by the active and return electrodes, respectively, of the end actuator. During monopolar operation, current is introduced into the tissue by an active electrode of the tip actuator and returned through a return electrode (eg, a ground plate) located separately in the patient's body. The heat generated by current flowing through tissue can form hemostatic seals within tissue and/or between tissues, and thus can be particularly useful for cauterizing blood vessels, for example. The end actuator of an electrosurgical device sometimes also comprises a cutting element that is capable of moving relative to tissue and electrodes to transect tissue.
[0015] The electrical energy applied by an electrosurgical device can be transmitted to the instrument by a generator. Electrical energy may be in the form of radio frequency ("RF") energy. RF energy is a form of electrical energy that can be in the frequency range of 300 kHz to 1 MHz. During its operation, an electrosurgical device can transmit low-frequency RF energy through tissue, which causes ionic agitation, or ionic friction, in fact resistive heating, thus increasing the tissue temperature. As a precise boundary can be created between the affected tissue and the surrounding tissue, surgeons can operate with a high level of precision and control, without sacrificing adjacent tissue that is not the target of the operation. The low operating temperatures of RF energy can be useful for removing, shrinking, or sculpting soft tissue while simultaneously cauterizing blood vessels. RF energy can work particularly well in connective tissue, which is mostly collagen and shrinks when it comes in contact with heat.
[0016] In many cases, it is desirable to use an ultrasonic blade that is curved or otherwise asymmetric. Currently, asymmetrical blades are machined to obtain a curved state. Balancing these blades (eg to minimize transverse vibration) is achieved by machining notches or other features into the blades at key locations. The selection of notch locations or other features, as well as the machining itself, greatly increases the cost and complexity of the blades.
[0017] With respect to both ultrasonic and electrosurgical devices, it is often desirable to use a fluid management system to dispense a fluid into a treatment region. SUMMARY
[0018] Several modalities described herein refer to surgical instruments that comprise a fluid management system. In one embodiment, a surgical instrument comprises an instrument mounting portion configured for mounting to a robotic surgical system. The instrument mounting portion comprises an interface for forming a mechanical and electrical interface with the surgical instrument adapted for use with the robotic surgical system. A fluid management system is contained within the instrument mounting portion, wherein the fluid management system comprises a first container for containing a first fluid agent to be dispensed. DRAWINGS
[0019] Aspects of the various modalities are presented with particularity in the appended claims. The various modalities, however, with regard to both the organization and the methods of operation, together with their advantages, can be better understood with reference to the description given below, considered in conjunction with the attached drawings as follows:
[0020] Figure 1 illustrates a modality of a surgical system that includes a surgical instrument and an ultrasonic generator.
[0021] Figure 2 illustrates a modality of the surgical instrument shown in Figure 1.
[0022] Figure 3 illustrates a modality of an ultrasonic end actuator.
[0023] Figure 4 illustrates another modality of an ultrasonic end actuator.
[0024] Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of one modality of the surgical instrument shown in Figure 1.
[0025] Figure 6 illustrates a cutaway view of a modality of the surgical instrument shown in Figure 1.
[0026] Figure 7 illustrates various internal components of an exemplary modality of the surgical instrument shown in Figure 1.
[0027] Figure 8 illustrates a top view of a modality of a surgical system that includes a surgical instrument and an ultrasonic generator.
[0028] Figure 9 illustrates an embodiment of a rotation assembly included in an exemplary embodiment of the surgical instrument of Figure 1.
[0029] Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical system that includes a surgical instrument having a single element end actuator.
[0030] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a modality of a surgical instrument powered by electrical energy.
[0031] Figure 12 is a side view of a handle of one embodiment of the surgical instrument of Figure 11, with one half of a handle body removed to illustrate some of the components therein.
[0032] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of an end actuator modality of the surgical instrument of Figure 11, with the jaws open and the distal end of an axially movable element in a retracted position.
[0033] Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of an end actuator modality of the surgical instrument of Figure 11, with the jaws closed and the distal end of an axially movable element in a partially advanced position.
[0034] Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of one modality of the axially movable element of the surgical instrument of Figure 11.
[0035] Figure 16 illustrates a cross section of an end actuator modality of the surgical instrument of Figure 11.
[0036] Figure 17 illustrates a section of a perspective view of an embodiment of an electrically powered wireless surgical instrument.
[0037] Figure 18A illustrates a side view of a handle of one embodiment of the surgical instrument of Figure 17, with one half of the handle body removed to illustrate various components therein.
[0038] Figure 18B illustrates an RF drive and control circuit, according to a modality.
[0039] Figure 18C illustrates the main components of the controller, according to a modality.
[0040] Figure 19 illustrates a block diagram of one modality of a robotic surgical system.
[0041] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment of a robotic arm car.
[0042] Figure 21 illustrates an embodiment of the robotic manipulator of the robotic arm carriage of Figure 20.
[0043] Figure 22 illustrates an embodiment of a robotic arm carriage with an alternatively configured joint structure.
[0044] Figure 23 illustrates an embodiment of a controller that can be used in conjunction with a robotic arm carriage, like the robotic arm carriages of Figures 19 to 22.
[0045] Figure 24 illustrates a modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic system.
[0046] Figure 25 illustrates a modality of an electrosurgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic system.
[0047] Figure 26 illustrates an embodiment of an instrument drive assembly that can be coupled to surgical manipulators to receive and control the surgical instrument shown in Figure 24.
[0048] Figure 27 illustrates another view of the drive assembly modality of the instrument of Figure 26, which includes the surgical instrument of Figure 24.
[0049] Figure 28 illustrates another view of the drive assembly modality of the instrument of Figure 26, which includes the electrosurgical instrument of Figure 25.
[0050] Figures 29 to 31 illustrate additional views of the adapter portion of the drive assembly modality of the instrument of Figure 26.
[0051] Figures 32 to 34 illustrate one embodiment of the instrument mounting portion of Figures 24 to 25, showing components for converting the motion of the driven elements into motion of the surgical instrument.
[0052] Figures 35 to 37 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the instrument mounting portion of Figures 24 to 25, showing an alternative exemplary mechanism for converting rotation of driven elements into rotary motion around the geometric axis of the rod, and a alternative exemplary mechanism for generating reciprocal translation of one or more elements along the geometric axis of rod 538.
[0053] Figures 38 to 42 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the instrument mounting portion of Figures 24 to 25, showing another alternative exemplary mechanism for converting rotation of the driven elements into rotary motion around the geometric axis of the rod.
[0054] Figures 43 to 46A illustrate an alternative embodiment of the instrument mounting portion, showing an alternative exemplary mechanism for differential translation of elements along the axis of the rod (e.g., for articulation).
[0055] Figures 46B to 46C illustrate an embodiment of an instrument mounting portion comprising internal sources of power and energy.
[0056] Figure 47 is a diagram of a modality of a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0057] Figure 48 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0058] Figure 49 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0059] Figure 50 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0060] Figure 51 is a diagram of a modality of an electrosurgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0061] Figure 52 is a diagram of one modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0062] Figure 53 is a diagram of a modality of a combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system.
[0063] Figure 54 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. DESCRIPTION
[0064] Several modalities refer to an ultrasonic blade for use with a surgical instrument. The ultrasonic blade may comprise a straight section located proximally, extending along a longitudinal axis, and a curved section lying distally, coupled to the straight section and curving away from the longitudinal axis. The curved section can define a radius of curvature and can subtend a first angle. The tangency point between the curved section and the straight section can be at a node or at an anti-node of the ultrasonic blade. The ultrasonic blade can be balanced, for example, based on properties of the curved section. A balanced ultrasonic blade may have vibrational modes that are purely and/or substantially longitudinal (eg in the direction of the longitudinal axis). To achieve balance, the ultrasonic blade can be constructed, as described above, so that a node and/or anti-knot occurs at the point of tangency when the ultrasonic blade is driven at a resonant frequency. In some exemplary embodiments, the whole or a portion of the proximally located straight section may be thought of as all or part of a waveguide extending proximally from the ultrasonic sheet to a transducer, as described herein.
[0065] Some embodiments refer to a surgical instrument comprising an end actuator and a pivotable rod extending along a longitudinal axis. The rod may comprise a flexible portion. A waveguide is acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic blade and extends proximally from the blade and through the rod. The waveguide may comprise a flexible waveguide portion positioned about the longitudinal axis around the position of the flexible portion of the rod. The waveguide may also comprise first and second flanges positioned at nodes of the waveguide. The first flange may be positioned distally from the flexible waveguide portion, with the second flange positioned proximally from the flexible waveguide portion. A first control element may be coupled to the first flange and extend proximally across the second flange and the stem. The proximal translation of the first control element can proximally pull the first flange, causing the rod and waveguide to revolve away from the longitudinal axis, towards the first control element.
[0066] Other modalities relate to a surgical instrument comprising an end actuator to treat tissue along with external and internal rods that are translatable relative to one another along a longitudinal axis. The inner rod comprises a protruding portion which is forced to bend away from the longitudinal axis in a first direction. When the protruding portion of the inner rod is within the outer rod, the inner and outer rods may be substantially straight along the longitudinal axis. When the protruding portion of the inner rod is outside the outer rod (eg, positioned distally from the inner rod) the inner rod and end actuator may rotate away from the longitudinal axis in the first direction.
[0067] In additional embodiments, a surgical instrument comprises a rod extending along a longitudinal axis, with an ultrasonic blade positioned within it. The ultrasonic blade may comprise a straight section located proximally and a curved section located distally. The ultrasonic blade can be translatable along the longitudinal axis with respect to the rod, from a first position where the curved section of the blade extends from a distal end of the rod to a second position where the curved section of the blade it is at least partially contained within the stem.
[0068] Reference will now be made in detail to various modalities, including modalities that show exemplary implementations of manual and robotic surgical instruments with extremity actuators comprising ultrasonic and/or electrosurgical elements. Wherever possible, similar or similar reference numbers may be used in the figures, and may indicate similar or similar functionality. The figures represent exemplifying modalities of the surgical instruments and/or methods of use presented, for illustrative purposes only. One of skill in the art will readily recognize from the description below that alternative exemplary embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein can be used without departing from the principles described herein.
[0069] Figure 1 is a right side view of one modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument 10. In the illustrated modality, the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 can be used in a variety of surgical procedures, including traditional open or endoscopic surgical procedures. In an exemplary embodiment, the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 comprises a handle assembly 12, an elongated rod assembly 14, and an ultrasonic transducer 16. The handle assembly 12 comprises a trigger assembly 24, a distal rotation assembly 13 and an assembly key 28. The elongated rod assembly 14 comprises an end actuator assembly 26, which comprises elements for dissecting tissue or mutually gripping, cutting and coagulating blood vessels and/or tissue, and actuator elements for actuating the actuator assembly. end 26. Handle assembly 12 is adapted to receive ultrasonic transducer 16 at the proximal end. Ultrasonic transducer 16 is mechanically coupled to elongated rod assembly 14 and portions of end actuator assembly 26. Ultrasonic transducer 16 is electrically coupled to generator 20 via cable 22. Although most drawings depict one in conjunction with multiple end actuators 26, for use in conjunction with laparoscopic surgical procedures, the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 can be used in more traditional open surgical procedures and, in other modalities, can be configured for use in endoscopic procedures. For the purposes of the present invention, the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 is described in terms of an endoscopic instrument, but it is contemplated that an open and/or laparoscopic version of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 may also include equal components and operational features or similar to those described herein.
[0070] In various modes, the generator 20 comprises several functional elements, such as modules and/or blocks. Different elements or functional modules can be configured to drive different types of surgical devices. For example, an ultrasonic generator module 21 can drive an ultrasonic device, such as the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10. In some exemplary embodiments, the generator 20 also comprises a generator module for electrosurgery/RF 23 to drive an electrosurgical device (or a modality electrosurgical method of ultrasonic surgical instrument 10). In various embodiments, generator 20 may be integrally formed within wrist assembly 12. In such implementations, a battery would be co-located within wrist assembly 12 to act as the power source. Figure 18A and the attached descriptions provide an example of these implementations.
[0071] In some embodiments, the generator module for electrosurgery/RF 23 can be configured to generate a therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic energy level. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the generator 20 includes a control system 25 integral with the generator 20, and a foot switch 29 connected to the generator via a cable 27. The generator 20 may also comprise an activation mechanism to activate a surgical instrument, such as instrument 10. The activation mechanism may include a power switch (not shown) as well as a foot switch 29. When activated by foot switch 29, the generator 20 can provide power to drive the assembly. acoustic of the surgical instrument 10 and to actuate the end actuator 18 at a predetermined excursion level. Generator 20 triggers or excites the acoustic array at any suitable resonant frequency of the acoustic array, and/or derives therapeutic/sub-therapeutic RF or electromagnetic energy.
[0072] In one embodiment, the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 can be implemented as an electrosurgical unit (ESU) capable of providing sufficient energy to perform bipolar electrosurgery using radio frequency (RF) energy. In one modality, the ESU may be an ERBE ICC 350 bipolar instrument, available from ERBE USA, Inc. of Marietta, GA, USA. In bipolar electrosurgery applications, as discussed above, a surgical instrument with an active electrode and a return electrode can be used, where the active electrode and return electrode can be positioned against, or adjacent to, the tissue to be treated. , so that current can flow from the active electrode to the return electrode through the tissue. Consequently, the generator of the electrosurgical/RF module 23 can be configured for therapeutic purposes by applying sufficient electrical energy to the tissue T to treat the tissue (eg, cauterization).
[0073] In one embodiment, the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 can be configured to provide a sub-therapeutic RF signal to implement a tissue impedance measurement module. In one embodiment, the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 comprises a bipolar radio frequency generator, as described in more detail below. In one embodiment, the electrosurgical/RF generator module 12 may be configured to monitor the electrical impedance Z of tissue T, and to control the time characteristics and power level based on tissue T, by means of a return electrode disposed over a clamp element of the end actuator assembly 26. Consequently, the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 can be configured for sub-therapeutic purposes to measure the impedance or other electrical characteristics of tissue T. The techniques and circuit configurations for measurement of the impedance or other electrical characteristics of tissue T are discussed in more detail in the patent publication assigned to the same applicant US No. 2011/0015631 entitled "Electrosurgical Generator for Ultrasonic Surgical Instruments", the description of which is incorporated herein in its entirety, by way of reference.
[0074] A suitable ultrasonic generator module 21 can be configured to operate functionally similar to the GEN300 equipment, available from Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, as shown in one or more of the following US patents , all of which are incorporated herein by reference: US Patent No. 6,480,796 (Method for Improving the Start Up of an Ultrasonic System Under Zero Load Conditions), US Patent No. 6,537,291 (Method for Detecting Blade Breakage Using Rate and/or Impedance Information), US Patent No. 6,662,127 (Method for Detecting Presence of a Blade in an Ultrasonic System), US Patent No. 6.678,899 (Method for Detecting Transverse Vibrations in an Ultrasonic Surgical System), US Patent No. 6,977,495 (Detection Circuitry for Surgical Handpiece System), US Patent No. 7,077,853 (Method for Calculating Transducer Capacitance to Determine Transducer Temperature), US Patent No. 7,179,271 (Method for Driving an Ultrasonic Syst in to Improve Acquisition of Blade Resonance Frequency at Startup), and US Patent No. 7,273,483 (Apparatus and Method for Alerting Generator Function in an Ultrasonic Surgical System).
[0075] It should be understood that, in various modes, the generator 20 can be configured to work in various modes. In one mode, generator 20 can be configured so that ultrasonic generator module 21 and electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 can be independently operated.
[0076] For example, the ultrasonic generator module 21 can be activated to apply ultrasonic energy to the end actuator set 26 and subsequently therapeutic or sub-therapeutic RF energy can be applied to the end actuator set 26 by the generator module electrosurgical/RF 23. As discussed above, therapeutic electrosurgical/RF energy can be applied to tissue clamped between clamp elements of the end actuator assembly 26 to measure tissue impedance to control activation, or modify the activation, of the ultrasonic generator module 21. Tissue impedance feedback from the application of subtherapeutic energy can also be used to activate a therapeutic level of the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 to cauterize the tissue (eg, blood vessel) clamped between clamp elements of the end actuator assembly 26.
[0077] In another modality, the ultrasonic generator module 21 and the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 can be activated simultaneously. In one example, the ultrasonic generator module 21 is simultaneously activated with a sub-therapeutic RF energy level to measure tissue impedance while simultaneously the ultrasonic blade of the end actuator assembly 26 cuts and coagulates the tissue (or vessel blood) clamped between the clamp elements of the end actuator assembly 26. This feedback can be used, for example, to modify the drive output of the ultrasonic generator module 21. In another example, the ultrasonic generator module 21 can be driven simultaneously to the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 so that the ultrasonic blade portion of the end actuator assembly 26 is used to cut the damaged tissue, while electrosurgical/RF energy is applied to the electrode portions of the clamp assembly of the end actuator 26 to cauterize tissue (or blood vessel).
[0078] When the generator 20 is activated by means of the activation mechanism, in one mode the electrical energy is continuously applied by the generator 20 to a stack or set of transducers of the acoustic set. In another embodiment, electrical power is intermittently applied (e.g., pulsed) by generator 20. A phase-synchronized circuit in the control system of generator 20 can monitor feedback from the acoustic assembly. The phase-synchronized circuit adjusts the frequency of electrical energy sent by generator 20 to match the resonant frequency of the selected longitudinal vibration mode of the acoustic set. In addition, a second feedback circuit in the control system 25 maintains the electrical current supplied to the acoustic assembly at a preselected constant level so as to obtain a substantially constant excursion in the end actuator 18 of the acoustic assembly. In yet another embodiment, a third feedback circuit in the control system 25 monitors the impedance between the electrodes located in the end actuator assembly 26. Although Figures 1 through 9 show a manual operating ultrasonic surgical instrument, it should be understood that ultrasonic surgical instruments may also be used in robotic applications, for example as described herein, as well as in combinations of manual and robotic applications.
[0079] In ultrasonic operating mode, the electrical signal supplied to the acoustic assembly can cause the distal end of the end actuator 18 to vibrate longitudinally in the range, for example, approximately 20 kHz to 250 kHz. In various embodiments, the blade 22 can vibrate in the range of about 54kHz to 56kHz, for example about 55.5kHz. In other embodiments, blade 22 may vibrate at other frequencies including, for example, about 31 kHz or about 80 kHz. The excursion of vibrations in the blade can be controlled, for example, by controlling the amplitude of the electrical signal applied to the transducer assembly of the acoustic assembly by generator 20. As noted above, the activation mechanism of generator 20 allows a user to activate the generator 20 so that electrical energy can be supplied continuously or intermittently to the acoustic assembly. The generator 20 also has an electrical power transmission line for insertion into an electrosurgical unit or a conventional electrical outlet. It is contemplated that generator 20 could also be powered by a direct current (DC) source such as a battery. Generator 20 may comprise any suitable generator, such as Model No. GEN04 and/or Model No. GEN11, available from Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
[0080] Figure 2 is a left perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10, showing the handle assembly 12, the distal rotation assembly 13, the elongated rod assembly 14, and the end actuator assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated rod assembly 14 comprises a distal end 52 sized to mechanically engage the end actuator assembly 26, and a proximal end 50 that mechanically engages the handle assembly 12 and the pivot assembly. distal 13. The proximal end 50 of the elongated rod assembly 14 is received within the handle assembly 12 and the distal rotation assembly 13. Further details regarding the connections between the elongated rod assembly 14, the handle assembly 12 and the distal rotation set 13 are provided in the description of Figures 5 and 7.
[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger assembly 24 comprises a trigger 32 that works in conjunction with a fixed handle 34. The fixed handle 34 and the trigger 32 are ergonomically shaped and adapted to provide a comfortable user interface. The fixed handle 34 is integrally associated with the handle assembly 12. The trigger 32 is capable of pivotally moving relative to the fixed handle 34, as explained below in more detail regarding the operation of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10. The trigger 32 is capable of pivotally moving in the direction 33A, towards the fixed handle 34, when the user applies a squeezing force against the trigger 32. A spring element 98 (Figure 5) causes the trigger 32 to move out of swiveled in direction 33B, when the user ceases the clamping force against the trigger 32.
[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, the trigger 32 comprises an elongate trigger hook 36 which defines an opening 38 between the elongate trigger hook 36 and the trigger 32. The opening 38 is suitably sized to receive, therethrough, one or more of the user's fingers. Trigger 32 may also comprise a resilient portion 32a molded onto the trigger substrate 32. The overmolded resilient portion 32a is formed to provide a more comfortable contact surface for controlling the trigger 32 in an outward direction 33B. In an exemplary embodiment, the overmolded resilient portion 32a may be disposed over a portion of the elongated trigger hook 36. The proximal surface of the elongate trigger hook 32 remains uncoated or coated with a non-resilient substrate to allow the user to easily slide their fingers in and out of opening 38. In another embodiment, the trigger geometry forms a fully closed loop which defines an appropriately sized opening to receive one or more fingers of the user therethrough. The fully closed loop trigger may also comprise a resilient portion molded onto the trigger substrate.
[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, the fixed handle 34 comprises a proximal contact surface 40 and a gripping anchor or concave surface 42. The concave surface 42 rests on the membrane of the hand where the thumb and index finger join. The proximal contact surface 40 has a pistol grip contour that receives the palm of the hand on a normal pistol grip, without rings or openings. The profile curve of the proximal contact surface 40 can be contoured to accommodate or receive the palm of the hand. A stabilizing tail 44 is situated towards a more proximal portion of the wrist assembly 12. The stabilizing tail 44 can be in contact with the uppermost portion of the membrane portion of the hand, situated between the thumb and index finger, to stabilize the 12-handle assembly and make it more controllable.
[0084] In an exemplary embodiment, the key assembly 28 may comprise a flip switch 30. The flip switch 30 can be implemented as a single component with a center pivot 304, located within the handle assembly 12, to eliminate the possibility of simultaneous activation. In an exemplary embodiment, the flip switch 30 comprises a first protruding button 30a and a second protruding button 30b for selecting the power setting of the ultrasonic transducer 16 between a minimum power level (e.g., MIN) and a maximum power level ( for example, MAX). In another modality, the bistable switch can pivot between a conventional setting and a special setting. Special tuning can allow one or more special programs to be implemented by the device. The flip switch 30 rotates around the center pivot as the first protruding button 30a and second protruding button 30b are actuated. The one or more protruding buttons, 30a and 30b, are coupled to one or more arms that move through a small arc and cause the electrical contacts to close or open an electrical circuit to electrically energize or de-energize the ultrasonic transducer 16, of according to the activation of the first or second protruding buttons, 30a and 30b. The flip switch 30 is coupled to the generator 20 to control the activation of the ultrasonic transducer 16. The flip switch 30 comprises one or more electrical power setting switches for activating the ultrasonic transducer 16 to set one or more power settings for the ultrasonic transducer 16. The forces necessary to activate the flip switch 30 are directed substantially towards the concave point 42, thus avoiding any tendency of the instrument to rotate in the hand when the flip switch 30 is activated.
[0085] In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second protruding buttons, 30a and 30b, are situated on the distal end of the handle assembly 12, so that they can be easily accessed by the user to activate the energy with a repositioning minimal, or substantially none, of the handle, which is adequate to maintain control and keep attention focused on the surgical site (eg, a monitor in a laparoscopic procedure) during activation of the flip switch 30. The protruding buttons, 30a and 30b, can be configured to go around the side of the handle assembly 12 to a certain extent, to be more easily accessible to varying finger lengths, and to allow greater freedom of access for activation in uncomfortable positions or for fingers. shorter.
[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the first protruding button 30a comprises a plurality of tactile elements 30c, e.g. textured bulges or "bumps" in the illustrated embodiment, to allow the user to differentiate the first protruding button 30a from the second protruding button 30b. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various ergonomic features can be incorporated into the wrist assembly 12. These ergonomic features are described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/055750 entitled "Ergonomic Surgical Instruments", which is incorporated herein in its all for reference.
[0087] In an exemplary mode, the flip switch 30 can be operated by the user's hand. The user can easily access the first and second protruding buttons, 30a and 30b, at any point, while also avoiding inadvertent or unintentional activation at any time. The flip switch 30 can be readily operated with a finger to control the power supply to the ultrasonic assembly 16 and/or the ultrasonic assembly 16. For example, the index finger can be used to activate the first contact portion 30a to turn on the 16 ultrasonic set at a maximum power level (MAX). The index finger can be used to activate the second contact portion 30b, to turn on the ultrasonic assembly 16 at a minimum power level (MIN). In another modality, the bistable switch can switch instrument 10 between a conventional setting and a special setting. The special setting can allow one or more special programs to be implemented by the instrument 10. The flip switch 30 can be operated without the user having to look at the first or second protruding button, 30a or 30b. For example, the first protruding button 30a or the second protruding button 30b may comprise a texture or protrusions to tactilely differentiate between the first and second protruding buttons, 30a and 30b, without looking.
[0088] In other embodiments, the trigger 32 and/or the flip switch 30 can be used to trigger the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23, individually or in combination with the activation of the ultrasonic generator module 21.
[0089] In an exemplary embodiment, the distal rotation assembly 13 is capable of rotating without limitation in any direction around a longitudinal axis "T". Distal rotation assembly 13 is mechanically engaged with elongated rod assembly 14. Distal rotation assembly 13 is located over a distal end of handle assembly 12. Distal rotation assembly 13 comprises a cylindrical hub 46 and a rotary knob 48 formed on hub 46. Hub 46 mechanically engages elongated rod assembly 14. Rotary knob 48 may comprise splined polymeric features, and may be manipulated by a finger (e.g., an index finger) to rotate the rod assembly. elongated 14. Hub 46 may comprise a material molded over the mainframe to form rotary knob 48. Rotary knob 48 may be overmolded to hub 46. Hub 46 comprises a plug portion 46a which is exposed at the distal end. The plug portion 46a of hub 46 may contact the surface of a trocar during laparoscopic procedures. Hub 46 can be formed of a durable rigid plastic, such as polycarbonate, to alleviate any friction that may occur between the plug portion 46a and the trocar. Rotary knob 48 may comprise "ribbons" or flutes formed by raised ribs 48a and concave portions 48b located between ribs 48a to provide more accurate rotational grip. In an exemplary embodiment, rotary knob 48 may comprise a plurality of splines (e.g., three or more splines). In other modalities, any suitable number of streaks can be used. The rotary knob 48 can be formed from a softer polymeric material, overmolded to the rigid plastic material. For example, Rotary Knob 48 can be formed from pliable, resilient, and flexible polymeric materials, including Versaflex® TPE alloys, available from the GLS Corporation, for example. This softer overmolded material can provide better grip and more precise control of the movement of the rotary knob 48. It should be understood that any materials that offer adequate resistance to sterilization, are biocompatible, and provide adequate frictional resistance to surgical gloves can be used to form the rotary knob 48.
[0090] In an exemplary embodiment, the handle assembly 12 is formed from two (2) casing portions, or casings, comprising a first portion 12a and a second portion 12b. From the perspective of a user viewing the handle assembly 12 from the distal end and toward the proximal end, the first portion 12a is considered the right portion, and the second portion 12b is considered the left portion. Each of the first and second portions, 12a and 12b, includes a plurality of interfaces 69 (Figure 5) sized to mechanically align and engage with one another to form the handle assembly 12 and contain the internal functional components of the same. The fixed handle 34, which is integrally associated with the handle assembly 12, takes shape by assembling the first and second portions 12a and 12b of the handle assembly 12. A plurality of additional interfaces (not shown) may be disposed at various points. around the periphery of the first and second portions, 12a and 12b, of the handle assembly 12, for ultrasonic welding purposes, e.g., energy deflection/direction points. The first and second portions, 12a and 12b (as well as the other components described below) can be assembled together in any manner known in the art. For example, alignment pins, snap-in interfaces, tongue and groove interfaces, locking tabs and sticky ports can all be used, alone or in combination, for mounting purposes.
[0091] In an exemplary embodiment, the elongated rod assembly 14 comprises a proximal end 50 adapted to mechanically engage the handle assembly 12 and the distal rotation assembly 13, and a distal end 52 adapted to engage mechanically to the end actuator assembly 26. The elongated rod assembly 14 comprises an outer tubular sheath 56 and a reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 located within the outer tubular sheath 56. The proximal end of the reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 is mechanically engaged with the trigger 32 of handle assembly 12 to move in direction 60A or 60B in response to actuation and/or release of trigger 32. Pivoting movable trigger 32 can generate reciprocal movement along longitudinal axis "T". This movement can be used, for example, to actuate the jaws or clamping mechanism of the end actuator assembly 26. A series of joints convert the pivotal rotation of the trigger 32 into axial movement of a rocker arm coupled to a drive mechanism, which controls the opening and closing of the jaws of the clamping mechanism of the end actuator assembly 26. The distal end of the reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 is mechanically engaged with the end actuator assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, a distal end of the actuator element Reciprocating tubular 58 is mechanically engaged to a collet arm assembly 64, which is pivotable about a pivot point 70, to open and close collet arm assembly 64 in response to actuation and/or release of trigger 32. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the collet arm assembly 64 is capable of moving in the direction 62A from an open position to a closed position. a, around a pivot point 70 when trigger 32 is depressed in direction 33A. The collet arm assembly 64 is capable of moving in direction 62B, from a closed position to an open position, around pivot point 70 when trigger 32 is released or pushed out in direction 33B.
[0092] In an exemplary embodiment, the end actuator assembly 26 is connected to the distal end 52 of the elongated rod assembly 14 and includes a collet arm assembly 64 and a blade 66. end actuator 26 are formed by collet arm assembly 64 and blade 66. Blade 66 is ultrasonic actuatable, and is acoustically coupled to ultrasonic transducer 16. Trigger 32 in handle assembly 12 is ultimately connected to a drive assembly, with which it mechanically cooperates to obtain movement of the collet arm assembly 64. Squeezing the trigger 32 in the direction 33A moves the collet arm assembly 64 in the direction 62A from an open position, in which the collet assembly tweezer arm 64 and blade 66 are disposed in spaced apart relationship to one another to a pinched or closed position in which tweezer arm assembly 64 and blade 66 cooperate to grip tissue between the two. same. The collet arm assembly 64 may comprise a collet block 69 for gripping tissue between the blade 66 and the collet arm 64. Releasing the trigger 32 in the direction 33B moves the collet arm assembly 64 in the direction 62B of a closed relationship to an open position, in which the collet arm assembly 64 and the blade 66 are disposed in spaced apart relationship with respect to one another.
[0093] The proximal portion of the handle assembly 12 comprises a proximal opening 68 for receiving a distal end of the ultrasonic assembly 16. The ultrasonic assembly 16 is inserted into the proximal opening 68, and is mechanically engaged with the elongated rod assembly 14.
[0094] In an exemplary embodiment, the elongated trigger hook portion 36 of the trigger 32 provides a longer trigger lever with a shorter extension and rotation stroke. The longer lever of the elongated trigger hook 36 allows the user to employ multiple fingers within the opening 38 to operate the elongate trigger hook 36 and cause the trigger 32 to revolve in the direction 33B to open the jaws of the actuator assembly. end 26. For example, the user can insert three fingers (eg, the middle, ring and little fingers) into opening 38. Using multiple fingers allows the surgeon to exert greater input forces on the trigger 32 and the trigger hook elongated 36 to activate the end actuator assembly 26. The shorter extension and rotation stroke creates a more comfortable grip when closing or squeezing trigger 32 in direction 33A, or when opening trigger 32 in the opening movement. outward in the 33B direction, decreasing the need to extend the fingers farther out. This substantially decreases hand fatigue and strain associated with the outward opening movement of trigger 32 in direction 33B. The outward opening movement of the trigger can be spring assisted by spring element 98 (Figure 5) to help alleviate fatigue. The opening spring force is sufficient to aid ease of opening, but not strong enough to adversely affect tactile feedback of tissue tension during dissection propagation.
[0095] For example, during a surgical procedure, the index finger can be used to control the rotation of the elongated rod assembly 14 so as to position the jaws of the end actuator assembly 26 in a suitable orientation. The middle finger and/or other smaller fingers can be used to squeeze the trigger 32 and hold the tissue between the jaws. Once the jaws are situated in the desired position and have clamped the tissue, the index finger can be used to activate the flip switch 30 so as to adjust the energy level of the ultrasonic transducer 16 to treat the tissue. Once the tissue has been treated, the user can release the trigger 32 by pushing out in the distal direction against the elongated trigger hook 36 with the middle finger and/or smaller fingers to open the actuator assembly jaws. 26. This basic procedure can be performed without the user having to adjust their grip on the handle assembly 12.
[0096] Figures 3 to 4 illustrate the connection of the elongated rod assembly 14 in relation to the end actuator assembly 26. As previously described, in the illustrated embodiment the end actuator assembly 26 comprises a collet arm assembly 64 and a blade 66 for forming the jaws of the clamping mechanism. Blade 66 may be an ultrasound actuatable blade, acoustically coupled to ultrasonic transducer 16. Trigger 32 is mechanically connected to a drive assembly. Together, the trigger 32 and the drive assembly mechanically cooperate to move the collet arm assembly 64 to an open position in the direction 62A, wherein the collet arm assembly 64 and blade 66 are disposed in spaced-apart relation. to the other, and to a clamped or closed position in direction 62B, wherein the clamp arm assembly 64 and blade 66 cooperate to grip tissue therebetween. The collet arm assembly 64 may comprise a collet block 69 for gripping tissue between the blade 66 and the collet arm 64. The distal end of reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 is mechanically engaged with end actuator assembly 26. illustrated embodiment, a distal end of reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 is mechanically engaged to collet arm assembly 64, which is pivotal about pivot point 70, to open and close collet arm assembly 64 in response to actuation and /or release trigger 32. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the collet arm assembly 64 is capable of moving from an open position to a closed position in direction 62B around a pivot point 70 when the trigger 32 is pressed in direction 33A. The collet arm assembly 64 is capable of moving from a closed position to an open position in direction 62A, around pivot point 70, when trigger 32 is released or pushed out in direction 33B.
[0097] As previously discussed, the clamp arm assembly 64 may comprise electrodes electrically coupled to the electrosurgical/RF generator module 23 to receive therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic energy, wherein the electrosurgical/RF energy can be applied to the electrodes, either simultaneously or not simultaneously, with ultrasonic energy being applied to blade 66. These energy activations can be applied in any suitable combination to obtain a desired effect on tissue, in cooperation with an algorithm or other control logic.
[0098] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 shown in Figure 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the exploded view shows the internal elements of the handle assembly 12, the handle assembly 12, the distal rotation assembly 13, the wrench assembly 28, and the elongated rod assembly 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second portions, 12a and 12b, mate to form the handle assembly 12. Each of the first and second portions, 12a and 12b, comprises a plurality of interfaces 69, sized to mechanically align and engage one another to form the handle assembly 12 and contain the internal functional components of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10. The rotary knob 48 is mechanically engaged with the outer tubular sheath. 56, so that it can be rotated in the circular direction 54 up to 360°. The outer tubular sheath 56 is located over the reciprocating tubular actuator element 58, which is mechanically engaged to and retained within the handle assembly 12 by means of a plurality of coupler elements 72. The coupler elements 72 may comprise a ring seal 72a, a tube collar cap 72b, a distal collar 72c, a proximal collar 72d and a threaded tube collar 72e. The reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 is located within a reciprocating rocker arm 84 which is retained between the first and second portions, 12a and 12b, of the handle assembly 12. The rocker arm 84 is part of a reciprocating rocker arm assembly 88 A series of joints convert the pivotal rotation of the elongated trigger hook 32 into the axial movement of the reciprocating rocker arm 84, which controls the opening and closing of the jaws of the clamping mechanism of the end actuator assembly 26 at the distal end of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10. In an exemplary modality, a four-link design offers mechanical advantage in a relatively short range of rotation, for example.
[0099] In an exemplary embodiment, an ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 is disposed within the reciprocating tubular actuator element 58. The distal end 52 of the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 is acoustically coupled (e.g., directly or indirectly mechanically coupled ) to blade 66, and the proximal end 50 of the ultrasonic transmit waveguide 78 is received within the handle assembly 12. The proximal end 50 of the ultrasonic transmit waveguide 78 is adapted to acoustically couple to the distal end. of the ultrasonic transducer 16, as discussed in more detail below. The ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 is isolated from the other elements of the elongated rod assembly 14 by means of a protective sheath 80 and a plurality of insulating elements 82, such as silicone rings. The outer tubular sheath 56, the reciprocating tubular actuator element 58 and the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 are mechanically engaged by a pin 74. The switch assembly 28 comprises the flip switch 30 and electrical elements 86a,b to electrically energize the transducer ultrasonic 16, according to activation of the first or second protruding buttons, 30a or 30b.
[00100] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer tubular sheath 56 isolates the user or patient from the ultrasonic vibrations of the ultrasonic transmitting waveguide 78. The outer tubular sheath 56 generally includes a hub 76. The outer tubular sheath 56 is threaded over the distal end of the handle assembly 12. The ultrasonic transmit waveguide 78 extends through the opening of the outer tubular sheath 56, and the insulating elements 82 insulate the ultrasonic transmit waveguide 24 from the outer tubular sheath 56. The sheath The outer tubular 56 can be secured to the waveguide 78 with the pin 74. The hole for receiving the pin 74 in the waveguide 78 can nominally occur in a displacement node. The waveguide 78 can be threaded or fitted into the handle assembly 12 of the handle by means of a stud. Flat portions on hub 76 can allow the assembly to be torqued to a required level. In an exemplary embodiment, the hub portion 76 of the outer tubular sheath 56 is preferably constructed of plastic, and the elongated tubular portion of the outer tubular sheath 56 is made of stainless steel. Alternatively, the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 may comprise polymeric material surrounding it, for insulation against external contact.
[00101] In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end of the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 may be coupled to the proximal end of the blade 66 by an internal threaded connection, preferably at or near an anti-knot. It is contemplated that the blade 66 may be secured to the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 by any suitable means, such as a soldered joint or the like. Although the blade 66 may be removable from the ultrasonic transmit waveguide 78, it is also contemplated that the single element end actuator (e.g. the blade 66) and the ultrasonic transmit waveguide 78 may be formed as a single unit piece.
[00102] In an exemplary embodiment, the trigger 32 is coupled to a pivot mechanism to convert the rotary movement of the trigger 32, in directions 33A and 33B, into linear movement of the reciprocating tubular actuator element 58, in the corresponding directions 60A and 60B. Trigger 32 comprises a first set of flanges 98 with openings formed therein to receive a first rocker pin 92a. The first rocker arm pin 92a is also positioned through a set of openings formed in the distal end of the rocker arm 84. Trigger 32 also comprises a second set of flanges 96 for receiving a first end 92a of a link 92. Trigger pin 90 is received in openings formed in link 92 and second set of flanges 96. Trigger pin 90 is received in openings formed in link 92 and second set of flanges 96, and is adapted to be coupled to first and second portions, 12a and 12b, of handle assembly 12 to form a pivot point for trigger 32. A second end 92b of link 92 is received in a slot 384 formed in a proximal end of rocker arm 84, and is retained at its interior by a second rocker pin 94b. As trigger 32 is pivotally rotated about pivot point 190 formed by trigger pin 90, the rocker arm translates horizontally along longitudinal axis "T" in a direction indicated by arrows 60A,B.
[00103] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument 10. In the illustrated modality, a cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic transducer 16 is shown within a partial cutaway view of the handle assembly 12. An exemplary modality of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 comprises ultrasonic signal generator 20 coupled to ultrasonic transducer 16 comprising a handle housing 99 and an end actuator assembly 26 with one or more ultrasonic actuatable elements. As discussed above, the end actuator assembly 26 comprises the ultrasound actuatable blade 66 and the collet arm 64. The ultrasonic transducer 16, which is known as a "Langevin stack", generally includes a transduction portion 100 , a first resonator or rear bell portion 102, and a second resonator or rear bell portion 104, as well as auxiliary components. The total construction of these components consists of a resonator. The ultrasonic transducer 16 is preferably the length of an integral number of half the wavelengths of the system (nÀ/2, where "n" is any positive integer, eg n = 1, 2, 3.. .), as will be described in more detail later in this document. An acoustic assembly 106 includes the ultrasonic transducer 16, a nose cone 108, a velocity transformer 118, and a surface 110.
In an exemplary embodiment, the distal end of the posterior bell 102 is connected to the proximal end of the transduction portion 100, and the proximal end of the anterior bell 104 is connected to the distal end of the transduction portion 100. The anterior bell 104 e the rear bell 102 has a length determined by a number of variables, including a thickness of the transduction portion 100, the density and modulus of elasticity of the material used to make the rear bell 102 and the front bell 22, and the frequency of resonance of the ultrasonic transducer 16. The anterior bell 104 may be tapered inward from its proximal end to its distal end to amplify the amplitude of the ultrasonic vibration like the velocity transformer 118 or, alternatively, may not have any amplification. A suitable vibrational frequency range can be from about 20 Hz to 32 kHz, and a well suited vibrational frequency range can be from about 30 to 10 kHz. A suitable operating vibrational frequency might be approximately 55.5 kHz, for example.
[00105] In an exemplary embodiment, the piezoelectric elements 112 can be manufactured from any suitable material such as lead zirconate-titanate, lead metaniobate, lead titanate, barium titanate or other piezoelectric ceramic material . Positive electrodes 114, negative electrodes 116 and piezoelectric elements 112 each have a hole extending through the center. Positive and negative electrodes 114 and 116 are electrically coupled to wires 120 and 122, respectively. Wires 120 and 122 are enclosed within cable 22 and are electrically connectable to ultrasonic signal generator 20.
[00106] The ultrasonic transducer 16 of the acoustic set 106 converts the electrical signal from the ultrasonic signal generator 20 into mechanical energy that primarily results in a stationary acoustic wave of longitudinal vibrating motion of the ultrasonic transducer 16 and the blade portion 66 of the set of 26 end actuator at ultrasonic frequencies. In another modality, the vibratory movement of the ultrasonic transducer can act in a different direction. For example, the vibratory motion may comprise a local longitudinal component with more complex movement of the tip of the elongated rod assembly 14. A suitable generator is available under model number GEN11 from Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. When the acoustic assembly 106 is energized, a standing wave of vibrating motion is generated therethrough. The ultrasonic surgical instrument 10 is designed to function at a resonance such that an acoustic standing wave pattern of predetermined amplitude is produced. The amplitude of vibratory movement at any point along acoustic array 106 depends on the location along acoustic array 106 at which vibratory motion is measured. A pass through a minimum or zero value in the standing wave of vibrating motion is usually called a node (ie where the motion is minimal), and a local absolute value maximum or peak in the standing wave is usually called an anti-knot (for example , where local movement is maximum). The distance between an anti-node and its nearest node is one-fourth the wavelength (À/4).
[00107] Wires 120 and 122 transmit an electrical signal from the ultrasonic signal generator 20 to the positive electrodes 114 and the negative electrodes 116. The piezoelectric elements 112 are energized by the electrical signal provided from the ultrasonic signal generator 20 in response to a actuator 224, such as a foot switch, for example, to produce an acoustic standing wave in the acoustic assembly 106. The electrical signal causes disturbances in the piezoelectric elements 112 in the form of repeated small displacements, resulting in large alternating compression and tension forces inside the material. The small repeated displacements cause the piezoelectric elements 112 to continuously expand and contract along the geometric axis of the voltage gradient, producing longitudinal waves of ultrasonic energy. Ultrasonic energy is transmitted through the acoustic assembly 106 to the blade portion 66 of the end actuator assembly 26 via a transmission member or an ultrasonic transmission waveguide portion 78 of the elongated rod assembly 14.
[00108] In an exemplary embodiment, for the acoustic assembly 106 to power the blade portion 66 of the end actuator assembly 26, all components of the acoustic assembly 106 need to be acoustically coupled to the blade 66. The distal end of the ultrasonic transducer 16 may be acoustically coupled, on surface 110, to the proximal end of the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 by means of a threaded connection such as a stud 124.
[00109] In an exemplary embodiment, the components of the acoustic set 106 are preferably acoustically tuned so that the length of any set is an integer of half the wavelengths (nÀ/2), where the length of wave À is the wavelength of a preselected or functional longitudinal vibration drive frequency fd of the acoustic assembly 106. It is also contemplated that the acoustic assembly 106 may incorporate any suitable arrangement of acoustic elements.
[00110] In an exemplary embodiment, the blade 66 may have a length substantially equal to an integral multiple of half the system wavelengths (nÀ/2). A distal end of blade 66 may be disposed adjacent to an anti-knot so as to provide maximum longitudinal excursion of the distal end. When the transducer assembly is energized, the distal end of blade 66 can be configured to move in the range of, for example, approximately 10 to 500 microns from peak to peak, and preferably in the range of about 30 to 64 microns. at a predetermined vibrational frequency of 55 kHz, for example.
[00111] In an exemplary embodiment, the blade 66 may be coupled to the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78. The blade 66 and the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78, as illustrated, are formed as a single unit construction from a material suitable for ultrasonic energy transmission. Examples of these materials include Ti6Al4V (a titanium alloy that includes aluminum and vanadium), aluminum, stainless steel, or other suitable materials. Alternatively, the blade 66 may be detachable (and of different composition) from the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78, and coupled, for example, by a stud, solder, glue, quick-connect or other suitable known methods. The length of the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 can be substantially equal to an integral number of half the wavelengths (nÀ/2), for example. The ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 can preferably be fabricated from a solid core rod constructed of material suitable for efficient propagation of ultrasonic energy, such as the titanium alloy discussed above (i.e. Ti6Al4V) or any alloy suitable aluminum, or other alloys, for example.
[00112] In an exemplary embodiment, the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 comprises a fixation column projecting longitudinally at a proximal end, to be coupled to the surface 110 of the ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 by means of a threaded connection , such as stud 124. The ultrasonic transmission waveguide 78 may include a plurality of silicone stabilizer rings or compatible brackets 82 (Figure 5) positioned in a plurality of nodes. Silicone rings 82 dampen unwanted vibration and isolate ultrasonic energy from an outer protective sheath 80 (Figure 5), ensuring ultrasonic energy flow in a longitudinal direction to the distal end of blade 66 with maximum efficiency.
[00113] Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the proximal rotation assembly 128. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal rotation assembly 128 comprises the proximal knob 134 inserted over the cylindrical hub 135. The proximal knob 134 comprises a plurality of projections radials 138 which are received in corresponding slots 130 formed on a proximal end of cylindrical hub 135. Proximal rotary knob 134 defines an opening 142 for receiving the distal end of ultrasonic transducer 16. Radial projections 138 are formed of a flexible, polymeric material. define a diameter that is undersized relative to the outer diameter of ultrasonic transducer 16 to create a frictional interference fit with the distal end of ultrasonic transducer 16. Polymeric radial projections 138 project radially into aperture 142 to form "snap-in" ribs that securely hold the outer casing of the ultrasonic transducer 16. Therefore, the proximal knob 134 securely holds the ultrasonic transducer 16.
[00114] The distal end of the cylindrical hub 135 comprises a circumferential rim 132 and a circumferential bearing surface 140. The circumferential rim engages a groove formed in the housing 12, and the circumferential bearing surface 140 engages the housing 12. Accordingly, the cylindrical hub 135 is mechanically retained within the two housing portions (not shown) of housing 12. The circumferential rim 132 of cylindrical hub 135 is situated or "trapped" between the first and second housing portions, 12a and 12b, and is free to rotate in place within the groove. The circumferential bearing surface 140 rests against internal portions of the housing to aid in proper rotation. In this way, the cylindrical hub 135 is free to rotate in place inside the housing. The user interacts with the splines 136 formed on the proximal knob 134, with a finger or thumb, to rotate the cylindrical hub 135 within the housing 12.
[00115] In an exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical hub 135 may be formed of a durable plastic such as polycarbonate. In an exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical hub 135 may be formed from a silicone polycarbonate material. In an exemplary embodiment, the proximal knob 134 may be formed from pliable, resilient, and flexible polymeric materials, including Versaflex® TPE alloys, available from the GLS Corporation. Proximal rotary knob 134 can be formed from elastomeric materials, thermoplastic rubber known as Santoprene®, other thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs), or elastomers, for example. The modalities, however, are not limited in this context.
[00116] Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a surgical system 200 that includes a surgical instrument 210 with a single element end actuator 278. The system 200 may include a transducer assembly 216 coupled to the end actuator 278 and a sheath 256 positioned around the proximal portions of the 278 end actuator as shown. Transducer assembly 216 and end actuator 278 may function in a manner similar to that of transducer assembly 16 and end actuator 18 described above to produce ultrasonic energy that can be transmitted to tissue via blade 226'.
[00117] Figures 11 to 18C illustrate various surgical instrument modalities that use therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic levels of electrical energy to treat and/or destroy tissue, or to provide feedback to generators (eg, electrosurgical instruments). The modalities of Figures 11 to 18C are adapted for use in a manual or hand operated mode, although electrosurgical instruments can also be used in robotic applications. Figure 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a surgical instrument system 300 comprising an electrically powered surgical instrument 310. Electrosurgical instrument 310 may comprise a proximal handle 312, a working end, or an end actuator. distal 326, and an introducer or elongated rod 314 disposed therebetween.
[00118] The electrosurgical system 300 can be configured to supply energy, such as electrical energy, ultrasonic energy, thermal energy or any combination thereof, to a patient's tissues, either independently or simultaneously as described, for example, in relation to Figure 1 , for example. In an exemplary modality, the electrosurgical system 300 includes a generator 320 in electrical communication with the electrosurgical instrument 310. The generator 320 is connected to the electrosurgical instrument 310 through a suitable transmission medium, such as a cable 322. In an exemplary modality, the generator 320 is coupled to a controller, such as a control unit 325, for example. In various embodiments, control unit 325 can be formed integrally with generator 320, or it can be provided as a separate circuit module or device electrically coupled to generator 320 (shown in dashed line to illustrate this option). Although in the embodiment disclosed herein generator 320 is shown separate from electrosurgical instrument 310, in an exemplary embodiment generator 320 (and/or control unit 325) may be integrally formed with electrosurgical instrument 310 to form a unitary electrosurgical system 300, where a battery located inside the 310 electrosurgical instrument is the power source, and a circuit coupled to the battery produces adequate electrical energy, ultrasonic energy, or thermal energy. Such an example is described later in this document in relation to Figures 17 through 18C.
[00119] The generator 320 may comprise an input device 335 located on a front panel of the console of the generator 320. The input device 335 may comprise any suitable device that generates signals suitable for programming the operation of the generator 320, such as a keypad or a gateway, for example. In an exemplary embodiment, multiple electrodes in first jaw 364A and second jaw 364B can be coupled to generator 320. Cable 322 can comprise multiple electrical conductors for applying electrical energy to positive (+) and negative (-) electrodes of the instrument electrosurgical 310. Control unit 325 can be used to activate generator 320, which can serve as a source of electricity. In various embodiments, generator 320 may comprise an RF source, an ultrasonic source, a direct current source, and/or any other suitable type of electrical power source, for example, which can be activated independently or simultaneously.
[00120] In various embodiments, the electrosurgical system 300 may comprise at least one supply conductor 331 and at least one return conductor 333, wherein current can be supplied to the electrosurgical instrument 300 through the supply conductor 331, and wherein current may flow back to generator 320 through return conductor 333. In various embodiments, supply conductor 331 and return conductor 333 may comprise insulated metal wires and/or any other suitable type of conductor. In certain embodiments, as described below, supply conductor 331 and return conductor 333 may be contained within, and/or may comprise, cable 322 extending between, or at least partially between, generator 320 and the end actuator 326 of the electrosurgical instrument 310. In any event, the generator 320 can be configured to apply a sufficient voltage differential between the supply conductor 331 and the return conductor 333 so that sufficient current can be supplied to the actuator. end 110.
[00121] Figure 12 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the handle 312 of the surgical instrument 310. In Figure 12, the handle 312 is shown with one half of a first handle body 312A (see Figure 11) removed to illustrate several components inside the second handle body 312B. The handle 312 may comprise a lever arm 321 (e.g., a trigger) that can be pulled along a path 33. The lever arm 321 may be coupled to an axially movable member 378 (Figures 13 to 16) disposed within the elongated rod 314 by a shuttle 384 operatively engaged with an extension 398 of the lever arm 321. The shuttle 384 may additionally be connected to a biasing device, such as a spring 388, which may also be connected. to the second handle body 312B, to bias the shuttle 384 and therefore the axially movable element 378 in a proximal direction, thus inducing the jaws 364A and 364B to an open position, as seen in Figure 11. Furthermore, with reference to the Figures 11 through 12, a locking element 190 (see Figure 12) can be moved by a locking switch 328 (see Figure 11) between a locked position, where the shuttle 384 is substantially prevented from moving farther. ly, as illustrated, and an unlocked position, where shuttle 384 can be allowed to move freely in the distal direction, toward elongated shaft 314. Handle 312 can be any type of pistol grip, or other known type of grip. in the art, that is configured to bear levers, triggers or sliding actuation elements to actuate the first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B. Elongated rod 314 may have a cylindrical or rectangular cross-section, for example, and may comprise a thin-walled tubular sleeve extending from handle 312. Elongated rod 314 may include a hole extending therethrough for transporting actuator mechanisms, for example the axially movable element 378, to drive the jaws and to transport electrical conductors for applying electrical energy to electrosurgical components of the end actuator 326.
[00122] End actuator 326 can be adapted to capture and transect tissue, and to simultaneously cauterize captured tissue with the controlled application of energy (eg, RF energy). First jaw 364A and second jaw 364B may close to thereby capture tissue, or interact with it, around a longitudinal axis "T" defined by axially movable element 378. First jaw 364A and second jaw jaw 364B can also apply compression to tissue. In some embodiments, the elongated shaft 314, along with the first jaw 364A and second jaw 364B, can be rotated a total of 360°, as shown by arrow 196 (see Figure 11), relative to handle 312. For example, a rotary knob 348 may be capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis of rod 314, and may be coupled to rod 314 so that rotation of knob 348 causes corresponding rotation of rod 314. First jaw 364A and second jaw jaw 364B may remain open and/or closed while being rotated.
[00123] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the end actuator 326 with the jaws 364A and 364B open, while Figure 14 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the end actuator 326 with the jaws 364A and 364B closed. As noted above, end actuator 326 may comprise first upper jaw 364A and second lower jaw 364B, which may be straight or curved. The first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B may each comprise an elongated slit or groove, 362A and 362B, respectively, disposed outwardly along their respective center portions. Additionally, each of the first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B may have tissue gripping elements, such as teeth 363, disposed on the inner portions of the first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B. The first jaw 364A may comprise a first upper jaw body 200A with an outwardly facing first upper surface 202A and a first power application upper surface 365A. The second jaw 364B may comprise a second lower jaw body 200B with an outwardly facing second lower surface 202B and a second lower energy application surface 365B. Both the first energy application surface 365A and the second energy application surface 365B may extend in a "U" shape around the distal end of the end actuator 326.
[00124] The lever arm 321 of the handle 312 (Figure 12) can be adapted to drive the axially movable element 378 which can also function as a jaw closing mechanism. For example, axially movable element 378 may be forced distally as lever arm 321 is pulled proximally along path 33 via shuttle 384, as shown in Figure 12 and discussed above. Figure 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the axially movable element 378 of the surgical instrument 310. The axially movable element 378 may comprise one or more parts but may in any case be movable or translatable with respect to the elongated rod 314 and/or jaws 364A and 364B. Furthermore, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the axially movable element 378 may be produced from precipitation hardened stainless steel 17-4. The distal end of the axially movable element 378 may comprise a flanged "I-profile" configured to slide within the channels 362A and 362B, in the jaws 364A and 364B. The axially movable element 378 can slide within the channels 362A and 362B to open and close the first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B. The distal end of the axially movable element 378 may also comprise an upper flange or "C" shaped portion 378A, and a lower flange or "C" shaped portion 378B. Flanges 378A and 378B, respectively, define inner cam surfaces 367A and 367B for engaging outwardly facing surfaces of first jaw 364A and second jaw 364B. The opening and closing of the jaws 364A and 364B can apply very high compressive forces to the fabric through the use of cam mechanisms that can include the movable "in-place" profile of the axially movable element 378, and the outwardly facing surfaces , 369A and 369B, of jaws 364A and 364B.
[00125] More specifically, now referring to Figures 13 to 15, collectively, the inner cam surfaces 367A and 367B of the distal end of the axially movable element 378 can be adapted to slidingly interact with the first outwardly facing surface 369A and the outwardly facing second surface 369B of the first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B, respectively. The channel 362A within the first jaw 364A and the channel 362B within the second jaw 364B may be sized and configured to accommodate movement of the axially movable element 378, which may comprise a tissue cutting element 371, for example, which comprises a sharp distal edge. Figure 14, for example, shows the distal end of axially movable element 378 advanced at least partially through channels 362A and 362B (Figure 13). The advancement of the axially movable element 378 can close the end actuator 326, from the open configuration shown in Figure 13. In the closed position, shown in Figure 14, the first upper jaw 364A and the second lower jaw 364B define a span or a dimension D between the first energy application surface 365A and the second energy application surface 365B of the first jaw 364A and the second jaw 364B, respectively. In various embodiments, the dimension D can be from about 0.0005" to about 0.040", for example, and in some embodiments, between about 0.001" and about 0.010", for example. In addition, the edges of the first energy application surface 365A and the second energy application surface 365B can be rounded to prevent tissue dissection.
[00126] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the end actuator 326 of the surgical instrument 310. The interacting, or tissue-contacting surface, 365B, of the lower jaw 364B is adapted to supply power to the fabric, at least in part, through a conductive-resistive matrix such as a positive variable resistive temperature coefficient (PTC) body, as discussed in more detail below. At least one of the upper and lower jaws, 364A and 364B, may bear at least one electrode 373 configured to supply energy from generator 320 to captured tissue. The interacting or tissue-contacting surface, 365A, of the upper jaw 364A may bear a similar conductive-resistive matrix (ie, a material with PTC) or, in some embodiments, the surface may be a conductive electrode or an insulating layer, for example. Alternatively, the jaw engagement surfaces may bear any of the energy application components disclosed in US Patent No. 6,773,409, filed October 22, 2001, entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL JAW STRUCTURE FOR CONTROLLED ENERGY DELIVERY", the description of which is here incorporated, by way of reference, in its entirety.
[00127] Each of the first energy application surface, 365A, and the second energy application surface, 365B, may be in electrical communication with the generator 320. The first energy application surface 365A and the second energy application surface, application of energy 365B may be configured to contact tissue and provide the captured tissue with an electrosurgical energy that is adapted to seal or cauterize the tissue. The control unit 325 regulates the electrical energy supplied by the electrical generator 320 which, in turn, supplies electrosurgical energy to the first power application surface 365A and the second power application surface 365B. Power supply may be initiated by an activation button 328 (Figure 12) operatively engaged to lever arm 321 and in electrical communication with generator 320 via cable 322. In an exemplary mode, electrosurgical instrument 310 may be energized by the generator 320 by means of a foot switch 329 (Figure 11). When actuated, footswitch 329 drives generator 320 to supply electrical power to end actuator 326, for example. Control unit 325 can regulate the power generated by generator 320 during activation. Although foot switch 329 may be suitable under many circumstances, other suitable types of switches may be used.
[00128] As mentioned above, the electrosurgical energy provided by electrical generator 320 and regulated or otherwise controlled by control unit 325 may comprise radio frequency (RF) energy, or other suitable forms of electrical energy. In addition, the first and second opposing power application surfaces, 365A and 365B, can bear bodies with a resistive variable positive temperature coefficient (PTC), which are in electrical communication with the generator 320 and the control unit 325. Additional details regarding Electrosurgical end actuators, jaw closing mechanisms, and electrosurgical energy application surfaces are described in the following patents and published patent applications: US Patent Nos. 7,087,054, 7,083,619, 7,070,597, 7,041,102, 7,011,657, 6,929,644, 6,926,716, 6,913,579, 6,905,497, 6,802,843, 6,770,072, 6,656,177, 6,533,784 and 6,500,312, and US patent application publications no. /0036370 and 2009/0076506, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and made part of this descriptive report.
[00129] In an exemplary modality, the generator 320 can be implemented in the form of an electrosurgery unit (ESU) capable of providing sufficient power to perform bipolar electrosurgery through the use of radio frequency (RF) energy. In an exemplary embodiment, the ESU may be an ERBE ICC 350 bipolar apparatus, available from ERBE USA, Inc. of Marietta, Georgia, USA. In some modalities, such as for bipolar electrosurgery applications, a surgical instrument with an active electrode and a return electrode can be used, where the active electrode and return electrode can be positioned against, adjacent to and/or in electrical communication with , the tissue to be treated, so that current can flow from the active electrode, through the bodies with a positive coefficient of temperature (PTC) and to the return electrode through the tissue. In various embodiments, therefore, the electrosurgical system 300 may comprise a delivery path and a return path, in which the captured tissue being treated completes, or closes, the circuit. In an exemplary embodiment, generator 320 may be a monopolar RF ESU and electrosurgical instrument 310 may comprise a monopolar end actuator 326 in which one or more active electrodes are integrated. For such a system, the generator 320 may require a return block in intimate contact with the patient, at a location away from the surgical site and/or other suitable return path. The feedback block may be cabled to generator 320. In other embodiments, operator 20 may apply sub-therapeutic levels of RF energy for the purpose of assessing tissue condition and providing feedback to the electrosurgical system 300. This feedback can be used to control the therapeutic RF energy output of the 310 electrosurgical instrument.
[00130] During the operation of the electrosurgical instrument 300, the user generally holds the tissue, applies energy to the captured tissue to form a cauterization or seal (for example, by pressing button 328 and/or pedal 216) and then inserts a tissue cutting member 371 located at the distal end of the axially movable member 378 through the captured tissue. In accordance with various embodiments, the translation of the axial movement of the axially movable element 378 may be regulated or otherwise controlled to assist in driving the axially movable element 378 at a suitable travel speed. By controlling the velocity of displacement, the probability increases that the captured tissue has been adequately and functionally cauterized prior to transection with the 371 cutting element.
[00131] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary modality of a surgical instrument system comprising a wireless surgical instrument powered by electrical energy 410. The electrosurgical system is similar to the electrosurgical system 300. The electrosurgical system can be configured to supply energy, such as electrical energy, ultrasonic energy, thermal energy or any combination thereof, to a patient's tissues, either independently or simultaneously as described, for example, in relation to Figures 1 and 11. The electrosurgical instrument may use the actuator end caps 326 and elongated rod 314 described herein in conjunction with a wireless proximal handle 412. In an exemplary embodiment, handle 412 includes a generator circuit 420 (see Figure 18A). Generator circuit 420 performs a function substantially similar to that of generator 320. In an exemplary embodiment, generator circuit 420 is coupled to a controller, such as a control circuit. In the illustrated embodiment, the control circuit is integrated with the generator circuit 420. In other embodiments, the control circuit may be separate from the generator circuit 420.
[00132] In an exemplary embodiment, several electrodes on end actuator 326 (including jaws 364A and 364B thereof) may be coupled to generator circuit 420. The control circuit can be used to activate generator 420, which can serve as a source of electricity. In various embodiments, generator 420 can comprise an RF source, an ultrasonic source, a direct current source, and/or any other suitable type of electrical energy source, for example. In an exemplary embodiment, a button 328 can be used to activate generator circuit 420 so as to supply power to end actuators 326 and 326.
[00133] Figure 18A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the handle 412 of the wireless surgical instrument 410. In Figure 18A, the handle 412 is shown with half of a first handle body removed to illustrate various components within the second. handle body 434. Handle 412 may comprise a lever arm 424 (e.g., a trigger) that can be pulled along a path 33 around a pivot point. Lever arm 424 may be coupled to an axially movable member 478 disposed within elongated rod 314 by a shuttle operatively engaged with an extension of lever arm 424. In an exemplary embodiment, lever arm 424 defines a hook shape shepherd, comprising a distal element 424a and a proximal element 424b.
[00134] In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless electrosurgical instrument comprises a battery 437. The battery 437 provides electrical power to the generator circuit 420. The battery 437 may be any battery suitable for driving the generator circuit 420 at the desired energy levels. In an exemplary embodiment, battery 437 is a 100 mAh triple cell lithium ion polymer battery. The battery can be fully charged prior to use in a surgical procedure, and can hold a voltage of about 12.6 V. The battery 437 can have two fuses fitted to the cordless electrosurgical instrument 410, arranged in-line with each battery terminal . In an exemplary embodiment, a charging port 439 is used to connect battery 437 to a direct current source (not shown).
[00135] The generator circuit 420 can be configured in any suitable way. In some embodiments, the generator circuit comprises an RF drive and control circuit 440 and a controller circuit 482. Figure 18B illustrates an RF drive and control circuit 440, according to one embodiment. Figure 18B is part schematic illustration, part block diagram, which illustrates the RF drive and control circuit 440 used in this mode to generate and control the RF electrical energy supplied to the 326 end actuator. As will be explained in more detail below , in this mode the drive circuitry 440 consists of an RF amplifier in resonant mode, which comprises a parallel resonant network at the output of the RF amplifier, and the control circuits work to control the operating frequency of the drive signal , so that it is maintained at the resonant frequency of the drive circuit which, in turn, controls the amount of power supplied to the end actuator 326. How this is achieved will be evident from the following description.
[00136] As shown in Figure 18B, the RF drive and control circuit 440 comprises the battery 437 described above, arranged to supply, in this example, rails with about 0 V and about 12 V. An input capacitor (Cen) 442 is connected between 0V and 12V rail to provide low source impedance. A pair of FET switches 443-1 and 443-2 (which in this mode are both N-channel to reduce energy losses) is connected in series between the 0V voltage source and the 12V voltage source A FET 805 logic gate trigger circuit is used which generates two trigger signals - one to drive each of the two FETs 443. The FET 445 terminal trigger circuit generates trigger signals that cause the upper FET (443 -1) is on when the lower FET (443-2) is off and vice versa. This causes node 447 to be alternately connected to the 12V rail (when the FET 443-1 is on) and the 0V rail (when the FET 443-2 is on). Figure 18B also shows the internal parasitic diodes 448-1 and 448-2 of the corresponding FETs 443, which conduct during any periods during which the FETs 443 are open.
[00137] As shown in Figure 18B, node 447 is connected to an inductor-inductor resonant circuit 450 formed by inductor Ls 452 and inductor Lm 454. The logic gate drive circuit FET 445 is arranged to generate signals from drive at a drive frequency (fd) that opens and crosses the FET 443 switches at the resonant frequency of the parallel resonant circuit 450. As a result of the resonant characteristic of the resonant circuit 450, the square wave voltage at node 447 will cause a current substantially sinusoidal at the driving frequency (fd) flows within the resonant circuit 450. As illustrated in Figure 18B, inductor Lm 454 is the primary of a transformer 455, the secondary of which is formed by inductor Lsec 456. Inductor Lsec 456 The secondary of transformer 455 is connected to a parallel resonant inductor-capacitor-capacitor 457 circuit, formed by inductor L2 458, capacitor C4 460, and capacitor C2 462. 55 up converts the drive voltage (Vd) through inductor Lm 454 to the voltage that is applied to the output resonant parallel circuit 457. The load voltage (VL) is output by the resonant parallel circuit 457, and is applied to the load (represented by the load resistance Rload 459 in Figure 18B) corresponding to the impedance of the forceps jaws and any tissue or blood vessel captured by the end actuator 326. As shown in Figure 18B, a pair of DC blocking capacitors CbI 480- 1 and 480-2 is used to prevent any DC signals from being applied to the 459 load.
[00138] In one modality, the 455 transformer can be implemented with a Core Diameter (mm), a Wire Diameter (mm) and a Gap between secondary windings according to the following specifications:
[00139] Core diameter, D (mm)
[00140] D = 19.9 x 10-3
[00141] Wire diameter, W (mm) for 22 AWG wire
[00142] W = 7.366 x 10-4
[00143] span between secondary windings, span = 0.125
[00144] G = span/25.4
[00145] In this mode, the amount of electrical power supplied to the end actuator 326 is controlled by varying the frequency of the switching signals used to switch the FETs 443. This works because the resonant circuit 450 acts as a frequency-dependent attenuator ( without losses). The closer the trigger signal is to the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit 450, the less attenuated the trigger signal. Similarly, as the frequency of the drive signal moves away from the resonant frequency of the 450 circuit, the greater the attenuation of the drive signal and therefore the lesser the power supplied to the load. In this mode, the frequency of the switching signals generated by the terminal drive circuit FET 445 is controlled by a controller 481, based on a desired power to be supplied to the load 459 and on the load voltage (VL) and current measurements load (IL) obtained by a conventional 483 voltage sensing circuit and a 485 current sensing circuit. How the 481 controller works will be described in more detail below.
[00146] In one embodiment, the 483 voltage sensing circuit and the 485 current sensing circuit can be implemented with high-bandwidth, high-speed rail-to-rail amplifiers (eg, LMH6643, available from National Semiconductor) . However, these amplifiers draw relatively high current when in operation. Consequently, an energy saving circuit can be used to reduce the supply voltage of the amplifiers when they are not being used in the 483 voltage sensing circuit and the 485 current sensing circuit. In one embodiment, a step-down regulator ( eg LT3502, available from Linear Technologies) can be used by the power saver circuit to reduce the supply voltage of the rail-to-rail amplifiers and therefore extend the life of the 437 battery.
[00147] Figure 18C illustrates the main components of the controller 481, according to an embodiment. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 18C, controller 481 may comprise a processing unit such as a microprocessor-based controller, and therefore most of the components illustrated in Figure 16 are software-based components. Still, you can use a hardware-based 481 controller instead. As shown, the controller 481 includes an I,Q synchronized sampling circuit 491 which receives the sensed voltage and current signals sent by the detection circuits 483 and 485 and obtains corresponding samples which are passed to a power calculation module 493, Vrms voltage and Irms current. The calculation module 493 uses the received samples to calculate the RMS voltage and the RMS current applied to the load 459 (Figure 18B, end actuator 326 and tissue/blood vessel captured by it) and, from these, the power that is currently being supplied to the load 459. The determined values are then passed to a frequency control module 495 and to a medical device control module 497. The medical device control module 497 uses the values to determine the current impedance of the load 459 and based on this calculated impedance and a predefined algorithm, determines which setpoint power (Paju) should be applied to the 495 frequency control module. The 497 medical device control module is in turn controlled by signals received from a user input module 499, which receives user actions (eg, pressing buttons or activating control levers 114 or 110 on handle 104), and controls the also output devices (lights, a screen, a speaker or the like) on the handle 104 via a user data output module 461.
[00148] The frequency control module 495 uses the values obtained from the calculation module 493, the power setpoint (Paju) obtained from the medical device control module 497 and the system preset limits (to be explained later on ), to determine whether or not the applied frequency should be increased or decreased. The result of this decision is then sent to a square wave generation module 463 which, in this mode, increases or decreases the frequency of a square wave signal generated by it by 1 kHz, depending on the decision received. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, in an alternative embodiment, the frequency control module 495 can determine not only whether the frequency should be increased or decreased, but also the amount of frequency change needed. In that case, the square wave generation module 463 would generate the corresponding square wave signal with the desired frequency change. In this mode, the square wave signal generated by the square wave generation module 463 is sent to the terminal drive circuit FET 445, which amplifies the signal and then applies it to the FET 443-1. The FET 445 terminal drive circuit also inverts the signal applied to FET 443-1 and applies the inverted signal to FET 443-2.
[00149] Electrosurgical instrument 410 may comprise additional features as discussed in connection with electrosurgical system 300. Those skilled in the art will recognize that electrosurgical instrument 410 may include a rotary knob 348, an elongated rod 314, and an end actuator 326. elements function substantially similar to that discussed above in connection with electrosurgical system 300. In an exemplary embodiment, wireless electrosurgical instrument 410 may include visual indicators 435. Visual indicators 435 may provide a visual indicating signal to an operator. In an exemplary embodiment, the visual indication signal may alert an operator that the device is on, or that the device is applying power to the end actuator. Those skilled in the art will recognize that visual indicators 435 can be configured to provide information on multiple device states.
[00150] Over the years, a variety of minimally invasive (or "telasurgical") robotic systems have been developed to increase surgical dexterity, as well as to allow a surgeon to intuitively operate a patient. Robotic surgical systems can be used with many different types of surgical instruments including, for example, ultrasonic or electrosurgical instruments as described herein. Exemplary robotic systems include those produced by Intuitive Surgical, Inc., of Sunnyvale, California, USA. These systems, as well as robotic systems available from other manufacturers, are disclosed in the following US patents, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety: US Patent No. 5,792,135 entitled "Articulated Surgical Instrument For Performing Minimally Invasive Surgery With Enhanced Dexterity and Sensitivity", US Patent No. 6,231,565, entitled "Robotic Arm DLUS For Performing Surgical Tasks", US Patent No. 6,783,524, entitled "Robotic Surgical Tool With Ultrasound Cauterizing and Cutting Instrument", US patent no. 6,364,888, entitled "Alignment of Master and Slave In a Minimally Invasive Surgical Apparatus", US patent no. 7,524,320, entitled "Mechanical Actuator Interface System For Robotic Surgical Tools", US patent no. 7,691,098, entitled "Platform Link Wrist Mechanism", US Patent No. 7,806,891, entitled "Repositioning and Reorientation of Master/Slave Relationship in Minimally Invasive Telesurgery", and patent US No. 7,824,401 entitled "Surgical Tool With Writed Monopolar Electrosurgical End Effectors". Many of these systems, however, in the past have failed to generate the magnitude of forces needed to effectively cut and join tissue.
[00151] Figures 19 to 46C illustrate the exemplary modalities of robotic surgical systems. In some modalities, the robotic surgical systems presented may use the ultrasonic or electrosurgical instruments described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the illustrated robotic surgical systems are not limited to only those instruments described herein, and may use any compatible surgical instruments. Those skilled in the art will further understand that while various modalities described herein can be used with the robotic surgical systems described, the description is not limited thereto, and can be used with any compatible robotic surgical system.
[00152] Figures 19 to 25 illustrate the structure and operation of various exemplary robotic surgical systems, and components thereof. Figure 19 shows a block diagram of an exemplary robotic surgical system 1000. System 1000 comprises at least one controller 508 and at least one arm carriage 510. Arm carriage 510 may be mechanically coupled to one or more manipulators or arms robotics, indicated by box 512. Each of the robotic arms 512 may comprise one or more surgical instruments 514 for performing various surgical tasks on a patient 504. The operation of the arm carriage 510, including arms 512 and instruments 514, may be commanded by a physician 502 from a controller 508. In some embodiments, a second controller 508', operated by a second physician 502', may also command the operation of the arm carriage 510, in conjunction with the first physician 502'. For example, each of the physicians, 502 and 502', may control different arms 512 of the carriage, or in some cases, full control of the carriage of arm 510 may be passed between physicians, 502 and 502'. In some embodiments, additional arm carriages (not shown) may be used on patient 504. These additional arm carriages may be controlled by one or more of the controllers, 508 and 508'. The one or more arm carriages 510 and controllers, 508 and 508', may be in communication with each other via a communication link 516, which can be any suitable type of wired or wireless communication link, carrying any suitable signal type (eg electrical, optical, infrared, etc.) in accordance with any suitable communication protocol. Exemplary implementations of robotic surgical systems, such as system 1000, are disclosed in US Patent No. 7,524,320, which is incorporated herein by reference. As such, various details of these devices will not be described in detail in this document beyond what may be necessary to understand various modalities of the claimed device.
[00153] Figure 20 shows an exemplary embodiment of a robotic arm carriage 520. The robotic arm carriage 520 is configured to drive a plurality of surgical instruments, or instruments, generically designated as 522 within a 519 working envelope. Robotic surgery systems and methods employing master controller and robotic arm carriage arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,132,368 entitled "Multi-Component Telepresence System and Method", the description of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. In various forms, robotic arm carriage 520 includes a base 524 from which, in the illustrated embodiment, three surgical instruments 522 are supported. In various forms, each of the surgical instruments 522 is supported by a series of manually pivotable joints, generically termed configuration joints 526, and a robotic manipulator 528. Such structures are illustrated in the present invention with protective covers that extend over much of the robotic joint. These protective covers may be optional, and may be limited in size or entirely eliminated in some modalities to minimize the inertia that is encountered by the servomechanisms used to manipulate such devices, to limit the volume of moving components in order to avoid collisions, and to limit the total weight of the 520 trolley. The 520 trolley is generally sized suitable for transport between operating rooms. Cart 520 can be configured to fit typically operating room doors and conventional hospital elevators. In various forms, cart 520 would preferably have a weight and would include a wheel system (or other transport) that allows cart 520 to be positioned adjacent to an operating table by a single attendant.
[00154] Figure 21 shows an exemplary embodiment of robotic manipulator 528 of robotic arm carriage 520. In the example shown in Figure 21, robotic manipulators 528 may include a hinge 530 that restricts movement of surgical instrument 522. In various embodiments, hinge 530 includes rigid links coupled together by rotational joints in a parallelogram arrangement so that surgical instrument 522 rotates about a point in space 532, as more fully described in granted US Patent No. 5,817,084, the full description of which is incorporated herein by reference. The parallelogram arrangement restricts rotation to turning about an axis 534a, sometimes called the pitch axis. The links supporting the parallelogram joint are pivotally mounted in configuration joints 526 (Figure 20) so that the surgical instrument 522 additionally rotates about an axis 534b, sometimes called the yaw axis. The pitch and yaw axes, 534a and 534b, intersect at remote center 536, which is aligned along a rod 538 of surgical instrument 522. Surgical instrument 522 may have additional degrees of freedom conducted as supported by manipulator 540, which includes sliding movement of the surgical instrument 522 along the longitudinal geometric axis "LT-LT" of the instrument. As surgical instrument 522 slides along the instrument's LT-LT geometric axis with respect to manipulator 540 (arrow 534c), remote center 536 remains fixed relative to base 542 of manipulator 540. Consequently, the entirety of manipulator 540 is generally moved to reposition remote center 536. The 530 linkage of the 540 manipulator is driven by a series of 544 motors. These 544 motors actively move the 530 linkage in response to commands from a control system processing unit. As will be discussed in more detail below, motors 544 are also used to manipulate surgical instrument 522.
[00155] Figure 22 shows an exemplary embodiment of a robotic arm carriage 520' that has an alternative configuration joint structure. In this exemplary embodiment, a surgical instrument 522 is supported by an alternate manipulator structure 528' between two tissue manipulation instruments. Those skilled in the art will understand that various embodiments of the claimed device may incorporate a wide variety of alternative robotic structures, including those described in US Patent No. 5,878,193, the full description of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, although data communication between a robotic component and the processing unit of the robotic surgical system is primarily described herein with reference to the communication between the surgical instrument 522 and the controller, it should be understood that similar communications can occur between the set of circuitry of a manipulator, a configuration joint, an endoscope or other image capture device or the like, and the processing unit of the robotic surgical system for component compatibility verification, component type identification, communication for component calibration ( such as displacement or similar), confirmation of coupling of the component to the robotic surgical system, or similar.
[00156] Figure 23 shows an exemplary embodiment of a controller 518 that can be used in conjunction with a robotic arm carriage, such as robotic arm carriages 520 and 520', shown in Figures 20 to 22. Controller 518 includes , typically master controllers (generically represented as 519 in Figure 23), which are held by the physician and manipulated in space, while the physician observes the procedure through a 521 stereoscopic screen. A surgeon feedback meter 515 can be seen through screen 521, and provide the surgeon with a visual indication of the amount of force being applied to the cutting instrument or dynamic clamping element. 519 master controllers generally comprise manual input devices that preferably move with multiple degrees of freedom, and that often additionally have a handle or trigger for actuating the instruments (eg, to close clamping saws, apply a electrical potential to an electrode, or the like).
[00157] Figure 24 shows an exemplary modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument 522 adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. For example, surgical instrument 522 may be coupled to one of the surgical manipulators, 528 and 528', described earlier in this document. As seen in Figure 24, surgical instrument 522 comprises a surgical end actuator 548 comprising an ultrasonic blade 550 and a forceps arm 552 which may be coupled to an elongated rod assembly 554 which, in some embodiments, may comprise an articulated joint 556. Figure 25 shows another exemplary embodiment that has an electrosurgical instrument 523 in place of the ultrasonic surgical instrument 522. The surgical instrument 523 comprises a surgical end actuator 548 comprising lockable jaws, 551A and 551B, with surfaces applying power tools, 553A and 553B, to hold and apply electrical energy to tissue between jaws 551A and 551B. A tissue cutting element, or scalpel 555, can be positioned at the distal end of an axially movable element 557, which can extend through the elongated rod assembly 554 to the instrument mounting portion 558. Figure 26 shows one embodiment Exemplary of an instrument drive assembly 546 that can be coupled to one of the surgical manipulators, 528 and 528', to receive and control surgical instruments 522 and 523. operating to controller 518 to receive inputs from the physician to control the instrument, 522 and 523. For example, the actuation (e.g., opening and closing) of the gripper arm 552, the actuation (e.g., opening and closing) of the jaws, 551A and 551B, the actuation of the ultrasonic blade 550, the scalpel extension 555 and the actuation of the energy application surfaces 553A, 553B, among others, can be controlled by means of of the instrument drive assembly 546, based on inputs from the physician provided through controller 518. The surgical instrument 522 is operatively coupled to the manipulator by an instrument mounting portion, generally designated as 558. Surgical instruments 522 include, further, an interface 560 that mechanically and electrically couples the instrument mounting portion 558 to the manipulator.
[00158] Figure 27 shows another view of the drive assembly of the instrument of Figure 26, which includes the ultrasonic surgical instrument 522. Figure 28 shows another view of the drive assembly of the instrument of Figure 26, which includes the electrosurgical instrument 523. The instrument mounting portion 558 includes an instrument mounting plate 562 that operatively supports a plurality of (four are shown in Figure 26) swivel body portions, disks, or driven elements 564, each of which includes a pair of pins 566, which extend from a surface of driven element 564. One pin 566 is closer to an axis of rotation of each of the driven elements 564 than the other pin 566 in the same driven element 564, which helps to ensure positive angular alignment of driven element 564. Driven elements 564 and pins 566 may be positioned on one side of adapter 567 of instrument mounting plate 562.
[00159] Interface 560 also includes an adapter portion 568 that is configured to engage mounting plate 562, as will be further discussed below. Adapter portion 568 may include an array of electrical connection pins 570, which may be coupled to a memory structure by a circuit board within instrument mounting portion 558. Although interface 560 is described herein with reference to mechanical, electrical and magnetic coupling elements, it should be understood that a wide variety of telemetry modalities can be used, including infrared, inductive coupling or the like.
[00160] Figures 29 through 31 show additional views of adapter portion 568 of the instrument drive assembly 546 of Figure 26. Adapter portion 568 generally includes an instrument side 572 and a bracket side 574 (Figure 29) . In various embodiments, a plurality of swivel bodies 576 are mounted on a floating plate 578 which has a limited range of movement relative to the adapter structure surrounding normal to the main surfaces of the adapter 568. Axial movement of the floating plate 578 helps with uncouple swivel bodies 576 from instrument mounting portion 558 when levers 580 are actuated along the sides of the housing from instrument mounting portion 582 (see Figures 24 and 25). Other mechanisms/arrangements can be used to releasably couple instrument mounting portion 558 to adapter 568. In at least one form, swivel bodies 576 are resiliently mounted to floating plate 578 by means of resilient radial elements extending in a circumferential indentation around the swivel bodies 576. The swivel bodies 576 can move axially relative to the plate 578 by deflecting these resilient structures. When arranged in a first axial position (toward the instrument side 572), the swivel bodies 576 are free to rotate without angular limitation. However, as the swivel bodies 576 move axially towards the side of the instrument 572, the tabs 584 (extending radially from the swivel bodies 576) laterally engage detents on the floating plates to limit angular rotation of the rotating bodies 576 around their axes. This limited rotation can be used to help drive swivel bodies 576 to drive pins 586 of a corresponding instrument 588 support portion of the robotic system for drive, as drive pins 586 will push swivel bodies 576 into position. limited rotation until pins 586 are aligned with slots 590 (and slide into slots).
[00161] The openings 590 on the side of the instrument 572 and the openings 590 on the side of the support 574 of the swivel bodies 576 are configured to accurately align the driven elements 564 (Figures 27 and 28) of the instrument mounting portion 558 to the driving elements 592 of the instrument holder 588. As described above in relation to internal and external pins 566 of actuated elements 564, the openings 590 are at different distances from the axis of rotation in their respective swivel bodies 576, so as to ensure that the alignment is not at 33 degrees from your intended position. Additionally, each of the openings 590 may be slightly elongated radially so as to correctly receive the pins 566 in circumferential orientation. This allows the pins 566 to slide radially into the openings 590 and accommodate some axial misalignment between the instrument, 522 and 523, and the instrument holder 588, while minimizing any angular misalignment or jolt between the driving and driven elements . Apertures 590 on the instrument side 572 may be offset by about 90 degrees from the apertures 590 (shown in dashed lines) on the holder side 574, as seen more clearly in Figure 31.
[00162] Various embodiments may also include an array of electrical connection pins 570 located on the bracket 574 side of the adapter 568, and on the instrument side 572 of the adapter 568 may include slots 594 (Figure 31) for receiving an array of pins (not shown) of the instrument mounting portion 558. In addition to transmitting electrical signals between the surgical instrument, 522 and 523, and the instrument holder 588, at least some of these electrical connections may be coupled to a memory device of the 596 adapter (Figure 30) through a 568 adapter circuit board.
[00163] A removable latch arrangement 598 can be used to releasably secure adapter 568 to instrument holder 588. For use herein, the term "instrument drive assembly", when used in the context of the robotic system, encompasses at least various embodiments of adapter 568 and instrument holder 588, which has been generically designated as 546 in Figure 26. As seen in Figure 26, for example, instrument holder 588 may include a first locking pin arrangement 600 which is sized to be received in corresponding shackle slots 602 disposed in adapter 568. In addition, instrument holder 588 may additionally have second lock pins 604 that are sized to be retained in corresponding lock shackles 606, on adapter 568. See Figure 30. In at least one form, a latch assembly 608 is movably supported on adapter 568 and can be forced between a prime. a locked position, in which the lock pins 604 are retained within the respective lock shackles 606, and an unlocked position, in which the second lock pegs 600 can be in or out of the lock shackles 606. One or more springs (not shown) are employed to force the lock assembly into the locked position. A bead on the instrument side 572 of the adapter 568 can slidingly receive the laterally extending instrument mounting housing tabs 582.
[00164] As described, the driven elements 564 may be aligned with the driving elements 592 of the instrument holder 588 such that the rotary movement of the driving elements 592 causes the corresponding rotary movement of the driven elements 564. The rotation of the driving elements 592 and elements drives 564 can be electronically controlled, for example, by robotic arm 612, in response to instructions received from physician 502 by means of a controller 508. Instrument mounting portion 558 can convert rotation of driven elements 564 into motion of the surgical instrument, 522 and 523.
[00165] Figures 32 to 34 show an exemplary embodiment of the instrument mounting portion 558, showing components for converting motion of actuated elements 564 into motion of the surgical instrument, 522 and 523. Figures 32 to 34 show the instrument mounting portion with a rod 538 having a surgical end actuator 610 at a distal end thereof. The End Actuator 610 can be any type of end actuator suitable for performing a surgical task on a patient. For example, the tip actuator can be configured to apply radiofrequency and/or ultrasonic energy to tissue in a surgical site. Rod 538 may be rotationally coupled to instrument mounting portion 558, and secured by an upper rod bracket 646 and a lower rod bracket 648 to a coupler 650 of rod 538.
[00166] In an exemplary embodiment, the instrument mounting portion 558 comprises a mechanism for converting the rotation of the various driven elements 564 into rotation of the rod 538, differential translation of elements along the axis of the rod (e.g., for articulation) , and reciprocally translating one or more elements along the axis of the rod 538 (e.g., to extend and retract tissue cutting elements such as 555, overtubes and/or other components). In one exemplary embodiment, swivel bodies 612 (e.g., swivel spools) are coupled to drive elements 564. swivel bodies 612 may be formed integrally with drive elements 564. In some embodiments, swivel bodies 612 may be formed separately from the drive elements 564. driven elements 564, provided that the swivel bodies 612 and the driven elements 564 are fixedly coupled so that the drive of the driven elements 564 causes the swivel bodies 612 to rotate. Each of the swivel bodies 612 is coupled to a train of gears, or gear mechanism, to provide articulation and rotation of the rod, opening and closing of the gripper jaw and driving the scalpel.
[00167] In an exemplary embodiment, the instrument mounting portion 558 comprises a mechanism for causing the differential translation of two or more elements along the axis of the rod 538. In the example shown in Figures 32 to 34, this movement is used to manipulate the swivel joint 556. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the instrument mounting portion 558 comprises a rack and pinion mechanism to achieve differential translation and therefore swivel functionality of the rod. In an exemplary embodiment, the rack gear mechanism comprises a first pinion gear 614 coupled to a swivel body 612 such that rotation of the corresponding driven element 564 rotates the first pinion gear 614. A bearing 616 is coupled to the swivel body 612 and is disposed between the driven element 564 and the first pinion gear 614. The first pinion gear 614 meshes with a first rack gear 618 to convert the rotary motion of the first pinion gear 614 into linear motion of the first rack gear 618, so as to control the pivoting of the pivot section 556 of the rod assembly 538 in a leftward direction 620L. The first rack gear 618 is connected to a first swivel band 622 (Figure 32), so that linear movement of the first rack gear 618 in a distal direction causes the swivel section 556 of the rod assembly 538 to snap. swivel in left direction 620L. A second pinion gear 626 is coupled to another swivel body 612 so that rotation of the corresponding driven element 564 rotates the second pinion gear 626. A bearing 616 is coupled to the swivel body 612 and is disposed between the driven element 564 and second pinion gear 626. Second pinion gear 626 meshes with second rack gear 628 to convert rotary motion of second pinion gear 626 to linear motion of second rack gear 628 so as to control the hinge of the hinge section 556 in a right direction 620R. The second rack gear 628 is connected to a second swivel band 624 (Figure 33), so that linear movement of the second rack gear 628 in a distal direction causes the swivel section 556 of the rod assembly 538 to slide apart. articulate in the right direction 620R. Additional bearings can be arranged between the rotating bodies and the corresponding gears. Any suitable bearings can be used to support and stabilize the assembly, and to reduce rotating friction of the rod and gears, for example.
[00168] In an exemplary embodiment, the instrument mounting portion 558 further comprises a mechanism for converting the rotation of the driven elements 564 into rotational movement about the axis of the rod 538. For example, the rotational movement may be rotation of the shank itself 538. In the illustrated embodiment, a first spiral worm gear 630 is coupled to a swivel body 612, and the second spiral worm gear 632 is coupled to the shank assembly 538. A bearing 616 (Figure 17) is coupled to a swivel body 612 and is disposed between a driven element 564 and the first spiral worm gear 630. The first spiral worm gear 630 meshes with the second spiral worm gear. spiral worm thread 632, which may be coupled to shank assembly 538 and/or another instrument component, 522 and 523, for which longitudinal rotation is desired. Rotation can be caused in a clockwise (CW) or counterclockwise (CCW) direction, based on the rotational direction of the first and second spiral worm gears, 630 and 632. rotation of the first spiral worm gear 630 about the first axis is converted to rotation of the second spiral worm gear 632 about the second axis, which is orthogonal to the first axis. As shown in Figures 32 through 33, for example, a clockwise rotation of the second spiral worm gear 632 results in a clockwise rotation of the shank assembly 538 in the direction indicated by 634CW. A counterclockwise rotation of the second spiral worm gear 632 results in a counterclockwise rotation of the rod assembly 538 in the direction indicated by 634CCW. Additional bearings can be arranged between the rotating bodies and the corresponding gears. Any suitable bearings can be used to support and stabilize the assembly, and to reduce rotating friction of the rod and gears, for example.
[00169] In an exemplary embodiment, the instrument mounting portion 558 comprises a mechanism for generating reciprocal translation of one or more elements along the geometric axis of the rod 538. This type of translation can be used, for example, to drive a fabric cutting element, such as 555, drive an overtube for closing and/or articulating end actuator 610, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, a rack gear mechanism can provide reciprocal translation. A first gear 636 is coupled to a swivel body 612 so that rotation of the corresponding driven element 564 causes the first gear 636 to rotate in a first direction. A second gear 638 is free to rotate about a column 640 formed in the instrument mounting plate 562. The first gear 636 meshes with the second gear 638 such that the second gear 638 rotates in a direction that is opposite to the of the first gear 636. In an exemplary embodiment, the second gear 638 is a pinion gear meshed with a rack gear 642 which moves in a linear direction. The rack gear 642 is coupled to a translation block 644 which can translate distally and proximally with the rack gear 642. The translation block 644 may be coupled to any suitable component of the rod assembly 538 and/or of the end actuator 610 to provide reciprocal longitudinal movement. For example, the translation block 644 may be mechanically coupled to the tissue cutting member 555 of the radio frequency surgical device 523. In some embodiments, the translation block 644 may be coupled to an overtube, or other component of the end actuator. 610 or rod 538.
[00170] Figures 35 to 37 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the instrument mounting portion 558, showing an alternative exemplifying mechanism for converting the rotation of the driven elements 564 into rotary motion around the geometric axis of the rod 538 and an alternative exemplifying mechanism to generate reciprocal translation of one or more elements along the geometric axis of the rod 538. Now with reference to the reciprocating rotational mechanism, a first spiral worm gear 652 is coupled to a second spiral worm gear 654, which is coupled to a third 656 spiral worm gear. This type of arrangement can be used for a variety of reasons, including maintaining compatibility with existing 1000 robotic systems, and/or where space may be limited . First spiral worm gear 652 is coupled to a swivel body 612. Third spiral worm gear 656 meshes with fourth spiral worm gear 658 coupled to shank assembly 538 A bearing 760 is coupled to a swivel body 612 and is disposed between a driven element 564 and the first spiral worm gear 738. Another bearing 760 is coupled to a swivel body 612 and is disposed between a driven element 564 and third spiral worm gear 652. Third spiral worm gear 652 meshes with fourth spiral worm gear 658, which can be coupled to shank assembly 538 and /or to another component of the instrument, 522 and 523, for which longitudinal rotation is desired. The rotation can be caused in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, based on the rotational direction of the spiral worm gears, 656 and 658. Consequently, the rotation of the third spiral worm gear 656 about the first axis is converted to rotation of the fourth spiral worm gear 658 about the second axis, which is orthogonal to the first axis. As shown in Figures 36 and 37, for example, fourth spiral worm gear 658 is coupled to shank 538, and a clockwise rotation of fourth spiral worm gear 658 results in a clockwise rotation. clockwise direction of rod assembly 538 in the direction indicated by 634CW. A counterclockwise rotation of the 4th spiral worm gear 658 results in a counterclockwise rotation of the rod assembly 538 in the direction indicated by 634CCW. Additional bearings can be arranged between the rotating bodies and the corresponding gears. Any suitable bearings can be used to support and stabilize the assembly, and to reduce rotating friction of the rod and gears, for example.
[00171] Now with reference to the alternative exemplary mechanism for generating reciprocal translation of one or more elements along the axis of the rod 538, the instrument mounting portion 558 comprises a rack gear mechanism for providing reciprocal translation along the axis of rod 538 (e.g., translation of a tissue cutting member 555 of radio frequency surgical device 523). In an exemplary embodiment, a third pinion gear 660 is coupled to a swivel body 612 so that rotation of the corresponding driven element 564 causes the third pinion gear 660 to rotate in a first direction. The third pinion gear 660 meshes with a rack gear 662, which moves in a linear direction. The rack gear 662 is coupled to a translation block 664. The translation block 664 can be coupled to a device component, 522 and 523, for example the tissue cutting element 555 of the radiofrequency surgical device, and/or an overtube or other component that is desired to be longitudinally translated.
[00172] Figures 38 to 42 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the instrument mounting portion 558, showing another alternative exemplary mechanism for converting rotation of the driven elements 564 into rotary motion about the axis of the rod 538. at 42, rod 538 is coupled to the remainder of mounting portion 558 by means of a coupler 676 and a bush 678. A first gear 666 coupled to a swivel 612, a fixed column 668 comprising first and second apertures 672 , a first and second swivel pins 674 coupled to the rod assembly, and a cable 670 (or rope). The cable is wrapped around the swivel body 612. One end of the cable 670 is located through an upper opening 672 of the stationary column 668, and is fixedly coupled to an upper swivel pin 674. A further end of the cable 670 is located through a lower opening 672 of the fixed column 668, and is fixedly coupled to a lower swivel pin 674. This type of arrangement is used for a variety of reasons, including maintaining compatibility with existing 1000 robotic systems, and/or where space may be limited . Consequently, rotation of the swivel body 612 causes rotation about the rod assembly 538 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, based on the rotational direction of the swivel body 612 (e.g., rotation of the rod itself 538) . Consequently, rotation of the swivel body 612 about the first axis is converted to rotation of the rod assembly 538 about the second axis, which is orthogonal to the first axis. As shown in Figures 38 through 39, for example, a clockwise rotation of the swivel body 612 results in a clockwise rotation of the rod assembly 538 in the direction indicated by 634CW. A counterclockwise rotation of the swivel body 612 results in a counterclockwise rotation of the rod assembly 538 in the direction indicated by 634CCW. Additional bearings can be arranged between the rotating bodies and the corresponding gears. Any suitable bearings can be used to support and stabilize the assembly, and to reduce rotating friction of the rod and gears, for example.
[00173] Figures 43 to 46A illustrate an alternative embodiment of the instrument mounting portion 558, showing an alternative exemplary mechanism for differential translation of elements along the geometric axis of the rod 538 (e.g., for articulation). For example, as illustrated in Figures 43 to 46A, the instrument mounting portion 558 comprises a dual cam mechanism 680 to provide rod pivot functionality. In an exemplary embodiment, dual cam mechanism 680 comprises first and second cam portions, 680A and 680B. The first and second follower arms, 682 and 684, are pivotally coupled to corresponding 686 pivot spools. As the swivel body 612 coupled to the dual cam mechanism 680 rotates, the first cam portion 680A acts on the first follower arm 682, and the second cam portion 680B acts on the second follower arm 684. As the cam mechanism 680 rotates , the follower arms, 682 and 684, revolve around the pivoting spools 686. The first follower arm 682 can be attached to a first element which is to be differentially translated (e.g., the first hinge band 622). The second follower arm 684 is attached to a second element that is to be differentially translated (e.g., the second hinge band 624). As the upper cam portion 680A acts on the first follower arm 682, the first and second elements are differentially translated. In the exemplary embodiment in which the first and second elements are respective pivot bands 622 and 624, the rod assembly 538 pivots in a leftward direction 620L. As lower cam portion 680B acts on second follower arm 684, rod assembly 538 pivots in a rightward direction 620R. In some exemplary embodiments, two separate bushings, 688 and 690, are mounted under the respective first and second follower arms, 682 and 684, to allow rod rotation without affecting the pivotable positions of the first and second follower arms, 682 and 684 To achieve pivotal movement, these bushings reciprocate with the first and second follower arms, 682 and 684, without affecting the pivotal position of the jaw 902. Figure 46A shows bushings 688 and 690 and the dual cam assembly 680 , including the first and second cam portions, 680B and 680B, with the first and second follower arms, 682 and 684, removed to provide a more detailed and clear view.
[00174] In various embodiments, the instrument mounting portion 558 may additionally comprise internal power sources to drive the electronic components and provide the desired ultrasonic and/or radio frequency signals to the surgical tools. Figures 46B to 46C illustrate an embodiment of an instrument mounting portion 558' comprising internal sources of power and energy. For example, surgical instruments (eg instruments 522 and 523) assembled using instrument mounting portion 558' need not be wired to an external generator or other power source. Rather, the functionality of the various generators, 20 and 320, described herein can be implemented integrally with mounting portion 558.
[00175] As illustrated in Figures 46B to 46C, the instrument mounting portion 558' may comprise a distal portion 702. The distal portion 702 may comprise various mechanisms for coupling the rotation of the driving elements 612 to the end actuators of the various instruments surgical procedures, 522 and 523, for example, as previously described in this document. Proximal to the distal portion 702, the instrument mounting portion 558' comprises an internal direct current (DC) power source, and an internal drive and control circuit 704. In the illustrated embodiment, the power source comprises first and second batteries, 706 and 708. In other aspects, instrument mounting portion 558' is similar to the various embodiments of instrument mounting portion 558 previously described herein.
[00176] The control circuit 704 may function in a manner similar to that described above with respect to generators 20 and 320. For example, when an ultrasonic instrument 522 is used, the control circuit 704 may provide an ultrasonic drive signal in a similar manner to that described above in relation to generator 20. In addition, for example, when a radio frequency instrument 523 or an ultrasonic instrument 522 capable of providing a therapeutic or non-therapeutic RF signal is used, the control circuit 704 may provide a RF trigger signal, for example, as previously described in this document with respect to module 23 of generator 20 and/or generator 300. In some embodiments, control circuit 704 may be configured similarly to that of control circuit 440 previously described in this document with reference to Figures 18B to 18C.
[00177] Figure 47 is a diagram of an embodiment of a surgical instrument 1500 adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Surgical instrument 1500 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1501 configured for mounting to, and adapted for use with, various modalities of surgical instruments adapted for use with robotic surgical systems, presented in this specification. For example, surgical instrument 1500 can be used in the ultrasonic surgical instrument in Figure 24, or it can be used in the electrosurgical instrument depicted in Figure 25. The surgical instrument 1500 can also be used in combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical instruments. The instrument mounting portion 1501 comprises a fluid management system 1502 for dispensing a fluid into a treatment region. Instrument mounting portion 1501 also comprises an interface 1504 for forming a mechanical and/or electrical interface with a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. For example, surgical instrument 1500 may be coupled to one of the surgical manipulators, 528 and 528', previously described herein in connection with Figures 19 to 23. Interface 1504 also forms a mechanical interface with a coupled drive assembly 1506 to an end actuator 1510 to manipulate the end actuator 1510 through a stem assembly 1508, as previously described in this document in connection with Figures 24 through 46. Any of the drive assemblies previously described in this document can be adapted to be used as drive assembly 1506. In one embodiment, fluid management system 1502 applies fluid in response to commands from a processing unit (eg, microprocessor, CPU) of a control system.
[00178] The drive assembly 1506 controls various operations associated with the end actuator 1510. For example, the end actuator 1510 may comprise a collet arm and a cutting element. Drive assembly 1506 can be configured to open and close the gripper arm, pivot and rotate rod assembly 1508, and pivot and rotate end actuator 1510, either together or independently. A variety of stem and end actuator configurations have been described in this document, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity and clarity of description. In one embodiment, the end actuator may comprise at least one electrode coupled to an electrosurgical energy source. This modality can also comprise a cutting element, such as a scalpel, to dissect tissues after cauterizing them by applying therapeutic RF energy to the tissues. In another embodiment, the end actuator may comprise at least one ultrasonic surgical blade to substantially simultaneously provide tissue transection and coagulation homeostasis. In other embodiments, the end actuator may comprise a clamp arm that works in conjunction with the ultrasonic blade to assist in the transection and homeostasis process by capturing target tissue between the blade and the clamp arm. In other embodiments, the collet arm may include a collet block for engaging tissue between the blade and the collet arm. The collet block can be made from any suitable material and, in one embodiment, is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known under the trade name TEFLON. In other embodiments, the end actuator may comprise at least one electrode and at least one ultrasonic blade.
[00179] In other embodiments of the surgical instrument 1500, which comprise at least one electrode, the at least one electrode may be coupled to a source of electrosurgical energy. In addition, the latter modality may also comprise a clamp arm and a clamp block for clamping tissue and/or applying pressure before cauterizing and dissecting the tissue. In one embodiment, the electrosurgical generator may be located externally to the surgical instrument 1500, as shown and described in connection with Figures 11 to 16, for example, while in other embodiments the electrosurgical generator may be located inside the surgical instrument 1500, as shown and described in connection with Figures 17 and 18A to 18C, for example.
[00180] In certain embodiments of surgical instrument 1500 that comprise at least one ultrasonic blade, an ultrasonic generator module can be electrically coupled to piezoelectric elements of the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic generator may be located externally to the instrument mounting portion 1501, and may be electrically coupled to the piezoelectric elements by means of electrically conductive elements such as a cable, cord or wires, as shown and described in connection with Figures 1 to 10, for example. In other embodiments, the ultrasonic generator may be situated within instrument mounting portion 1501, and may be powered by a battery and a suitable circuit to generate suitable voltage and current drive signals to drive the piezoelectric elements, as shown and described in connection with Figures 46B and 46C, for example.
[00181] In various embodiments, the fluid management system 1502 comprises a fluid reservoir or a container incorporated into the instrument mounting portion 1501. The container contains a fluid agent to be dispensed into the treatment region. The fluid agent can be a liquid or a gas, and can comprise an antiseptic solution, a collagen solution, saline solution, carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (N2O) and therapeutic agents, for example. In other embodiments, the container may include multiple containers comprising fluid agents that may be mixed in a separate chamber, in a separate container, or as fluid agents are dispensed into the treatment region.
[00182] In one embodiment, the fluid management system 1502 may comprise a pump for dispensing fluid from the container into a fluid channel 1512, in the stem assembly 1508. The fluid channel 1512 is fluidly coupled to the fluid management system 1502. Fluid channel 1512 is fluidly coupled to another fluid channel 1514 in end actuator 1510. In one embodiment, fluid is pumped from the container to fluid channel 1512 in stem assembly 1508 and eventually to fluid channel 1514 in end actuator 1510, finally being dispensed into the treatment region from end actuator 1510. Eventually, fluid is dispensed by gravity (e.g. drops) into the treatment region. In various embodiments, fluid channels 1512 and 1514, and others described later in this document, can consist of a tube assembly, a cannula, a conduit, duct, tube, pipette, hose, or lumen that is either disposed separately or integrally formed within the stem assembly 1508 and/or the end actuator 1510. In one embodiment, a peristaltic pump may be operatively coupled to the drive assembly 1506 of the instrument mounting portion 1501 through the use of a ratchet mechanism . In another embodiment, a source of pressurized gas in a cartridge may be incorporated into instrument mounting portion 1501 as part of fluid management system 1502 proximal to the fluid container. The pressurized gas cartridge may contain pressurized gas such as CO2 or N2O, for example, among other gases that are not irritating to the patient. The outlet ports of the pressurized gas container and cartridge are fluidly coupled to a mixing element, where the pressurized gas cartridge uses gas pressure to propel fluid from the container, and a pressure control element is used to control fluid pressure. In this embodiment, fluid can be sprayed through a mouthpiece located at the distal end of the end actuator 1510. One or more fluids containing therapeutic agents can be mixed in this manner within the instrument mounting portion 1501 before being dispensed.
[00183] Each of the surgical instrument modalities, 1520, 1540, 1560 and 1580, described in connection with the respective Figures 48 to 51, are adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Each of the 1520, 1540, 1560, and 1580 surgical instruments is adapted for use with various modalities of the robotic surgical systems presented in this specification. In one embodiment, for example, each of the surgical instruments 1520, 1540, 1560, 1580 can be used in the ultrasonic surgical instrument described in connection with Figures 24, 26 and 27, or it can be used in the electrosurgical instrument described in connection with the Figures 25 and 28. Each of the 1520, 1540, 1560, and 1580 surgical instruments can also be used in combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical instruments. These instruments are described more particularly later in this document.
[00184] Figure 48 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument 1520 adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Surgical instrument 1520 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1522, a drive assembly 1506, and a fluid management system 1521. The interface (e.g., interface 1504 of Figure 47) is situated below the instrument mounting portion 1522. and is not shown in Figure 48. However, these interfaces have been described herein in connection with Figures 26 through 31, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity and clarity of description. Fluid management system 1521 comprises a fluid container 1524 fluidly coupled to a fluid channel 1512 located in stem assembly 1508 by means of a flexible fluid channel 1526, such as a flexible tube, extending from a port of outlet from container 1524 to a fluidic channel inlet port 1512. As previously discussed, fluidic channel 1512 is fluidly coupled to a fluidic channel located on the end actuator to dispense a fluid into the treatment region. Various embodiments of the end actuator used with the instrument mounting portion 1520 may comprise at least one electrosurgical electrode element, an ultrasonic blade, or a combination of electrosurgical electrode elements and an ultrasonic blade, for example. Furthermore, the end actuator may comprise a collet arm and a collet block, for example.
[00185] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 48, the fluid management system 1521 also comprises a peristaltic pump 1528. The peristaltic pump 1528, or roller pump, is a type of positive displacement pump used for pumping a variety of fluids, comprising two rotors, although in other embodiments a linear peristaltic pump may be used without limitations. In one embodiment, a first roller 1530 and a rigid surface compress therebetween the flexible fluid channel 1526 at at least one point during a rotation of the first roller 1530. In one embodiment, a first roller 1530 and a second roller 1532 are disposed so as to compress the flexible fluid channel 1526 therebetween, at at least one point during a rotation of the first and second rollers, 1530 and 1532. The rollers 1430 and 1532 rotate such that the first roller 1530 rotates in the indicated direction by arrow A, the second roller 1532 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow B to pump fluid 1534 in the direction indicated by arrow C. In other embodiments, a single roller or more than two rollers may be used. Rollers 1530 and 1532 can be operatively coupled to one or more rotating spools, as the rotating bodies 576 (Figures 29 to 31) or 612 (Figures 32 to 46) are coupled to the driven elements located within the portion of instrument assembly 1522. Fluid 1534 is contained within flexible fluid channel 1526, installed within housing 1522. At least one or both rollers, 1530 and 1532, can rotate in an eccentric pattern to compress flexible fluid channel 1526 at one or more points on their eccentric paths, much like a cam used to transform circular motion into linear motion. The rotor comprises one or more of "shoes" or "deflectors" of rollers 1530 and 1532, which compress flexible fluid channel 1526 to pump fluid 1534. As rotor rollers 1530 and 1532 rotate, the fluid channel portion hose 1526 between rollers 1530 and 1532 under compression is tightened until it closes (or "occludes"), thus forcing fluid 1534 to be pumped to move through tube 1562 in the direction indicated by arrow C. Additionally, as per fluid channel flexible 1526 opens to its natural state after passing the cam ("restitution" or "resilience"), fluid flow 1534 is induced to pump 1528. This process is called peristalsis, and is used in many biological systems, like the gastrointestinal tract. The modalities are not limited in this context. As discussed above, fluid channel 1512 is fluidly coupled to a fluid channel located on the end actuator to dispense a fluid into the treatment region.
[00186] In the modality in which the 1520 surgical instrument comprises an ultrasonic blade on the end actuator, an ultrasonic transducer 1536 can be mounted on or within the instrument mounting portion to drive an ultrasonic waveguide and thus , activate an ultrasonic blade coupled to the waveguide. In this way, the ultrasonic blade in the end actuator is acoustically coupled to transducer 1536 via the waveguide extending through rod assembly 1508. Transducer 1536 is operationally equivalent to transducer 16 and 216, shown and described in connection with Figures 1, 8 and 10, for example, and is adapted to be coupled to instrument mounting portion 1522. Although not shown, ultrasonic transducer 1536 is electrically coupled to an ultrasonic generator module similar to ultrasonic generator 20, by means of a cable as shown and described in connection with Figures 1, 8 and 10, for example.
[00187] Figure 49 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument 1540 adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Surgical instrument 1540 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1542, a drive assembly 1506, and a fluid management system 1541. The interface (e.g., interface 1504 of Figure 47) is situated below the instrument mounting portion 1542. and is not shown in Figure 49. However, these interfaces have been described herein in connection with Figures 26 through 31, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity and clarity of description. Fluid management system 1541 comprises first and second fluid containers, 1544 and 1545, fluidly coupled to a fluidic channel 1512 located in stem assembly 1508, by means of a flexible fluidic channel 1546, such as a flexible tube, if extending from an output port of a three-port connector 1558. Fluid channels 1556 and 1557 fluidly couple the respective output ports of the first and second containers, 1544 and 1545, to the first and second input ports of the connector. three ports 1558. The fluid contents of each of the first and second containers, 1544 and 1545, can be mixed as they are dispensed. As discussed above, fluid channel 1512 is fluidly coupled to a fluid channel located on the end actuator to dispense a fluid into the treatment region. Various embodiments of the end actuator used with instrument mounting portion 1540 may comprise at least one electrosurgical electrode element, an ultrasonic blade, or a combination of electrosurgical electrode elements and an ultrasonic blade, for example. Furthermore, the end actuator may comprise a collet arm and a collet block, for example.
[00188] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 49, the fluid management system 1541 also comprises a 1548 peristaltic pump. The 1548 peristaltic pump is similar to the 1528 peristaltic pump shown in Figure 48. The 1548 peristaltic pump is a roller pump of the positive displacement type pump used for pumping a variety of fluids, comprising two rotors, although in other embodiments a linear peristaltic pump may be used without limitations. In one embodiment, the rotors comprise a first roller 1550 and a second roller 1552, where if the first roller 1550 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A, the second roller 1552 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow B, to pump fluid 1554 in the direction indicated by arrow C. In other embodiments, you can use a single roller or more than two rollers. Rollers 1550 and 1552 can be operatively coupled to one or more rotating spools, as rotating bodies 576 (Figures 29 to 31) or 612 (Figures 32 to 46) are coupled to driven elements located within the portion of instrument assembly 1542. Fluid 1554 is contained within flexible fluid channel 1546, installed within housing 1542. At least one or both rollers, 1550 and 1552, rotate in an eccentric pattern and compress flexible tubing, 1556 and 1557, at one or more points on their eccentric paths, very similar to a cam used to transform circular motion into linear motion. The rotor comprises one or more of "shoes" or "deflectors" of rollers 1550 and 1552, which compress flexible tubes 1556 and 1557 to pump fluid 1554. As the rotor rollers 1550 and 1552 rotate, the tube portions Flexible fluids 1556 and 1557 between rollers 1550 and 1552 under compression are squeezed to close (or "occlude"), thus forcing fluid 1554 to be pumped to move through flexible fluid channel 1546 in the direction indicated by arrow C. Additionally, as tube 1556 opens to its natural state after passing the cam ("restitution" or "resilience"), fluid flow 1556 is induced to pump 1548. This process is called peristalsis, and is used in many systems biological, such as the gastrointestinal tract. The modalities are not limited in this context.
[00189] Figure 50 illustrates an embodiment of a 1560 surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Surgical instrument 1560 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1562, a drive assembly 1506, and a fluid management system 1561. The interface (e.g., interface 1504 of Figure 47) is situated below the instrument mounting portion 1562. and is not shown in Figure 50. However, these interfaces have been described herein in connection with Figures 26 through 31, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity and clarity of description. Fluid management system 1561 comprises a fluid container 1564 and a source 1565 of pressurized gas, such as pressurized CO2 or N2O, in a container, for example, but is not limited thereto. Fluid container 1564 and pressure source 1565 are fluidly coupled to a fluid channel 1512 located in stem assembly 1508 by means of a flexible fluid channel 1566, such as a flexible tubing, extending from an outlet port. a three-port connector 1568. Fluid channels 1576 and 1577 fluidly couple the respective outlet ports of the first container 1564 and pressure source 1565 to the inlet ports of the three-port connector 1568. The fluid content of the first container 1564 is dispensed by pressure source 1565. A pressure controller 1568 regulates pressure in flexible fluid channel 1566 to control the amount of fluid that is dispensed from container 1564. As previously discussed, fluid channel 1512 is fluidly coupled to a channel fluid located in the end actuator to dispense a fluid into the treatment region. Various embodiments of the end actuator used with the instrument mounting portion 1560 may comprise at least one electrosurgical electrode element, an ultrasonic blade, or a combination of electrosurgical electrode elements and an ultrasonic blade, for example. Furthermore, the end actuator may comprise a collet arm and a collet block, for example.
[00190] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 50, the fluid management system 1561 also comprises a pressure controller 1568 to control the pressure in the flexible fluid channel 1566 and thus regulate the flow of fluid 1574 therein. Pressure controller 1568 comprises a roller 1572 that rotates eccentrically to press the flexible fluid channel 1566 against a wall of a fixed rigid element 1570. Thus, as roller 1572 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow B more than one revolution, the roller 1572 does not apply any constriction at one point, and applies full constriction at another point in the rotation, and a variable amount of constriction between them, to control the amount of pressure in the flexible fluid channel 1566. As the pressure in the fluid channel varies. , varies the amount of pressure applied by pressure source 1565 and thus varies the amount of fluid flow 1574 in the direction indicated by arrow C. As previously discussed, pressure source 1565 may be a pressurized tube of CO2 or N2O, but it can be any suitable pressure source. The modalities are not limited in this context.
[00191] Fluid management system 1502 can be any of fluid management systems 1521, 1541 and 1561 described in connection with respective Figures 48 to 50. A fluid agent is coupled to fluid channel 1512 in the rod assembly 1592, and to a fluid channel 1514 in end actuator 1594. In various embodiments, the fluid agent can be a liquid or a gas, and can comprise an antiseptic solution, a collagen solution, saline, CO2, N2O, and any suitable therapeutic agents, for example.
[00192] Figure 51 is a diagram of a modality of a 1580 electrosurgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Electrosurgical instrument 1580 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1581, a fluid management system 1502, and a drive assembly 1506, and is adapted for use with various modalities of surgical instruments adapted for use with robotic surgical systems presented in this report descriptive. For example, the 1580 electrosurgical instrument can be used with robotically controlled electrosurgical devices, as depicted in Figures 25 and 28, where one embodiment of an 1580 electrosurgical instrument comprises a 1594 surgical end actuator comprising lockable jaws with energy application surfaces ( eg electrode elements) to hold and apply electrical energy to tissue captured between the jaws. A tissue cutting element, or scalpel, can be positioned at the distal end of an axially movable element, which can extend through the stem assembly 1592 to the instrument mounting portion 1581. In one embodiment, the end actuator 1594 comprises at least one electrode element and, in some embodiments, may comprise two or more electrode elements. Furthermore, the end actuator 1594 may comprise a collet arm with a collet block, for example.
[00193] The 1580 electrosurgical instrument comprises an electrical circuit 1582 coupled to the robotic system through the 1504 interface. The 1582 electrical circuit is also coupled to a 1584 electrosurgical generator. The 1584 generator is coupled to one or more electrode elements in the actuator end caps 1594, by means of one or more electrically conductive elements 1586, to apply therapeutic electrosurgical energy to the electrode elements. In one embodiment, the 1584 electrosurgical generator is an RF energy source suitable for the application of therapeutic radio frequency to the 1594 end actuator. In addition to the electrode elements, the 1594 end actuator may comprise a tweezer arm to capture tissue between the electrode elements and the clamp arm, and cauterize the tissue with RF energy. In various embodiments, the RF generator 1584 can be configured to provide therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic levels of RF energy. Therapeutic levels of RF energy can be used to cauterize tissue, while subtherapeutic levels of RF energy can be used for the purpose of providing feedback to the electrical circuit, via a 1590 conductive element or, in some embodiments, without the use of wires, to adjust the power output level of the 1584 generator according to the feedback. Consequently, one or more sensors 1588 can be disposed on end actuator 1594 to provide feedback to electrical circuit 1582. One type of feedback is tissue impedance. Accordingly, the one or more sensors 1588 can be configured to measure tissue impedance and provide feedback to electrical circuit 1582 to adjust the power output level of generator 1584 in accordance with tissue impedance. The electrical circuit 1582 may comprise voltage and current metering circuits to determine the impedance presented between the electrodes. In one embodiment, generator 1584 is functionally equivalent to RF drive and control circuit 440 and controller circuit 482, described herein in connection with Figures 11, 18B, and 18C, for example. In addition, an energy source, such as a battery, for example, may be located within the 1580 electrosurgical instrument. In another embodiment, the energy source may be an external power source or an external battery, for example.
[00194] The fluid management system 1502 can be any of the fluid management systems 1521, 1541 and 1561 described in connection with the respective Figures 48 to 50. A fluid agent is coupled to a fluid channel 1512 in the assembly of rod 1592, and to a fluid channel 1514 in end actuator 1594. In various embodiments, the fluid agent can be a liquid or a gas, and can comprise an antiseptic solution, a collagen solution, saline, CO2, N2O, and any suitable therapeutic agents, for example.
[00195] Figure 52 is a diagram of a modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument 1600 adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Ultrasonic surgical instrument 1600 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1601, a fluid management system 1502, and a drive assembly 1506, and is adapted for use with various modalities of surgical instruments adapted for use with robotic surgical systems disclosed herein. descriptive report. For example, the ultrasonic surgical instrument 1600 can be used with robotically controlled ultrasonic surgical instruments as depicted in Figures 24 and 27, where one modality of an ultrasonic surgical instrument 1600 comprises a surgical end actuator 1612 comprising an ultrasonic blade and a collet arm, which may be coupled to rod assembly 1610 which, in some embodiments, may comprise a swivel joint. In one embodiment, the end actuator 1612 may comprise a collet arm with a collet block, for example.
[00196] The ultrasonic surgical instrument 1600 comprises an electrical circuit 1606 coupled to the robotic system through the 1504 interface. The electrical circuit 1606 is also coupled to a 1604 ultrasonic generator. The 1604 generator is electrically coupled to a 1602 ultrasonic transducer, which is acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic blade of the end actuator 1612 through the stem assembly 1610. In one embodiment, the end actuator 1612 comprises a clamp arm for gripping tissue between the ultrasonic blade and the clamp arm, and cauterizing the tissue through the use of ultrasonic energy. In various embodiments, the ultrasonic generator 1604 can be configured to provide therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic levels of ultrasonic energy. Therapeutic levels of ultrasonic energy can be used to cauterize tissue, while subtherapeutic levels of ultrasonic energy can be used for the purpose of providing feedback to electrical circuit 1606, via a conductive element 1616 or, in some modalities, without use. of wires, to adjust the power output level of the 1604 generator according to the feedback. Accordingly, one or more sensors 1614 may be disposed on end actuator 1612 to provide feedback to electrical circuit 1606. As discussed above, one type of feedback is tissue impedance. Accordingly, the one or more sensors 1614 can be configured to measure tissue impedance and provide feedback to electrical circuit 1606 to adjust the power output level of generator 1604 in accordance with tissue impedance. The electrical circuit 1606 may comprise voltage and current metering circuits to determine the impedance presented between the electrodes. In one embodiment, generator 1604 is functionally equivalent to the ultrasonic generator described herein in connection with Figures 1, 8, and 10, for example. In addition, a power source, such as a battery, for example, may be located within instrument mounting portion 1601. In another embodiment, the power source may be an external power source or an external battery, for example. .
[00197] The fluid management system 1502 can be any of the fluid management systems 1521, 1541 and 1561 described in connection with the respective Figures 48 to 50. A fluid agent is coupled to a fluid channel 1512 in the assembly of rod 1608, and to a fluid channel 1514 in end actuator 1612. In various embodiments, the fluid agent can be a liquid or a gas, and can comprise an antiseptic solution, a collagen solution, saline, CO2, N2O, and any suitable therapeutic agents, for example.
[00198] Figure 53 is a diagram of one modality of a 1620 combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. Surgical instrument 1620 comprises an instrument mounting portion 1621, a fluid management system 1502, and a drive assembly 1506, and is adapted for use with various modalities of surgical instruments adapted for use with various modalities of surgical instruments adapted for use. use with robotic surgical systems presented in this descriptive report. For example, the 1620 surgical instrument can be used with robotically controlled combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical devices. Accordingly, surgical instrument 1620 also comprises an end actuator 1632, where end actuator 1632 comprises at least one electrode element and at least one ultrasonic blade. In some embodiments, end actuator 1632 comprises two or more electrode elements. Furthermore, the end actuator 1632 may comprise a collet arm and a collet block, for example. The surgical instrument 1620 comprises an electrical circuit 1626 coupled to the robotic system through the 1504 interface. The electrical circuit 1626 is also coupled to an electrosurgical generator 1584 and an ultrasonic transducer 1602, the operation of which was previously described in connection with Figures 51 and 52.
[00199] In one embodiment, the combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical surgical instrument 1620 includes a robotically controlled electrosurgical portion, as described in connection with Figures 25 and 28. The electrosurgical portion comprises an electrosurgical generator 1584 that is coupled to one or more elements of electrode in end actuator 1632, by means of one or more electrically conductive elements 1626, to apply therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic electrosurgical energy to the electrode elements. In one embodiment, the 1584 electrosurgical generator is a suitable RF energy source for the application of therapeutic radio frequency to the tip actuator. In addition to the electrode elements, the end actuator 1632 may comprise a clamp arm to capture tissue between the electrode elements and the clamp arm, and cauterize the tissue with RF energy. In various embodiments, the RF generator 1584 can be configured to provide therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic levels of RF energy. Therapeutic levels of RF energy can be used to cauterize tissue, while sub-therapeutic levels of RF energy can be applied for the purpose of providing feedback to the electrical circuit, via a 16300 conductive element or, in some modalities, without the use of wires, to adjust the power output level of the 1584 generator according to the feedback. Accordingly, one or more sensors 1634 may be disposed on end actuator 1634 to provide feedback to electrical circuit 1626. One type of feedback is tissue impedance. Accordingly, the one or more sensors 1634 can be configured to measure tissue impedance and provide feedback to electrical circuit 1626 to adjust the power output level of generator 1584 in accordance with tissue impedance. Electrical circuit 1626 may comprise voltage and current metering circuits to determine impedance presented between the electrodes. In one embodiment, generator 1584 is functionally equivalent to RF drive and control circuit 440 and controller circuit 482, described herein in connection with Figures 11, 18B, and 18C, for example. In addition, a power source, such as a battery, for example, may be located within instrument mounting portion 1621. In another embodiment, the power source may be an external power source or an external battery, for example. .
[00200] In one embodiment, the combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical surgical instrument 1620 includes a robotically controlled ultrasonic portion as described in Figures 24 and 27. In one embodiment, the ultrasonic portion comprises a surgical end actuator 1632, which comprises an ultrasonic blade and a collet arm which may be coupled to the rod assembly 1628 which, in some embodiments, may comprise a swivel joint. In one embodiment, end actuator 1632 may comprise a collet arm with a collet block, for example. Electrical circuit 1626 is also coupled to an ultrasonic generator 1604. Ultrasonic generator 1604 is electrically coupled to an ultrasonic transducer 1602, which is acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic blade of end actuator 1612 through rod assembly 1628. In one mode , the end actuator 1632 comprises a clamp arm for gripping tissue between the ultrasonic blade and the clamp arm, and cauterize the tissue using ultrasonic energy. In various embodiments, the ultrasonic generator 1604 can be configured to provide therapeutic and/or sub-therapeutic levels of ultrasonic energy. Therapeutic levels of ultrasonic energy can be used to cauterize tissue, while subtherapeutic levels of ultrasonic energy can be used for the purpose of providing feedback to electrical circuit 1626, via a conductive element 1636 or, in some modalities, without use. of wires, to adjust the power output level of the 1604 generator according to the feedback. Accordingly, one or more sensors 1634 may be disposed on end actuator 1632 to provide feedback to electrical circuit 1626. As discussed above, one type of feedback is tissue impedance. Accordingly, the one or more sensors 1614 can be configured to measure tissue impedance and provide feedback to electrical circuit 1626 to adjust the power output level of generator 1604 in accordance with tissue impedance. Electrical circuit 1626 may comprise voltage and current metering circuits to determine impedance presented between the electrodes. In one embodiment, generator 1604 is functionally equivalent to the ultrasonic generator described herein in connection with Figures 1, 8, and 10, for example. In addition, a power source, such as a battery, for example, may be located within the combined ultrasonic/electrosurgical instrument 1620. In another embodiment, the power source may be an external power source or an external battery, for example. .
[00201] In various embodiments, the electrosurgical generator 1584 feeds the at least one electrode element in the end actuator 1632, simultaneously with the ultrasonic generator 1604 feeding the ultrasonic blade 1632, to achieve cauterization and tissue transection.
[00202] Fluid management system 1502 can be any of fluid management systems 1521, 1541 and 1561 described in connection with respective Figures 48 to 50. A fluid agent is coupled to fluid channel 1512 in the rod assembly 1628, and to a fluid channel 1514 in end actuator 1632. In various embodiments, the fluid agent can be a liquid or a gas, and can comprise an antiseptic solution, a collagen solution, saline, CO2, N2O, and any suitable therapeutic agents, for example.
[00203] Figure 54 illustrates an embodiment of a surgical instrument 1700 adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. The surgical instrument 1700 comprises an instrument mounting portion (not shown), a fluid management system 1702, and a drive assembly (not shown), and is adapted for use with various modalities of surgical instruments adapted for use with systems. robotic surgical procedures presented in this descriptive report. Although not shown, the instrument mounting portion may comprise an interface to form a mechanical and/or electrical interface with a surgical instrument adapted for use with a robotic surgical system. For example, the surgical instrument 1700 may be coupled to one of the surgical manipulators, 528 and 528', previously described in this document in connection with Figures 19 to 23, and the drive assembly may be similar to those previously described in this document in connection with Figures 24 to 46. In one embodiment, fluid management system 1702 may be located within an instrument mounting portion, or may be disposed externally to the instrument mounting portion of surgical instrument 1700, as illustrated. in Figure 54. The surgical instrument 1700 comprises a rod 1720 coupled to an end actuator 1722. As previously discussed, the end actuator 172 may comprise one or more electrode elements electrically coupled to an electrosurgical generator and a cutting element, a ultrasonic blade acoustically coupled to an ultrasonic waveguide and a transducer, which is electrically coupled. o to an ultrasonic generator, or a combination of one or more electrodes and an ultrasonic blade. The end actuator 1722 may also comprise a clamp arm for clamping tissue, a clamp block, and so on.
[00204] In one embodiment, the fluid management system 1702 comprises a dispensing system 1704 that is controlled by a motor 1706, controlled by a processing unit 1708, for example similar to a motorized syringe, for example, as shown in U.S. Patent Application No. 2012/0088206, to Tanaka et al, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference. Dispensing system 1704 comprises a cylindrical housing 1710 for containing a fluid 1724 to be dispensed by a motor driven mechanism 1714 which advances a piston 1712 longitudinally from a rear position to a forward position in the direction indicated by arrow A , to push fluid 1724 into cylindrical housing 1710 through a fluid channel 1716, which is ultimately dispensed through a port near or at the distal end of end actuator 1722. Motor drive mechanism 1714 may comprise any coupling or gear reduction that may be necessary to control the dispensing of fluid 1724.
[00205] In one application, fluid 1724 may comprise an adhesive that may be dispensed at the distal end of end actuator 1722 to assist or optimize tissue cauterization. In one aspect, the adhesive fluid may be a collagen-based adhesive, although any suitable adhesive and/or fluid may be dispensed with, without limitation to the specific modality shown in Figure 54.
[00206] A processing unit situated on the instrument mounting portion or on the side of the robotic controller or carriage of the arm coupled to the interface, can be used to control the operation of the various fluid management systems described herein. The processing unit may be responsible for running various software programs, such as system programs, application programs and/or modules, to perform computing and processing operations on any of the surgical instruments described above, including controlling the functioning of the various systems of fluid management described here. A suitable processing unit may be responsible for performing various data communication tasks and operations, such as transmitting machine commands and data information over one or more wired or wireless communications channels. In various embodiments, the processing unit may include a single processor architecture, or may include any suitable processor architecture, and/or any suitable number of processors, in accordance with the described embodiments. In one embodiment, the processing unit can be implemented using a single integrated processor.
[00207] The processing unit can be implemented in the form of a host central processing unit (CPU) by using any suitable processor circuit or logic device (circuit) such as a computer processor. general purpose and/or a state machine. The processing unit can also be implemented in the form of an integrated circuit multiprocessor (CMP, for "multiprocessor chip"), a dedicated processor, integrated processor, media processor, input/output processor (I/O, in/out, co-processor, microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA, for field programmable gate) array"), programmable logic device (PLD), or other processing device according to the described modalities.
[00208] In one embodiment, the processing unit may be coupled to one or more memory and/or storage components, by means of a bus located either on the instrument mounting portion, or on the controller/car side of the arm. The memory bus may comprise any suitable interface and/or bus architecture to allow the processing unit to access the one or more memory and/or storage components. Although the one or more memory and/or storage components may be separate from the processing unit, it is worth noting that, in various embodiments, some or all of the one or more memory and/or storage components may be included on the same circuit. integrated in the form of the processing unit. Alternatively, some portion or all of the one or more memory and/or storage components may be disposed on an integrated circuit or other medium (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive) external to the processing unit's integrated circuit.
[00209] The one or more memory and/or storage components represent one or more computer readable media. The one or more memory and/or storage components may be implemented using any computer-readable media capable of storing data, such as volatile or non-volatile memory, removable or non-removable memory, erasable or non-erasable memory, writable memory or rewritable, and so on. The one or more memory and/or storage components may comprise volatile media (eg, random access memory (RAM)) and/or non-volatile media (eg, read-only memory (ROM) , "read only memory"), flash memory, optical disks, magnetic disks and the like). The one or more memory and/or storage components may comprise fixed media (eg RAM, ROM, a fixed hard disk drive, etc.) as well as removable media (eg a flash memory drive, a drive a removable hard disk, an optical disk, etc.). Examples of computer readable storage media may include, without limitation, RAM, Dynamic RAM (DRAM, for "Dynamic RAM"), Double Data Rate DRAM (DDRAM, for "Double-Data-Rate DRAM"), DRAM synchronous (SDRAM, "synchronous DRAM"), static RAM (SRAM, "static RAM"), read-only memory (ROM, "read-only memory"), programmable ROM (PROM, "programmable ROM") , erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory (eg NOR or NAND type flash memory), content addressable memory (CAM for "content addressable memory"), polymer memory (eg ferroelectric polymer memory), phase change memory, ovonic memory, ferroelectric memory, polycrystalline silicon/silicon dioxide/silicon nitride/dioxide memory of silicon/monocrystalline silicon (SONOS, from "silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon"), cardboards genetic or optical, or any other type of media suitable for storing information.
[00210] One or more I/O devices allow a user to send commands and information to the processing unit, and also allow the information to be presented to the user and/or to other components or devices. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, a cursor control device (for example, a mouse), a microphone, a digitizer, and the like. Examples of output devices include a display device (for example, a monitor or projector, speakers, a printer, a network card, etc.). The processing unit can be coupled to an alphanumeric keyboard. The keyboard can comprise, for example, a QWERTY key layout and an integrated numeric keypad. A display device can be attached to the processing unit. The display device can comprise any visual interface suitable for displaying content to a user. In one embodiment, for example, the display device can be implemented by means of a liquid crystal display (LCD) such as a color LCD screen (eg with 76-bit colors) of the thin-film transistor (TFT) type. The touch-sensitive LCD screen can be used with a pen and/or handwriting recognition program.
[00211] The processing unit can be arranged to provide processing or computing resources to robotically controlled surgical instruments. For example, the processing unit may be responsible for running various software programs, including system programs such as an operating system (OS) and application programs. System programs can generally aid the functioning of robotically controlled surgical instruments, and may be directly responsible for controlling, integrating and managing the individual hardware components of the computer system. The OS can be deployed, for example, as a Microsoft® Windows OS, Symbian OSTM, Embedix OS, Linux OS, BREW OS (Binary Run-time Environment for Wireless), JavaOS, Android OS, Apple OS or other suitable operating systems, according to the described modalities. The computing device may comprise other system programs, such as device drivers, programming tools, utility programs, software libraries, application programming interfaces (APIs), and so on.
[00212] Various modalities can be described here, in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as software, program modules and/or engines being executed by a computer. Generally speaking, software, program modules and/or engines include any piece of software arranged to perform specific operations or implement specific abstract data types. Software, program modules and/or engines may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures and the like, which perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. An implementation of the software components and techniques, program modules and/or engines may be stored on, and/or transmitted by, some form of computer-readable media. In this sense, computer readable media can be any available media or media that can be used to store information and that are accessible by a computing device. Some modalities can also be practiced in distributed computing environments, where operations are carried out by one or more remote processing devices, which are connected through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, software, program modules and/or engines can be located on both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.
[00213] Although some modalities can be illustrated and described as comprising functional components, software, engines and/or modules performing various operations, it can be understood that these components or modules can be implemented by one or more hardware components, software components and /or a combination of them. Functional components, software, engines and/or modules can be implemented, for example, by logic (eg instructions, data and/or code) to be executed by a logical device (eg processor). This logic can be stored internally or externally on a logical device, on one or more types of computer-readable storage media. In other embodiments, functional components such as software, motors and/or modules can be implemented by hardware elements that can include processors, microprocessors, circuits, circuit elements (eg transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, and so on ), integrated circuits, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), digital signal processors (DSPs) , field programmable gate array (FPGA), logic gates, registers, semiconductor device, integrated circuits, microchips, chipsets, and so on.
[00214] Examples of software, engines and/or modules may include software components, programs, applications, computer programs, application programs, system programs, machine programs, operating system software, middleware, firmware, software modules , routines, subroutines, functions, methods, procedures, software interfaces, application program interfaces (API), instruction sets, computer code, computer code, code segments, computer code segments, words, values, symbols or any combination thereof. The determination as to whether a modality is implemented through the use of hardware elements and/or software elements can vary according to any number of factors such as desired computational speed, power levels, heat tolerances, provision of the processing cycle , input data rates, output data rates, memory resources, data bus speeds, and other design or performance constraints.
[00215] In some cases, several modalities can be implemented in the form of an article of manufacture. The article of manufacture may include a computer readable storage medium arranged to store logic, instructions and/or data for performing various operations of one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, for example, the article of manufacture may comprise a magnetic disk, an optical disk, flash memory or firmware containing computer program instructions suitable for execution by a general purpose processor or application-specific processor. The modalities, however, are not limited in this context. Non-limiting examples
[00216] In one modality, a surgical instrument is presented. The surgical instrument comprises: an ultrasonic surgical system comprising an ultrasonic transducer, an ultrasonic waveguide acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer, and an end actuator comprising an ultrasonic blade acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic waveguide, an instrument mounting portion configured for mounting in a robotic surgical system, wherein the instrument mounting portion comprises an interface to form a mechanical and electrical interface with the surgical instrument adapted for use with the robotic surgical system, and a fluid management system contained within the interior of the instrument mounting portion, wherein the fluid management system comprises a first container for containing a first fluid agent to be dispensed.
[00217] In one modality, a surgical instrument is presented. The surgical instrument comprises: an electrosurgical end actuator comprising at least one electrode, an instrument mounting portion configured for mounting in a robotic surgical system, wherein the instrument mounting portion comprises an interface designed to form a mechanical interface and electrical with the surgical instrument adapted for use with the robotic surgical system, and a fluid management system contained within the instrument mounting portion, wherein the fluid management system comprises a first container for containing a first fluid agent. be dismissed.
[00218] The Applicant is also the owner of the following patent applications, each of which is incorporated herein, by way of reference, in its respective entirety:
[00219] US patent application serial no. 13/536,271, filed on June 28, 2012 and entitled "Flexible Drive Member" (attorney document no. END7131USNP/120135),
[00220] US patent application serial no. 13/536,288, filed June 28, 2012 and entitled "Multi-Functional Powered Surgical Device with External Dissection Features" (attorney document no. END7132USNP/120136),
[00221] US patent application serial no. 13/536,295, filed on June 28, 2012 and entitled "Rotary Actuatable Closure Arrangement for Surgical End Effector" (attorney document no. END7134USNP/120138),
[00222] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/536,326, filed June 28, 2012 and entitled "Surgical End Effectors Having Angled Tissue-Contacting Surfaces" (attorney document no. END7135USNP/12139),
[00223] US patent application serial no. 13/536,303, filed June 28, 2012 and entitled "Interchangeable End Effector Coupling Arrangement" (attorney document no. END7136USNP/12040),
[00224] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/536,393, filed June 28, 2012 and entitled "Surgical End Effector Jaw and Electrode Configurations" (attorney document no. END7137USNP/120141),
[00225] US patent application serial no. 13/536,362, filed on June 28, 2012 and entitled "Multi-Axis Articulating and Rotating Surgical Tools" (attorney document no. END7138USNP/120142), and
[00226] US Patent Application Serial No. 13/536,417, filed June 28, 2012 and entitled "Electrode Connections for Rotary Driven Surgical Tools" (attorney document no. END7149USNP/120153).
[00227] It should be understood that the terms "proximal" and "distal" are used throughout the specification with reference to a clinician manipulating an end of an instrument used to treat a patient. The term "proximal" refers to the portion of the instrument closest to the physician and the term "distal" refers to the portion located farthest from the physician. It should further be understood that for the sake of brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "upward" or "downward" may be used in the present invention in relation to the illustrated embodiments. However, surgical instruments can be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting or absolute.
[00228] Various modalities of surgical instruments and robotic surgical systems are described in this document. Those skilled in the art will understand that the various modalities described herein can be used with the surgical instruments and robotic surgical systems described. Descriptions are provided for illustrative purposes only, and those skilled in the art will understand that the modalities presented are not limited to the devices described herein but may be used with any compatible surgical instrument or robotic surgical system.
[00229] References made throughout the specification to "various modalities", "some modalities", "an exemplary modality" or "a modality" mean that a particular element, structure or characteristic described in connection with the modality is included in at least one exemplary modality. Therefore, the appearance of the phrases "in various modalities", "in some modalities", "in an exemplary modality", or "in a modality" in places throughout the descriptive report are not necessarily all referring to the same modality . Furthermore, the specific features, structures or features illustrated or described in connection with an exemplary embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with elements, structures or features from one or more other embodiments, without limitation.
[00230] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated by describing various embodiments, and although the illustrative embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the Applicant's intention to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the claims under attached to these details. Additional advantages and modifications may prove readily available to those skilled in the art. For example, each of the modalities presented can be used in endoscopic procedures, laparoscopic procedures, as well as open procedures, without limitation to their intended use.
[00231] It should be understood that at least some of the figures and descriptions presented here have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant to a clear understanding of the description, while eliminating, for clarity purposes, other elements. Those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that these and other elements may be desirable. However, due to the fact that such elements are well known in the art and due to the fact that they do not facilitate a better understanding of the description, a discussion of such elements is not provided here.
[00232] Although several modalities have been described, it will be evident, however, that several modifications, changes and adaptations to these modalities may occur to those skilled in the art, with obtaining some or all of the advantages of the description. For example, according to various embodiments, a single component can be replaced by multiple components, and multiple components can be replaced by a single component, to perform one or more particular functions. This order is therefore intended to cover all such modifications, alterations and adaptations without departing from the scope and spirit of the description as defined by the appended claims.
[00233] Any patent, publication or other descriptive material, in whole or in part, which is said to be incorporated into the present invention by way of reference, is incorporated into the present invention only to the extent that the incorporated materials do not enter into conflict with existing definitions, statements or other descriptive material presented in this description. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the description as explicitly stated herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, which is hereby incorporated by reference into the present invention, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other descriptive materials set forth herein will be incorporated herein only to the extent that no conflict. will appear between the embodied material and the existing descriptive material.

权利要求:
Claims (12)
[0001]
1. Surgical instrument (1500), characterized in that it comprises: an instrument mounting portion (1501) configured for mounting in a robotic surgical system, wherein the instrument mounting portion comprises an interface to form a mechanical interface and electrical with the surgical instrument adapted for use with the robotic surgical system; and a fluid management system (1502) contained within the instrument mounting portion, wherein the fluid management system comprises a first container for containing a first fluid agent to be dispensed; a drive assembly (1506) coupled to an end actuator (1510) and coupled to the fluid management system, wherein a fluidic channel fluidly couples the first container to the end actuator; and a peristaltic pump operatively coupled to the drive assembly and fluidly coupled to the first container and the fluidic channel, wherein the peristaltic pump comprises a flexible fluidic channel portion (1526; 1556, 1557; 1566) operatively coupled between by at least one roller (1530, 1532; 1550, 1552; 1572) operatively coupled to the drive assembly and operable to rotate in an eccentric pattern, and a rigid surface for compressing the flexible portion of the fluidic channel at at least one point between the first roller and the rigid surface during one revolution of the first roller.
[0002]
2. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a second roller, wherein the second roller comprises a rigid surface, wherein the flexible fluid channel portion is operatively coupled between at least the first roller and second roller, wherein each of the first and second rollers is operatively coupled to the drive mechanism to compress the flexible fluid channel at at least one point between the first and second rollers during one revolution of the first and second rollers.
[0003]
3. Surgical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a second container; and a three-port connector having two inlet ports fluidly coupled to the respective first and second containers, and an outlet port fluidly coupled to the fluidic channel.
[0004]
4. Surgical instrument according to claim 3, characterized in that it further comprises a pump fluidly coupled to the first and second containers and to the fluid channel.
[0005]
5. Surgical instrument according to claim 4, characterized in that the pump is a peristaltic pump comprising: a second portion of flexible fluidic channel, fluidly coupled to the second container; wherein the first and second flexible fluid channels are operatively coupled between at least the first and second rollers, each operatively coupled to the drive mechanism to compress the first and second flexible fluid channels at at least one point between the first and second rollers during one revolution of the first and second rollers.
[0006]
6. Surgical instrument according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises: an ultrasonic surgical system comprising an ultrasonic transducer, an ultrasonic waveguide acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic transducer, and an end actuator comprising a ultrasonic blade acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic waveguide,
[0007]
7. Surgical instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises at least one electrode coupled to the end actuator.
[0008]
8. Surgical instrument according to claim 7, characterized in that it further comprises an electrosurgical generator circuit located inside the assembly portion, wherein the at least one electrode is coupled to the generator circuit.
[0009]
9. Surgical instrument according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises a battery electrically coupled to the electrosurgical generator circuit.
[0010]
10. Surgical instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that the ultrasonic transducer is contained within the instrument assembly portion.
[0011]
11. Surgical instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises an ultrasonic generator that is contained within the instrument assembly portion, wherein the ultrasonic generator is electrically coupled to the transducer.
[0012]
12. Surgical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises: an electrosurgical end actuator comprising at least one electrode.

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法律状态:
2018-12-04| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2019-12-17| B15K| Others concerning applications: alteration of classification|Free format text: AS CLASSIFICACOES ANTERIORES ERAM: A61B 19/00 , A61B 17/32 , A61B 18/08 Ipc: A61B 34/30 (2016.01), A61B 34/37 (2016.01), A61B 1 |

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2019-12-17| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2021-06-29| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-09-08| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 13/06/2013, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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US13/539,122|US9283045B2|2012-06-29|2012-06-29|Surgical instruments with fluid management system|

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US13/539,122|2012-06-29|

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PCT/US2013/045649|WO2014004100A1|2012-06-29|2013-06-13|Surgical instruments with fluid management system|

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