Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080237296 | Surgical stapling and cutting instrument with side mounted retraction member - A surgical stapling and severing instrument particularly suited to endoscopic procedures incorporates a handle that produces separate closing and firing motions to actuate an end effector. In particular, the handle produces multiple firing strokes in order to reduce the required amount of force required to fire (i.e., staple and sever) the end effector. A linked transmission reduces the required handle longitudinal length, yet achieves a rigid, strong configuration when straightened for firing. A traction biased firing mechanism avoids binding in driving this straightened linked rack. The instrument further has a manually actuatable retraction system that does not require the use of additional springs or other mechanisms to generate retraction forces which must be overcome when generating the forces necessary to fire the device. In various embodiments, the retraction system provides a visual indication to the surgeon as to how far firing has progressed. | 10-02-2008 |
20080237298 | Surgical stapling and cutting instrument with manually retractable firing member - A surgical stapling and severing instrument particularly suited to endoscopic procedures incorporates a handle that produces separate closing and firing motions to actuate an end effector. In particular, the handle produces multiple firing strokes in order to reduce the required amount of force required to fire (i.e., staple and sever) the end effector. A linked transmission reduces the required handle longitudinal length, yet achieves a rigid, strong configuration when straightened for firing. A traction biased firing mechanism avoids binding in driving this straightened linked rack. The instrument further has a manually actuatable retraction system that does not require the use of additional springs or other mechanisms to generate retraction forces which must be overcome when generating the forces necessary to fire the device. In various embodiments, the retraction system provides a visual indication to the surgeon as to how far firing has progressed. | 10-02-2008 |
20080296347 | Surgical instrument having a directional switching mechanism - A surgical instrument including a switching mechanism which allows a surgeon to selectively advance or retract a staple driver and/or cutting member within a staple cartridge. In various embodiments, the surgical instrument can include a handle, a trigger operatively coupled to the handle, a firing drive, and an end effector. The firing drive can include a first ratchet assembly configured to advance a cutting member in the end effector and a second ratchet assembly configured to retract the cutting member. The trigger can include first and second pawls pivotably mounted thereon which are configured to be selectively engaged with the first and second ratchet assemblies, respectively. In at least one embodiment, the trigger can be configured to slide between a first position in which the first pawl is engaged with the first ratchet assembly and a second position in which the second pawl is engaged with the second ratchet assembly. | 12-04-2008 |
20080314954 | Surgical stapling instrument with a geared return mechanism - A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to selectively advance a firing member and/or cutting member relative to an end effector and, in addition, a reversing drive configured to selectively retract the firing member and/or cutting member relative to the end effector. The firing drive can include a pawl which can be selectively engaged with the firing member in order to advance the firing member, wherein the pawl can be disengaged from the firing member when the reversing drive is engaged with the firing member. The reversing drive can include a gear train having a first gear operably engaged with the firing member and, in addition, a second gear operably engaged with the first gear, wherein the second gear can be selectively operable with the trigger such that an actuation of the trigger can retract the firing member and/or cutting element via the first and second gears. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314956 | Surgical stapling instrument with an artculating end effector - A surgical instrument including a shaft assembly and an end effector, where the end effector can be moved relative to the shaft assembly. The shaft assembly can include a lock member selectively engageable with the end effector to limit, or prevent, relative movement therebetween. In at least one embodiment, the end effector can include a lock member having a plurality of teeth and/or a plurality of recesses, where the shaft assembly lock member can engage the teeth and/or recesses to fix the relative position between the end effector and shaft assembly. In various embodiments, the teeth can be positioned between first and second surfaces of the end effector lock member to reduce the possibility that the teeth can impinge on soft tissue surrounding the lock member. In other embodiments, the teeth can be beveled in order to allow the teeth to slide relative to the soft tissue. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314957 | Surgical stapling instrument with a firing member return mechanism - A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to selectively advance a firing member and/or cutting member relative to an end effector and, in addition, a reversing drive configured to selectively retract the firing member and/or cutting member relative to the end effector. In various embodiments, the surgical instrument can further include a switch including relatively movable first and second portions, wherein the first portion can be configured to operably disengage the firing drive from the firing member and, in addition, operably engage the reversing drive with the firing member. In at least one embodiment, the second portion can include a handle extending therefrom which can be motivated by the surgeon in order to engage the second portion with the first portion and move the first portion into position. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314961 | End effector closure system for a surgical stapling instrument - A surgical instrument including a closure system configured to move an anvil of an end effector between an open position, a partially closed position, and a closed position. The surgical instrument can further include a lock member configured to selectively engage and lock the closure system when the anvil is positioned in at least one of its partially closed and closed positions. In at least one embodiment, the surgical instrument can include a trigger configured to pivot the anvil, the lock member can include a follower portion, and the closure drive can include a lock spring configured to bias the follower portion against a cam surface of the trigger such that the follower portion can engage a notch in the cam surface when the anvil is pivoted into its partially closed position, or closed position, and prevent the anvil from being pivoted into its open position. | 12-25-2008 |
20080314962 | Surgical stapling instrument with an anti-back up mechanism - A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to advance a cutting member and/or staple driver within an end effector, and a brake configured to prevent, or at least partially inhibit, the relative movement of the cutting member and/or staple driver. The surgical instrument can further include a firing member operably engaged with the cutting member, for example, a band connected to the firing member, and a reel, where the band can be configured to be wound around the reel. In various embodiments, the brake can be selectively engageable with the reel and/or band to prevent, or limit, the movement of the band. The brake can include a brake surface where relative movement between the band and the brake surface can generate a friction force therebetween which can hold the firing member in position until a sufficient force is applied to the firing member to overcome the friction force. | 12-25-2008 |
20090012556 | Laparoscopic tissue thickness and clamp load measuring devices - A surgical instrument having opposed jaws that can be selectively moved between open and closed positions. Various embodiments include components for measuring the thickness of tissue clamped between the opposed jaws. Some embodiments are configured to ascertain the amount of compressive force that is being applied to the tissue while the thickness of the tissue is being determined. The tissue thickness data is displayed on the instrument itself and/or on a display that is remote from the instrument. The various embodiments may comprise different types of surgical instruments such as surgical staplers and graspers. A jaw arrangement with jaws shaped to define a cradle that corresponds to a cross-sectional shape of an object is also disclosed. The components that generate the thickness data may be electrically or mechanically actuated. | 01-08-2009 |
20100089970 | POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM - In one general aspect, various embodiments of the present invention can include a motorized surgical cutting and fastening instrument having a drive shaft, a motor selectively engageable with the drive shaft, and a manual return mechanism configured to operably disengage the motor from the drive shaft and retract the drive shaft. In at least one embodiment, a surgeon, or other operator of the surgical instrument, can utilize the manual return mechanism to retract the drive shaft after it has been advanced, especially when the motor, or a power source supplying the motor, has failed or is otherwise unable to provide a force sufficient to retract the drive shaft. | 04-15-2010 |
20100133318 | Surgical Stapling Instrument With A Geared Return Mechanism - A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to selectively advance a firing member and/or cutting member relative to an end effector and, in addition, a reversing drive configured to selectively retract the firing member and/or cutting member relative to the end effector. The firing drive can include a pawl which can be selectively engaged with the firing member in order to advance the firing member, wherein the pawl can be disengaged from the firing member when the reversing drive is engaged with the firing member. The reversing drive can include a gear train having a first gear operably engaged with the firing member and, in addition, a second gear operably engaged with the first gear, wherein the second gear can be selectively operable with the trigger such that an actuation of the trigger can retract the firing member and/or cutting element via the first and second gears. | 06-03-2010 |
20100198220 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND COMPONENTS FOR USE IN STERILE ENVIRONMENTS - A surgical instrument comprises a first portion encapsulated by a membrane and a second portion comprising a surgical instrument body and a cavity in the surgical instrument body. The cavity is configured to receive the first portion. The second portion comprises a first region comprising an opening in communication with the cavity, and a closure member movable between a first position and a second position. The closure member is in sealable engagement with the second region when it is in the first position and is at least partially free from sealable engagement with the second region when it is in the second position. One or more electrical contacts on the first portion or the second portion are configured to penetrate the membrane to allow a connection to be made between the first portion and the second portion when the closure member moves from the second position into the first position. | 08-05-2010 |
20100264193 | SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR - In various embodiments, a surgical instrument can comprise an end effector including a channel configured to support a staple cartridge and, in addition, an anvil pivotable between open and closed positions relative to the staple cartridge channel. The surgical instrument can further comprise a closure tube configured to at least partially surround the anvil and the staple cartridge channel to hold the anvil in a closed position. The closure tube can extend around the anvil a greater distance than the staple cartridge channel. The surgical instrument can further comprise a shaft and, in addition, an articulation joint pivotably connecting the end effector to the shaft. The articulation joint can further comprise a floating guide member which can guidably support a knife bar extending into the end effector and, at the same time, move independently of the end effector and the shaft to provide such support. | 10-21-2010 |
20100264194 | SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR - A surgical instrument can comprise a channel configured to support a staple cartridge and, in addition, an anvil pivotable between open and closed positions relative to the channel. The surgical instrument can further comprise a cutting member configured to incise tissue positioned captured between the staple cartridge and the anvil and, in addition, means for stopping the cutting member prior to a distal end datum, wherein the distal end datum can be defined by the distal-most staple cavity in the staple cartridge. In such embodiments, the incision within the tissue may not extend beyond the portion of the tissue that has been stapled. | 10-21-2010 |
20100308100 | SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS - A surgical instrument including a shaft, an end effector movable relative to the shaft, a locking mechanism configured to engage the shaft and/or end effector to fix the relative relationship between the shaft and end effector, and a closure system configured to close the end effector and engage the locking mechanism to prevent it from becoming unlocked. The instrument can further include a firing drive comprising a trigger, a firing member, and a pawl, where the pawl is rotatable between a first position in which the pawl is disengaged from the firing member and a second position in which the trigger can advance the pawl and firing member toward the end effector. The instrument can also include a reel, a band, where the band can be wound around the reel to retract the firing member, and a return mechanism for selectively engaging the trigger with the firing member and the reel. | 12-09-2010 |
20110006101 | MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL FASTENER DEVICE WITH CUTTING MEMBER LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS - A surgical fastener apparatus having a handle, an elongated shaft having a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal end extending therefrom. An end effector including a pair of jaws pivoted at a proximal end thereof and movable between an open and closed position. A cartridge containing a plurality of surgical fasteners, the cartridge attached to the end effector. An electrically powered actuator for deploying the surgical fasteners, the actuator having a power source and a motor. A first trigger attached to the handle for moving the end effector from the open to the closed position, and a second trigger attached to the handle for activating the actuator. A first lockout mechanism for preventing current from flowing from the power source to the motor unless the end effector is in its closed position a second lockout mechanism having a locked and unlocked position, the second lockout mechanism for preventing movement of the second trigger until the second lockout mechanism is moved to the unlocked position. | 01-13-2011 |
20110040309 | IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION DEVICE WITH SPACER - An implantable restriction device includes a belt and a balloon secured to the belt for engagement with tissue when the implantable restriction device is positioned about the stomach. A spacer is associated with the belt for maintaining the restriction device in a spaced relation with a staple line employed during gastric reduction surgery. | 02-17-2011 |
20110042441 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING A DIRECTIONAL SWITCHING MECHANISM - A surgical instrument including a switching mechanism which allows a surgeon to selectively advance or retract a staple driver, cutting member, and/or other movable member within a staple cartridge. In various embodiments, the surgical instrument can include a handle, a trigger operatively coupled to the handle, a firing drive, and an end effector. In at least one embodiment, the trigger can be configured to slide between a first position in which an operation of the trigger can advance the movable member at a first rate and a second position in which an operation of the trigger can retract the movable member at a second rate. | 02-24-2011 |
20110087208 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR TRANSMITTING ENERGY TO TISSUE COMPRISING A MOVABLE ELECTRODE OR INSULATOR - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to generate heat when electrical energy is supplied to the electrode, and wherein the electrode comprises a top surface. The surgical instrument can further comprise an insulator positioned adjacent to the electrode, wherein the insulator comprises a top surface movable between a first position and a second position relative to the top surface of the electrode, and wherein the top surface of the insulator is closer to the top surface of the electrode when the insulator is in the first position than when the insulator is in the second position. | 04-14-2011 |
20110087209 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR TRANSMITTING ENERGY TO TISSUE COMPRISING STEAM CONTROL PATHS - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise an end effector comprising a first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member is movable relative to the other to clamp tissue intermediate the first jaw member and the second jaw member. The instrument can further include an electrode configured to generate heat when electrical energy is supplied to the electrode and, in addition, at least one steam path within the electrode, wherein the at least one steam path is configured to vent steam generated when the tissue is heated by the electrode. | 04-14-2011 |
20110087218 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND DRIVE SYSTEMS ACTUATABLE BY A COMMON TRIGGER MECHANISM - A surgical instrument can comprise a first drive system for advancing a knife bar between a first position and a second position in order to close a jaw, or clamping, member of an end effector. The first drive system can comprise a toggle clamp which can generate and transmit an asymptotical clamping load to the jaw member. The surgical instrument can further comprise a second drive system for advancing the knife bar between the second position and a third position. The second drive system can comprise a rack and pinion system and the surgical instrument can comprise a single trigger for actuating both the first drive system and the second drive system on the same stroke. | 04-14-2011 |
20110087219 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR TRANSMITTING ENERGY TO TISSUE COMPRISING NON-CONDUCTIVE GRASPING PORTIONS - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise an end effector comprising a first jaw member and a second jaw member, wherein at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member is movable relative to the other of the first jaw member and the second jaw member to clamp tissue intermediate the first jaw member and the second jaw member. The instrument can further comprise an electrode configured to generate heat when electrical energy is supplied to the electrode, and, in addition, a tissue-grasping portion comprising a plurality of teeth, wherein the tissue-grasping portion is comprised of an electrically non-conductive material. | 04-14-2011 |
20110087220 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ENERGY TRIGGER LOCKOUT - A surgical instrument can comprise a lock movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the lock can be engaged with a drive shaft in order to prevent the drive shaft from being advanced when the lock is in its locked position. The surgical instrument can further comprise an electrical input and, in addition, a switch movable between an unactuated position and an actuated position, wherein the electrical input is electrically disconnected from an electrode when the switch is in its unactuated position, wherein the switch is configured to electrically couple the electrical input and the electrode when the switch is in its actuated position, and wherein the switch and the lock are operably coupled such that the movement of the switch from its unactuated position to its actuated position moves the lock from its locked position to its unlocked position. | 04-14-2011 |
20110155780 | DAMPENING DEVICE FOR ENDOSCOPIC SURGICAL STAPLER - A surgical instrument including a shaft and an end effector. The end effector may comprise a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw may be movable relative to the second jaw between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The surgical instrument may comprise a closure assembly which may be operably engaged with the first jaw. The closure assembly may comprise a closure trigger and a dampening system. The closure trigger may be configured to be actuated from a first position to a second position to close the first jaw. The dampening system may be configured to retard the opening of the closure trigger. The dampening system may comprise an aperture configured to receive the projection at a first end of the aperture and a seal configured to form a fluid seal between said projection and said aperture sidewall. | 06-30-2011 |
20110233258 | SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH A FIRING MEMBER RETURN MECHANISM - A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to selectively advance a firing member and/or cutting member relative to an end effector and, in addition, a reversing drive configured to selectively retract the firing member and/or cutting member relative to the end effector. | 09-29-2011 |
20120071711 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND BATTERIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - Various embodiments are directed to battery packs for use with surgical instruments. The battery packs may comprise a plurality of cells and at least a portion of the plurality of cells may not be electrically connected to one another. The battery packs may comprise a switch or other mechanism for interconnecting the plurality of cells and may also comprise, or be used in conjunction with, a discharge switch or plug configured to electrically connect an anode of the battery pack to a cathode of the battery pack, for example, via a resistive element. | 03-22-2012 |
20120078244 | CONTROL FEATURES FOR ARTICULATING SURGICAL DEVICE - An electrosurgical device includes a body, an end effector, a cutting member, and a shaft. The end effector comprises a pair of jaws and at least one electrode that is operable to deliver RF energy to tissue clamped between the jaws. The cutting member is operable to cut tissue clamped between the jaws. The shaft includes an articulation section that is operable to selectively articulate the end effector relative to the shaft. The body includes a controller operable to selectively actuate the articulation section. The controller may include a trigger that also drives the cutting member, a rotator that also rotates the shaft and end effector, a wedge-shaped pivoting member, a pivotally coupled pair of housing portions, or a pivoting cam member, etc. A release member may selectively release the articulation section from the controller, allowing a resilient bias to return the end effector into alignment with the shaft. | 03-29-2012 |
20120078248 | ARTICULATION JOINT FEATURES FOR ARTICULATING SURGICAL DEVICE - An electrosurgical device comprises a body, an end effector, a cutting member, and a shaft extending between the body and the end effector. The end effector includes a pair of jaws and at least one electrode operable to deliver RF energy to tissue clamped between the jaws. The cutting member is operable to cut tissue clamped between the jaws. The shaft includes an articulation section that is operable to selectively position the end effector at non-parallel positions relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The articulation section may include beads, segments, asymmetric features, preformedly bent features, an integral hinge, a helical cutout or spring, clevis features, an angled joint, a beaded actuation linkage, and/or an offset pivot, among other things. The device may also include a crimped cutting member, a retroacting cutting member, dual pivoting jaws, and/or a wire tensioning assembly. | 03-29-2012 |
20120080333 | FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX - A surgical fastener system can comprise a plurality of fasteners which can be connected to one another by a retention matrix which is assembled to the fasteners in order to capture tissue therebetween. In various embodiments, each fastener can comprise a base and the distance in which the retention matrix is seated relative to the fastener bases can be selectively determined by a surgeon in order to apply a desired pressure to the tissue. In certain embodiments, each fastener can further comprise a fastener leg and the retention matrix can comprise a first layer configured to engage the fastener legs. The retention matrix can further comprise a second layer mounted to the first layer which can comprise one or more encapsulations containing a medicine therein. The encapsulations can be aligned with retention apertures in the retention matrix such that they can be punctured by the fastener legs. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080480 | FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF CONNECTED RETENTION MATRIX ELEMENTS - A surgical fastener system can comprise a plurality of fasteners which can be connected to each other by a flexible retention matrix which is assembled to the fasteners in order to capture tissue therebetween. The flexible retention matrix can comprise, one, a plurality of retention matrix elements configured to engage the fasteners and, two, a lattice of connectors which connect one or more retention matrix elements. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080485 | FASTENING INSTRUMENT FOR DEPLOYING A FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX - A surgical stapling instrument can comprise, one, a handle comprising an actuator and, two, an end effector comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The end effector can further comprise a first jaw configured to support staples comprising staple legs and, in addition, a second jaw supporting a matrix element opposite the staples, wherein one of the jaws is movable toward the other in order to engage the matrix element with the staple legs. The stapling instrument can further comprise a cam operably coupled with the actuator, wherein the cam is movable along the longitudinal axis to deform the staple legs. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080486 | FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF FASTENER CARTRIDGES - A surgical fastening instrument can comprise a handle and an end effector, wherein the end effector can comprise a first jaw comprising a first cartridge attachment portion and a second jaw comprising a second cartridge attachment portion, and wherein one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other of the first jaw and the second jaw. The surgical fastening instrument can further comprise a first cartridge that is insertable into the first jaw and attachable to the first cartridge attachment portion and, in addition, a second cartridge that is insertable into the second jaw and attachable to the second cartridge attachment portion. In various embodiments, the first cartridge can comprise first fastener portions which are engageable with second fastener portions in the second cartridge. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080487 | FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND A COVER - A surgical fastening system can comprise a plurality of fasteners, wherein each fastener can comprise, one, a base and, two, a leg extending from the base, wherein each leg can comprise a tip. The fastener system can further comprise a retention matrix comprising a first side facing toward the bases of the fasteners, a second side facing away from the bases of the fasteners, and a plurality of retention members configured to engage the legs. The fastener system can further comprise a cover configured to cover the staple tips, wherein the cover can comprise a sheet of material and/or a plurality of caps. | 04-05-2012 |
20120080503 | FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND AN ALIGNMENT MATRIX - A surgical fastener system can comprise a plurality of fasteners which can be connected to each other by, one, a retention matrix which is assembled to the fasteners in order to capture tissue within the fasteners and, two, an alignment matrix configured to hold the fasteners together before the retention matrix is assembled thereto. In various embodiments, the retention matrix and the alignment matrix can each comprise a tissue-contacting surface configured to compress tissue therebetween. | 04-05-2012 |
20120083783 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH JAW MEMBER - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue may comprise a handle, a trigger, an electrical input, and a shaft extending from the handle. The surgical instrument may comprise an end effector. The end effector may comprise a cammed compression surface. The end effector may comprise an electrode comprising a tapered tissue contacting surface. Some surgical instruments may comprise an overload member. | 04-05-2012 |
20120083784 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH JAW MEMBER - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue may comprise a handle, a trigger, an electrical input, and a shaft extending from the handle. The surgical instrument may comprise and end effector first and second tissue engaging surfaces that are slanted with respect to a transection plane. The end effector may, for example, have an electrode defining a V-shaped cross sectional profile. The end effector may comprise a plurality of raised surfaces that are received by a plurality of indentions when the end effector is in the closed position. The end effector may comprise a cutting member having a plurality of bands. | 04-05-2012 |
20120116379 | Motor Driven Electrosurgical Device With Mechanical And Electrical Feedback - An electrosurgical device comprises an end effector, a cutting member, and en electromechanical driver. The end effector comprises a pair of jaws that clamp tissue. The jaws include electrodes that deliver RF energy to clamped tissue. The cutting member cuts tissue clamped between the jaws. The electromechanical driver drives the cutting member. A control module commands the electromechanical driver, and regulates the delivery of RF energy to the electrodes, based on a combination of user input and feedback signals from the electrodes and from the electromechanical driver. The device may provide tactile feedback to the user through the user input feature, based on a load encountered by the cutting member. The device may alert the user when the exterior of end effector makes incidental contact with tissue, to avoid inadvertently burning the tissue. The device may include a removable battery pack to power the electromechanical driver and the electrodes. | 05-10-2012 |
20120239009 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE AND ROTATABLE END EFFECTOR - Hand-held surgical instruments that have and end effector attached to an elongate shaft are disclosed. The end effector is articulatable and rotatable relative to the shaft by a nozzle arrangement supported by a handle from which the elongate shaft extends. In various embodiments, the nozzle is operable by the same hand that is used to support the handle. | 09-20-2012 |
20120286019 | SURGICAL STAPLING APPARATUS WITH LOAD-SENSITIVE FIRING MECHANISM - A surgical stapling apparatus having an end effector capable of performing a surgical procedure. The surgical stapling apparatus may include a driving pawl that interfaces with a manually actuatable handle. The driving pawl may have a pawl body with a driving tooth thereon that is configured to interact with an actuation shaft such that, as the manually actuatable handle is actuated, the driving tooth interacts with the actuation shaft to cause the actuation shaft to apply the actuation motions to an elongated body operably coupled to the end effector. When the end effector experiences a firing load that exceeds a predetermined magnitude of firing load, the driving tooth moves relative to the pawl body to disengage from the actuation shaft to prevent further transfer of the actuation motions to the elongated body even though the manually actuatable handle continues to be actuated. | 11-15-2012 |
20130062391 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH FLUID FILLABLE BUTTRESS - An apparatus comprises a surgical instrument and a buttress configured to hold a fluid adhesive. In some versions, the buttress contains a two-part fluid adhesive where two fluid materials form a fluid adhesive when combined. In some versions, the buttress is configured to be compressed by the surgical instrument thereby pressurizing a portion of the buttress. Thereafter, the buttress may be severed and the pressurized region may be operable to urge the fluid adhesive to a tissue site. | 03-14-2013 |
20130075445 | ANVIL CARTRIDGE FOR SURGICAL FASTENING DEVICE - A surgical instrument includes a handle portion, a shaft housing a firing bar, an end effector comprising an anvil, a lower jaw, and a stapling and severing assembly responsive to a longitudinal closing motion produced by the handle portion and the shaft. The lower jaw is configured to receive a removable cartridge. The cartridge includes a housing, a plurality of staples disposed in the housing, and a deck disposed over the plurality of staples. The deck defines apertures, with each aperture being substantially disposed over each staple. The instrument includes an anvil cartridge removably received in an anvil frame. The anvil cartridge is severed by the firing bar when the firing bar is advanced through tissue such that material from the anvil cartridge is released onto the severed tissue. | 03-28-2013 |
20130075451 | Surgical Stapling Device with Adjunct Material Application Feature - A surgical instrument includes a handle portion, a shaft housing a firing bar, an end effector comprising an anvil, a lower jaw, and a stapling and severing assembly responsive to a longitudinal closing motion produced by the handle portion and the shaft. The lower jaw is configured to receive a removable cartridge. The cartridge includes a housing, a plurality of staples disposed in the housing, and a deck disposed over the plurality of staples. The deck defines apertures, with each aperture being substantially disposed over each staple. The cartridge further includes an agent. The firing bar is operable to assist with releasing the agent onto a severed line of tissue when the firing bar is advanced. | 03-28-2013 |
20130090577 | ULTRASONIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MODULAR END EFFECTOR - A surgical instrument having a transmission assembly, a transducer, and a handle assembly is configured for coupling the transmission assembly to the handle assembly using a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is operable to restrict the rotational movement of an actuator coupling member and the transducer relative to the handle assembly. The locking mechanism may also be operable to lock a trigger of the handle assembly in a first position. An inner tubular actuating member of the transmission assembly may be threadably attachable to the actuator coupling member or the actuator coupling member may include a latching mechanism to couple to a flared portion of the inner tubular actuating member. A waveguide of the transmission assembly may also be threadably attachable to the transducer. In one alternative, the trigger may be configured to operate the locking mechanism, either in the first position or when pivoted distally to a third position. | 04-11-2013 |
20130126583 | SURGICAL STAPLING APPARATUS WITH LOAD-SENSITIVE FIRING MECHANISM - A surgical stapling apparatus having an end effector capable of performing a surgical procedure. The surgical stapling apparatus may include a driving pawl that interfaces with a manually actuatable handle. The driving pawl may have a pawl body with a driving tooth thereon that is configured to interact with an actuation shaft such that, as the manually actuatable handle is actuated, the driving tooth interacts with the actuation shaft to cause the actuation shaft to apply the actuation motions to an elongated body operably coupled to the end effector. When the end effector experiences a firing load that exceeds a predetermined magnitude of firing load, the driving tooth moves relative to the pawl body to disengage from the actuation shaft to prevent further transfer of the actuation motions to the elongated body even though the manually actuatable handle continues to be actuated. | 05-23-2013 |
20130131651 | FEATURES PROVIDING LINEAR ACTUATION THROUGH ARTICULATION JOINT IN SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - An apparatus for operating on tissue includes an end effector having a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw is configured to pivot relative to the second jaw from an open position to a closed position. The end effector also includes a blade member configured to translate within the end effector. An articulation portion is positioned between the end effector and a handpiece. The articulation portion is configured to bend to position the handpiece along a first longitudinal axis and the end effector along a second longitudinal axis. The articulation portion comprises a translation feature operable to translate the blade member. | 05-23-2013 |
20130168435 | SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR - In various embodiments, a surgical instrument can comprise an end effector including a staple cartridge and a datum portion positioned proximal to the staple cartridge. The surgical instrument can further comprise a shaft and an articulation joint configured to articulate the end effector relative to the shaft. In addition, the surgical instrument can further comprise a firing member configured to deploy a plurality of staples from the staple cartridge and a drive assembly including a drive member configured to move the firing member. The drive assembly may also include a stop configured to engage the datum portion to limit the movement of the drive member after the plurality of staples are fired. | 07-04-2013 |
20130184718 | POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM - In one general aspect, various embodiments of the present invention can include a motorized surgical cutting and fastening instrument having a drive shaft, a motor selectively engageable with the drive shaft, and a manual return mechanism configured to operably disengage the motor from the drive shaft and retract the drive shaft. In at least one embodiment, a surgeon, or other operator of the surgical instrument, can utilize the manual return mechanism to retract the drive shaft after it has been advanced, especially when the motor, or a power source supplying the motor, has failed or is otherwise unable to provide a force sufficient to retract the drive shaft. | 07-18-2013 |
20130289591 | ROTATABLE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION FOR ULTRASONIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A connector module for an ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a housing having a spindle and a coupling rotatably mounted on the spindle. A first conductor is mechanically coupled to the housing. A first link is rotatable relative to the first conductor between a first position and a second position and includes a first contact positioned to electrically contact the first conductor and a second contact electrically coupled to the first contact and positioned to electrically contact an ultrasonic hand piece. | 10-31-2013 |
20130296843 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE FOR CUTTING AND COAGULATING - An apparatus for operating on tissue comprises a first arm, a second arm, a firing beam, a lockout feature, and a scissor grip portion. The first and second arms include first and second jaws, respectively. The jaws each include a respective electrode operable to deliver bipolar RF energy to tissue. The firing beam is operable to translate distally through the first and second jaws to sever tissue captured between the first and second jaws. The lockout feature is operable to selectively prevent translation of the firing beam. The scissor grip portion is operable to pivot the first arm toward the second arm. The apparatus may include a disposable cartridge assembly removably coupled with a reusable grip assembly. The cartridge assembly may include the first and second jaws. A sliding actuator may be used to translate a firing beam. A lockout feature may selectively restrict translation of the sliding actuator. | 11-07-2013 |
20140005654 | LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR USE WITH ROBOTIC ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE | 01-02-2014 |
20140005667 | CLOSED FEEDBACK CONTROL FOR ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE | 01-02-2014 |
20140005668 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH FLUID MANAGEMENT SYSTEM | 01-02-2014 |
20140005682 | HAPTIC FEEDBACK DEVICES FOR SURGICAL ROBOT | 01-02-2014 |
20140094801 | MULTI-FUNCTION BI-POLAR FORCEPS - An end effector is disclosed. The end effector includes a first jaw member. The first jaw member comprises a first electrode. The first jaw member defines a first aperture at a distal end. The end effector includes a second jaw member. The second jaw member comprises a second electrode. The second jaw member defines a second aperture at a distal end. The second jaw member is operatively coupled to the first jaw member. The first and second apertures are configured to define a single aperture when the first and second jaw members are in a closed position. The first and second electrodes are configured to deliver energy. | 04-03-2014 |
20140114327 | SURGEON FEEDBACK SENSING AND DISPLAY METHODS - Various embodiments described herein are directed to surgical instruments with visual feedback. In one embodiment, a surgical instrument with visual feedback comprises an end effector. The end effector has a first jaw member and a second jaw member. At least one sensor is coupled to the end effector. The at least one sensor is configured convert at least one state of the end effector to a feedback signal. The feedback signal is corresponding to the at least one state of the end effector. The feedback signal may be transmitted to a display to render a visual representation of the at least one state of the end effector. The surgical instrument may further comprise an instrument mounting portion to mount to a robotic surgical system. The instrument mounting portion comprises an interface to mechanically and electrically interface to the surgical instrument. | 04-24-2014 |
20140151428 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SECONDARY JAW CLOSURE FEATURE - An apparatus for operating on tissue includes an outer sheath, upper and lower jaws connected at a pivot point, and a firing beam comprising a distal pair of flanges. The firing beam is configured to be received within slots defined in the upper and lower jaws to close the jaws. A proximal portion of the upper jaw defines a lever arm, and a free end of the lever arm extends proximally past a distal end of the lower jaw and proximally past the pivot point. The lever arm includes a pair of segments defining a portion of the slot of the upper jaw. The segments are configured for receipt through an outer sheath aperture. The pair of segments are operable to abut a distal end of the distal pair of flanges or be driven by the distal pair of flanges to assist with closure of the jaws. | 06-05-2014 |
20140214019 | BIPOLAR ELECTROSURGICAL HAND SHEARS - An apparatus comprises a first jaw, a second jaw, a first handle, and a second handle. The second jaw is pivotally coupled with the first jaw. The first jaw and the second jaw are configured to grasp tissue. The jaws provide offset electrode surfaces that are operable to deliver bipolar RF energy to tissue grasped between the jaws. The apparatus is further operable to sever tissue. A lockout feature selectively prevents tissue severing, based on an energization state of the jaws. | 07-31-2014 |
20140239037 | STAPLE FORMING FEATURES FOR SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT - An end effector for a surgical instrument comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw is configured to receive a staple cartridge. The second jaw is movable relative to the first jaw and is configured to provide an anvil for forming staples. The anvil has staple forming pockets. Each staple forming pocket comprises first and second staple forming surface regions configured to receive respective first and second staple legs. The first and second staple forming surface regions each have a respective length that is greater than half of the length of the staple forming pocket. The staple forming surface regions may include convex surfaces that drive staple legs laterally. The pocket minimizes re-entry of staple leg tips into tissue. | 08-28-2014 |
20140276730 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH REINFORCED ARTICULATION SECTION - An apparatus comprises a shaft, and end effector, and an articulation section. The articulation section is disposed between the shaft and the end effector. The articulation section includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion is pivotable relative to the proximal portion about a first pivot axis. A reinforcement member extends between the proximal and distal portions. The reinforcement member is configured to pivot relative to the proximal portion about a second pivot axis. The reinforcement member is configured to pivot relative to the distal portion about a third pivot axis. An articulation section may include a combination of a pivoting section and a flexing section. Reinforcement members may prevent a firing beam from buckling as the firing beam is driven through an articulated articulation section. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276735 | Tissue Clamping Features of Surgical Instrument End Effector - An apparatus comprises a body, a shaft assembly, and an end effector. The shaft assembly extends distally from the body. The end effector is in communication with the shaft assembly. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. The second jaw comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion. The second jaw is moveable relative to the first jaw between a first position, a second position, and a third position. The second jaw in the first position is open relative to the first jaw. The second jaw in the second position is positioned such that the distal portion is closer to the first jaw than the proximal portion. The second jaw in the third position is parallel the first jaw. | 09-18-2014 |
20140276736 | Surgical Instrument with Partial Trigger Lockout - An end effector comprises a first jaw, a second jaw, a firing beam, and a lockout feature. The second jaw pivots relative to the first jaw from an open position to a closed position. The firing beam has a sharp distal end and translates between the first and second jaws. The firing beam translates from a proximal position to a first distal position to pivot the second jaw to the closed position. The end effector applies bipolar RF energy when the firing beam is in the first distal position. The firing beam then translates to a second distal position to sever tissue captured between the first and second jaws. The lockout feature prevents the firing beam from advancing from the first distal position to the second distal position until the lockout feature is actuated. | 09-18-2014 |
20140305988 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical instrument system is disclosed. The surgical instrument system can include a handle and a plurality of shafts which can be selectively assembled to the handle. Each shaft can include a system of sensors which can direct the operation of the handle during use. | 10-16-2014 |
20140316408 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH JAW MEMBER - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue may comprise a handle, a trigger, an electrical input, and a shaft extending from the handle. The surgical instrument may comprise and end effector first and second tissue engaging surfaces that are slanted with respect to a transection plane. The end effector may, for example, have an electrode defining a V-shaped cross sectional profile. The end effector may comprise a plurality of raised surfaces that are received by a plurality of indentions when the end effector is in the closed position. The end effector may comprise a cutting member having a plurality of bands. | 10-23-2014 |
20140336698 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SPLIT JAW - An apparatus for operating on tissue includes an end effector having a first jaw and a second jaw that pivots relative to the first jaw from a closed position to an open position. The second jaw includes a first portion and a second portion that pivots relative to the first portion. The second portion is positioned adjacent to the first portion of the second jaw when the second jaw is in the closed position. The first and second portions of the second jaw pivot outwardly as the second jaw is pivoted from the closed position to the open position. | 11-13-2014 |
20140367447 | FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND AN ALIGNMENT MATRIX - A surgical fastener system can comprise a plurality of fasteners which can be connected to each other by, one, a retention matrix which is assembled to the fasteners in order to capture tissue within the fasteners and, two, an alignment matrix configured to hold the fasteners together before the retention matrix is assembled thereto. In various embodiments, the retention matrix and the alignment matrix can each comprise a tissue-contacting surface configured to compress tissue therebetween. | 12-18-2014 |
20150018826 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH JAW MEMBER - A surgical instrument comprises a shaft, end effector and movable cutting member. The movable cutting member may comprise a first band comprising a first band slot having a distal portion and a proximal portion. A width of the first band slot at the distal portion may be larger than a width of the first band slot at the proximal portion. The movable cutting member may comprise a second band comprising a second band slot having a distal portion and a proximal portion. A width of the second band slot at the proximal portion may be larger than a width of the second band slot at the distal portion. The movable cutting member may comprise a pin positioned within the first band slot and the second band slot. The pin may comprise a middle portion having a middle portion diameter and at least one outer portion having an outer portion diameter. | 01-15-2015 |
20150076207 | LAPAROSCOPIC TISSUE THICKNESS AND CLAMP LOAD MEASURING DEVICES - A surgical instrument having opposed jaws that can be selectively moved between open and closed positions. Various embodiments include components for measuring the thickness of tissue clamped between the opposed jaws. Some embodiments are configured to ascertain the amount of compressive force that is being applied to the tissue while the thickness of the tissue is being determined. The tissue thickness data is displayed on the instrument itself and/or on a display that is remote from the instrument. The various embodiments may comprise different types of surgical instruments such as surgical staplers and graspers. A jaw arrangement with jaws shaped to define a cradle that corresponds to a cross-sectional shape of an object is also disclosed. The components that generate the thickness data may be electrically or mechanically actuated. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080879 | INTEGRATED SYSTEMS FOR ELECTROSURGICAL STEAM OR SMOKE CONTROL - A medical device includes an end effector configured to apply bipolar energy to target tissue along a working portion thereof and a fluid control system to control the flow of a fluid produced when the end effector applies the bipolar energy to heat the target tissue. The fluid control system includes a fluid path element defining a fluid path, a distal fluid port configured to intake the fluid adjacent to the working portion of an end effector for transport through the fluid path, and a proximal fluid port configured to intake the fluid transported through the fluid path and to exhaust the transported fluid. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080915 | Surgical Clip and Applier Device and Method of Use - A surgical clip is provided for ligating or transecting tissue, such as vessels, other tubular ducts, and the like and a surgical clip applier device for delivering and applying the surgical clip to the tissue. The surgical clip can include a spine and opposed arms extending from the spine where the arms can define a clamping length. In a resting state, the clip can be biased to a closed position such that the ends of each opposed arm are disposed in proximity to each other. With such biasing, when applied to a tissue, such as with a surgical clip applier, the clip can exert a positive clamping pressure to the tissue along the clamping length to seal the tissue and limit passage of fluids, such as blood, from the tissue. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080924 | ARTICULATION FEATURES FOR ULTRASONIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical apparatus comprises a body, an ultrasonic transducer, a shaft, an acoustic waveguide, an articulation section, an end effector, and an articulation drive assembly. The ultrasonic transducer is operable to convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. The shaft couples the end effector and the body together. The acoustic waveguide is coupled with the transducer. The articulation section includes a collar that is located distal to a nodal portion of the waveguide and is operable to deflect the end effector away from the longitudinal axis. The end effector comprises an ultrasonic blade in acoustic communication with the ultrasonic transducer. The articulation drive assembly is operable to drive articulation of the articulation section. The articulation drive assembly comprises at least one translating articulation driver coupled with the collar. The ultrasonic blade is operable to deliver ultrasonic vibrations to tissue even when the articulation section is in an articulated state. | 03-19-2015 |