U.S. patent application number 10/728264 was filed with the patent office on 2004-06-17 for surgical apparatus permitting recharge of battery-driven surgical instrument in noncontact state.
This patent application is currently assigned to Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Hatta, Shinji, Karasawa, Masaru, Nakamura, Takeaki, Sakurai, Tomohisa, Sangu, Hiroyuki, Shiga, Akira, Tsukagoshi, Tsuyoshi, Yasunaga, Koji.
Application Number | 20040116952 10/728264 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29741090 |
Filed Date | 2004-06-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040116952 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sakurai, Tomohisa ; et
al. |
June 17, 2004 |
Surgical apparatus permitting recharge of battery-driven surgical
instrument in noncontact state
Abstract
A surgical instrument can be disinfected or sterilized, and has
a rechargeable secondary battery incorporated therein. A distal
treatment section of the surgical instrument is ultrasonically
oscillated using the secondary battery as a driving power source
and used to perform surgery on a living tissue. Electromagnetic
energy generated by an energy generation unit located outside the
surgical instrument is received by a reception coil incorporated in
the surgical instrument with the surgical instrument held in
noncontact with the energy generation unit. The electromagnetic
energy is then converted into charging power with which the
secondary battery is recharged. Thus, the surgical instrument can
be readily recharged while left clean.
Inventors: |
Sakurai, Tomohisa;
(Hachioji-shi, JP) ; Hatta, Shinji; (Hacioji-shi,
JP) ; Shiga, Akira; (Hachioji-shi, JP) ;
Tsukagoshi, Tsuyoshi; (Hachioji-shi, JP) ; Yasunaga,
Koji; (Hachioji-shi, JP) ; Karasawa, Masaru;
(Hachioji-shi, JP) ; Sangu, Hiroyuki; (Tokyo,
JP) ; Nakamura, Takeaki; (Tokyo, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OSTROLENK FABER GERB & SOFFEN
1180 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS
NEW YORK
NY
100368403
|
Assignee: |
Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
|
Family ID: |
29741090 |
Appl. No.: |
10/728264 |
Filed: |
December 3, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10728264 |
Dec 3, 2003 |
|
|
|
09492711 |
Jan 27, 2000 |
|
|
|
6666875 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/169 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 2204/002 20130101;
A61B 17/29 20130101; A61B 2090/0807 20160201; A61B 2017/320069
20170801; A61B 2017/00199 20130101; A61B 2018/1226 20130101; A61B
2017/00734 20130101; A61B 2017/320095 20170801; Y10S 30/01
20130101; A61B 2017/320082 20170801; A61B 18/14 20130101; A61B
2017/00022 20130101; A61B 2017/320071 20170801; A61B 2017/00398
20130101; A61B 17/32002 20130101; A61B 2017/320094 20170801; A61B
17/1628 20130101; A61B 2017/00411 20130101; A61B 2090/065
20160201 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/169 |
International
Class: |
A61B 017/32 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 5, 1999 |
JP |
11-059271 |
Mar 19, 1999 |
JP |
11-076336 |
Mar 24, 1999 |
JP |
11-080534 |
Mar 26, 1999 |
JP |
11-084350 |
Mar 30, 1999 |
JP |
11-089393 |
Claims
What is claimed:
1. An ultrasonic treatment instrument, comprising: an ultrasonic
transducer which generates ultrasonic waves and a drive circuit
therefor; a battery to supply energy, including to the drive
circuit; a housing incorporating the ultrasonic transducer, the
battery and the drive circuit; a probe having a distal end
protruding from the housing and a part that is coupled with the
ultrasonic transducer so that the ultrasonic waves are propagated
by the probe outside the housing; a movable member operable by an
operator; and a sensor circuit which detects movement of the
movable member, and wherein the drive circuit is structured to
drive the ultrasonic transducer responsive to an output signal of
the sensor circuit.
2. An ultrasonic treatment instrument according to claim 1, wherein
the sensor circuit is composed of a switch which is actuated by the
movement of the movable member.
3. An ultrasonic treatment instrument according to claim 2, further
comprising a second switch for supplying energy from the battery to
the drive circuit.
4. An ultrasonic treatment instrument according to claim 1, wherein
the sensor circuit is configured to detect the magnitude of a
clamping force generated by the movable member, and to transmit an
output signal corresponding to the clamping force to the drive
circuit.
5. An ultrasonic treatment instrument according to claim 1, wherein
the sensor circuit is configured to detect the magnitude of a
torque developed by the movable member, and to transmit an output
signal corresponding to the torque to the drive circuit.
6. The ultrasonic treatment instrument of claim 5, wherein the
sensor circuit comprises a torque sensor embedded within an axis of
rotation associated with the movable member.
7. The ultrasonic treatment instrument of claim 6, in which the
torque sensor comprises a strain gage.
8. The ultrasonic treatment instrument of claim 1, in which the
sensor circuit comprises an electrical capacitance force
detector.
9. The ultrasonic treatment instrument of claim 1, in which the
sensor circuit comprises a piezoelectric element.
10. An ultrasonic treatment instrument, comprising: an ultrasonic
transducer to generate ultrasonic waves and a drive circuit
therefor; a probe coupled to the ultrasonic transducer and having a
portion which is positioned adjacent a movable part; a movable
member which is operable to move the movable part; and a sensor
circuit which detects movement of the movable member and which
provides an output to the drive circuit of the ultrasonic
transducer.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 09/492,711 filed Jan. 27, 2000, entitled SURGICAL APPARATUS
PERMITTING RECHARGE BATTERY-DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN
NONCONTACT STATE, which claims the benefit of Japanese Patent
Application No. 11-059271 filed in Japan on Mar. 5, 1999, Japanese
Patent Application No. 11-076336 filed in Japan on Mar. 19, 1999,
Japanese Patent Application No. 11-080534 filed in Japan on Mar.
24, 1999, Japanese Patent Application No. 11-084350 filed in Japan
on Mar. 26, 1999, and Japanese Patent Application No. 11-089393
filed in Japan on Mar. 30, 1999, the contents of which are
incorporated by this reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a surgical apparatus making
it possible to recharge a secondary battery included in a
battery-driven surgical instrument with an energy generation unit
such as a recharger and the surgical instrument held in noncontact
with each other.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] In recent years, surgical procedures to be performed under
endoscopic observation have been developed.
[0006] A surgical instrument in accordance with a related art
disclosed in, for example, Japanese Examined Patent Publication No.
2-43501 has a battery incorporated in a handpiece. Moreover, a
motor and a treatment instrument are unified, and the motor is
powered with the built-in battery.
[0007] According to the related art, the necessity of a power cord
that is annoying an operator who manipulates the surgical
instrument can be obviated to improve the maneuverability of the
surgical instrument. There is a drawback that when electrical
energy contained in the battery runs out, treatment cannot be
performed any longer.
[0008] To avoid having to replace the battery during surgery it
must be done prior to the surgery. However, this is added work, and
if the surgical instrument has merely been used at some steps of a
surgical procedure, there is a possibility that the battery need
not be renewed. Nevertheless, to avoid the trouble of renewing the
battery during surgery, the battery is replaced beforehand.
[0009] Moreover, when replacing a battery in a sterilized surgical
instrument, the surgical instrument must be handled very carefully
for fear it may be contaminated. A nurse or the like is obliged to
incur a large burden.
[0010] For overcoming this drawback, a rechargeable battery may be
incorporated in the surgical instrument and recharged using a
recharger. However, the related art has a drawback that the
sterilized surgical instrument must be sterilized again or must be
handled carefully so as not to be contaminated during connection of
the recharger. Moreover, measures must be taken to maintain the
watertightness of the junction between the surgical instrument and
recharger.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a surgical
apparatus making it possible to recharge a sterilized surgical
instrument without risk of contamination.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
surgical apparatus substantially obviating the necessity of
renewing a battery during surgery.
[0013] A surgical apparatus according to the invention is comprised
of a surgical instrument, an energy generation unit, an energy
radiating device, and a charging energy producing device. The
surgical instrument has a rechargeable secondary battery and a
treatment section to be electrically driven by the secondary
battery, and can be disinfected or sterilized. The energy
generation unit is located outside the surgical instrument and used
to recharge the secondary battery. The energy radiating device
included in the energy generation unit radiates energy. The
charging energy producing device is incorporated in the surgical
instrument, receives energy without the need for the surgical
instrument and energy generation unit to be in contact with each
other, and produces energy used to recharge the secondary
battery.
[0014] Consequently, the secondary battery can be recharged without
the sterilized surgical instrument being contaminated. Moreover,
the recharge substantially obviates the necessity of renewing the
battery during surgery.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 to FIG. 5B relate to the first embodiment of the
present invention;
[0016] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a surgical system
including the first embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the surgical system being
recharged;
[0018] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C show the principles of operation for
noncontact recharge and the electrical systems of a surgical
instrument and a recharger;
[0019] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C are block diagrams showing examples of
the configurations of surgical instruments;
[0020] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B show the electrical systems of a
surgical instrument and a recharger in accordance with a
variant;
[0021] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 relate to the second embodiment of the
present invention;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a sectional diagram showing the configuration of a
surgical instrument employed in the second embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing the electrical system of
the surgical instrument;
[0024] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 relate to the third embodiment of the
present invention;
[0025] FIG. 8 shows the appearance of a surgical system having the
third embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 9 shows the configuration of part of the surgical
system shown in FIG. 8;
[0027] FIG. 10 to FIG. 12 relate to the fourth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0028] FIG. 10 shows the appearance of a surgical apparatus in
accordance with the fourth embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 11 shows the internal configurations of a surgical
instrument and a recharger;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing a recharge receptacle
freely attachable or detachable to or from the recharger;
[0031] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B schematically show a surgical
instrument in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 14 to FIG. 17 relate to the sixth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0033] FIG. 14 shows the appearance of an ultrasonic treatment
instrument in accordance with the sixth embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 15 details the configuration of the ultrasonic
treatment instrument shown in FIG. 14;
[0035] FIG. 16 shows the configuration of an output adjustment
mechanism included in the ultrasonic treatment instrument;
[0036] FIG. 17 shows an output adjustment mechanism in accordance
with a variant;
[0037] FIG. 18 shows the configuration of an output adjustment
mechanism and others included in an ultrasonic treatment instrument
in accordance with the seventh embodiment of the present
invention;
[0038] FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 relate to the eighth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0039] FIG. 19 shows the configuration of an output adjustment
mechanism included in a high-frequency treatment instrument in
accordance with the eighth embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 20 shows the configuration of a strain detection
device;
[0041] FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 relate to the fourth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0042] FIG. 21 shows the appearance of an ultrasonic treatment
instrument in accordance with the fourth embodiment;
[0043] FIG. 22 shows the configuration of the major portion of the
ultrasonic treatment instrument;
[0044] FIG. 23 shows the configuration of the major portion of an
ultrasonic treatment instrument in accordance with the tenth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 24 shows the configuration of the major portion of an
ultrasonic treatment instrument in accordance with the eleventh
embodiment of the present invention;
[0046] FIG. 25 to FIG. 27 relate to the twelfth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0047] FIG. 25 is an oblique view showing the appearance of an
ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument in accordance with the
twelfth embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 26 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal
configuration of the ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument
shown in FIG. 25;
[0049] FIG. 27 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of
the ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument;
[0050] FIG. 28 shows an operation unit for an ultrasonic
coagulation/incision instrument in accordance with the thirteenth
embodiment of the present invention;
[0051] FIG. 29 shows a bipolar coagulator in accordance with the
fourteenth embodiment of the present invention;
[0052] FIG. 30 to FIG. 34 relate to the fifteenth embodiment of the
present invention;
[0053] FIG. 30 shows the configuration of a battery-powered
ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument in accordance with the
fifteenth embodiment;
[0054] FIG. 31 shows the configuration of a drive circuit shown in
FIG. 30;
[0055] FIG. 32 shows the relationship between an amount of energy
output from a control circuit shown in FIG. 31 to a drive unit and
the frequency of an output sound of a buzzer;
[0056] FIG. 33 shows the first example of a cylinder shown in FIG.
30;
[0057] FIG. 34 shows the second example of the cylinder shown in
FIG. 30;
[0058] FIG. 35 shows the configuration of a battery-powered
ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument in accordance with the
sixteenth embodiment of the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 36 to FIG. 39 relate to the seventeenth embodiment of
the present invention;
[0060] FIG. 36 shows the configuration of a surgical instrument in
accordance with the seventeenth embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 37 shows a conducting state of a battery unit shown in
FIG. 36;
[0062] FIG. 38A and FIG. 38B details the configuration of the
battery unit shown in FIG. 37;
[0063] FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram concerning renewal of a
battery in the battery unit;
[0064] FIG. 40 shows the major configuration of a surgical
instrument in accordance with the eighteenth embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0065] FIG. 41 shows the configuration of a surgical instrument in
accordance with the nineteenth embodiment of the present
invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0066] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with
reference to the drawings below.
[0067] (First Embodiment)
[0068] An surgical system 1 according to the first embodiment as
shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, is comprised of a recharger 2 and a
surgical instrument 3A or 3B. The recharger 2 serves as an energy
generation unit and is constructed to generate energy used for
recharge and radiate the energy. The surgical instrument 3A or 3B
is used to perform surgery (treatment) on a living body for cure. A
charging energy producing device described below which receives
energy from the recharger 2, and a rechargeable secondary battery 4
is incorporated in the surgical instrument 3A or 3B.
[0069] Surgical instrument 3A or 3B further include a hand-held
portion 5 held by an operator and a shaft portion 6 extending out
of the hand-held portion 5. A treatment section 7A or 7B used to
treat a living tissue or the like is formed as the distal part of
the shaft portion 6.
[0070] The hand-held portion 5 has a switch 8. The switch 8 is
turned on or off for activating or deactivating treatment section
7A or 7B.
[0071] Recharger 2 has a power cord 11 to be plugged into the
mains. A plug 12 attached to the distal end of the power cord 11 is
fitted into a mains receptacle, whereby alternating electrical
energy is supplied from the mains to an output circuit 15 via a
power switch 14.
[0072] The output circuit 15 converts the alternating electrical
energy into, electrical energy of a higher frequency. The output
circuit 15 is connected to a power transmission circuit 16
including a power transmission coil 16a.
[0073] The output circuit 15 may include, as shown in FIG. 3B, a
power circuit 15a, an oscillator circuit 15b, and an amplifier 15c.
The oscillator circuit 15b oscillates with direct voltage produced
by the power circuit 15a. Direct current is supplied from the power
circuit to the amplifier 15c that amplifies an oscillating signal
output from the oscillator circuit 15b. The power transmission coil
16a included in the power transmission circuit is connected to the
output terminal of the amplifier 15c.
[0074] The oscillator circuit 15b oscillates at frequencies ranging
from, for example, several kilohertz to several megahertz. The
(high-frequency signal is amplified by the amplifier 15c and sent
to the power transmission coil 16a serving as a power transmitting
means.
[0075] Then, electromagnetic energy is radiated from the power
transmission coil 16a to the surroundings.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 2, a concave vial placement section 18 is
formed on the top of the recharger 2. A vial 17 in which the clean
surgical instruments 3A and 3B that have been washed and
disinfected (or sterilized) is put is placed on the vial placement
section 18. The vial 17 can be washed and disinfected (or
sterilized).
[0077] The body of recharger 2 having the power transmission coil
16a embedded therein, and the vial 17 are made of a material
transparent to electromagnetic energy, for example, a glass or a
resin such as Teflon.
[0078] The surgical instruments 3A and 3B are put in the clean vial
17. Secondary batteries 4 in the surgical instruments 3A and 3B are
recharged from the recharger 2 by the energy radiated by power
transmission coil 16a.
[0079] Specifically, with surgical instruments 3A and 3B are held
separated from the recharger 2 in vial 17, electromagnetic energy
used for recharge is supplied to power reception units 21, which
are incorporated in the surgical instruments 3A and 3B, via the
vial 17.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 2, surgical instrument 3A is comprised of
the power reception unit 21, a rectification control unit 22, the
secondary battery 4, an energy conversion unit 23, and the
treatment section 7A. The power reception unit 21 receives
electromagnetic energy radiated from the power transmission circuit
16. The rectification control unit 22 converts the electromagnetic
energy received by the power reception unit 21 into direct current
and adjusts the voltage to a level suitable for recharging the
secondary battery 4. The battery may be comprised of
nickel-hydrogen cells, nickel-copper cells or the like that are
rechargeable with an output of the rectification control unit
22.
[0081] The energy conversion unit 23 is driven by the secondary
battery 4. The treatment section 7A, for example, a knife, may be
driven directly by the energy conversion unit 23 or via the shaft
portion 6 serving as a propagation member.
[0082] When the surgical instrument 3A is, for example, an
ultrasonic knife, the energy conversion unit 23 is, as shown in
FIGS. 3C and 4A, comprised of an ultrasonic generator circuit 23a
and an ultrasonic transducer 23b.
[0083] FIG. 1 shows a practical configuration of a surgical
instrument such as an ultrasonic knife.
[0084] The surgical instrument 3A has a battery chamber 31 near the
back end of the hand-held portion 5. The back end 31a of the
battery chamber 31 is open, and terminates in a threaded portion
which mates with a threaded lid 32. A seal such as an O ring 33 is
located in a groove 33a in lid 32. When the lid 32 is engaged with
the battery chamber 31, the interior of the battery chamber can
thus be held watertight.
[0085] A power reception coil 21a included in the power reception
unit 21 is wound about the battery chamber 31. Electrical energy
induced in the power reception coil 21a is input to the
rectification control unit 22 over a lead 22a. The rectification
control unit 22 adjusts an amount of electrical energy according to
voltage suitable for recharging the secondary battery 4 and
supplies the electrical energy to the battery.
[0086] The secondary battery 4 is connected to the ultrasonic
generator circuit 23a via the switch 8. The ultrasonic transducer
23b is connected to the output terminal of the ultrasonic generator
circuit 23a. When an output signal of the ultrasonic generator
circuit 23a is applied to the ultrasonic transducer 23b, the
ultrasonic transducer 23b oscillates at an ultrasonic
frequency.
[0087] In FIG. 1, the power reception coil 21a, rectification
control unit 22, and ultrasonic generator circuit 23a are embedded
in an insulating member.
[0088] The front end 24 of the ultrasonic transducer 23b is
connected to the shaft portion 6 through an intermediate horn 34.
Ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 23b are
amplified by the horn 34, and propagated into the distal treatment
section 7A by way of the shaft portion 6.
[0089] The junction between the front end of the horn 34 and the
shaft portion 6 is shielded with a cover member (armor member)
covering the hand-held portion 5 via a seal member 35 such as a
rubber member. The interior of the hand-held portion 5 is held
watertight so that the hand-held portion 5 can not only be washed
with a cleaning solvent but also be disinfected (or sterilized)
with a disinfectant (or a sterilant). Moreover, the hand-held
portion 5 resists sterilization to be performed using a
sterilization gas.
[0090] Shaft portion 6 may be sealed at the proximal end of the
horn 34 as shown in FIG. 4A.
[0091] FIG. 3C shows a practical example of the electrical system
of the surgical instrument 3A.
[0092] Specifically, the power reception coil 21a has both ends
thereof connected to input terminals of a rectifier circuit 22a
included in the rectification control unit 22. After alternating
current is rectified and smoothed, the resultant current is
stabilized by a constant-voltage diode 22b so that constant voltage
will be developed at the secondary battery. The constant-voltage
diode 22b is connected to the secondary battery 4 via an
anti-reverse flow diode 22c.
[0093] The secondary battery 4 has one terminal thereof connected
directly to an input terminal of the ultrasonic generator circuit
23a. The other terminal of the secondary battery 4 is connected to
the input terminal of the ultrasonic generator circuit via the
switch 8. The ultrasonic transducer 23b is connected to the output
terminals of the ultrasonic generator circuit 23a.
[0094] The surgical instrument 3B has the same configuration as the
surgical instrument 3A except that the shaft portion 6 thereof is
longer than that of the surgical instrument 3A and that the distal
treatment section 7B thereof is shaped like, for example, a hook.
The surgical instrument 3B can be disinfected in the same manner as
the surgical instrument 3A.
[0095] Surgical instruments 3A and 3B have been described as
ultrasonic knives. Alternatively, the surgical instrument 3A or 3B
may be an electric cauterizer 3C as shown in FIG. 4B, or may be a
motor-driven treatment instrument 3D as shown in FIG. 4C.
[0096] As shown in FIG. 4B, the electric cauterizer 3C has a
high-frequency output circuit 23c in place of the ultrasonic
generator circuit included in the ultrasonic knife 3A. The
high-frequency output circuit 23c oscillates at a high frequency.
An oscillating output of the high-frequency output circuit is
amplified and output. The output terminal of the high-frequency
output circuit 23c is connected to the primary winding of an output
transformer 23d. A high-frequency output signal is supplied to the
secondary winding thereof isolated from the primary winding.
[0097] A pair of high-frequency electrodes 36a and 36b is connected
to the secondary winding of the output transformer 23d. A
high-frequency output signal is transmitted to the treatment
section 7C is located distally to the high-frequency electrodes.
The treatment section 7C is brought into contact with a living
tissue to be treated, whereby resection or cauterizer can be
achieved.
[0098] A section of the hand-held portion 5 from which the
high-frequency electrodes 36a and 36b extend is sealed to be
watertight and airtight using an insulating member 37.
[0099] The motor-driven treatment instrument 3D shown in FIG. 4C
has a motor control unit 23e in place of the ultrasonic generator
circuit 23a included in the ultrasonic knife 3A shown in FIG. 4A. A
motor 23f is driven to rotate with an output signal of the motor
control unit 23e.
[0100] A shaft portion 38 extending from the hand-held portion 5 is
coupled to the axis of rotation of the motor 23f. A rotary brush
39, for example, may be formed as a treatment section in the distal
part of the shaft portion 38. The rotary brush 39 is used to peel
off surface tissue or perform any other treatment.
[0101] A seal member 40 such as an O ring is put on a section of
the hand-held portion 5 from which the shaft portion 38 extends,
whereby watertightness is maintained.
[0102] Operations to be exerted by the first embodiment having the
foregoing components will be described below.
[0103] For performing surgery using the surgical instruments 3A and
3B shown in FIG. 1, the lid 32 is opened in order to stow the
secondary battery 4 in the battery chamber 31. The lid 32 is then
closed. At this time, the surgical instruments 3A and 3B are held
watertight and airtight, and can therefore be washed and
disinfected (or sterilized).
[0104] The surgical instruments 3A and 3B are then washed and
disinfected (or sterilized), and put in the vial 17 placed on the
vial placement section 18 on the top of the recharger 2. The vial
17 has been washed and disinfected (or sterilized).
[0105] The plug 12 of the recharger 2 is fitted into a mains
receptacle, and the switch 14 is turned on. Consequently, an
oscillating signal output from the oscillator circuit 15b included
in the output circuit 15 of the recharger 2 shown in FIG. 3B is
amplified by the amplifier 15c, and applied to the power
transmission coil 16a. An A.C. electromagnetic field is produced
around the power transmission coil 16a. The electromagnetic field
induces A.C. current flow in power reception coil 21a. Thus, energy
is propagated to the power reception coil 21a without the need for
a conductive connection with the power transmission coil.
[0106] As shown in FIG. 3C, the high-frequency signal produced by
the power reception circuit 21a is supplied to the rectification
control unit 22, rectified by the rectifier circuit 22a, and
adjusted so that a voltage suitable for recharge will be developed
at the secondary battery. The resultant signal is applied to the
secondary battery 4, whereby the secondary battery 4 is
recharged.
[0107] When the time required for recharge elapses, surgery can be
performed using the secondary battery 4. An operator picks up, for
example, the surgical instrument 3A from the vial 17, holds the
hand-held portion 5, and presses an On switch of the switch 8.
Driving power is then supplied from the secondary battery 4 to the
ultrasonic generator circuit 23a. The ultrasonic generator circuit
23a in turn produces oscillations at an ultrasonic frequency. The
ultrasonically oscillating output of the ultrasonic generator
circuit is applied to the ultrasonic transducer 23b. This causes
the ultrasonic transducer to oscillate at the ultrasonic frequency.
The ultrasonic waves are propagated to the distal treatment section
7A by way of the shaft portion 6. This brings the treatment section
7A into contact with a living tissue. Consequently, resection or
any other treatment is carried out.
[0108] After use, the surgical instrument 3A is washed and
disinfected (or sterilized), put in the vial 17 again, and
recharged.
[0109] Owing to the foregoing components, the secondary battery 4
incorporated in the surgical instrument 3A is recharged so that the
surgical instrument 3A can be reused repeatedly. The surgical
instrument 3A or the like must be washed and sterilized prior to
every use. The recharger 2 is unclean. The vial 17 that has been
washed and sterilized in advance is placed on the recharger 2. The
surgical instrument 3A or the like is then put in the vial 17.
Thus, the surgical instrument 3A or the like that has been
sterilized can be recharged without risk of contamination.
[0110] If the number of times by which the secondary battery 4 is
recharged reaches a limit due to repeated use, the secondary
battery 4 may be replaced with a new one.
[0111] FIGS. 5A and 5B show energy propagating devices.
[0112] Referring to FIG. 5A, a light-emitting device such as a
light-emitting diode (LED) 16b is caused to glow using a
direct-current power source that is the power circuit 15a. Light
emitted from the LED 16b is received by a photoelectric converter
such as a solar battery 21b, whereby electromotive force causing
direct current to flow is induced. The electromotive force is
applied to the secondary battery 4 via a control unit comprised of
a constant-voltage diode 22b and anti-reverse flow diode 22c.
[0113] In this case, a light-emitting section of the recharger 2
above the LED 16b as well as the vial 17 should be made of a
material transparent to light, such as, a glass. Moreover, the
solar battery 21 is embedded in the back end of the surgical
instrument, for example, in the lid 32 so that the light-receiving
section of the solar battery 21 will be opposed to the outer
surface of the surgical instrument.
[0114] Referring to FIG. 5B, the oscillator circuit 15b is
oscillated using a direct-current source that is the power circuit
15a. An oscillating output of the oscillator circuit causes a sound
travelling device such as an ultrasonic loudspeaker 16c to output
acoustic energy such as ultrasonic energy. An ultrasonic microphone
21c or the like receives the acoustic energy and converts it into
electrical energy. The electrical energy is supplied to the
secondary battery 4 via the rectification control unit 22. The
secondary battery 4 may thus be recharged.
[0115] The present embodiment provides advantages described
below.
[0116] According to the present embodiment, the secondary battery 4
incorporated in the battery-driven surgical instrument 3A or the
like is recharged repeatedly. This makes the surgical instrument 3A
or the like reusable many times. Contacts that are electrically
coupled to each other are not needed for recharging the battery.
The secondary battery can be recharged while held in noncontact
with an unclean recharger. Consequently, the secondary battery can
be recharged with the surgical instrument left sterilized.
[0117] In short, the surgical instrument will not be contaminated
but be recharged readily. The recharge work is simplified greatly,
and recharge control is simplified.
[0118] Since recharge is thus achieved, the trouble that a battery
is exhausted during surgery (electrical energy runs short) and
other troubles can be avoided.
[0119] (Second Embodiment)
[0120] Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. The present
embodiment is identical to the first embodiment except that a
device for indicating that recharge is completed is in the surgical
instrument 3A of the first embodiment.
[0121] FIG. 6 shows a surgical instrument 3E in accordance with
this embodiment. The surgical instrument 3E will be described in
comparison with the surgical instrument 3A shown in FIG. 1. Namely,
instead of the rectification control unit 22, a rectification
control judgment unit 42 formed by adding a recharged state
judgment block 41 to the rectification control unit 22 is included
in the hand-held portion 5. A recharge completion indicator LED 43
connected to the rectification control judgment unit 42 is mounted
on the outer surface of the hand-held portion 5.
[0122] FIG. 7 shows the electrical system of the surgical
instrument 3E. As shown in FIG. 7, the output terminals of the
rectifier circuit 22a are connected to the positive and negative
power terminals of a comparator 41a included in the recharged state
judgment block 41. A constant-voltage diode 22b is connected to the
rectifier circuit 22a via a current limiting resistor R1.
[0123] The cathode of the constant-voltage diode 22b is connected
to the anode of the secondary battery 4 via a selection switch SW
and the anti-reverse flow diode 22c.
[0124] The anode voltage of the secondary battery 4 is applied to
the noninverting input terminal of the comparator 41a. A voltage
stabilized by the constant-voltage diode 22b is lowered at
resistors R2 and R3. A resultant reference voltage is applied to
the inverting input terminal of the comparator 41a.
[0125] A resistor R4 and a capacitor C are connected to the output
terminal of the comparator 41a. When the voltage at the secondary
battery 4 exceeds the reference voltage, a voltage applied to
charge the capacitor C is used to change the selection switch SW
from a contact a to a contact b. Consequently, the LED 43 connected
to the contact b is allowed to glow.
[0126] Incidentally, the resistances given by the resistors R2 and
R3 are determined so that a voltage developed at the secondary
battery 4 will be equal to the reference voltage at the completion
of recharge.
[0127] Moreover, the selection switch SW is formed with, for
example, an analog switch. The selection switch SW is, similarly to
the comparator 41, powered by the rectifier circuit 22a (omitted
from FIG. 7 for brevity's sake). The other components are identical
to those of the first embodiment.
[0128] The present embodiment operates in the same manner as the
first embodiment. In addition, when recharging the secondary
battery is completed, the fact is detected by checking if the
voltage at the secondary battery has exceeded the reference
voltage. The contacts of the selection switch SW are then changed
to prevent charging current from flowing into the secondary battery
4. Besides, the LED 43 is allowed to glow (lit).
[0129] When the LED 43 is lit, an operator recognizes that
recharging the surgical instrument 3E has been completed. The
operator should use a surgical instrument whose LED 43 is lit. It
can thus be reliably prevented that a battery is exhausted during
surgery.
[0130] The present embodiment can provide the same advantages as
the first embodiment. In addition, by checking if the LED 43 is lit
(or unlit), it can be recognized whether recharging the secondary
battery 4 has been completed. Moreover, excessive recharge can be
prevented, thereby lengthening the service life of the secondary
battery 4.
[0131] In the present embodiment, a detecting means is included for
detecting whether recharge is completed. When completion of
recharge is detected, the LED 43 is lit in order to notify a user
of completion of recharge. Alternatively, the LED 43 may be lit
during recharge. When recharge is completed, the LED 43 may be put
out. Whether recharge is in progress or completed may thus be
notified.
[0132] For charging indication, the anode of the LED 43 shown in
FIG. 7 is connected together with the anode of the diode 22c to the
contact a of the selection switch SW. When recharge is in progress,
a dedicated LED may be lit. When recharge is completed, the LED 43
for emitting light whose wavelengths are different from those of
light emitted from the LED may be lit. Whether recharge is in
progress or completed may thus be notified.
[0133] In this case, the LED 43 shown in FIG. 7 is realized with an
LED that glows in green. To indicate charging, the cathode and
anode of another LED that glows in red are connected to the cathode
of the LED 43 and the contact a of the selection switch SW that are
shown in FIG. 7.
[0134] (Third Embodiment)
[0135] A third embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9.
[0136] FIG. 8 shows a tray-like surgical system 51. The surgical
system 51 consists of a recharger 52, a cart 53 on which the
recharger 52 is placed, a sterilization tray 54 placed on the
recharger 52. One or more battery-driven surgical instruments 55
may be placed in the sterilization tray 54, along with ordinary
surgical instruments 56.
[0137] A cord 11 is extended from the recharger 52, and a plug 12
is attached to the distal end of the cord 11.
[0138] The recharger 52 has the same components as that in the
first embodiment. The power transmission circuit 16 is, as shown in
FIG. 9, included for supplying energy to the power reception units
21 incorporated in the battery-driven surgical instruments 55
placed on the recharger 52. At this time, the power transmission
circuit 16 is in noncontact with the power reception units 21.
Energy received by the power reception unit 21 is supplied to the
secondary battery 4 via the rectification control unit 22. The
secondary battery 4 is thus recharged.
[0139] When the surgical system is of the tray type, the surgical
instruments 55 can be freely oriented in any direction. A weight 57
is therefore incorporated in each battery-driven surgical
instrument 55, so that the power transmission circuit 16 and power
reception unit 21 will be oriented so properly as to efficiently
transmit energy. For example, when the power transmission circuit
16 and power reception unit 21 are formed with coils, they are
oriented so that the axial directions of the coils will be parallel
to each other. Thus, energy generated by the coil of the power
transmission circuit 16 can be received efficiently by the coil of
the power reception unit 21.
[0140] According to the third embodiment, the surgical instruments
55 oriented freely are put in the large sterilization tray 54.
Nevertheless, the surgical instruments are recharged reliably.
[0141] Similarly to the second embodiment, when recharging the
secondary battery 4 is completed, charging current may be prevented
from flowing into the secondary battery 4. The LED 43 or the like
maybe used to notify a user of the completion of recharge.
[0142] (Fourth Embodiment)
[0143] Next, the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 10 to FIG. 12.
[0144] FIG. 10 shows a rechargeable ultrasonic coagulation/incision
apparatus 61 comprised of a recharger 62 and an ultrasonic
coagulation/incision instrument 63 having a built-in secondary
battery 4 (see FIG. 11).
[0145] The recharger 62 has receptacle attachment/detachment
recesses 62a (see FIG. 12) which receive recharge receptacles. The
receptacles are removable for washing and sterilization.
[0146] Prior to surgery, the ultrasonic coagulation/incision
instrument 63 and recharge receptacles 64 are sterilized. For use,
the recharge receptacles 64 are mounted in the recharger 62, and
the ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument 63 is inserted.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 11, the recharger 62 has, for example, a
primary coil 67 as the power transmission circuit 16. A secondary
coil 68 (serving as the power reception unit 21) is placed inside a
housing 69 of the hand-held portion 5 of the ultrasonic
coagulation/incision instrument 63. Energy is propagated to the
secondary coil 68 due to electromagnetic induction. The energy is
converted into a voltage suitable for recharge by means of the
rectification control unit 22 connected to the secondary coil 68,
and then applied to the secondary battery 4. The secondary battery
4 is thus recharged.
[0148] The recharge receptacles 64 are made of a resin such as
Teflon or a ceramic that is resistant to disinfection and
sterilization. The recharge receptacles 64 are electrically
insulated. Although each recharge receptacle 64 is interposed
between the primary coil 67 and secondary coil 68, electromagnetic
energy induced in the primary coil 67 can be propagated to the
secondary coil 68.
[0149] The secondary battery 4 is connected to the ultrasonic
generator circuit 23a via a switch (not shown). When the switch is
turned on, an oscillating output of the ultrasonic generator
circuit 23a is applied to the ultrasonic transducer 23b. Ultrasonic
waves generated from the ultrasonic transducer 23b are propagated
to the distal treatment section 7B via the horn 34 and axial
portion 6, and cause the distal treatment section 7B to oscillate
at an ultrasonic frequency.
[0150] According to the fourth embodiment, each recharge receptacle
64 is interposed between the primary coil 67 and secondary coil 68.
Consequently, recharge can be achieved with the ultrasonic
coagulation/incision instrument left sterilized.
[0151] (Fifth Embodiment)
[0152] The fifth embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 13A. FIG. 13A shows a
battery-driven treatment instrument 71 to be employed in endoscopic
surgery. The battery-driven treatment instrument 71 is comprised of
an operation unit 72 and an insertion unit 73. A secondary battery
74 extends through the operation unit 72 and insertion unit 73.
[0153] FIG. 13B shows another battery-driven treatment instrument
71' to be employed in endoscopic surgery. A differently-shaped
secondary battery 75 extends through the operation unit 72 and
insertion unit 73. The power reception unit 21 employed in, for
example, the first embodiment is incorporated in the operation unit
72 (not shown).
[0154] An advantage of the fifth embodiment is that the relatively
heavy secondary battery 74 or 75 is extends through the both
insertion unit 73 and operation unit 72, the treatment instrument
is well balanced and easy to use.
[0155] As mentioned previously, according to the first to fifth
embodiments, a secondary battery in a surgical instrument can be
recharged while held in noncontact with an energy generation unit.
In other words, the secondary battery can be recharged with the
sterilized surgical instrument left uncontaminated. Moreover, the
necessity of renewing a battery during surgery can be substantially
obviated.
[0156] In the embodiments of surgical instruments described below,
it will be understood that charging units as described in
connection with the first through fifth embodiments may be
employed, and further description will be omitted.
[0157] Several embodiments will not be described in which treatment
energy output from a treatment section can be adjusted readily and
quickly, and an amount of energy output to the treatment section
can be adjusted to facilitate delicate or precise treatment.
[0158] (Sixth Embodiment)
[0159] As shown in FIG. 14, an ultrasonic treatment instrument 81A
that is a motor-driven surgical instrument is comprised of an
elongated insertion unit 82 to be inserted into a body cavity and
an operating unit 83 formed at the back end of the insertion unit
82. The operating unit 83 is hand-held for manipulating the
ultrasonic treatment instrument 81A. The operating unit 83 includes
a handle portion 84 and a movable manipulation lever 85.
[0160] As shown in FIG. 15, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 81A
has an ultrasonic transducer 82 located in a housing 91 of
operating unit 83. The ultrasonic transducer 92 oscillates at an
ultrasonic frequency in response to a driving signal sent from a
transducer drive unit 93.
[0161] Ultrasonic waves (driving force) generated by the ultrasonic
transducer 92 are propagated to an ultrasonic treatment section 97
via a horn 94 and an ultrasonic propagation rod 96. The ultrasonic
propagation rod 96 is linked to the horn 94 and run through a
hollow sheath 95 which forms an insertion unit. The ultrasonic
treatment section 97 is formed by the distal part of the ultrasonic
propagation rod 96 (extending out of the distal end of the sheath
95). The ultrasonic treatment section 97 may be in contact, for
example, with a lesion. The lesion is ultrasonically heated and
incised or coagulated by utilizing the ultrasonic waves.
[0162] The junction between the horn 94 and ultrasonic propagation
rod 96 is sealed using a sealing O ring 98. Thus, the interior of
the treatment instrument behind the horn 94 is held watertight.
[0163] The transducer drive unit 93 is comprised of an electrical
oscillator circuit 101 and a gain control amplifier (GCA) 102. The
gain control amplifier 102 amplifies an output of the oscillator
circuit 101 at a variable amplification factor (or by a variable
gain). A control circuit 103 varies the gain produced by the GCA
102. The oscillating output amplified by the gain by the GCA 102 is
applied to the ultrasonic transducer 92.
[0164] The ultrasonic transducer 92 is formed, for example, by a
bolted Langevin transducer having piezoelectric ceramics
layered.
[0165] A battery 104 is positioned in a battery chamber in the
lowermost area inside the handle portion 84.
[0166] The battery 104 supplies operating power to the control
circuit 103 via a power switch (not shown). Power is supplied from
the battery 104 to the transducer drive unit 93 via a switch
113.
[0167] The open end of the battery chamber is blocked with a lid
105. When the lid 105 is moved downward, the battery 104 can be
replaced with a new one. A seal member such as an O ring 106 is put
on the open end and abutting on the lid 105, whereby the interior
of the handle portion 84 is held watertight.
[0168] According to the present embodiment, the manipulation lever
85 is movable. An output adjustment mechanism 111 cooperates with
control circuit 103 to adjust ultrasonic treatment energy generated
by ultrasonic treatment section 97 according to the magnitude of
movement of manipulation lever 85.
[0169] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the
manipulation lever 85 has a pin 112 piercing the proximal end
thereof. The pin 112 is fitted in a guide groove 113 in the body of
operating unit 83 and movable longitudinally therein.
[0170] As shown in FIG. 15, the portion of the housing 91 in which
the guide groove 113 is bored is made thicker.
[0171] An arm 114 projects from near the center position in a
longitudinal direction of the manipulation lever 85 towards the
handle portion 84. The manipulation lever 85 is pulled towards the
handle portion 84, e.g., by a finger put on the manipulation lever
85. This causes a cylinder 115 to move in a direction parallel to a
longitudinal direction of the guide groove 113 (direction of arrow
A in FIG. 16). The cylinder 115 is attached to the distal end of
the arm 114 on the side of the handle portion.
[0172] The housing 91 of the handle portion 84 has a cylinder
fitting hole into which the cylinder 115 is fitted. An O ring 116
on the perimeter of the cylinder fitting hole, provides a
watertight seal.
[0173] A piston 118 based by a compression spring 112 extends out
of cylinder 115. A piezoelectric switch 119 is attached to the
extending portion of piston 118.
[0174] As shown in FIG. 16, the piezoelectric switch 119 has, for
example, four piezoelectric elements 120a, 120b, 120c, and 120d
layered. Voltage is developed across a piezoelectric element
proportional to an applied force. The voltage is output to the
control circuit 103 through electrodes, which are not shown, formed
on both sides of the piezoelectric element.
[0175] Each the four piezoelectric elements 120a to 120d has a
different sensitivity to applied force. For example, the
piezoelectric element 120a has the highest sensitivity, and the
piezoelectric element 120b has the second highest sensitivity. The
piezoelectric element 120c has the third highest sensitivity, and
the piezoelectric element 120d has the lowest sensitivity. When the
piezoelectric switch 119 is pressed with feeble force exerted by
the spring 117, even the most sensitive piezoelectric element 120a
will not generate any voltage.
[0176] Outputs (voltages) from the piezoelectric elements 120a to
120d are input to four comparators 121a, 121b, 121c, and 121d in
the control circuit 103, and compared with a reference voltage that
has undergone voltage drops caused by, for example, resistors R1
and R2. Outputs of the four comparators 121a to 121d are input to a
decoder 122. The decoder 122 decodes the four outputs, produces a
gain control signal whose level is proportional to the applied
force, and provides the signal to the gain control terminal of the
GCA 102.
[0177] The GCA 102 amplifies an input signal by a gain proportional
to the voltage level of the gain control signal applied to the gain
control terminal, and outputs the resultant signal. An output
signal of the oscillator circuit 101 input to the GCA 102 is
amplified by a gain proportional to the voltage level of the gain
control signal applied to the gain control terminal of the GCA 102,
and then applied to the ultrasonic transducer 92.
[0178] The output of the comparator 121a is also used to control
whether an analog switch 123 is turned on or off. The analog switch
123 is connected in series with the power switch (not shown), and
interposed between the secondary battery 104 and the power terminal
of the transducer drive unit 93. When the manipulation lever 85 is
manipulated to the extent that the threshold force for
piezoelectric element 120a is exceeded, an output from the most
sensitive comparator 121a is driven high, driving power is supplied
from the secondary battery 104 to the oscillator circuit 101 and
GCA 102.
[0179] In other words, according to the present embodiment, when
the power switch is manipulated, power is supplied from the
secondary battery 104 to the control circuit 103 and analog switch
123. Power is supplied to the transducer drive unit 93 only when
the manipulation lever 85 is moved to such an extent that the
output from the comparator 121a assumes a certain voltage level or
more. This is intended to save electrical energy to be consumed by
the transducer drive unit 93 when the manipulation lever 85 remains
unmoved.
[0180] Operations to be exerted by the ultrasonic treatment
instrument 81A of the sixth embodiment having the foregoing
components will be described below.
[0181] Assume that, for example, the ultrasonic treatment
instrument is inserted into the abdominal cavity for resetting a
lesion or performing surgery to arrest bleeding. In this case, an
endoscope (not shown) is inserted into the abdominal cavity using a
trocar and cannula so that a lesion can be observed, and the
ultrasonic treatment 81A is inserted while guided with the trocar
and cannula.
[0182] When it becomes possible to observe the lesion and the
distal part of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 81A using the
endoscope, the power switch of the ultrasonic treatment instrument
81A is turned on to actuate the control circuit 103. The distal
treatment section 97 of the insertion unit 82 is abutted against
the lesion. In this state, the handle portion 84 of the operation
unit 83 is held with a hand, and a finger is rested on the finger
rest of the manipulation lever 85. The manipulation lever 85 is
then pulled towards the handle portion 84.
[0183] When the piston 118 is left pressed against the
piezoelectric switch 119 due to elastic force exerted by the spring
117, pressing force is applied to the four piezoelectric elements
120a to 120d constituting the piezoelectric switch 119. The
pressing force is proportional to manipulating force with which the
manipulation lever 85 is pulled towards the handle portion 84.
[0184] When voltage generated by the most sensitive piezoelectric
element 120a exceeds a reference level due to the pressing force,
an output of the comparator 121a is driven high and the switch 123
is turned on. Consequently, power is supplied to the transducer
drive unit 93.
[0185] The oscillator circuit 101 then oscillates. An oscillating
output of the oscillator circuit is applied to the ultrasonic
transducer 92 via the GCA 102.
[0186] Assuming that the applied force is small, when voltage
generated by the piezoelectric element 120a exceeds the reference
level, voltages generated by all the piezoelectric elements 120a to
120d have exceeded the reference level.
[0187] When the output of the comparator 121a alone is driven high,
the gain produced by the GCA 102 is small, and the amplitude of a
transducer driving signal to be applied to the ultrasonic
transducer 92 is small. Consequently, the amount of ultrasonic
treatment energy output from the treatment section 97 is small.
[0188] Moreover, when the outputs of all the comparators 121a to
121d are driven high, the gain produced by the GCA 102 is the
largest and the amplitude of the transducer driving signal to be
applied to the ultrasonic transducer 92 is the largest.
Consequently, the amount of ultrasonic treatment energy output from
the treatment section 97 is large.
[0189] Consequently, force with which the manipulation lever 85 is
pulled towards the handle portion 84 is adjusted so that an amount
of ultrasonic output energy suitable for incision can be
produced.
[0190] For coagulating a bleeding lesion, the force with which the
manipulation lever 85 is pulled towards the handle portion 84 is
adjusted to thus set the amount of ultrasonic treatment output
energy to a value proportional to the magnitude of force.
Consequently, the lesion to be coagulated can be treated with the
ultrasonic treatment energy output from the magnitude suitable for
coagulation.
[0191] According to the present embodiment, the manipulation lever
85 is manipulated with a finger of a hand holding the operation
unit 83 of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 81A. The output of
the distal treatment section 97 of the insertion unit 82 can be
readily varied nearly proportionally to the manipulating force. An
operator can therefore readily set the amount of treatment output
energy to his/her desired value.
[0192] Moreover, since an amount of energy can be varied with a
simple manipulation performed with a hand holding the ultrasonic
treatment instrument, a surgical procedure requiring a precise and
delicate skill can be carried out smoothly.
[0193] FIG. 17 shows an alternative output adjustment mechanism
111'. In this variant, an elastic-conducting device 126 having
conductivity and elasticity is used instead of the piezoelectric
switch 119 shown in FIG. 16. When the elastic-conducting device 126
is compressed, its resistance decreases.
[0194] The elastic-conducting device 126 has one end thereof fixed
to a restriction plate 127 positioned in the housing and the other
end abutted on piston 118 biased by spring 117.
[0195] One of the electrodes 126a formed on elastic-conducting
device 126 is connected to a power terminal Vc (the positive
electrode of the secondary battery 104), and the other electrode
126b is connected to a ground terminal via a resistor R3. Electrode
126b is also connected to the noninverting output terminals of the
comparators 121a, 121b, 121c, and 121d comprising a control circuit
103'.
[0196] The inverting output terminal of the comparator 121a shown
in FIG. 16 is grounded via a resistor R1, and the inverting input
terminal of comparator 121d is connected to the power terminal via
a resistor R2.
[0197] In the variant shown in FIG. 17, resistors R4, R5, and R6
are connected, respectively, between the inverting input terminals
of the comparators 121a and 121b, 121b and 121c, and 121c and 121d.
Resistors R4-R6 are also connected in series with resistors R1 and
R2 between the battery and ground.
[0198] The other components are identical to those of the sixth
embodiment. Accordingly, in the variant of FIG. 17, when
manipulation lever 85 is pressed, the piston 118 exerts force,
elastic-conducting device 126, and the resistance thereof is
reduced. Voltage to be applied to the noninverting output terminals
of the comparators 121a to 121a increases accordingly.
[0199] When the voltage exceeds a reference level determined with
voltage applied to the noninverting input terminal of the
comparator 121a, the switch 123 is turned on. The outputs of the
comparators 121a to 121d are decoded by the decoder 122. A gain
control signal proportional to force with which the
elastic-conducting device 126 experience is thus applied to the GCA
102. The amplitude of a driving signal used to drive the ultrasonic
transducer 92 is thus controlled.
[0200] Moreover, an amount of treatment energy output from the
treatment section 97 is set to a value proportional to the
amplitude of the driving signal. In short, this variant provides
substantially the same operations and advantages as the sixth
embodiment. In addition, however, it is observed that with a
piezoelectric switch, voltages generated by the piezoelectric
elements 120a to 120d are likely to be neutralized due to movement
of charges made during a specific time interval. For this reason,
if the manipulating force applied to lever 85 changes slowly, the
generated voltages tend to decrease. This variant of FIG. 17 is not
susceptible to this phenomenon.
[0201] (Seventh Embodiment)
[0202] An ultrasonic treatment instrument 81B in accordance with
the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 18 has an output adjustment
mechanism 131 partly different from the output adjustment mechanism
111 employed in the sixth embodiment.
[0203] An axis 132 piercing the proximal end of the manipulation
lever 85 is fitted in a hole bored in the housing 91 and thus
rotationally supported. An angle detection device 133 realized
with, for example, a potentiometer is attached to the end of the
axis 132 projecting into the housing 91.
[0204] When the manipulation lever 85 is turned, the potentiometer
serving as the angle detection device 133 and coupled to the axis
132 is rotated. Resistance varies proportionally to the angle of
rotation.
[0205] Moreover, a scale plate 134 is attached on the perimeter of
the axis 132 piercing the proximal end of the manipulation lever
85. A pointer 135 is attached to lever 85. An angle of rotation by
which the axis 132 is rotated by moving the manipulation lever 85
is may be thus read from the scale plate using pointer 135.
[0206] A spring 136 is interposed between the manipulation lever 85
and handle portion 84. The spring 136 constrains the manipulation
lever 85 to open. The angle detection device 133 outputs a
resistance value or a voltage value, which is proportional to the
angle of rotation by which the manipulation lever 85 is turned, to
a control circuit 137.
[0207] The control circuit 137 sends a signal, of which level is
proportional to an output value of the angle detection device 133,
to the GCA 102 in the transducer drive unit 93. The control circuit
137 includes the comparator 121a shown in FIG. 16. When the
manipulation lever 85 is turned a little towards the handle portion
84, if the output value of the angle detection device 133 exceeds a
small reference value, power to be supplied to the transducer drive
unit 93 is controlled by turning on or off the switch 123.
[0208] The secondary battery 104 supplies operating power to the
control circuit 137 and to the transducer drive unit 93 via the
switch 123.
[0209] The other components are identical to those of the sixth
embodiment.
[0210] The present embodiment exerts the same operations as the
sixth embodiment. Specifically, when the manipulation lever 85 is
manipulated, the axis 132 is rotated by an angle substantially
proportional to the magnitude of manipulating force. When the angle
of rotation exceeds a reference value, the control circuit 137
turns on the switch 123 so that power will be supplied to the
transducer drive unit 93. The control circuit 137 outputs a gain
control signal, of which level is proportional to the angle of
rotation, to the GCA 102, and thus controls the amplitude of a
driving signal, which is used to drive the ultrasonic transducer
92, proportionally to the angle of rotation.
[0211] Consequently, an amount of treatment energy output from the
treatment section 97 is set to a value nearly proportional to the
magnitude of manipulating force with which the manipulation lever
85 is manipulated.
[0212] According to the present embodiment, the manipulation lever
85 is manipulated with a finger of a hand holding the operating
unit 83 of the ultrasonic treatment instrument 81. An output from
the distal treatment section 97 of the insertion unit 82 can be
readily varied nearly proportionally to the manipulating force.
Consequently, an operator can readily set the amount of treatment
output energy to his/her desired value, and can quickly perform
treatment for cure.
[0213] Moreover, the amount of treatment output energy can be
varied using a hand holding the operating unit. This is helpful in
performing a delicate surgical procedure for precise treatment.
[0214] Moreover, according to the present embodiment, an angle of
rotation or a magnitude of manipulating force with which the
manipulation lever 85 is manipulated can be discerned from the
reading of the scale plate 134. The amount of treatment energy
output from the treatment section 97 can be checked based on the
angle of rotation or the magnitude of manipulating force. In short,
according to the present embodiment, the variable amount of
treatment output energy can be checked from the reading of the
scale plate 134 pointed out by the jut 135.
[0215] Even in the sixth embodiment, a scale may be formed in a
longitudinal direction of the guide groove 113 so that the position
within the guide groove 113 at which the pin 112 piercing the
proximal end of the manipulation lever 85 is located can be
discerned.
[0216] Moreover, the present invention is not limited to the means
for discerning the amount of treatment output energy using the
scale plate 134. Alternatively, an indicator formed with an LED or
the like maybe used to electrically indicate the amount of
treatment output energy. Otherwise, the value of an output
(voltage, current, or power) actually applied to the ultrasonic
transducer 92 may be electrically indicated.
[0217] (Eighth Embodiment)
[0218] Next, the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 19 and FIG. 20. A high-frequency
treatment instrument in accordance with the present embodiment is
different from that of the sixth embodiment in terms of an output
adjustment mechanism.
[0219] A high-frequency treatment instrument 81C shown in FIG. 19
has an output adjustment mechanism 141. The manipulation lever 85
has the proximal end thereof journaled so that the manipulation
lever can pivot freely with an axis of rotation 142 as a center. A
hemisphere projection 143 is formed near the proximal end of the
manipulation lever 85, and a strain detection device 144 is
embedded in the projection. An elastic rubber insert 145 having
elasticity is located at a position in the handle portion 84 at
which it is opposed to the projection 143. The projection 143 is
formed with an elastic member whose hardness is higher than that of
the insert 145. Force applied to the projection 143 is conveyed to
the strain detection device 144.
[0220] When lever 85 is manipulated, the projection 143 abuts
against insert 145 and presses it. An output proportional to the
pressing force is then provided by the strain detection device 144
to a control circuit 146. When the projection 143 hits insert 145,
it is deformed by projection 143. This permits the lever 85 to
pivot with the axis of rotation 142 as a center.
[0221] When a signal from the strain detection device 144 exceeds a
reference level, the control circuit 146 turns on the switch 123.
Also, the control circuit 146 controls a high-frequency treatment
instrument drive unit 147 according to an output signal
proportional to the signal input from the strain detection device
144.
[0222] The high-frequency treatment instrument drive unit 147
consists of, for example, an oscillator 147a and a GCA 147b for
amplifying an oscillating output of the oscillator 147a. The
control circuit 146 varies a gain, which is produced by the GCA
147b, proportionally to the signal input from the strain detection
device 144, and thus varies an amount of high-frequency treatment
energy provided by distal treatment section via electrodes 148a and
148b connected to the GCA 147b.
[0223] FIG. 20 shows the details of the strain detection device
144. The strain detection device 144 consists of, for example,
three strain gages 149a, 149b, and 149c which constitute a bridge.
The strain detection device 144 outputs a signal, which represents
a magnitude of strain proportional to the magnitude of pressing
force with which the manipulation lever 85 is pressed, to the
control circuit 146.
[0224] The other components are identical to those of the sixth
embodiment.
[0225] According to the present embodiment, high-frequency power
generated by the high-frequency treatment instrument drive unit 147
is propagated to the distal treatment section over the electrodes
148a and 148b. The treatment section is used to perform treatment
such as cautery using high-frequency energy.
[0226] Even in the present embodiment, an amount of treatment
output energy with which high-frequency treatment is carried out
can be varied. The treatment output energy is generated by the
high-frequency treatment instrument drive unit 147 according to the
manipulating force with which the manipulation lever 85 is turned,
and then propagated to the treatment section over the electrodes
148a and 148b.
[0227] The present embodiment has substantially the same advantages
as the sixth embodiment or its variant.
[0228] According to a variant of the present embodiment, strain
detection device 144 may be embedded in the elastic rubber insert
145. In this variant, an output signal of the strain detection
device 144 can readily be provided to the control circuit 146
without need for a signal line laid down in the manipulation lever
85 that is movable. This results in a simpler configuration.
[0229] (Ninth Embodiment)
[0230] Next, the ninth embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 21 and FIG. 22.
[0231] As shown in FIG. 21, an ultrasonic treatment instrument 81D
consists mainly of an insertion unit 152 and an operating unit 153.
The operating unit 153 has a handle portion 154 and a manipulation
lever 155. On and Off switches 156 are formed on the top of the
operation unit 153. An output adjustment switch 151 made of a
conducting rubber is located at an upper position on the handle
portion 154.
[0232] The output adjustment switch 151 has basically the same
structure as the elastic-conducting device 126 shown in FIG. 17.
When the elastic-conducting device 126 is pressed, its electrical
resistance varies depends on pressure applied by the thumb of the
user. A control circuit 168 (see FIG. 22) detects the resistance in
the form of a voltage drop, and varies the amplitude of a
transducer driving signal output from the transducer drive unit
93.
[0233] According to the present embodiment, a distal treatment
section 157 of the insertion unit 152 consists of a stationary jaw
158a and a movable jaw 158b. The movable jaw 158b is coupled to a
pulley 161 (see FIG. 22) by way of an operating wire 159 (see FIG.
22) passed through the insertion unit 152. The pulley 161 is
located near the proximal end of the manipulation lever 155. When
the manipulation lever 155 is turned, the movable jaw 158b pivots
with a pin piercing the proximal end thereof as a center. The
movable jaw 158b thus opens or closes relative to the stationary
jaw 158a.
[0234] FIG. 22 shows the details of the manipulation lever 155 and
handle portion 154. A gear 160 and the pulley 161 are located near
the proximal end of the manipulation lever 154 so that they can
rotate freely with respect to an axis of rotation 162. The gear 160
is connected to a motor 164 via a gear 163 engaged with the gear
160. The motor 164 is attached to the axis of rotation of the gear
163. The gear 163 rotates along with rotation of the motor 164.
[0235] Moreover, the back end of the operation wire 159 is linked
to the pulley 161 freely rotational together with the gear 160.
When the pulley 161 is rotated, the movable jaw 158b opens or
closes relative to the stationary jaw 158a.
[0236] A pressure sensor fixture 165 is formed to surround the
proximal part of the manipulation lever 154. The pressure sensor
fixture 165 is shaped substantially like letter U, and journaled
in, as shown in FIG. 22, an axis of rotation 166 at the upper end
of the pressure sensor fixture. Pressure sensors 167a and 167b
sensitive to pressure are attached to the ends of fork portions of
the pressure sensor fixture 165. The pressure sensors 167a and 167b
can come into contact with the side edges of the manipulation lever
155.
[0237] The secondary battery 104 supplies power to a control
circuit 168 and the transducer drive unit 93 via the On and Off
switches 156.
[0238] Outputs of the pressure sensors 167a and 167b are input to
the control circuit 168 and used to control rotation of the motor
164.
[0239] To be more specific, when the pressure sensors 167a and 167b
sense pressure, the pressure-sensitive outputs of the pressure
sensors are input to the control circuit 168. The control circuit
168 drives and rotates the motor 164 as long as pressure-sensitive
outputs are provided. When pressure is not sensed any longer, the
control circuit 168 stops driving and rotating the motor 164.
[0240] In short, once the manipulation lever 155 is manipulated,
the manipulation lever 155 is electrically driven using the motor
164. Thus, the manipulation lever 155 can be moved with small
force. Eventually, the movable jaw 158b can be opened or closed
relative to the stationary jaw 158a.
[0241] The control circuit 168 inputs a signal stemming from a
manipulation performed on the output adjustment switch 151, and
thus controls the transducer drive unit 93 (gain to be produced by
the GCA 102) according to the manipulating force applied to the
output adjustment switch 151. Assume that power is supplied to the
control circuit 168 or the like using the switch 156. When the
manipulation lever 155 is moved slightly in a direction permitting
the movable jaw to close (counterclockwise in FIG. 22), the side
edge of the manipulation lever 155 presses the pressure sensor
167a. The pressure sensor 167a senses the pressure and supplies an
output to the control circuit 168. The control circuit 168 then
drives the motor 164 to help turn the manipulation lever 155 in the
close direction via the gears 163 and 160. The operation wire 159
is thrust forward, whereby the distal movable jaw 158b is driven to
close.
[0242] If the manipulation lever 155 is moved in the open direction
permitting the movable jaw to open (clockwise in FIG. 22), the side
edge of the manipulation lever 155 presses the pressure sensor
167b. The pressure sensor 167 senses the pressure and supplies an
output to the control circuit 168. The control circuit 168 in turn
drives the motor 164 to thus help turn the manipulation lever 155
in the open direction via the gears 163 and 160. Moreover, the
operation wire 159 is wound about the pulley 161 and thus pulled
backward, whereby the distal movable jaw 158b is driven to
open.
[0243] When the output adjustment switch 151 is manipulated, a
signal whose level is proportional to a magnitude of pressing force
with which the output adjustment switch 151 is pressed is input to
the control circuit 168. The control circuit 168 controls the
transducer drive unit 93 (a gain to be produced by the GCA 102)
according to the magnitude of pressing force.
[0244] In the present embodiment, the manipulation lever 155 can be
manipulated in the open or close direction with small force.
Moreover, the movable jaw 158b of the distal treatment section 157
of the insertion unit 152 can be opened or closed with small
force.
[0245] To stop driving the motor 164, the manipulation lever 155 is
moved to an intermediate position at which it contacts neither the
pressure sensor 158a nor the pressure sensor 158b.
[0246] Moreover, the output adjustment switch 151 may be used to
vary an amount of ultrasonic treatment energy output from the
treatment section 157. Thus, the present embodiment has the same
advantages as the sixth embodiment.
[0247] (Tenth Embodiment)
[0248] Next, the tenth embodiment of the present invention will be
described with reference to FIG. 23. The tenth embodiment is
identical to the ninth embodiment except that the movable jaw 158b
is normally open and can be closed with a small manipulating
force.
[0249] Ultrasonic treatment instrument 81E shown in FIG. 23 is
comprised of a pressure sensor fixture 165' shaped like letter J,
and magnet 171 is attached to the motor 164 having the gear 163.
The shaft of the motor 164 (on the side of the motor opposite to
the side thereof on which the gear 163 is located) is fitted in a
guide groove 172 so that the shaft can be freely moved in
horizontal directions.
[0250] An electromagnet 173 is placed on the magnet 171. The
electromagnet 173 is connected to the control circuit 168. When
current is supplied to the electromagnet 173 under the control of
the control circuit 168, magnetic force repulsing the magnet 171 is
generated. Consequently, the motor 164 and gear 163 can be moved
towards the gear 160 along the guide groove 172.
[0251] As long as no current is supplied to the electromagnet 173,
the magnet 171 is, as shown in FIG. 23, attracted to the
electromagnet 173. In this state, the gear 163 is separated from
the gear 160.
[0252] The other components are identical to those of the ninth
embodiment shown in FIG. 22.
[0253] When the manipulation lever 155 is moved a little in the
close direction, the side edge of the manipulation lever 155
presses on pressure sensor 167a. An output of the pressure sensor
167a is input to the control circuit 168. Electricity is conducted
to the electromagnet 173. The resultant repulsion force causes the
magnet 171 and motor 164 to move along the guide groove 172 towards
the gear 160. Consequently, the gears 163 and 160 are meshed with
each other. The gears 163 and 160 are rotated due to the motor 164,
whereby the manipulation lever 155 is turned in the close
direction.
[0254] When the side edge of the manipulation lever 155 does not
press the pressure sensor 167a, the pressure sensor 167a does not
produce an output signal. Accordingly, the control circuit 168 that
receives an output of the pressure sensor 167a stops supplying
current to the electromagnet 173. The magnet 171 is therefore
attracted to the electromagnet 173. The gears 160 and 163 are
separated from each other and the motor 164 stops rotating.
[0255] Moreover, when the output adjustment switch 151 is
manipulated, a signal whose level is proportional to the magnitude
of the manipulating force with which the output adjustment switch
151 is pressed is input to the control circuit 168. The control
circuit 168 in turn controls the transducer drive unit 93 (a gain
to be produced by the GCA 102) according to the magnitude of
pressing force.
[0256] According to the present embodiment, almost the same
advantage as that of the ninth embodiment is provided when the
manipulation lever is moved in the close direction.
[0257] (Eleventh Embodiment)
[0258] Next, the eleventh embodiment of the present invention will
be described with reference to FIG. 24. This embodiment has, in
addition to the same components as the ninth embodiment, a limiter
means for detecting a manipulation zone in which the manipulation
lever 155 can be manipulated. When the limiter means detects that
the manipulation lever 155 has been manipulated beyond the
manipulation zone, the motor 164 is stopped driving the
manipulation lever.
[0259] In other words, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 81F
shown in FIG. 24 is different from the ultrasonic treatment
instrument 81D shown in FIG. 22 in that limit switches 169a and
169b for detecting the limits of the manipulation zone are located
outside the pressure sensors 167a and 167b respectively.
[0260] Output signals of the limit switches 169a and 169b are input
to the control circuit 168. In response to the signal outputs from
the limit switches 169a and 169b, the control circuit 168 gives
control to stop rotation of the motor 164.
[0261] Specifically, a space between the limit switches 169a and
169b provides a movable zone within which the manipulation lever
155 is movable. As long as the manipulation lever 155 is
manipulated within the movable zone, the control circuit 168 gives
the same control as that mentioned in conjunction with FIG. 22.
When lever 155 is moved beyond the movable zone, the control
circuit 168 stops rotation of the motor 164.
[0262] The other components are identical to those of the
ultrasonic treatment instrument 81D shown in FIG. 22.
[0263] If the manipulation lever 155 is moved slightly in the close
direction, the side edge of the manipulation lever 155 presses on
pressure sensor 167a. An output of the pressure sensor 167a is then
input to the control circuit 168. The control circuit 168 in turn
drives the motor 164 to help turn the manipulation lever in the
close direction via the gears 163 and 160.
[0264] When the manipulation lever is moved in the open direction
opposite to the close direction, the side edge of the manipulation
lever 155 presses the pressure sensor 167b. An output of the
pressure sensor 167b is input to the control circuit 168. The
control circuit 168 in turn drives the motor 164 to help turn the
manipulation lever 155 in the close direction via the gears 163 and
160.
[0265] The limit switches 169a and 169b are located outside the
pressure sensor fixture 165. When the manipulation lever 155 is
moved in the close direction, the fork portion of the pressure
sensor fixture 155 presses the limit switch 169a. The limit switch
169a senses the pressure and sends a signal to the control circuit
168. The control circuit 168 in turn stops rotation of the motor
164.
[0266] When the manipulation lever 155 is moved in the open
direction, the fork portion of the pressure sensor fixture 165
presses the limit switch 169b. The limit switch 169b then senses
the pressure and sends a signal to the control circuit 168. The
control circuit 168 in turn stops rotation of the motor 164.
[0267] Moreover, when the output adjustment switch 151 is
manipulated, a signal whose level is proportional to the magnitude
of the force with which the output adjustment switch 151 is
pressed, is provided to the control circuit 168. The control
circuit 168 in turn controls the transducer drive unit 93 (a gain
to be produced by the GCA 102) according to the magnitude of the
force.
[0268] According to the present embodiment, the same advantage as
that of the ninth embodiment is provided when the manipulation
lever 155 is moved within the movable zone. When the manipulation
lever 155 is manipulated beyond the movable zone, it can be moved
electrically. Thus, the manipulation lever can be prevented from
being manipulated to an unnecessary extent.
[0269] Next, a description will be made of embodiments of a
surgical instrument of improved maneuverability in which
manipulation of an operating lever or the like turns a power switch
on or off.
[0270] (Twelfth Embodiment)
[0271] As shown in FIG. 25, an ultrasonic coagulation/incision
instrument 201 is comprised of an insertion unit 220, a sheath 230,
and a handpiece 250. The insertion unit 220 has a treatment section
210. The sheath 230 is elongated and cylindrical, and serves as a
protecting member for protecting the insertion unit 220. The
handpiece 250 includes a hand-held operating unit 240. The proximal
end of the sheath 230 is coupled to the operating unit 240 so that
the proximal end can be uncoupled freely. An ultrasonic transducer
251 for generating ultrasonic waves, a drive circuit 252 for
driving the ultrasonic transducer 251, and a secondary battery 253
are incorporated in the handpiece 250. The battery 253 can be
renewed and serves as a power source for supplying driving power to
the drive circuit 252. The ultrasonic coagulation/incision
instrument 201 is a battery-powered treatment instrument having the
built-in battery 253 as a driving power source.
[0272] As shown in FIG. 26, ultrasonic waves generated by the
ultrasonic transducer 251 in the operation unit 240 are propagated
to a distal jaw 211, which is shaped like a bar, over a propagation
rod 211a.
[0273] The distal treatment section 210 of the insertion unit 220
consists of the distal jaw 211 and a movable part 212 adjoining the
distal jaw 211. The movable part 212 cooperates with the distal jaw
211 in clamping or freeing a living tissue. The back end of the
movable part 212 is supported with a distal coupler 213 so that the
movable part 212 can be opened or closed.
[0274] As shown in FIG. 25, the distal end of the sheath 230 opens
as an opening 230 having a substantially oval section. The
treatment section 210 of the insertion unit 220 projects from the
opening 230. A rotary knob 231 is fixed as an integral part to the
proximal end of the sheath 230 (end of the operating unit 240). The
rotary knob 231 is used to turn the movable part 212 of the
treatment section 210 with respect to the center axis of the distal
jaw 211. The sheath 230 can be detached from the handpiece 250.
[0275] The operating unit 240 has an integral stationary handle
255, and a movable manipulation handle 256 movable toward or away
from the stationary handle 255. A U-shaped coupling arm 257 is
formed at the upper end of the movable manipulation handle 256. The
substantially center position in a vertical direction on the
coupling arm 257 is fixed to the operating unit 240 using a handle
fulcrum pin 257a so that the coupling arm 257 can pivot freely.
[0276] A lock member 258 piercing the upper end of the coupling arm
257 is inserted towards a center-axis direction through a window
259 bored in the side of the operation unit 240. The lock member
258 has a lock claw 258a projected therefrom. The lock claw 258a
locks a drive shaft 221, which will be described later, included in
the insertion unit 220 within the operation unit 240 so that the
drive shaft 221 can be unlocked freely (see FIG. 26).
[0277] As shown in FIG. 26, the propagation rod 211a and the drive
shaft 221 are passed through the portion of the insertion unit 220
shielded with the sheath 230. The propagation rod 211a has a distal
part thereof jutted out as the distal jaw 211 of the treatment
section 210. The drive shaft 221 conveys a clamping or freeing
motion, which is made using the movable manipulation handle 256, to
the movable part 212 of the treatment section 210.
[0278] The proximal part of the propagation rod 211a is unified
with the ultrasonic transducer 251 within the operation unit 240.
Ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 251 are
propagated to the distal jaw 211 over the propagation rod. Thus,
the distal jaw 211 is used to ultrasonically treat a lesion in a
body cavity.
[0279] The drive shaft 221 is an operating member for conveying a
clamping or releasing instruction sent from the movable
manipulation handle 256 to the movable part 212. The movable part
212 is journaled in the distal end of the drive shaft 221 using a
pin 213a thrust into the distal coupler 213. The back end of the
drive shaft 221 is passed through the operating unit 240 and
coupled to the movable manipulation handle 256.
[0280] When the movable manipulation handle 256 is moved towards
the stationary handle 255, the drive shaft 221 withdraws and the
movable part 212 moves towards the distal jaw 211. At this time, as
the movable manipulation handle 256 is moved in order to close the
movable part 212, the movable part 212 is turned to close and meet
the distal part of the distal jaw 211. The movable part 212 and
distal jaw 211 cooperate with each other in clamping a living
tissue such as a blood vessel in a human body. In this state, when
the ultrasonic transducer 251 is driven, the living tissue clamped
by the distal jaw 211 and movable part 212 can be treated
ultrasonically.
[0281] According to the present embodiment, a switch is formed on a
side edge of the stationary handle 255. When the movable
manipulation handle 256 is opened or closed relative to the
stationary handle 255, the switch is turned on or off. Power is
supplied from the battery 253 to the drive circuit 252 for driving
the ultrasonic transducer 251 to propagate of ultrasonic waves from
the ultrasonic transducer 251 to the distal jaw 211.
[0282] A driving switch 261 electrically connected to the drive
circuit 252 and turned on or off by opening or closing the movable
manipulation handle 256 is formed on the side edge of the
stationary handle 255. Alternatively, a driving switch 261 to be
turned on or off by opening or closing the movable manipulation
handle 256 may be formed on the side edge of the movable
manipulation handle 256.
[0283] The drive circuit 252 is electrically connected to the
battery 253 and ultrasonic transducer 251. The drive circuit 252
consists mainly of an oscillator circuit (not shown) for receiving
power from the battery 253 and generating a high-frequency signal,
and an amplification circuit (not shown) for amplifying in power
the high-frequency signal sent from the oscillator circuit and
outputting a driving signal. The drive circuit 252 supplies the
driving signal output from the amplification circuit to the
ultrasonic transducer 251 to drive the ultrasonic transducer
251.
[0284] The distal jaw 211 and movable part 212 of the treatment
section 210 are caused to clamp a living tissue by opening or
closing the movable manipulation handle 256. The movable
manipulation handle 256 turns on the driving switch 261 nearly at
the same time. Power is then supplied from the battery 253 to the
drive circuit 252, whereby the ultrasonic transducer 251 is driven.
Ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer 251 are
then propagated to the distal jaw 211, which is the distal part of
the propagation rod 211a, over the propagation rod 211.
Consequently, the living tissue is coagulated or incised.
[0285] When the movable manipulation handle 256 of the operation
unit 240 is opened or closed, the driving switch 216 is turned on
or off responsively. Treatment can therefore be performed only when
needed. Besides, the maneuverability of the treatment instrument
improves.
[0286] As shown in FIG. 27, in addition to the driving switch 216,
a second switch 262 may be formed on the operation unit 240. After
the second switch 262 is manually turned on, the movable
manipulation handle 256 may be moved to turn on the driving switch
261. Thus, when a living tissue must merely be clamped with the
distal jaw 211 and movable part 212, even if the movable
manipulation handle 256 is opened or closed to turn on the driving
switch 261, neither ultrasonic coagulation nor incision will be
carried out.
[0287] The present invention will not be limited to this mode.
Alternatively, a switch may be formed on an operating unit of an
electric cautery or the like for exerting the operation of incision
or coagulation for a living tissue using high-frequency heat
energy. The operating unit may be manipulated in order to turn on
or off the switch.
[0288] Moreover, according to the present embodiment, the treatment
instrument is of a battery-powered type that uses a battery as a
driving power source to perform various kinds of treatment on a
living tissue. The present invention is not limited to this type of
treatment instrument. The present invention can also be applied to
a treatment instrument in which driving power or a driving signal
or the like used to drive the ultrasonic transducer 251 may be
supplied from an external main unit in order to carry out various
kinds of treatment. In this case, after a switch formed on, for
example, the external main unit is turned on, the movable
manipulation handle 256 may be opened or closed to thus turn on or
off the driving switch 261.
[0289] (Thirteenth Embodiment)
[0290] Next, the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention
will be described with reference to FIG. 28.
[0291] According to the twelfth embodiment, one battery 253 is used
as a driving power source for supplying driving power to an
ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument. Power supply from the
battery 253 to the drive circuit 252 for driving the ultrasonic
transducer 251 is controlled in order to supply ultrasonic waves
from the ultrasonic transducer 251 to the distal jaw 211. In
contrast, according to the thirteenth embodiment, at least two
replaceable batteries are used as the driving power source to
supply power to the drive circuit 252. The other components are
identical to those shown in FIG. 26. The description of the
components will therefore be omitted. The same reference numerals
will be assigned to the identical components.
[0292] As shown in FIG. 28, two batteries 271 and 272 having lids
271a and 272a, being connected to the drive circuit 252, and
capable of being replaced with new ones are incorporated in the
operation unit 240 of an ultrasonic coagulation/incision
instrument. The battery 271 is placed with a positive electrode
thereof located on the left side and a negative electrode thereof
located on the right side. The battery 272 is placed with a
negative electrode thereof located on the left side and a positive
electrode thereof located on the right side. The batteries 271 and
272 are thus connected in parallel with each other.
[0293] Consequently, even when one of the two batteries 271 and
272, for example, the battery 271 is removed, driving power can be
supplied from the battery 272 to the drive circuit 252.
[0294] According to the present embodiment, two batteries that can
be removed and renewed are used as a driving power source to supply
power to the drive circuit 252. Three or more batteries that can be
removed and renewed may be used to supply power to the drive
circuit 252.
[0295] (Fourteenth Embodiment)
[0296] Next, the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention
will be described with reference to FIG. 29.
[0297] According to the twelfth and thirteenth embodiments, the
ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument 201 is used to
ultrasonically coagulate or incise a living tissue. According to
the present embodiment, a bipolar coagulator is used to coagulate a
living tissue with high-frequency energy.
[0298] As shown in FIG. 29, a bipolar coagulator 290 is comprised
of a treatment section 291, a hand-held portion 292, and a
handpiece 295. The treatment section 291 is used to treat a living
tissue. The hand-held portion 292 is located at the proximal end of
the treatment section 291 and is a hand-held operating unit by
which to manipulate the treatment section 291. A high-frequency
output circuit 293 for providing high-frequency energy, and a
battery 294 serving as a driving power source for driving the
high-frequency output circuit 293 and capable of being renewed are
incorporated in the handpiece 295. The bipolar coagulator 290 is a
battery-powered treatment instrument having the built-in battery
294 as the driving power source.
[0299] A driving switch 296 to be turned on or off by holding the
hand-held portion 292 is formed on one side surface of one of two
sections of the hand-held portion 292. The hand-held portion 292 is
held for clamping a living tissue with the treatment section 291.
When the driving switch 296 is thus turned on, power is supplied
from the battery 294 to the high-frequency output circuit 293. This
causes high-frequency energy, which is used for coagulation, to
develop at the treatment section 291. The clamped living tissue is
then coagulated with the high-frequency energy.
[0300] When the hand-held portion 292 is held, the driving switch
296 is turned on or off responsively. Coagulation is therefore
carried out only when needed. Besides, the maneuverability of the
treatment instrument improves.
[0301] Similarly to the ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument
201 described in conjunction with FIG. 27, in addition to the
driving switch 296, a second switch (not shown) may be formed on
the handpiece 295. After the second switch is manually turned on,
the hand-held portion 292 may be held to thus turn on the driving
switch. In this case, when a living tissue must merely be clamped
with the treatment section 291, even if the hand-held portion 292
is held to thus turn on the driving switch 296, coagulation will
not be carried out.
[0302] Similarly to the ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument
described in conjunction with FIG. 28, at least two batteries
capable of being removed may be used as a driving power source to
supply power to the high-frequency output circuit 293.
[0303] According to the present embodiment, the treatment
instrument is of a battery-powered type for performing various
kinds of treatment on a living tissue using a battery as a driving
power source. The present invention is not limited to this type of
treatment instrument. The present invention can also be applied to
a treatment instrument in which driving power used to drive the
high-frequency output circuit 293 is supplied from an external main
unit in order to carry out various kinds of treatment. In this
case, for example, after a switch on the external main unit is
turned on, the hand-held portion 292 may be held to thus turn on or
off the driving switch 296.
[0304] Next, a description will be made of a surgical instrument in
which an amount of output treatment energy used for treatment is
controlled based on a magnitude of holding force with which a
hand-held portion is held.
[0305] (Fifteenth Embodiment)
[0306] As shown in FIG. 30, a battery-powered ultrasonic
coagulation/incision instrument 301 in accordance with the
fifteenth embodiment consists mainly of an insertion unit 302 and
an operation unit 305. The insertion unit 302 is inserted into a
body cavity. The operation unit 305 is formed at the proximal end
of the insertion unit 302 and composed of a stationary handle 303
and a movable handle 304.
[0307] A cylinder 306 is placed along an axis of insertion as a
proximal part of the operation unit 305. A secondary battery 307, a
drive circuit 308, and an ultrasonic transducer 309 are
incorporated in the cylinder 306. Energy to be output from the
drive circuit 308 is supplied from the battery 307.
[0308] A treatment section 310 is formed at the distal end of the
insertion unit 302, and is comprised of a probe 311 and a movable
part 312. A drive shaft 313 over which a manipulation performed on
the movable handle 304 is conveyed to the movable part 312 extends
through the insertion unit 302. A handle 305 is rotatably mounted
on a pin 315 extending through stationary handle 303.
[0309] The stationary handle 303 has a force detection unit 314 for
detecting the magnitude of a force to be propagated to the drive
shaft 313. One suitable force detection unit 314 is realized with
an electrical capacitance force detector in which the capacitance
is a function of the distance between electrodes thereof.
Alternatively, a strain gage formed using a piezoelectric element
or the like may be used.
[0310] As shown in FIG. 31, the drive circuit 308 consists of a
signal detection unit 319, a drive unit 320, a control circuit 321,
and a buzzer 322. The signal detection unit 319 detects a signal
representing the magnitude of the force detected by the force
detection unit 314. The drive unit 320 drives the ultrasonic
transducer 309. The control circuit 321 controls the drive unit 320
according to the signal sent from the signal detection unit
319.
[0311] The control circuit 321 provides a sound signal to the
buzzer 322 according to an amount of energy to be provided to the
drive unit 320. The buzzer 322 produces sound whose level is
proportional to the voltage level of an output of the drive unit
320 controlled by the control circuit 321.
[0312] The frequency of the signal provided to buzzer 322 may also
vary depending on the amount of output energy. FIG. 32 shows a
suitable relationship between the amount of energy output from the
control circuit 321 to the drive unit 320 and the frequency of
sound output from the buzzer 322.
[0313] An operator perceives a change in the frequency of sound
output from the buzzer 322 with his/her ears, and thus recognizes a
change in the amount of output energy.
[0314] Next, a description will be made of operations to be exerted
by the battery-powered ultrasonic coagulation/incision instrument
301 in accordance with the present embodiment.
[0315] When the battery-powered ultrasonic coagulation/incision
instrument 301 is used to coagulate or incise a living tissue, the
living tissue is clamped with the probe 311 and movable part 312 of
the treatment section 310 by manipulating the movable handle 304.
The force detection unit 314 detects the magnitude of clamping
force. An output signal of the force detection unit 314 is
transmitted to the drive circuit 308. The drive circuit 308 allows
the control circuit 321 to control the drive unit 320.
Consequently, the ultrasonic transducer 309 is driven with output
energy whose amount depends on the output signal of the force
detection unit 314.
[0316] The relationship between a magnitude of force detected by
the force detection unit 314 and the amount of energy output from
the drive circuit 308 will be described below.
[0317] Assume that a magnitude of force (no-load force) with which
the operating unit 305 is moved with nothing clamped is FO(N), and
a maximum magnitude of force exerted when the operating unit 305 is
gripped is Fmax(N) (constant). When the operation unit 305 is
gripped with the maximum magnitude of force, a maximum set amount
of energy output from the drive circuit 308 shall be Pmax(W)
(constant). Assuming that a magnitude of force detected by the
force detection unit 314 when a living tissue is clamped by
manipulating the operation unit 305 is F(N), an amount of energy
output from the drive circuit 308, P(W), is expressed as
follows:
P=Pmax.times.(F-F0)/(Fmax-FO)
[0318] The ultrasonic transducer 309 is driven with the amount of
output energy P(W).
[0319] In the battery-powered ultrasonic coagulation/incision
instrument 301 of the present embodiment, the force detection unit
314 detects a magnitude of force exerted for manipulating the
operation unit 305 to clamp a tissue. The control circuit 321 in
the drive circuit 308 controls the drive unit 320. The ultrasonic
transducer 309 is driven with output energy whose amount depends on
an output signal of the force detection unit 314. By manipulating
the operation unit 305, a proper amount of output energy can be
applied to a tissue from the ultrasonic transducer 309. This
obviates the necessity of determining the amount of energy output
from the ultrasonic transducer 309 while manipulating the operation
unit 305. The maneuverability of the instrument can thus be
improved readily and easily.
[0320] Body portion 306 need not be cylindrical. Instead, it may
generally box-shaped as shown on FIG. 33. An indicator 331 composed
of LEDs may be formed on the top of the body 306. An amount of
energy output from the drive circuit 308 and dependent on a
magnitude of force detected by the force detection unit 314 may
thus be indicated in the form of a bar. This helps an operator
discern an amount of energy indicated with the indicator while
performing surgery.
[0321] The indicator 331 indicates a ratio of output power to
maximum output power (for example, a maximum output is 300 W) as an
amount of energy in the form of a bar. Otherwise, the indicator 331
indicates a ratio of the amplitude of ultrasonic waves to a maximum
amplitude in the form of a bar.
[0322] Instead of the indicator 331, a display unit 332 composed of
numerical indication LEDs may be provided as shown in FIG. 34,
formed on the top of the body 306. In this case, an amount of
energy output from the drive circuit 308 according to a magnitude
of force detected by the force detection unit 314 is indicated
numerically.
[0323] Even in this case, an operator can discern an amount of
energy displayed on the display unit 332 while performing surgery.
Using the display unit 332, output power (in the unit of the watt,
for example, a maximum output is 300 W) or the amplitude of
ultrasonic waves (a ratio % of the amplitude to a A maximum
amplitude) is indicated in the form of a numerical value.
[0324] (Sixteenth Embodiment)
[0325] FIG. 35 shows a battery-powered ultrasonic
coagulation/incision instrument 301 in accordance with the
sixteenth embodiment of the present invention.
[0326] This embodiment differs from the fifteenth embodiment only
in that instead of the force detection unit 314, a torque sensor
341 is, as shown in FIG. 35, embedded in the axis 315. Torque
applied to the axis 315 is measured.
[0327] The torque sensor 341 is formed with a strain gage. An
output signal of the torque sensor 341 is transmitted as a
magnitude of holding force, with which the movable handle 304 is
held, to the drive circuit 308.
[0328] The movable handle 305 is manipulated to clamp a tissue with
the probe 311 and movable part 312 of the treatment section 310.
The torque sensor 341 detects the magnitude of holding force. An
output signal from torque sensor 341 is transmitted to the drive
circuit 308. The drive circuit 308 drives the ultrasonic transducer
309 with output energy whose amount depends on the output
signal.
[0329] Next, a surgical instrument having a means for notifying an
operator of a driven state of a treatment section will be described
below.
[0330] (Seventeenth Embodiment)
[0331] As shown in FIG. 36, a surgical instrument 401 in accordance
with the seventeenth embodiment is comprised of an insertion unit
403 and a hand-held portion 404. The insertion unit 403 has a knife
section 402, which is a treatment section for incising a tissue, as
a distal part thereof. The hand-held portion 404 is located at the
proximal end of the insertion unit 403. A transducer 405 for
causing the knife section 402 to vibrate, a drive circuit 406 for
driving the transducer 405, and a battery unit 407 extending from
the top of the hand-held portion 404 for supplying power to the
drive circuit 406 are incorporated in the hand-held portion
404.
[0332] The battery unit 407 consists of a battery 411 formed with a
secondary battery utilizing high polymer and serving as a power
supplying means, and a light emitter (or LED) 412 serving as a
drive acknowledging means. To operate the device shown in FIG. 37,
the top of the light emitter 412 is pushed down to the hand-held
portion 404. This causes the battery 411 to supply power to the
light emitter 412 and drive circuit 406. The light emitter 412 is
then lit. The drive circuit 406 drives the transducer 405.
Vibrations generated by the transducer 405 are then propagated to
the knife section 402.
[0333] To be more specific, as shown in FIG. 38A, a contact 422
electrically connected, for example, to a positive electrode of the
drive circuit 406, is formed on the inner bottom of a cylindrical
screw section 421 of the outer surface of the hand-held portion
404. As illustrated, a first spring 423 made of, for example,
copper and conducting electricity to the periphery of the lower
surface of the battery 411, constrains the battery 411 to move
upward. The first spring 423 is connected to the negative electrode
of the drive circuit 406, though it is not shown.
[0334] The light emitter such as a miniature bulb 412, is located
above battery 411 and is linked to the top of the battery 411 by a
second spring 425. A transparent cap 424 is screwed to the screw
section 421. The second spring 425 is made of, for example, copper
and conducts electricity to the periphery of the top of the
battery. The negative electrode of the light emitter 412 that is
the side thereof conducts electricity to the second spring 425.
[0335] The centers of the upper and lower surfaces of the battery
411 serve as the positive electrode of the battery 411, and the
peripheries thereof serve as the negative electrode thereof. The
positive and negative electrodes are electrically isolated from
each other. When the constraining forces exerted from the first
spring 423 and second spring 425 are working, the center of the
lower surface of the battery 411 serving as the positive electrode
is, as shown in FIG. 38, not meeting the contact 422. Similarly,
the center of the upper surface of the battery 411 serving as the
positive electrode is not meeting the lower end of the light
emitter 412 serving as the positive electrode thereof. In this
state, therefore, the light emitter 412 is not lit and the drive
unit 406 is not actuated.
[0336] When the top of the transparent cap 424 is pushed down, the
constraining forces exerted from the first and second springs 423
and 425 are overpowered. The center of the lower surface of the
battery 411 serving as the positive electrode meets the contact
422. Likewise, the center of the upper surface of the battery 411
serving as the positive electrode meets the positive electrode of
the light emitter 412. In this state, therefore, the light emitter
412 is lit and the drive circuit 406 is actuated.
[0337] When the transparent cap 424 is, as shown in FIG. 39,
disengaged from the screw section 421, the battery 411 can be
renewed.
[0338] As mentioned above, according to the present embodiment,
when the surgical instrument 401 having the drive circuit 406
driven is in operation, the light emitter 412 that is a drive
acknowledgment device lights up. An operator can acknowledge that
the surgical instrument 401 is in operation. When the operation of
the surgical instrument 401 is stopped, the light emitter 412 is
put out. The operator can therefore acknowledge that the surgical
instrument 401 has stopped operating.
[0339] (Eighteenth Embodiment)
[0340] FIG. 40 shows a portion of a surgical instrument in
accordance with an eighteenth embodiment.
[0341] This embodiment is nearly identical to the seventeenth
embodiment, differing only in that a hand-held portion 404 of
surgical instrument 401a has a switch 431 with a built-in battery
411 and a light-emitting diode (LED) 432 instead of the battery
unit 407. The switch 431 has a contact 434. An elastic isolating
member 433 is interposed between the contact 434 and the center of
the battery 411 serving as the positive electrode thereof. The
contact 434 is electrically connected to the drive circuit 406 and
the negative electrode of the LED 432, thought it is not shown.
[0342] The center of the lower surface of the battery 411 serving
as the positive electrode thereof is electrically connected to the
drive circuit 406 and the positive electrode of the LED 432. The
contact 434 is normally not in contact with the periphery of the
battery 411 serving as the negative electrode thereof due to
elastic force exerted from the elastic isolating member 433. The
contact 434 is therefore normally electrically floating.
[0343] When compressing force is applied from the top 435 of the
switch 431 to the elastic isolating member 433, the contact 434
meets the negative electrode of the battery 411. Consequently,
power is supplied to the LED 432 and drive circuit 406. When the
drive circuit 406 is actuated, the LED 432 is lit responsively.
[0344] (Nineteenth Embodiment)
[0345] FIG. 41 shows a surgical instrument in accordance with a
nineteenth embodiment of the present invention.
[0346] As shown in FIG. 41, a surgical instrument 401b of the
present embodiment is comprised of an insertion unit 442 and a
hand-held portion 443. The insertion unit 442 is inserted into a
body cavity and has a treatment section 441 formed at the distal
end thereof. The hand-held portion 443 is formed at the proximal
end of the insertion unit 442. An oscillator 444 for supplying
energy to the treatment section 441, a motor 446 for rotating an
eccentric weight 445 so as to vibrate the hand-held portion 443,
and a battery 447 for supplying power to the motor 446 and
oscillator 444 are incorporated in the hand-held portion 443.
[0347] The output of oscillator 444 is determined by the resistance
of a variable resistor 449, the resistance of which depends on a
displacement in a turning direction of a handle 448 mounted on the
hand-held portion 443. Moreover, when the handle 448 is turned
towards the distal part of the surgical instrument 401b opposite to
the hand-held portion 443, the variable resistor 449 becomes
nonconducting. This disables power supply from the battery 447 to
the motor 446 and oscillator 444.
[0348] As mentioned above, according to the present embodiment, an
output of the treatment section 444 is determined with a
displacement made by the handle 448, The hand-held portion 444 is
vibrated using the motor 446 according to the output of the
treatment section 444. An operator can therefore recognize the
output of the treatment section 444.
[0349] Surgical apparatuses and surgical instruments in accordance
with the present invention are not limited to the aforesaid
embodiments. A variety of modifications can be made based on the
gist of the present invention.
* * * * *