U.S. patent application number 14/206010 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for combination electrosurgical device.
The applicant listed for this patent is GYRUS ACMI, INC., d/b/a Olympus Surgical Technologies America, GYRUS ACMI, INC., d/b/a Olympus Surgical Technologies America. Invention is credited to Kester J. Batchelor, Theodore Blus, Richard J. Curtis, John Mensch, Riyad Moe.
Application Number | 20140276797 14/206010 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50478574 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140276797 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Batchelor; Kester J. ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
COMBINATION ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE
Abstract
An electrosurgical system comprising: a handpiece including: (a)
a first power connector; (b) a second power connector; and (c) one
or more moveable members having a first position and a second
position; and an activation circuit having a first switch state and
a second switch state, wherein the activation circuit in the first
switch state does not allow either a first electrosurgical therapy
signal or a second electrosurgical therapy signal to exit the
handpiece; wherein when the activation circuit is in the second
switch state and the one or more moveable members are in the first
position the activation circuit allows the first electrosurgical
therapy signal to exit the handpiece so that a first therapy
current extends between the first power connector and the second
power connector, and wherein when the activation circuit is in the
second switch state and the one or more moveable members are in the
second position the activation circuit allows the second
electrosurgical therapy signal to exit the handpiece so that a
second therapy current extends between the first power connector
and the second power connector.
Inventors: |
Batchelor; Kester J.;
(Mound, MN) ; Curtis; Richard J.; (Maple Grove,
MN) ; Blus; Theodore; (Shoreview, MN) ; Moe;
Riyad; (Waunakee, WI) ; Mensch; John;
(Plymouth, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GYRUS ACMI, INC., d/b/a Olympus Surgical Technologies
America |
Southborough |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50478574 |
Appl. No.: |
14/206010 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61845664 |
Jul 12, 2013 |
|
|
|
61787731 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 18/1233 20130101;
A61B 2018/00589 20130101; A61B 2018/00595 20130101; A61B 18/1445
20130101; A61B 2018/00601 20130101; A61B 18/1442 20130101; A61B
2018/00607 20130101; A61B 2018/1412 20130101; A61B 2018/1462
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/42 |
International
Class: |
A61B 18/14 20060101
A61B018/14 |
Claims
1) An electrosurgical system comprising: a handpiece including: a)
a first power connector; b) a second power connector; and c) one or
more moveable members having a first position and a second
position; and an activation circuit having a first switch state and
a second switch state, wherein the activation circuit in the first
switch state does not allow either a first electrosurgical therapy
signal or a second electrosurgical therapy signal to exit the
handpiece; wherein when the activation circuit is in the second
switch state and the one or more moveable members are in the first
position the activation circuit allows the first electrosurgical
therapy signal to exit the handpiece so that a first therapy
current extends between the first power connector and the second
power connector, and wherein when the activation circuit is in the
second switch state and the one or more moveable members are in the
second position the activation circuit allows the second
electrosurgical therapy signal to exit the handpiece so that a
second therapy current extends between the first power connector
and the second power connector.
2) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the handpiece is
electrically connected to a generator capable of producing the
first electrosurgical therapy current and the second
electrosurgical therapy current.
3) The electrical system of claim 1, wherein the first
electrosurgical therapy current is bipolar energy.
4) The electrical system of claim 1, wherein the second
electrosurgical therapy current is monopolar energy.
5) The electrical system of claim 1, wherein the electrosurgical
system includes a ground pad.
6) The electrosurgical system of claim 5, wherein when the
activation circuit is in the second switch state and a blade
electrode is in the second position the blade electrode is
electrically connected to the first power connector and the ground
pad is electrically connected to the second power connector.
7) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the one or more
movable members is a blade electrode and the blade electrode in the
second position is electrically connected to the second power
connector.
8) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the handpiece
includes a first working arm and a second working arm and both the
first working arm and the second working arm are electrically
connected to the first power connector when the one or more movable
members are in the second position.
9) The electrosurgical system of claim 8, wherein power extends
from one of the one or more movable members to the first working
arm and the second working arm when the one of the one or more
movable members is in the second position.
10) The electrosurgical system of claim 7, wherein the blade
electrode includes a switch that is movable between the first power
connector, the second power connector, and an open position.
11) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the handpiece
includes a first working arm and a second working arm and when the
one or more movable members are in the first position the first
working arm is connected to a first power connector, the second
working arm is connected to the second power connector, and the one
or more movable members are in an open position, and when the one
or more movable members are in the second position the one or more
movable members are connected to the second power connector, the
first working arm is connected to the first power connector, and
the second working arm is in an open position.
12) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the activation
circuit includes one or more activation buttons.
13) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the activation
circuit includes one activation button and one selector.
14) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the first power
connector and the second power connector connect the handpiece to a
generator.
15) The electrosurgical system of claim 1, wherein the activation
circuit is connected to a generator by two or more ports.
16) The electrical system of claim 2, wherein the first
electrosurgical therapy current is bipolar energy, and the second
electrosurgical therapy current is monopolar energy.
17) The electrosurgical system of claim 16, wherein the one or more
movable members is a blade electrode and the blade electrode in the
second position is electrically connected to the second power
connector.
18) The electrosurgical system of claim 16, wherein the handpiece
includes a first working arm and a second working arm and both the
first working arm and the second working arm are electrically
connected to the first power connector when the one or more movable
members are in the second position.
19) The electrosurgical system of claim 18, wherein power extends
from one of the one or more movable members to the first working
arm and the second working arm when the one of the one or more
movable members is in the second position.
20) The electrosurgical system of claim 16, wherein the one or more
movable members is a blade electrode and the blade electrode in the
second position is electrically connected to the second power
connector, wherein the blade electrode includes a switch that is
movable between the first power connector, the second power
connector, and an open position, and wherein the first power
connector and the second power connector connect the handpiece to a
generator.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present teachings generally relate to an electrosurgical
device that can supply both monopolar power and bipolar power
during a surgical procedure, and specifically to electrical forceps
that can be mechanically reconfigured and/or electronically
reconfigured to provide both monopolar power and bipolar power
during open surgery.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Typically, electrosurgical devices have stand-alone
monopolar capabilities or bipolar capabilities. Thus, a surgeon
before a procedure begins may select either a device with monopolar
capabilities or a device with bipolar capabilities and the surgeon
can use the device to apply either monopolar power or bipolar
power. For example, if the surgeon selects a monopolar device and
monopolar power is not desired for the surgical procedure the
surgeon may use either the device that supplies monopolar power to
perform the procedure or switch to a device with bipolar
capabilities. Both of these devices may be used to perform the
procedure, however, switching between devices and/or using a device
that may be better suited for a different purpose may disturb the
procedure flow, cause unnecessary delays in the procedure, and in
some cases result in less than optimal energy sources being
used.
[0003] Generally, electrosurgical devices are connected to a
generator that produces a therapy signal and provides power to the
electrosurgical device so that a therapy current is produced.
However, the therapy currents that may be used are limited by the
generator and thus if the generator is only capable of producing a
single therapy current then only one therapy current can be applied
through the electrosurgical device. Additionally, a generator may
be capable of producing two therapy circuits, but the
electrosurgical device may only be capable of controlling and
applying a single therapy current. Thus, the electrosurgical device
may only apply a single therapy current. Some attempts have been
made to produce a device that includes both monopolar capabilities
and bipolar capabilities in a single device.
[0004] Examples of some electrosurgical instruments may be found in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,110,171; 6,113,596; 6,190,386; 6,358,268; and
7,232,440; and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.
2005/0113827; 2005/0187512; 2006/0084973; and 2012/0123405 all of
which are incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. It
would be attractive to have an electrosurgical device that may be
switched between a monopolar configuration and a bipolar
configuration with one hand so that a user can easily perform a
desired task without the need to disrupt the flow of a procedure.
It would be attractive to have an electrosurgical device that may
be used in open surgery as forceps and may be used for electrical
cutting and/or hemostasis. What is needed is an electrosurgical
device with both monopolar capabilities and bipolar capabilities
where the monopolar capabilities are deactivated during use as a
bipolar device and where the forceps are immobilized during use as
a monopolar device. What is needed is an electrosurgical device
that produces more therapy currents than a generator supplies
signals (i.e., generator modes) to the electrosurgical device. What
is needed is an electrosurgical device that is electrically
reconfigurable so that the electrosurgical device has fewer
activation buttons then signals that the generator supplies (i.e.,
generator modes) yet is capable of being electrically reconfigured
to apply all of the signals from the generator.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present teachings meet one or more of the present needs
by providing: an electrosurgical device comprising: (a) forceps
including: (i) a first working arm and (ii) a second working arm;
(b) a blade electrode; wherein the electrosurgical device is
capable of being switched between a first electrical configuration
so that the electrosurgical device delivers a first therapy current
through the first working arm, the second working arm, or both, and
a second electrical configuration so that the electrosurgical
device delivers a second therapy current through the blade
electrode; and wherein the first working arm and the second working
arm of the forceps are immobilized in the second electrical
configuration so that both the forceps and the first therapy
current are disabled.
[0006] Another possible embodiment of the present teachings
comprises: an electrosurgical system comprising: a handpiece
including: (a) a first working arm, (b) a second working arm, and
(c) a blade electrode; and an activation circuit having a first
switch state and a second switch state, wherein a therapy current
is conducted between the first working arm and the second working
arm when the activation circuit is in the second switch state and
the handpiece is in a first position; wherein the therapy current
is conducted between the blade electrode, the first working arm,
the second working arm, or a combination thereof and an adjacent
handpiece component when the activation circuit is in the second
switch state and the handpiece is in a second position; and wherein
the therapy current is not conducted when the activation circuit is
in the first switch state.
[0007] Yet another possible embodiment of the present teachings
provides: an electrosurgical system comprising: a handpiece
including: (a) a first power connector; (b) a second power
connector; and (c) one or more moveable members having a first
position and a second position; and an activation circuit having a
first switch state and a second switch state, wherein the
activation circuit in the first switch state does not allow either
a first electrosurgical therapy signal or a second electrosurgical
therapy signal to exit the handpiece; wherein when the activation
circuit is in the second state and the one or more moveable members
are in the first position the activation circuit allows the first
electrosurgical therapy signal to exit the handpiece so that a
first therapy current extends between the first power connector and
the second power connector, and wherein when the activation circuit
is in the second state and the one or more moveable members are in
the second position the activation circuit allows the second
electrosurgical therapy signal to exit the handpiece so that a
second therapy current extends between the first power connector
and the second power connector.
[0008] Another possible embodiment of the present teachings
provides: a surgical device comprising: (a) a handpiece (b) forceps
including: (i) a first arm and (ii) a second arm; (c) a blade;
wherein the surgical device is changeable between a first
configuration so that the first arm and second are configured as
forceps and a second configuration so that the forceps are
immobilized and the blade extends beyond the distal ends of the
first arm and the second arm so the extendable blade is configured
as a scalpel.
[0009] The teachings herein provide: an electrosurgical device
comprising: (a) forceps including: (i) a first working arm and (ii)
a second working arm; (b) a blade electrode that is movable between
a first position and a second position; wherein the electrosurgical
device is capable of being switched between a first electrical
configuration so that the electrosurgical device delivers a first
therapy current through the first working arm, the second working
arm, or both, and a second electrical configuration so that the
electrosurgical device delivers a second therapy current through
the blade electrode; and wherein the blade electrode includes a
slider that moves the blade electrode between the first position
and the second position.
[0010] The teachings herein provide: an electrosurgical device
comprising: a handpiece including: (i) a first working arm and (ii)
a second working arm; wherein the handpiece is covered by a movable
housing that secures the first working arm to the second working
arm; wherein the proximal end where the two arms are secured
together form a concave cross-section that creates a cavity when
the arms are closed; and wherein the handpiece is configured as
forceps that are movable between an open position and a closed
position.
[0011] The teachings herein provide: an electrosurgical device
comprising: a blade electrode that is movable between a first
position and a second position; wherein the electrosurgical device
is capable of being switched between a first configuration, and a
second configuration so that the electrosurgical device delivers a
therapy current through the blade electrode; and wherein the
electrosurgical device include a spring pin that extends into
contact with the blade electrode so that power is provided to the
blade electrode through the spring pin when the blade electrode is
in the second position.
[0012] The teachings herein provide an electrosurgical device that
may be switched between a monopolar configuration and a bipolar
configuration with one hand so that a user can easily perform a
desired task without the need to disrupt the flow of a procedure.
The teachings herein provide an electrosurgical device that may be
used in open surgery as forceps and may be used for electrical
cutting and/or hemostasis. The teachings herein provide an
electrosurgical device with both monopolar capabilities and bipolar
capabilities where the monopolar capabilities are deactivated
during use as a bipolar device and where the forceps are
immobilized during use as a monopolar device. The teachings herein
provide an electrosurgical device that produces more therapy
currents than a generator supplies signals (i.e., generator modes)
to the electrosurgical device. The present teachings provide an
electrosurgical device that is electrically reconfigurable so that
the electrosurgical device has fewer activation buttons then
signals that the generator supplies (i.e., generator modes) yet is
capable of being electrically reconfigured to apply all of the
signals from the generator.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates an electrosurgical device in a bipolar
configuration;
[0014] FIG. 2A illustrates the electrosurgical device of FIG. 1 in
a monopolar configuration;
[0015] FIG. 2B illustrates a close-up view of the blade electrode
immobilized between the working arms;
[0016] FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the
electrosurgical device of FIG. 2A;
[0017] FIG. 2D1 illustrates a close-up view of a spring pin in FIG.
20 when the blade electrode is extended;
[0018] FIG. 2D2 illustrates a close-up view of a spring pin when
the blade electrode is retracted;
[0019] FIG. 3A illustrates an exploded view of the electrosurgical
device of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 3B illustrates a close-up view of the spring pin of
FIG. 3A;
[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an example of an
electrosurgical device in a bipolar configuration;
[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the electrosurgical
device of FIG. 4 in a bipolar configuration;
[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of an electrosurgical
device;
[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates configuration bottom view of the
electrosurgical device of FIG. 6;
[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a shuttle
and blade electrode;
[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a slider assembly of an
electrosurgical device.
[0027] FIG. 10 illustrates another possible configuration of an
electrosurgical device in a monopolar configuration;
[0028] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of the electrosurgical device
of FIG. 10 in a monopolar configuration;
[0029] FIG. 12 illustrates an electrosurgical device with a blade
electrode extending from a working arm while in the monopolar
configuration;
[0030] FIG. 13 illustrates the electrosurgical device of FIG. 12 in
a bipolar configuration;
[0031] FIG. 14 illustrates an end view of an example of working
arms with a channel for the blade electrode;
[0032] FIG. 15 illustrates an end view of an example of solid
working arms;
[0033] FIG. 16 illustrates the blade electrode rotated for side to
side cutting;
[0034] FIG. 17 illustrates the blade electrode rotated for up and
down cutting;
[0035] FIG. 18A illustrates a cross-sectional view of working arms
gripping tissue;
[0036] FIG. 18B illustrates the electrosurgical device in the
bipolar configuration with power passing between the working
arms;
[0037] FIG. 19A illustrates a plan view of power passing between a
monopolar electrode and tissue;
[0038] FIG. 19B illustrates the electrosurgical device in the
monopolar configuration with power passing between the monopolar
electrode and the ground pad;
[0039] FIG. 20A1 illustrates a schematic of a bipolar configuration
with switches and power passing between working arms;
[0040] FIG. 20A2 illustrates a schematic of a bipolar configuration
with a central processing unit and power passing between working
arms;
[0041] FIG. 20A3 illustrates a schematic of a bipolar
configuration;
[0042] FIG. 20B illustrates a schematic of the electrosurgical
device with power passing between the blade electrode and the
working arms;
[0043] FIG. 20C illustrates a schematic of the electrosurgical
device in a monopolar configuration with power extending from the
working arms around the blade electrode;
[0044] FIG. 20D illustrates a schematic including the
electrosurgical device;
[0045] FIG. 21 illustrates one possible configuration of connecting
the electrosurgical device of the teachings herein to a
generator;
[0046] FIG. 22A illustrates an example of a control circuit diagram
with the working arms in a bipolar configuration;
[0047] FIG. 22B illustrates an example of a control circuit diagram
with the working arms in a monopolar configuration;
[0048] FIG. 22C illustrates an example of a control circuit diagram
of a monopolar configurations;
[0049] FIG. 23A illustrates a circuit diagram of one possible
bipolar configuration;
[0050] FIG. 23B illustrate a circuit diagram of one possible
monopolar configuration;
[0051] FIG. 23C illustrates an example of another circuit diagram
with the electrosurgical device in the monopolar configuration;
[0052] FIG. 24A illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in the off position and the blade electrode
including a switch;
[0053] FIG. 24B illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in the bipolar configuration with the blade
electrode including a switch;
[0054] FIG. 24C illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in the monopolar configuration with the
blade electrode including a switch;
[0055] FIG. 25A illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in the off position where the blade
electrode is free of a switch;
[0056] FIG. 25B illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in the bipolar configuration with the blade
electrode free of a switch;
[0057] FIG. 25C illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in a monopolar configuration where the blade
electrode is free of a switch;
[0058] FIG. 26A illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in the off position and the electrosurgical
device including a ground pad;
[0059] FIG. 26B illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in a bipolar configuration with the ground
pad in an off state;
[0060] FIG. 26C illustrates a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device in a monopolar configuration with the ground
pad in an on state;
[0061] FIG. 27A illustrates an example of an electrosurgical device
including an activation circuit with the activation circuit being
in the off position;
[0062] FIG. 27B illustrates an example of the electrosurgical
device in the bipolar configuration;
[0063] FIG. 27C illustrates an example of the electrosurgical
device in the monopolar configuration and a second activation
button closed;
[0064] FIG. 27D illustrates an example of the electrosurgical
device in the monopolar configuration and a first activation button
closed;
[0065] FIG. 28A illustrates an electrosurgical device including an
activation circuit including an activation button and a selector
with the electrosurgical device being off;
[0066] FIG. 28B illustrates the electrosurgical device of FIG. 28A
in the bipolar configuration;
[0067] FIG. 28B illustrates the electrosurgical device of FIG. 28A
in the monopolar configuration;
[0068] FIG. 29A illustrates example of a shuttle including
reconfigurable conductive paths and the electrosurgical device
being in the bipolar configuration;
[0069] FIG. 29B illustrates an example of the shuttle being moved
to a bipolar configuration and the conductive paths being
reconfigured;
[0070] FIG. 29C illustrates and example of the shuttle in the
bipolar configuration and conductive paths being reconfigured
within a generator;
[0071] FIG. 30A illustrates an example of a shuttle with
reconfigurable conductive paths and one possible plug arrangement;
and
[0072] FIG. 30B illustrates another example of a shuttle with
reconfigurable conductive paths and another possible plug
arrangement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0073] The explanations and illustrations presented herein are
intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the teachings,
its principles, and its practical application. Those skilled in the
art may adapt and apply the teachings in its numerous forms, as may
be best suited to the requirements of a particular use.
Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present teachings as
set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the
teachings. The scope of the teachings should, therefore, be
determined not with reference to the above description, but should
instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along
with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are
entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including
patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference
for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as will be
gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby
incorporated by reference into this written description.
[0074] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61/787,731, filed on Mar. 15, 2013 and
61/845,664, filed on Jul. 12, 2013, the contents of which are both
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for all reasons.
The present teachings relate to an electrosurgical device.
Preferably, the present teachings relate to an electrosurgical
device and associated componentry that form an electrosurgical
system. The electrosurgical system may be any system that includes
one or more of the devices taught herein. Preferably, the
electrical surgical system includes at least an electrosurgical
device. The electrosurgical system may include one or more
handpieces as taught herein, one or more ground path, one or more
generators, one or more electrosurgical devices, one or more
adjacent handpiece components, or a combination thereof and the
teachings herein of each device which are incorporated into the
electrosurgical system. The electrosurgical device may be any
device that may be used by a surgeon to perform a surgical
procedure. The electrosurgical device may function to be switched
between two or more configurations, two or more states, or both.
For example, the electrosurgical device may be switched between a
monopolar configuration, a bipolar configuration, a
non-electrosurgical configuration, or a combination of the three.
The electrosurgical device may be any device that may be switched
between two or more configurations with one hand so that a user may
switch between the configurations without the need for a second
hand, without disrupting the procedure, or both. The
electrosurgical device may be any device and/or configuration that
may be used ambidextrously, ambidextrously switched between
configurations, or both. The electrosurgical device may be used to
cut, perform hemostasis, coagulate, desiccate, fulgrate,
electrocautery, or a combination thereof. The electrosurgical
device may be any device that includes bipolar capabilities,
monopolar capabilities, non electrosurgical capabilities, or a
combination thereof. The electrosurgical device may be used in open
surgery. In addition to its electrosurgical capabilities the
electrosurgical device may be used for non-electrosurgical
purposes. For example, the electrosurgical device may be used as
forceps, tweezers, or both that may be used to grip an object, an
organ, a vein, skin, tissue, the like, or a combination thereof. In
another example, one or more parts of the device may include a
sharp edge and may be used to cut, similar to that of a scalpel.
The electrosurgical device may include a handpiece and a generator.
The electrosurgical device may have one or more therapy signals
that extend between the handpiece and the generator.
[0075] The one or more therapy signals may be a signal, power,
continuity, or a combination thereof. The one or more therapy
signals may extend from the handpiece to the generator or vice
versa. The one or more therapy signals may be formed by the
handpiece, formed by the generator, or both. The electrosurgical
therapy signals may be a therapy current. Preferably, the
electrosurgical therapy signals indicate that a user has performed
a step and a signal is being transmitted so that therapy current,
energy, or both is generated. The electrosurgical therapy signals
may provide a signal so that one or more therapy currents are
produced and the therapy currents may be used for electrosurgery.
The electrosurgical therapy signal may be conducted when the
activation circuit is in the first switch state, the second switch
state, a third switch state, the handpiece is in a first position,
a second position, a third position, or a combination of switch
states and handpiece positions. Preferably, a therapy signal is not
generated, does not exit the handpiece, or both when the activation
circuit is in the first switch state. The electrosurgical therapy
signal may be a monopolar therapy signal, a bipolar therapy signal,
or both. The electrosurgical therapy signal may be a monopolar
therapy signal, a bipolar therapy signal, or both. The monopolar
therapy signal may be any signal that has a voltage differential
between a return port and an active port in the generator. The
monopolar therapy signal may be any signal that when applied by the
electrosurgical device extends from one pole of an electrosurgical
device to another pole located at a remote location, off of the
electrosurgical device, off the handpiece, or a combination
thereof. The bipolar therapy signal may be any signal that has a
voltage differential between two leads that are connected to the
electrosurgical device, that are located in the generator, or both.
The bipolar therapy signal may be any signal that when applied by
the electrosurgical device extends from one component of a
handpiece to another component of the handpiece (e.g., between two
working arms, from a blade electrode to one or both working arms,
or both). An electrosurgical therapy signal, when the activation
circuit is in the second state, may exit the handpiece so that a
therapy current extends from a blade electrode, between the first
working arm and the second working arm, between the blade electrode
and one or both of the working arms, or a combination thereof. The
therapy signal may be generated and conducted from the handpiece to
the generator.
[0076] The generator may be any device that supplies power, a
therapy current, control signals, an electrosurgical therapy
signal, electronically reconfigures itself in response to a signal
from the user, physically reconfigures in response to adjustments
by the user, or a combination thereof. The generator may function
to be electrically connected to a handpiece to provide and/or
receive electrosurgical therapy signals, power, therapy current, or
a combination thereof. The generator may be capable of producing
only a single therapy current. The generator may be capable of
producing two therapy currents. The generator may include two or
more power connections, three or more power connections, or four or
more power connections. The power connections may be any port in
the generator so that one or more power connectors of the handpiece
may be plugged into so that power, control signals, therapy
currents, or a combination thereof are supplied to the
electrosurgical device. The generator may include one or more
switches that may be switched between one or more of the power
connections so that power, signals, or both may be selectively
applied to the electrosurgical device based upon a desired
configuration of the electrosurgical device. The generator may
include a central processing unit (CPU), a series of internal
switching, or both. The internal switching may provide a signal
from an activation circuit to the voltage source so that the
voltage source is supplied to the electrosurgical device and
preferably the handpiece. The CPU may be interchanged with the
internal switching and the switching may perform the same functions
as the CPU. The CPU may be any device that provides power, signals,
electrical reconfiguration, a switch between two or more therapy
currents, a switch between two or more configurations, a switch
between two or more therapy signals, or a combination thereof to
the electrosurgical device so that the electrosurgical device may
be used to perform a desired function as is discussed herein. The
CPU may be used to switch the electrosurgical device between a
first configuration, a second configuration, a third configuration,
a monopolar configuration, a bipolar configuration, a
non-electrosurgical configuration, or a combination thereof.
[0077] The first configuration, second configuration, and third
configuration may be any configuration such that the
electrosurgical device is mechanically reconfigured, electrically
reconfigured, signally reconfigured and/or different, or a
combination thereof. The first configuration, second configuration,
and third configuration may be any of the various configurations
discussed herein. The first configuration may provide a first
therapy current. The first therapy current may be monopolar energy
and/or monopolar current. Preferably, the first therapy current is
bipolar energy and/or bipolar current. Bipolar energy may be any
power source that during application extends from one pole of an
electrosurgical device to another pole on the electrosurgical
device. Stated another way, bipolar energy is energy that extends
from one component of the handpiece to another component of the
handpiece. For example, energy that extends between two working
arms on the handpiece is bipolar energy, or energy that extends
from a blade electrode to a working arm is a bipolar energy. The
first electrical configuration may be deactivated by electrically
disconnecting the one or more first activation buttons,
electrically disconnecting all or a portion of an activation
circuit, covering the one or more first activation buttons,
electrically disconnecting the blade electrode, electrically
disconnecting one or both of the working arms, shorting the blade
electrode with a return pad, or a combination thereof. The second
configuration may provide a second therapy current. The second
therapy current may be bipolar energy (e.g., bipolar current or
bipolar power), Preferably, the second therapy current may be
monopolar energy (e.g., monopolar current or monopolar power).
Monopolar energy may be any power source that during application
extends from one pole of an electrosurgical device to another pole
located at a remote location, off of the electrosurgical device,
off the handpiece, or a combination thereof. Stated another way,
bipolar energy is energy that extends from one component of the
handpiece to a component that is not part of the handpiece. For
example, energy that extends from as blade electrode to a ground
pad is monopolar energy, or energy that extends from one or both
working arms to a ground pad is monopolar energy. The second
electrical configuration may be deactivated by electrically
disconnecting the one or more second activation buttons,
electrically disconnecting all or a portion of an activation
circuit, covering the one or more second activation buttons,
electrically disconnecting one or both working arms, electrically
disconnecting the blade electrode, shorting the first working arm
with the second working arm, or a combination thereof. The third
configuration may be an electrosurgical configuration, a
non-electrosurgical configuration, or both. Preferably, the third
configuration is a non-electrosurgical configuration. The therapy
current that extends through the handpiece may be effected by a
signal and or current from the generator; a switch state of the
activation circuit (e.g. first switch state, second switch state,
third switch state, etc. . . . ); a hand piece position (e.g.,
first position, second position, third position, etc. . . . ). For
example, the therapy current may be monopolar energy when the
handpiece is in the second position and the activation circuit is
in the second switch state. However, the therapy current may be
bipolar energy when the handpiece is in the second position. In
another example, the therapy current may be a bipolar energy when
the handpiece is in the first position and the activation circuit
is in the first switch state. The first configuration, second
configuration, and third configuration may be any configuration
and/or may perform one or more of the functions as discussed herein
for the monopolar configuration, bipolar configuration,
non-electrosurgical configuration and each of those functions is
incorporated herein. Preferably, as discussed herein the first
configuration is a bipolar configuration, the second configuration
is a monopolar configuration, and the third configuration is a
non-electrosurgical configuration.
[0078] The non-electrosurgical configuration may be any
configuration where power is not supplied to the handpiece, the
blade electrode, the two or more working arms, or a combination
thereof. The non-electrosurgical configuration may be used when the
electrosurgical device is being used as forceps, tweezers, a
scalpel, a clamp, Kelley hemostat forceps, or a combination
thereof. In the non-electrosurgical configuration the working arms
may be mobile. In the non-electrosurgical configuration the working
arms may be immobilized, may immobilize the blade electrode, a
cutting arm, an extendable arm, or a combination thereof. The
cutting arm, the extendable arm, or both may be the blade
electrode, may be a discrete arm that includes a sharp edge and may
be alternated with the monopolar arm, or both. The
non-electrosurgical configuration may be switched to a monopolar
configuration or a bipolar configuration by pressing a button,
turning a switch, advancing a cutting arm, advancing a blade
electrode, advancing an extendable arm, or a combination
thereof.
[0079] The device when in a monopolar configuration may supply
power through a handpiece component (e.g., a blade electrode) and a
return electrode that may be located at another location outside of
the hand held portion of the electrosurgical device, through a
handpiece component and an adjacent handpiece component, or both.
The monopolar configuration may be any configuration where the
electrosurgical device may be used to apply monopolar power. The
monopolar configuration may be used to cut tissue, coagulate blood
and/or fluids, electrical cutting, hemostasis, apply power to a
large area, or a combination thereof. The monopolar configuration
may be used to heat a specific area, heat an object between both
electrodes, in contact with both electrodes, or a combination
thereof. A monopolar configuration may be used so that power during
use extends from a blade electrode to one or both bipolar
electrodes, one or more immobilization arms, one or more working
arms, one or more ground pads, or a combination thereof so that the
blade electrode may be used for delicate electrosurgery, localized
electrosurgery, coagulation, cutting, or a combination thereof. The
blade electrode may be used for less delicate procedures, less
localized electrosurgery, or both when compared to bipolar
electrosurgery.
[0080] The device when in a bipolar configuration may supply power
from one portion of the device to a second portion of the device so
that the return path for the power is relatively short when
compared to the monopolar configuration. The bipolar configuration
may be any configuration where the electrosurgical device may be
used to apply bipolar power. The device when in the bipolar
configuration may supply power between two localized handpiece
components such as two working arms. The bipolar configuration may
be used to coagulate, for hemostasis, cutting, fulguration, or a
combination thereof. When in the bipolar configuration the
electrosurgical device may include two opposing working arms. The
two opposing working arms may be configured as forceps.
[0081] The forceps may function to grip, hold, squeeze, or a
combination thereof one or more objects. The forceps may include
one or more finger grips (i.e., configured like scissors) that may
be used to move the forceps so that they may be used to grip one or
more objects. The forceps may be free of finger grips and be
actuated by direct pressure being applied to opposing sides of the
forceps so that the forceps close and grip an object. The forceps
include at least two working arms.
[0082] The working arms may function to grip, hold, squeeze, or a
combination thereof an object when the object is between the two or
more opposing working arms. The working arms may include one or
more gripping features that may assist in gripping, holding,
squeezing, or a combination thereof an object. The working arms may
be movable between two or more positions. Preferably, the working
arms are movable between at least a first position and a second
position. For example, the working arms may be movable between a
bipolar configuration (e.g., first position) and a monopolar
configuration (e.g., second position). The working arms in the
first position may be off, energized, one working arm may be
energized, or a combination thereof. The working arms in the second
position may be off, one or both of the working arms may be
electrically disconnected, one or both of the working arms may be
electrically connected, one working arm may be shorted by the other
working arm, or a combination thereof. More preferably, in the
second position the working arms are immobilized so that the
working arms cannot be used a forceps. The working arms may be
longitudinally static and moveable relative to each other. The
working arms may be longitudinally moveable and may be moveable
relative to each other so that a gripping force may be created. For
example, the working arms when in a bipolar configuration may both
be extended and then retracted so that a blade electrode may be
exposed forming a monopolar configuration. The working arms may be
retractable and/or extendable individually, simultaneously, or
both. The working arms may be selectively retractable and/or
extendable so that one or more tip regions are exposed.
[0083] The working arms may include a tip region. The tip region
may include a portion that is configured to assist in facilitating
gripping, holding, squeezing, or a combination thereof.
Additionally, the tip region may be configured in one or more
electrosurgical configurations (e.g., a monopolar configuration,
bipolar configuration, or a combination of both). The tip region
may include teeth, serrations, mouse teeth, be free of teeth (i.e.,
smooth), or a combination thereof. The tip region may be fully
and/or partially insulated. Preferably, the tip region includes
insulation on the non-contact portions of the working arms so that
electrosurgical energy is not transferred through incidental
contact. The working arms may include an active portion and an
inactive portion (i.e., an insulated portion).
[0084] The active portion may function to apply power. The active
portion may be the same portion as the contact regions of the
forceps. Thus, for example, when tissue is grasped between the
contact portions of the forceps, power may be supplied to the
tissue through this contact portion. The active portion of the
working arms preferably is between the two opposing working arms
and the active portion of the blade electrode is the portion that
extends beyond the working arms, out of the channel, or both. The
active portions may be substantially surrounded by inactive
portions or portions that are insulated. The inactive portion may
be any portion that does not supply power, that is insulated, or
both. The inactive portion may be any portion that may transfer
power through incidental contact and thus are insulated so that
incidental transfer of power does not occur and/or stray current is
prevented. For example, an outside of the working arms may be
coated with an insulating material so that if the working arms
accidentally contact tissue proximate to the tissue of interest the
proximate tissue is not subjected to a transfer of power. The
inactive portion and the active portion may be made of different
materials, coated with different materials, or both.
[0085] The working arms may be made of any material that may be
used to grip, hold, squeeze, or a combination thereof and provide
monopolar power, bipolar power, a therapy current, a gripping
force, or a combination thereof to a desired location. The working
arms may be made of one material and the tip region of each working
arm may include, be coated with, or both one or more materials that
may be insulating, a higher conductivity than the base material, a
lower conductivity than the base material, or a combination
thereof. The one or more working arms may include one or more
materials along the length of the working arm. For example, the
working arms may be entirely made of stainless steel. Preferably,
each working arm includes two or more materials. For example, the
working arms may have a base material of stainless steel and the
working arms may be coated with an insulating material such as
silicone or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The working arms may
include any material that is safe for use in a surgical procedure,
and preferably and electrosurgical procedure. The working arms may
include metals, plastics, a polymer, an elastomer, gold, silver,
copper, titanium, aluminum, iron based metals, stainless steel,
silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), insulating polymers,
rubber, or a combination thereof. Preferably, each working arm is
substantially coated with an insulating material except for a
contact region between the two working arms where the working arms
contact each other. The working arms may be coated in regions where
the user contacts the working arms. The working arms may have an
active portion and a passive portion, an inactive portion, or both.
For example, the active portion may be the metal that extends
through the working arms and is used to provide monopolar energy,
bipolar energy, gripping capabilities, holding capabilities,
squeezing capabilities, or a combination thereof. The passive
portion may be a portion that houses the active portion. The
passive portion may be a housing.
[0086] The working arms may be located within a housing. The
housing may be any part of the device that may include one or more
working arms and be gripped by a user during use. The housing may
electrically connect, mechanically connect, or both the two working
arms. The housing may be a pivot point so that the two working arms
may be moved when the housing is compressed. The housing may
substantially surround the working arms so that only the tip region
extends out of the housing and are exposed. The housing may
surround an outer side of the working arms and an inner side of the
working arms may be exposed so that as the blade electrode is
extended between the two working arms, the blade electrode contacts
one or both of the working arms. The housing may include a gripping
portion. The gripping portion, upon and application of pressure,
may close the working arms and upon a release of pressure the
working arms may return to an open position. The gripping portion
may assist the user in holding the electrosurgical device like a
pencil. The electrosurgical device may include an outer housing and
an internal housing. The internal housing may include, surround,
encapsulate, encase, house, or a combination thereof, one or more
internal features of the electrosurgical device. The internal
housing may house electrical components such as wires, terminals,
plugs, printed circuit boards, spring pins, or a combination
thereof. The internal housing may function to provide water
resistance to the electrical components. The internal housing may
extend through a through hole in the shuttle; provide a guide for
the shuttle to move along, or a combination thereof. The internal
housing may be an integral part of the outer housing. The internal
housing may be one or more discrete parts. The internal housing may
be two or more pieces that are connected together. The internal
housing may be connected to the external housing, housing one or
more of the activation buttons discussed herein, or a combination
thereof. The housing may be electrically connected to a power
source and provide power to each of the working arms. The housing
may be electrically insulating. The housing may include one or more
hinges and/or one or more hinge portions.
[0087] The one or more hinges may function to connect to rigid
pieces, impart flexibility into the working arms, the handpiece,
the electrosurgical device, or a combination thereof. The one or
more hinges may function to impart movement into the housing while
allowing the housing to substantially cover the components of the
handpiece. There may be a hinge on only one working arm or a hinge
on each working arm. The housing may include a rigid stationary
section, a movable section, a flexible hinge section, or a
combination thereof. The rigid stationary section may be on a
proximal end of the electrosurgical device (i.e., closest to the
user). The rigid portion may not move when the working arms are
moved about the hinge. The hinge may create a pivot point for a
movable section to rotate about. The movable section may function
to move so that a gripping force, a gripping movement, or both are
created. The movable section may cover all or a portion of the
working arms. Only a tip of the working arm may extend beyond the
movable section of the housing. The movable section may be
substantially rigid but may pivot about the hinge so that the
section is movable and/or flexible. For example, the movable
section of the working arm itself may not be flexible but the arm
may be movable such that the movable section moves with the arm.
The movable section may be on the distal side of the hinge (i.e.,
the side of the hinge farthest from the user). The movable section,
the rigid stationary section, or both may form a movable
connection, a rigid connection, or both with the hinge. Preferably,
the movable section forms a movable connection and the rigid
stationary section forms a rigid connection. The movable connection
may function to allow a hinging action, movement back and forth, or
both. The movable connection may create a force that opposes a
gripping of the forceps so that the forceps default open. The
movable connection may create a pivot point that opposes a rigid
connection. The rigid connection may remain static while the
movable connection moves about the rigid connection. The rigid
connection may form a side of the hinge that anchors the hinge so
that the hinge may move, flex, pivot, allow the arms to move, or a
combination thereof. The hinge may be any shape so that the hinge
moves. The rigid stationary section of the housing may have a
general C shaped cross-section to provide a shell to surround (the
inner components of the forceps). Likewise the rigid moveable
section may also have a C-shaped cross-section to provide a shell
to surround (the inner components of the forceps. The hinge section
may have slots in the outer portions of the C-shaped cross-section
so that the cross-section of the hinge portion is substantially
planar. The substantially planar cross-section may have lower bend
resistance so that the hinge section is relatively flexible
compared to the rigid stationary section and the rigid movable
section. The hinge section may form a generally "T" shape. The
housing may include one or more activation buttons, one or more
activation circuits, one or more printed circuit boards and
associated controls, one or more blade electrodes, one or more
shuttles, one or more channels, one or more immobilization arms,
one or more immobilizing features, one or more wires, one or more
conductors, or a combination thereof.
[0088] The one or more immobilization arms, one or more
immobilization features, or both may be any feature of the housing,
the working arms, or both that may immobilize one or both working
arms when the electrosurgical device is in the monopolar
configuration. The immobilization arms may be connected to the
housing and extend between one or both of the working arms and when
the blade electrode is advanced the immobilization arms are
separated and the working arms are moved into contact with each
other. The immobilization arms may be connected to the housing and
extend between one or both of the working arms and when the blade
electrode is advanced the immobilization arms are compressed,
pushed together, or both and the working arms are moved into
contact with each other. The immobilization arms may be generally
parallel to the working arms, may extend: in the same direction as
the working arms, may extend away from the working arms, towards an
opposing working arm, towards the user, away from a user, or a
combination thereof. Preferably, the working arms and the
immobilization arms form generally an "X" shape so that when one
side of the "X" is moved outward the opposing side of the "X" is
moved inward. For example, as the blade electrode is moved forward
the blade electrode may include a wedge and the wedge may act to
force the immobilizing arms apart so that the working arms are
moved together. The working arm and the immobilization arms may
form generally two "V" shapes. The two generally "V" shapes may
extend generally in the same direction so that as one V is widened
the other V is narrowed. The immobilization arms may overlap. The
overlap portion may form the "V" shape. For example, one
immobilization arm may extend from the housing, a first working
arm, or both towards the second working arm, the housing proximate
the second working arm, or both, and a second immobilization arm
may extend from the housing, a second working arm, or both towards
the first working arm and as an immobilization feature such as a
wedge is moved between the first immobilization arm and the second
immobilization arm the immobilization arms may be moved closer to
the opposing working arm so that the working arms are moved into
contact and immobilized. The housing, the working arms, or both may
be free of immobilization arms.
[0089] The two or more working arms may be immobilized by an
immobilization feature. The immobilization feature may be any
feature that connects the two or more working arms together so that
the arms are immobilized in the monopolar configuration, so that
the forceps are disabled, or both. The immobilization features may
be part of the arms, part of the housing, all or a part of the
shuttle, or a combination thereof. The immobilization features may
be a track that extends along all or a portion of each arm and as
the shuttle is moved forward or backward to the monopolar
configuration, each track may extend into communication with the
shuttle so that each of the working arms are moved into contact
with each other and vice versa from the bipolar configuration. The
immobilization feature may be a lock, a fastener, a piece that
houses all or a portion of the working arms, or a combination
thereof that locks the two working arms together. The
immobilization feature may be a piece that slides and compresses
the working arms, a piece that twists and radially compresses the
working arms, or a combination of both. The immobilization feature
while being moved and immobilizing may move a blade electrode, may
extend a blade electrode out a channel, or a combination of
both.
[0090] The housing, the one or more working arms, or a combination
of both may include one or more channels. The channel may be
located at any location within one or more of the working arms so
that one or more features may be extended through the channel. The
one or more channels may end at a distal end (i.e., an end used for
electrosurgery, farthest from a user, or both) of the housing, a
working arm, or both. The channel may be an absence of material so
that a device may be located within the channel and extend from the
channel. The channel may house any device that may be selectively
used during electrosurgery. The channel may be any shape to house
one or more electrosurgical devices. The channel may be round,
square, oval, diamond, the like, or a combination thereof so that
during use a device may be extended through the channel for use.
The device extended from the channel may be a mechanical cutting
device, a suction port, a smoke evacuation pot, a blade electrode,
a moveable member, or a combination thereof. Preferably, a blade
electrode is extended out of the channel so that the blade
electrode may be used.
[0091] The blade electrode may be any device that may be used to
apply monopolar power during a procedure, that may be
longitudinally movable, rotationally movable, extendable,
retractable, or a combination thereof. The blade electrode may be
static. Preferably, in one embodiment the blade electrode may be
static and the working arms moved relative to the blade electrode
so that when the working arms are moved the blade electrode is
exposed. More preferably, the blade electrode is a movable. The
blade electrode may have a first position (e.g., retracted) and a
second position (e.g., extended). The first position may be where
the blade electrode is located relative to the working arms so that
the working arms are past the blade electrode (e.g., the blade
electrode is retracted so that the working arms extend past the
blade electrode or the working arms are extended so that the
working arms extend past the blade electrode). The first position
may be where the blade electrode is electrically disconnected,
electrically shorted relative to another handpiece component,
electrically insulated so that power cannot pass from the blade
electrode, or a combination thereof. The second position may be
where the blade electrode is located relative to the working arms
so that the blade electrode is extended beyond the working arms
(e.g., the blade electrode is extended so that the working arms are
located proximate to the user or the working arms are retracted so
that the blade electrode is beyond the working arms). The second
position may be where the blade electrode is electrically
connected, supplies a therapy current, is electrically continuous,
or a combination thereof. The blade electrode may be a separate
piece that when activated may be used to supply monopolar power.
The blade electrode may be formed by connecting the two working
arms together and supplying power through only one working arm. The
blade electrode may be used for electrically cutting, mechanically
cutting, or both. The blade electrode may be a discrete third
working arm that may extend from one of the working arms, between
the working arms, or both.
[0092] The blade electrode may be made of the same material as one
or both of the working arms. Preferably, the working arms and the
blade electrode are made of different materials. The blade
electrode may be made of one material. Preferably, the blade
electrode includes two or more materials. The blade electrode may
be made of stainless steel, copper, silver, titanium, a metal, a
surgical steel, a metal with good thermal dissipation properties, a
metal with poor thermal dissipation properties, a material with
high thermal conductivity, or a combination thereof. The blade
electrode may include a material with a first thermal conductivity
and the working arms may include a material with a second thermal
conductivity. It is contemplated that the blade electrode, the
working arms, or both may include both a material with a first
thermal conductivity and a second thermal conductivity. The
materials with the first conductivity and the second conductivity
may be any of the materials discussed herein. The material with the
first thermal conductivity may have a lower thermal conductivity
than the material with the second thermal conductivity. Preferably,
the material with the first thermal conductivity has a higher
thermal conductivity than the material with the second thermal
conductivity. The blade electrode may include a coating. The
coating may be any coating that provides insulating properties,
provides improved thermal dissipation of a base material, prevents
corrosion, or a combination thereof. The coating may be a polymer,
an elastomeric, silicone, polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), the like,
or a combination thereof. The coating may extend over substantially
all of the blade electrode except for an active region of the blade
electrode. The blade electrode may include one or more insulator
sleeves that cover all or a portion of the blade electrode, the
blade electrode may be movable into and out of an insulator
housing.
[0093] The insulator housing may function to prevent power and/or
stray power from extending to and/or from the blade electrode when
the blade electrode is located within the insulator housing. The
insulator housing may receive all or a portion of the blade
electrode. The insulator housing may substantially surround all of
the blade electrode when the blade electrode is in a retracted
position, a bipolar configuration, or both. The insulator housing
may insulate the blade electrode from stray current from the
working arms, the ground pad, or both. The insulator housing may be
a static component and the blade electrode may move relative to the
insulator housing. The insulator housing may be made of insulative
material so that the flow of current to and/or from the blade
electrode is substantially prevented. The insulator housing may be
made of and/or include rubber, plastic, silicone, an elastomer,
silicone, PTFE, or a combination thereof. The insulator housing may
be used instead of or in addition to an insulator sleeve so that
the blade electrode is isolated and/or stray current is
prevented.
[0094] The insulator sleeve may prevent power from passing to
and/or from the blade electrode. Preferably, the insulator sleeve
prevents power from passing to and/or from the blade electrode when
the blade electrode is retracted so that the blade electrode is not
powered, a circuit cannot be completed, or both. The insulator
sleeve may be a sleeve that covers a portion of the blade
electrode. The insulator sleeve may move with the blade electrode
so that the same portions of the blade electrode are always covered
and the same portions of the blade electrode are always exposed.
The insulator sleeve may be an integral part of the blade
electrode. The insulator sleeve may be fixedly connected to the
blade electrode. The insulator sleeve may isolate portions of the
blade electrode so that current and/or stray current are prevented
from passing to and/or from the insulated portions of the blade
electrode. The insulator sleeve may be located on the blade
electrode so that when the blade electrode, the working arms, or
both are in contact and/or immobilized the working arms contact the
insulator sleeve. The insulator sleeve may located proximate to a
contact portion. The contact portion may contact wiring, a pin, a
spring pin, or a combination thereof when the blade electrode is
extended so that power passes through the blade electrode. The
contact portion may be free of the insulator sleeve. For example,
the blade electrode may have an insulator sleeve and a contact
portion that are adjacent each other and when the blade electrode
is full extended a spring pin may contact the contact portion and
when the blade electrode is fully retracted the spring pin may
contact the insulator sleeve. The insulator sleeve may be made of
any material that prevents power from passing into the blade
electrode. The insulator sleeve may be any thickness so that power
is prevented from entering the blade electrode thorough the
insulator sleeve. The insulator sleeve may be connected to a
monopolar insulator. The insulator sleeve may prevent a spring pin
from providing power to the blade electrode when the blade
electrode is retracted and the contact portion may allow the spring
pin to power the blade electrode when the blade electrode is
extended.
[0095] The spring pin may function to move (e.g., vertically) so
that as a part of varying thickness is moved, a constant contact is
created between two devices. The spring pin may create contact
between one or more moving parts so that power may be transferred
from one part to the one or more moving parts. The spring pin may
include one or more springing portions that accommodate for a
change in size and/or shape of a part. The one or more springing
portions may create a movable connection. The one or more springing
portions may allow for movement of one part relative to the other
part. The springing portion may extend from a body portion. The
body portion may assist in connecting the spring pin within a
system, may provide a connection point for one or more other
components, or both. The body portion may include one or more
connection arms that connect the spring pin to circuitry.
Preferably, the body portion includes two connection arms that
connect to a printed circuit board. The springing pin may extend
when the insulator sleeve is extended and the contact portion is
moved proximate to the spring pin. The spring pin may move out of
the way when the blade electrode is retracted and the insulator
sleeve is moved to a retracted position. The blade electrode may
include a monopolar insulator.
[0096] The monopolar insulator may be any device that may insulate
all or a portion of the active portions of the working arms. The
monopolar insulator may prevent the working arms from contacting
the blade electrode when the electrosurgical device is in the
bipolar configuration. The monopolar insulator may be moved into
contact with one or both of the working arms and immobilize the
working arms so that the working arms cannot be used as forceps.
The monopolar insulator may prevent power from being transferred
from one or both of the working arms to the blade electrode. The
monopolar insulator may prevent stray current from being conducted
from the working arms to a surrounding area, the blade electrode,
the ground pad, or a combination thereof. During a change from a
bipolar configuration to a monopolar configuration the monopolar
insulator may extend between the working arms and once past the
working arms a bias device may act to retract the monopolar
insulator so that the tips of the working arms are pressed into a
portion of the monopolar insulator and immobilized.
[0097] The bias device may be any device that may act to retract
and/or advance one or more components of the electrosurgical
device. The bias device may act to separate the working arms of the
electrosurgical device when in the bipolar configuration. The bias
device may push the blade electrode and/or shuttle forward into a
monopolar configuration, pull the blade electrode and/or shuttle
back from a monopolar configuration, or a combination thereof. The
bias device may ensure that the shuttle, blade electrode, working
arms, monopolar electrode, blade, or a combination thereof are in a
fully extended and/or fully retracted state. For example, if a user
moves a shuttle towards a forward position and stops short, the
bias device may complete the movement to a final position. The bias
device may assist in moving any of the devices and/or features
discussed herein so that the devices and/or features are bi-stable.
For example, the bias device may ensure that the blade electrode is
always either fully extended or fully retracted and not located
therebetween. The bias device may be a spring, a piece of rubber,
an elastomeric piece, a bend in metal that forms a bias surface, or
a combination thereof. If the bias device is bent metal the metal
may be bent forming more than one plane. The first plane may
contact a first surface and the second arm may contact a second
surface so that two opposing electrosurgical components are moved.
The bias device may be connected to the blade electrode, a shuttle,
between the working arms, a device that extends through the
channel, or a combination thereof.
[0098] The shuttle may function to cover one or more activation
buttons, moves one or more activation arms, moves the blade
electrode, moves one or both working arms, immobilizes and/or
electrically disconnects one or more features of the
electrosurgical device and/or activation circuit, immobilizes one
or more activation buttons, impedes movement and/or depression of
one or more activation buttons, move one or more immobilization
arms, or a combination thereof. The shuttle may be a shield that
covers the activation buttons that are not in use so that one or
more of the activation buttons are protected from contact. For
example, when the electrosurgical device is configured for bipolar
use the shuttle may cover the monopolar activation buttons and
expose the bipolar activation buttons or vice versa. The shuttle
may be a solid piece. Preferably, the shuttle includes a through
hole so that one or more components may extend through the through
hole, be covered by the parts of the shuttle adjacent the through
hole, guided by the through hole, or a combination thereof. The
shuttle may include a device that extends under, around, through,
or a combination thereof one or more activation buttons so that
movement of the one or more activation buttons is impeded,
prevented, or both. For example, when the shuttle is moved a
portion of the shuttle may extend under one or more of the one or
more activation buttons so that a user is unable to depress the
button to provide power, electricity, a therapy current, or a
combination thereof. The shuttle may include one or more positions.
Preferably, the shuttle includes at least a first position and a
second position (i.e., a first electrical configuration and a
second electrical configuration). The shuttle in the first
position, the second position, or both may perform any of the
functions discussed herein for the shuttle. The shuttle may be
moved by sliding on a track. The shuttle may be a slider assembly
that moves the blade electrode.
[0099] The slider assembly may function to move the shuttle in one
direction and the blade electrode in an opposing direction. The
slider assembly may have a gear ratio so that for every unit of
measurement the slider assembly is moved the blade electrode moves
two units of measurement. The slider assembly may include a rack
and pinion system that is connected to the shuttle. The slider
assembly may include one or more racks. The shuttle may be
connected to one rack and there may be an opposing rack that is
offset. The slider assembly may include one or more pinions and
preferably two pinions that extend between and into contact with
one or more racks. Preferably, one pinion contacts one rack and the
other pillion contacts the second rack and the pinions are
interconnected. The shuttle when moved in a first direction may
rotate the first pinion and the first pinion may rotate the second
pinion and the second pinion may drive the second rack in an
opposing direction as the first rack and shuttle are moving. The
pinions may have a gear ratio. The gear ratio may be 1:1, 1;1.1 or
more, 1:1.5 or more, 1:2 or more, or even 1:5 or more (i.e., on
pinion moves 5 revolutions for every 1 revolution of the other
pinion). The shuttle may not include a slider assembly and may be
directly driven.
[0100] The shuttle may be connected to one or more other devices
that may be retracted. For example, the shuttle may be connected to
the blade electrode and the shuttle may be used to move the blade
electrode into and/or between a monopolar configuration and a
bipolar configuration. In another example, the shuttle may be
connected to the working arms so that when the shuttle is moved the
working arms are extended and/or retracted. The shuttle may be
integrally connected to the blade electrode. The shuttle may
include one or more electrical connectors. The one or more
electrical connectors may function to pass power from a wire to an
electrosurgical component. For example, a wire may connect to an
electrical connector and the electrical connector may power the
blade electrode. The one or more electrical connectors may move
with the shuttle so that as the shuttle is extended or retracted
the electrosurgical device is electrically reconfigured through the
mechanical movement. In another example, movement of the shuttle in
the forward position may electrically connect the ground pad to a
power source and retraction of the shuttle may electrically
disconnect the ground pad from the power source. The shuttle may
have 2, 3, or even 4 electrical connectors. The shuttle may include
an electrical connector for the first working arm, the second
working arm, the ground pad, and the blade electrode. The shuttle
may lock a device in a position, immobilize one or more working
arms, or both. For example, the shuttle may lock the blade
electrode in a retract position when the electrosurgical device is
in a bipolar configuration. In another example, the shuttle may
lock the blade electrode in a forward position and immobilize both
of the working arms when the electrosurgical device is configured
for monopolar use. The shuttle may lock by a detent, a projection
that locks in a corresponding recess, a mechanical interlock, a
friction fit, a mechanical lock, or a combination thereof. This
shuttle may be connected to one or both working arms of the
electrosurgical device. The shuttle may be connected to the housing
and slide on a track so that when the shuttle is extended towards a
monopolar position all or a portion of each working arm is
contacted by the shuttle so that the arms are moved, immobilized,
or both. The shuttle may include a wedge, a ring, or both.
[0101] The wedge, the ring, or both may be a device for moving one
or both of the immobilizing arms, one or both of the working arms,
or a combination thereof so that the working arms are immobilized
in the monopolar configuration. The wedge may be any device that
assists in immobilizing the working arms, moving the immobilization
arms, or both. The wedge may have any shape so that the wedge when
moved assists in moving one or more immobilizing arms without
having a step of separating the immobilizing arms. The wedge may
have a tapered shape with a point on one end so that the wedge fits
between the two opposing immobilizing arms and as the wedge is
gradually progressed between the immobilizing arms the wedge
becomes wider moving the immobilizing arms apart. The wedge may be
generally triangular in shape. The wedge may have a shape that is a
mirror image to the shape formed between the immobilization arms so
that when the tip of the wedge reaches the pointed portion between
the immobilization arms the wedge is prevented from moving further
forward. The wedge may be located at any location on the
electrosurgical device, the shuttle, or both so that when the wedge
is moved between the immobilization arms the wedge immobilizes the
working arms. The shuttle may be free of a wedge and may include a
ring.
[0102] The ring may be any device that assists in immobilizing the
working arms. The ring may extend around all or a portion of the
periphery, a perimeter, or both of the electrosurgical device, the
working arms, the immobilization arms, or a combination thereof.
The ring may move along the outside of the electrosurgical device
so a portion of the electrosurgical device is located within an
inner portion of the ring. The ring may be a complete circle, a
partial circle, "U" shaped, fully surround a length of the device,
partially surround a length of the device, or a combination
thereof. The ring may be part of the shuttle, may be the shuttle,
may be discrete from the shuttle, may assist in moving the blade
electrode, may cover one or more of the activation buttons, may
extend under the one or more activation buttons, may extend through
one or more activation buttons, deactivate all or a portion of an
activation circuit, may fully and/or partially surround one or more
of the immobilization arms, or a combination thereof.
[0103] The activation circuit may be any part of the electrical
surgical system, handpiece, or both that may be activated so that
one or more therapy currents are generated, applied, supplied,
prevented from being supplied, or a combination thereof. The
activation circuit may electrically connect two or more components,
electrically activate two or more components, provide a user
interface, or a combination thereof. The activation circuit may
have one or more switch states, two or more switch states, or three
or more switch states. Preferably, the activation circuit has two
switch states (e.g., on or off). The activation circuit, the
switches, or both may have a neutral position where the activation
switches are neither on nor off. The first switch state may be off,
not provide a therapy signal, not provide a first therapy signal,
not provide a second therapy signal, not provide a third therapy
signal, or a combination thereof. The first switch state may
prevent a therapy signal to be produced, prevent a therapy signal
(e.g., a first therapy signal, a second therapy signal, etc. . . .
) from exiting a handpiece, prevent communication between the
handpiece and the generator, or a combination thereof. The second
switch state may be on, provide a therapy signal, provide a first
therapy signal, provide a second therapy signal, provide a third
therapy signal, or a combination thereof. The second switch state
may provide a therapy current between the blade electrode, the
first working arm, the second working arm, the ground pad, or a
combination thereof; produce a therapy signal; allow a therapy
signal to exit the handpiece; allow communication between the
handpiece and a generator; or a combination thereof. For example,
when the ground pad is electrically disconnected and the activation
circuit is in the second switch state, a therapy current may be
conducted between the blade electrode and the first working arm,
the second working arm, or both working arms. In another example,
when the activation circuit is in the second sate and the blade
electrode is in the second position the blade electrode may be
electrically connected to a first power connector and a ground pad
may be electrically connected to a second power connector. The
activation circuit may include one or more switches that each
include the switch states discussed herein. Preferably, the
activation circuit includes one or more activation buttons and/or
is one or more activation buttons that may be moved and/or
activated into the one or more switch states discussed herein.
[0104] The one or more buttons may function to control one or more
functions of the electrosurgical device. The one or more buttons
may control the bipolar power, the monopolar power, a bipolar cut
setting, bipolar coagulation setting, a therapy current, rotation
of the blade electrode, rotation of the monopolar electrode, or a
combination thereof. Preferably, a first button having a first
color and/or configuration may be for applying bipolar power and a
second button having a second color and/or configuration may be for
applying monopolar power. The one or more buttons may be exposed
and/or unlocked by the shuttle as the shuttle moves, the blade
electrode moves, or both to and/or from a monopolar configuration
to a bipolar configuration or vice versa. For example, the
monopolar activation button may only be exposed when the shuttle,
blade electrode, or both are in the monopolar configuration. The
monopolar activation button, the bipolar activation button, or both
may turn on power to the respective electrode so that power is
supplied to the area of interest. The device may include only one
activation button and may also include a selector.
[0105] The selector may function to select between one or more
modes and/or one or more functions. Preferably, the selector allows
a user to select between a plurality of different modes and/or
functions. The selector may switch between one or more ports in the
activation circuit and the one or more ports may communicate to a
CPU the desired electrosurgical function to perform. The selector
may be automatically moved when the blade electrode is extended and
retracted. Preferably, the user may set the selector to a desired
mode and/or function. The selector may power one or more functions
and/or modes simultaneously. The electrosurgical device may include
a button that locks the configuration of the blade electrode,
allows the blade electrode to rotate, or both.
[0106] The blade electrode may be any part of the electrosurgical
device that supplies power from one location and the power extends
to a distal location. The blade electrode may be a combination of
two or more devices that when combined may form a blade electrode.
The blade electrode may be a discrete part that when electrically
powered provides power. The blade electrode may be static,
rotatable about its axis, longitudinally movable about its axis, or
a combination thereof. The blade electrode may be blunt, have one
or more sharpened edges, have dull edges, or a combination thereof.
The blade electrode may rotate to any angle so that the blade
electrode may be used to cut, be ergonomically oriented so that a
user is not required to reposition their grip, used for vertical
cutting, used for side to side cutting, or a combination thereof.
The blade electrode may be rotated at an angle of about 15 degrees
or more, about 30 degrees or more, about 45 degrees or more, about
60 degrees or more, or even about 90 degrees or more. The blade
electrode may be rotated at an angle of about 275 degrees or less,
about 225 degrees or less, about 205 degrees or less, or about 180
degrees or less. The blade electrode may maintain a complete
circuit during rotation so that power may be applied through the
blade electrode as the blade electrode is rotated.
[0107] The blade electrode, the bipolar electrode, or both may
complete a circuit when in contact with tissue. The bipolar
electrode may have two opposing working arms and the tissue may
electrically connect the working arms, form an electrical bridge
between the two arms, or both. The blade electrode may have a
single blade electrode (i.e., a monopolar working arm) and the
tissue may electrically connect the blade electrode with a return
electrode, act as an electrical bridge between the blade electrode
and the return electrode, act as an electrical bridge between the
blade electrode and one or both of the bipolar electrodes, or a
combination thereof. The blade electrode when extended may activate
a circuit, a switch, or both.
[0108] The circuit may have a switch that switches between the
monopolar configuration, the bipolar configuration, or both. The
switch may activate one or more of the bipolar electrodes and
deactivate the ground pad (i.e., return pad) or vice versa;
activate one or more bipolar electrodes and deactivate the blade
electrode or vice versa; deactivate one bipolar electrode and leave
the bipolar electrode open (i.e., not powered); deactivate the
blade electrode and leave the blade electrode open; deactivate both
bipolar electrodes and activate the blade electrode and the return
electrode or vice versa, deactivate the ground pad; all of the
bipolar electrodes, and the blade electrodes; or a combination
thereof. The blade electrode, one or more of the bipolar
electrodes, or a combination thereof may be connected to an
alternating current power source, a direct current power source, or
both. Preferably, the blade electrodes, the bipolar electrodes, or
both are connected to an alternating current power source. The
blade electrode may be free of a position between the bipolar
electrodes when the electrosurgical device is in the bipolar
configuration. The blade electrode may be positioned between the
bipolar electrodes, extended beyond the bipolar electrodes, be
static and the working arms retracted so that the blade electrode
is extended beyond the working arms, or a combination thereof when
in the monopolar configuration. The bipolar electrodes when in a
monopolar configuration may act to electrically insulate the blade
electrode from the surrounding regions, the handpiece, or both.
[0109] The handpiece may be any part of the device that the user
grips, that houses one or more of the control buttons, one or more
switches, one or more electrical connectors, one or more diodes,
one or more capacitors, or a combination thereof. The handpiece may
house all or a portion of the control circuitry, a central
processing unit, or both. The handpiece may electrically connect
the electrosurgical device, the electrical system, or both to the
generator. The handpiece may both physically connect the functional
elements of the electrosurgical device and electrically connect the
elements of the electrosurgical device. The handpiece may be a body
portion of the electrosurgical device, a portion between the two or
more working arms, a connector between the two or more working
arms, that houses all or a portion of the circuitry, that includes
an activation circuit, that includes one or more control buttons,
or a combination thereof. Preferably, the handpiece is the portion
that a surgeon grips and presses one or more buttons to apply power
to a desired location. More preferably, the handpiece is a central
portion that includes both buttons and one or more electrical
connectors for supplying power to the electrosurgical device, the
working arms, the blade electrode, or a combination thereof. The
handpiece may include one or more movable members, one or more
handpiece components, or both.
[0110] The one or more movable members may be any part of the
handpiece that may be moved between two or more positions. The one
or more movable members may be moved between a first position and a
second position. The one or more movable members may be moved
between a monopolar configuration and bipolar configuration. The
one or more movable members may be any part of the electrosurgical
device and/or electrosurgical system that may be electrically
reconfigured, mechanically reconfigured, or both. The one or more
movable members may be a monopolar electrode, a first working arm,
a second working arm, a ground pad, or a combination thereof. The
one or more movable members may be electrically connected to a
first power connector, a second power connector, or both. The
moveable member may be moved between one or more of the positions
discussed herein for the monopolar electrode, the bipolar
electrode, or both and the activation circuit between one or more
switch states as discussed herein so that the moveable member is
electrically configured, mechanically configured, or both in the
same configuration as those respective components. The one or more
movable members may be a handpiece component.
[0111] The one or more handpiece components may be any device that
is directly electrically connected, physically connected, carried
on, or a combination thereof to the handpiece. The one or more
handpiece components may be any component that may mechanically
reconfigure the handpiece, be mechanically reconfigured by the
handpiece, moved along the handpiece, apply a therapy current from
the handpiece, or a combination thereof. The one or more handpiece
components may be electrically connected to the handpiece so that
power, signals, therapy currents, or a combination thereof flow
directly to and or from the handpiece from the handpiece component
without travelling through an intervening device. The handpiece
component may be located separate from the handpiece but
electrically connected. The one or more handpiece components and
handpiece may be electrically reconfigurable so that the handpiece
and the handpiece component are electrically connected in some
configurations and electrically disconnected in some
configurations. The one or more handpiece components may be a blade
electrode, the first working arm, the second working arm, the
ground pad, the shuttle, a monopolar electrode, one or more bipolar
electrodes, or a combination thereof. Preferably, in one
configuration the ground pad is placed discretely from the
handpiece but the ground pad is directly electrically connected to
the handpiece such that when the handpiece is in a monopolar
configuration the ground pad is electrically activated. The
handpiece may provide power to the one or more handpiece components
so that the handpiece components are not electrically connected
directly to a power supply, a therapy current, a generator, or a
combination thereof.
[0112] The power connectors may be any device that supplies power,
a therapy current, or both from a power source to the
electrosurgical system, the electrosurgical device, or both so that
the electrosurgical system, electrosurgical device, or both may be
used for electrosurgery. The electrosurgical system,
electrosurgical device, the handpiece, or a combination thereof may
include one or more, preferably two or more, or most preferably two
power connectors supplying power to the electrosurgical system,
electrosurgical device, the handpiece, or a combination thereof.
The therapy current may be any current that is applied by the
electrosurgical device and performs a predetermined function. The
therapy current may be monopolar power, bipolar power, coagulation,
cutting, hemostasis, or a combination thereof. The therapy current
may be any application of power that is produced by the
electrosurgical device. The therapy current may be any application
of power that extends into and through the electrosurgical device
from one or more power connectors. The therapy current may be
supplied form a voltage source. The voltage source may be any
supply of energy that performs one or more of the function
discussed herein. The voltage source may be a direct current
voltage source and preferably the voltage source is an alternating
current voltage source. The power connectors may be wires, pieces
of a conductor, or both. The electrosurgical device may include one
or more power connectors, preferably two or more power connectors,
more preferably three power connectors, or even four or more power
connectors. For example, in a three power connector system the
power connectors may be and/or connected to a positive pin, a
negative pin, a return pin, or a combination thereof, in another
example, in a four power connector system the power connectors may
be and/or connected to a bipolar positive pin, a bipolar negative
pin, a monopolar active pin, a monopolar return pin, or a
combination thereof. Each of the power connectors may be directly
connected to a power source, a generator, or both. For example, if
the electrosurgical device has three power connectors and the
generator has three power connections (e.g., a power port) each
power connector may be plugged separately into its own power
connection. Each power connector may be electrically connected to a
single component of the electrosurgical device. Preferably, there
are two power connectors supplying power to the electrosurgical
device and the electrosurgical device is electrically reconfigured
between a first position and a second position, a first switch
state and a second switch state, or a combination of both so that a
therapy current and/or power from one of the power connectors may
be supplied to two or more components of the electrosurgical
device. For example, when the handpiece is in the first position,
power from the first power connector may be supplied to the first
working arm and power from the second power connector may be
supplied to the second working arm, and when the handpiece is moved
into the second position, the first power connector may be
electrically connected to the blade electrode and the second power
connector may be electrically connected to the ground pad. One or
more of the power connectors may be indirectly connected to the
power source. For example, if the generator includes two power
connections and the electrosurgical device includes three power
connectors, two of the power connectors may be electrically
connected together and plugged into a power connector. Two or more
power connectors may be electrically connected by a jumper.
[0113] The jumper may function to electrically connect two or more
power connectors so that the power connectors can be electrically
connected, signally connected, or both to the generator. The jumper
may be any device that connects two electrical connectors outside
of the generator so that the two or more electrical connectors may
be connected to the generator. The jumper may be any device that
assists in connecting two or more electrical connectors to a power
source a generator or both. The jumper may electrically connect to
components, wires, connectors, or a combination thereof so that a
single port may be used to power the components, wires, connectors,
or a combination thereof. Two or more of the power connectors may
be electrically connected inside of the handpiece, the generator,
or both by one or more connectors.
[0114] The one or more connectors may be any device that internally
connects two power connectors together. The one or more connectors
may electrically connect the two or more working arms during use so
that power may be applied through both working arms, so that a
complete circuit is formed, or both. The one or more connectors may
electrically connect both of the working arms together so that one
electrical connector may be used to electrically connect both
working arms and one electrical connector may extend to another
component such as the ground pad, the blade electrode, or both.
[0115] The electrosurgical device, the activation buttons, the
handpiece, activation circuit, or a combination thereof may include
one or more diodes. The diodes may be in any configuration so that
upon pressing of an activation button, movement of a switch, or
both the generator, the electrosurgical device, or both measures a
frequency, a change in frequency, or both so that the generator may
determine the activation mode that is being powered. Preferably,
the one or more diodes may be different so that the two or more
different frequencies, shifts in frequency, or both are created so
that a generator may determine which switches in the handpiece, the
electrosurgical device, the activation buttons, or a combination
thereof are open, closed, or both.
[0116] The electrosurgical device, generator, handpiece, or a
combination thereof may include one or more transformers. The one
or more transformers may be of any size and shape so that depending
on the current path through the one or more transformers, around
the one or more transformers, or both the voltage supplied through
to the handpiece, the electrodes, the working arms, or a
combination thereof may be varied. For example, when in a monopolar
configuration the voltage may be directly delivered to the
electrode and when in a bipolar configuration the transformer may
step down the voltage delivered to the working arms. Conversely,
the transformer may be used to increase voltage delivered to one or
more electrodes.
[0117] As discussed herein various circuits may be created by
electrically reconfiguring one or more components of the
electrosurgical device, physically configuring one or more
components of the electrosurgical device, or both. During use one
or more switches may be opened and/or closed so that one or more
open circuits, one or more closed circuits, or both may be formed.
For example, a shuttle and blade electrode may be extended forward
so that a connection is formed between the blade electrode and a
power source and the ground pad and a power source so that a
circuit is completed and an open circuit may be created between the
power source and the working arms so that the working arms are not
powered. The circuits may be configured so that a circuit is
created between two or more components and the electrosurgical
device may be used for a desired type of electrosurgery. The
electrosurgical instrument may be configured so that power flows
from the blade electrode to one or more working arms, bath working
arms, to the ground pad, or a combination thereof. The
electrosurgical device may be configured so that power flows from
one working arm to another working arm, from one or more working
arms to the blade electrode, from one or more working arms to the
ground pad, or a combination thereof. The electrosurgical device
may be configured with one or more power connectors, preferably two
or more power connectors, and more preferably three or more power
connectors. Each of the power connectors may be connected to one or
more components, two or more components, or even three or more
components. Each power connector may be switched between one or
more components, two or more components, or even three or more
components. The method may include a step of immobilizing the blade
electrode, a cutting arm, or both. The method may include a step of
immobilizing one or more bipolar electrodes, one or more blade
electrodes, or both simultaneously.
[0118] A method of switching the electrosurgical device between a
bipolar configuration, a monopolar configuration, a
non-electrosurgical: configuration, or a combination thereof. The
method may include one or more of the steps discussed herein in
virtually any order. The method may include a step of advancing a
shuttle, advancing a blade electrode, retracting a shuttle,
retracting a blade electrode, applying a ground pad, removing a
ground pad, reconfiguring a circuit, or a combination thereof. The
method may include a step of applying monopolar power and then
immediately subsequently applying bipolar power. The method may
include a step of cutting in a non-electrosurgical configuration
and then applying either monopolar power or bipolar power to
coagulate, cauterize, or both without a step of changing
instruments. The method may include a step of cutting in a
monopolar configuration and then coagulating, cauterizing, or both
using bipolar energy without a step of changing instruments.
[0119] FIG. 1 illustrates an electrosurgical device 2. The
electrosurgical device 2 includes a bipolar configuration 100 where
the electrosurgical device is forceps 4. The forceps 4 include a
housing 80 with a pair of working arms 6 that remain as forceps 4
in the bipolar configuration 100 when the shuttle 20 is in the
bipolar position 24. The housing covers the active portions of the
working arms 6 along at least a portion of their length so that
power is not transferred through incidental contact. While the
shuttle 20 remains in the bipolar position 24 (e.g., first
position) the bipolar activation button 40 is exposed so that upon
pressing the bipolar activation button 40 power travels into the
forceps 4 via the power connectors 52 and the power extends between
the pair of working arms 6. The housing 80 includes a hinge 220
that allows the working arms 6 to move relative to each other while
the housing covers the electrodes of the working arms. The housing
80 is divided by the hinge 220 which has a rigid stationary section
222 on the proximal end of the electrosurgical device 2 and a
movable section 224 on the distal end of the electrosurgical device
2 so that the working arms 6 are movable relative to each other.
The hinge 220, as illustrated, is generally "T" shaped and has a
rigid connection 226 on the proximal end of the electrosurgical
device 2 and a movable connection 228 on the distal end of the
electrosurgical device 2. The hinge 220 allows the arms to move
relative to each other while maintaining the protection of the
housing 80 over both working arms and a central portion of the
electrosurgical device 2. As illustrated the movable section 224 of
the housing 80 includes a gripping portion 88 so that a user, upon
applying pressure to the gripping portion closes the working
arms.
[0120] FIG. 2A illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 of FIG. 1
transformed into a monopolar configuration 102. The electrosurgical
device 2 is changed into a monopolar configuration 102 when the
blade electrode 26 is moved forward by the shuttle 20 sliding along
the housing 80 and the blade electrode 26 is immobilized between
the working arms 6. The shuttle 20 is slid forward into a monopolar
position 22 (e.g., second position) so that one or more monopolar
activation buttons 42 are exposed and the bipolar activation button
is covered. When the monopolar activation button 42 is pressed
power travels from the blade electrode 26 to a return electrode
(not shown).
[0121] FIG. 2B illustrates a close-up view of the blade electrode
26 and working arms 6 immobilized in a monopolar position 22.
[0122] FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the
electrosurgical device 2 of FIG. 2A with the blade electrode 26 in
the extended position. The blade electrode 26 includes an insulator
sleeve 54 that is extended forward with the blade electrode so that
a contact portion 56 is aligned with the spring pin 250. The spring
pin 250 is connected to a printed circuit board 260, which is in
communication with the bipolar activation button 40 and the
monopolar activation button 42. The spring pin 250 includes a
springing portion 252 that maintains contact with the blade
electrode 26 so that when the spring pin 250 contacts the contact
portion 56 power is supplied through the blade electrode 26.
[0123] FIG. 2D1 illustrates a close-up view of a spring pin 250 in
contact with a contact portion 56 of the blade electrode 26 when
the blade electrode 26 is fully extended. The spring pin 250
transfers power from the printed circuit board 260 into the blade
electrode 26 so that the blade electrode 26 is energized when the
bipolar activation button 40, the monopolar activation button 42,
or both are activated by a user.
[0124] FIG. 2D2 illustrates a close-up view of a spring pin 250 in
contact with the insulator sleeve 54 of the blade electrode 26 when
the blade electrode 26 is fully retracted (as is shown in FIG. 1).
The spring pin 250 is prevented from transferring power from the
printed circuit board 260 by the insulator sleeve 54 so that stray
currents are not produced by the blade electrode 26 in the event
that the bipolar activation button 40, the monopolar activation
button 42, or both remain active and/or are activated by a
user.
[0125] FIG. 3A illustrates an exploded view of the electrosurgical
device 2 of FIGS. 2 and 3. The electrosurgical device 2 includes a
housing 80 that when connected together retains all of the
components so that the components are movable and function to
produce therapy currents. The housing 80 substantially surrounds
the working arms 6 so that only a portion is exposed for creating a
therapy current. An internal housing 86 houses the power connectors
52 that supply power to the working arms 6 and the blade electrode
26. The internal housing 86, when assembled, extends through a
through hole 32 in the shuttle 20 which is connected to the blade
electrode 26. The internal housing 86 also contains a printed
circuit board 260 with a plurality of sensors 44 that is
electrically connected to the bipolar activation button 40 and the
monopolar activation button 42 so that when the buttons are pressed
power is supplied to a desired location via the spring pin 250 when
the electrosurgical device 2 is in the monopolar configuration. The
power connects 52 terminate at a pair of power connectors 10 that
plug into a wall and/or generator (not shown).
[0126] FIG. 3B illustrates a close-up view of the spring pin 250.
The spring pin 250 includes a springing portion 252 that connects a
body portion 256 to a contact arm 258. The contact arm 258 is moved
into contact with and supplies power to a blade electrode (not
shown) when the blade electrode is fully extended. The body portion
256 includes a pair of connection arm 254 that connect the spring
pin 250 to a printed circuit board (not shown).
[0127] FIG. 4 illustrates another electrosurgical device 2. The
electrosurgical device 2 is in the bipolar configuration 100. The
electrosurgical device 2 as illustrated is configured as forceps 4
having a pair of working arms 6. A shuttle 20 as shown is forward
in a bipolar position 24 and connected to one working arm 6 so that
both of the working arms 6 are free and the working arms 6 may be
biased and used in the bipolar configuration 100. When the shuttle
is moved to a rearward position the working arms 6 are forced
together and immobilized forming a monopolar electrode and/or blade
electrode.
[0128] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the electrosurgical device 2 as
shown in FIG. 4. As illustrated, the electrosurgical device 2 is in
the bipolar configuration 100 with the pair of working arms 6
spread apart forming forceps 4. The working arms 6 each include an
immobilization arm 82 extending from the housing 80 and a wedge 84
that separates the immobilization arms 82 so that the working arms
6 are moved into contact and immobilized when transformed from the
bipolar configuration 100 to the monopolar configuration 102 (not
shown).
[0129] FIG. 6 illustrates another example of an electrosurgical
device 2 of the teachings herein. The electrosurgical device 2
includes a bipolar configuration 100 where the electrosurgical
device is forceps 4. The forceps 4 include a housing 80 with a pair
of working arms 6 that remain as forceps 4 in the bipolar
configuration 100 when the shuttle 20 is in the bipolar position
24. The housing covers the active portions of the working arms 6
along at least a portion of their length so that power is not
transferred through incidental contact. While the shuttle 20
remains in the bipolar position 24 (e.g., first position) the
bipolar activation button 40 is exposed so that upon pressing the
bipolar activation button 40 power extends between the pair of
working arms 6.
[0130] FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom view of the electrosurgical
device 2 of FIG. 6 configured as forceps 4. The electrosurgical
device 2 includes a housing 80 that covers a majority of the
working arms 6. The housing 80 includes a pair of immobilization
arms 82 that extend from the housing 80 so that when the wedge 84
advances forward the blade electrode 26 is advanced and the working
arms 6 are immobilized. Proximate to the immobilization arms 82 is
a hinge 220 in the housing 80. The hinge 220 includes a rigid
connection 226 on a proximal side of the hinge 220 and a movable
connection 228 on the distal side of the hinge 220.
[0131] FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a shuttle 20
including a wedge 84. The shuttle 20 is connected to a blade
electrode 26.
[0132] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of an electrosurgical device 2
with a slider assembly 130. As illustrated, the electrosurgical
device 2 has a housing 80 connected to a working arm 6. The working
arm 6 is connected to a slider 30 that includes a shuttle 20. The
shuttle 20 is connected to a working arm 6 and two pinions 134 that
are interfitted between a pair of racks 132. Each pinion 134
contacts a rack 132 and movement of the shuttle 20 in the direction
136 moves the working arm 6 along its axis in direction 138, which
is in an opposing direction as the shuttle 20. The pinions 134 have
different sizes so that there is a gear reduction and the distance
the working arms 6 travel is greater than the distance the shuttle
20 travels during movement. The electrosurgical device 2 includes a
bipolar activation button 40 and a monopolar activation button
42.
[0133] FIG. 10 illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in the
monopolar configuration 102. As illustrated, a blade electrode 26
is moved forward to a monopolar position 22 and the working arms 6
are in contact with a monopolar insulator 30 on the blade electrode
26 so that the monopolar insulator 30 immobilizes the working arms
6. As illustrated, the working arms 6 extend into a portion of the
monopolar insulator 30 and are immobilized by the monopolar
insulator 30, which also substantially prevents current from
straying from the working arms 6 when the tips of the working arms
6 are covered by the monopolar insulator 30. The working arms 6 are
also covered by an insulator 90 that insulates a length of the
working arm 6 and the tips of the working arms 6 are covered by the
monopolar insulator 30 so that substantially all of the stray
current is insulated and prevented. A bias device 50 is compressed
when the blade electrode is moved into the monopolar position 22 so
that upon release the bias device 50 assists in retracting the
blade electrode 26.
[0134] FIG. 11 illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 of FIG. 10
in the bipolar configuration 100. As illustrated, the blade
electrode 26 is retracted rearward into the bipolar position 24 so
that the monopolar insulator 30 is located between the two working
arms 6. When the blade electrode 26 is fully retracted the bias
device 50 is fully extended. The working arms 6 are separate and
can be used as forceps 4 and with bipolar power. The working arms 6
further include an insulator 90 that extends the length of the
working arms 6 and a tip of each working arm 6 is exposed.
[0135] FIG. 12 illustrates another possible configuration of the
electrosurgical device 2 in the monopolar configuration 102. As
illustrated, the shuttle 20 is moved forward into the monopolar
position 22 so that the bade electrode 26 is moved forward through
a blade electrode channel 46 in a working arm 6. The
electrosurgical device 2 includes a power connectors 52 at an end
so that the electrosurgical device 2 is powered during use.
[0136] FIG. 13 illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 of FIG. 12
in a bipolar configuration 100. The electrosurgical device 2 has
the shuttle 20 moved rearward into a bipolar position 24 so that
the working arms 6 are separate and can be used as forceps 4. The
blade electrode 26 is retracted by the shuttle 20 into the blade
electrode channel 46 so that the blade electrode 26 is not exposed.
A power connector 52 is at the end of the electrosurgical device 2
for powering the device.
[0137] FIG. 14 illustrates an end view of the working arms 6 of
FIGS. 12 and 13. As illustrated one of the working arms 6 includes
a monopolar electrode channel 46 that extends through the working
arm 6.
[0138] FIG. 15 illustrates an end view of the working arms of FIGS.
1-7 and 10-11 where the working arms are solid and are free of a
channel.
[0139] FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate an end view of one possible
monopolar configuration 102 where the orientation of the blade
electrode 26 is variable between a horizontal monopolar cutting
configuration 104 (FIG. 16) and a vertical monopolar cutting
configuration 106 (FIG. 17). As illustrated, the working arms 6 are
made of two materials. The outer portion of the working arms 6 is
made of a material with insulating thermal conductivity 90 and the
inner portion is made of a material with high thermal conductivity
92. The outer portion of the blade electrode 26 has insulating
conductivity 90 and the center has poor thermal conductivity
94.
[0140] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate the electrosurgical device 2
during use in the bipolar configuration 100. FIG. 18A illustrates
the pair of working arms 6 having a material portion having
insulating thermal conductivity 90 and a material having high
thermal conductivity 92. The working arms 6 are in contact with
tissue 200 so that power flows through the tissue 200 from one
working arm 6 to the other working arm 6.
[0141] FIG. 18B is a circuit diagram illustrating one possible
bipolar circuit configuration 100 of the electrosurgical device 2.
The electrosurgical device 2 is connected to a voltage source 64,
and power flows through a switch 60A from the voltage source 64 to
one working arm 6 and from the voltage source 64 through a switch
608 to the other working arm 6. When the switches 60A and 60B are
moved into the bipolar configuration 100 an open circuit 62A and
62B are formed so that the monopolar portion of the circuit
including the ground pad 66 is free of power. As illustrated the
blade electrode 26 is retracted from between the working arms 6 so
that power 68 flows between the working arms 6 and any tissue 200
(not shown) located therebetween.
[0142] FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate the electrosurgical device 2 in
a monopolar configuration 102. FIG. 19A illustrates the blade
electrode 26 having power flow 68 to a ground pad 66. The power 68
flows through tissue 200 (not shown) from the blade electrode 26 to
the ground pad 66.
[0143] FIG. 19B illustrates a circuit diagram showing one possible
monopolar circuit configuration 102 of the electrosurgical device
2. The electrosurgical device 2 is connected to a voltage source
64, and power flows through a switch 60A from the voltage source 64
to the ground pad 66 and from the voltage source 64 through a
switch 606 to the blade electrode 26. When the switches 60A and 60B
are moved into the monopolar configuration 102 open circuits 62A
and 62B are formed so that the bipolar portion of the circuit and
working arms 6 are free of power. When power is applied to the
blade electrode 26 power 68 flows from the blade electrode 26 to
the ground pad 66.
[0144] FIGS. 20A1 through 20A3 illustrate a circuit diagram of the
electrosurgical device 2 as tweezers 5 in a bipolar configuration
100. The electrosurgical device 2 is connected to a voltage source
64. FIG. 20A1 includes a switch 60 that moves between a working arm
6 and a blade electrode 26 and a switch 60 that moves between a
working arm 6 and a ground pad 66. As illustrated, the switch 60 is
supplying power to both of the working arms 6 so that power flows
68 between the two working arms 6 and so that the blade electrode
26 and ground pad 66 are open. The two working arms 6 are
electrically connected via a connector 70 having a switch 60
therebetween.
[0145] FIG. 20A2 includes a central processing unit 74 that
replaces the switching between the voltage source and the blade
electrode 26 and the working arms 6. The central processing unit 74
controls the power supplied to the blade electrode a and/or the
working arms 6 of the tweezers 5 so that as illustrated power 68
flows between the working arms. The central processing unit 74
turned off the ground pad 66 and the blade electrode 26 and turned
on the working arms 6. A ground pad 66 extends from the central
processing unit 74.
[0146] FIG. 20A3 illustrates an electrosurgical device 2 in a
hybrid bipolar configuration 100 being configured as tweezers 5
that are gripping tissue 200. The tissue 200 electrically connects
the two adjacent working arms 6 so that power flows from the blade
electrode 26 through the tissue 200 to the working arms 6. The
switch 60 of the connector 70 is closed so that both working arms 6
are powered and electrically connected together and the blade
electrode 62 is electrically connected. There is an open 62 between
one of the working arms 6 and the power source 64 so that power
does not flow directly to one working arm 6 and so that the switch
60 provides power to the blade electrode 26. The switch 60 between
the blade electrode 26 and the power source 64 is closed so that
power flows between the working arms 6 and the blade electrode 26
through tissue 200.
[0147] FIGS. 20B through 20D illustrate the electrosurgical device
2 in various monopolar configurations 102. As illustrated, the
blade electrode 26 being immobilized between the working arms 6.
FIG. 20B is a hybrid monopolar configuration 102 for cutting. A
switch 60 is closed between the power source 64 and the blade
electrode 26 so that power flows 68 from the blade electrode to the
two working arms 6. One working arm 6 is connected directly to the
power source 64 and the switch 60 proximate to the other working
arm is open 62 due to the switch 60 being moved to power the blade
electrode 26. The two working arms 6 are electrically connected via
a connector 70 that includes a switch 60 so that an electrical
connection between the two working arms 6 can be open and closed as
the device is switched between a monopolar configuration and a
bipolar configuration. The ground pad 66 is open 62 so that power
does not flow through the ground pad 66.
[0148] FIG. 20C illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in a
hybrid monopolar configuration 102/bipolar configuration 100. As
illustrated, both switches 60 are closed so that power is supplied
from the power source 64 to both working arms 6 and an open 62 is
present between both the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66
so that power does not flow to the blade electrode 26 or the ground
pad 66. The flow of power 68 is from one working arm 6 to the other
working arm 6 around the blade electrode 26. A connector 70
including a switch 60 extends between the working arms 6.
[0149] FIG. 20D illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in a
monopolar configuration 102. As illustrated, a switch 60 is located
between the power source 64 and the blade electrode 26 so that
power flows through the blade electrode 26 and the flow of power 68
flows to the ground pad 66 through another switch 60 so that a
complete circuit is formed. When the switch 6 powers the ground pad
66 and the blade electrode 26, the working arms 6 are open 62 so
that no power flows through the working arms 6, but the working
arms mechanically immobilize the blade electrode 26. The two
working arms 6 are electrically connected by a connector 70 that
includes a switch 60.
[0150] FIG. 21 illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 connected
to a generator 8. The generator 8 as illustrated only includes two
power connectors 10. The electrosurgical device 2 is connected to
the generator 8 via one power connector 10 and the ground pad 66 is
connected to the generator 8 via a different power connector 10 and
the two power connectors 10 are electrically connected by a jumper
12.
[0151] FIGS. 22A-22C illustrate various circuit configurations
between the generator 8 and the electrosurgical device 2. The
generator 8 including central processing unit that is connected to
a handpiece 120. A user can change the electrosurgical device 2
between a bipolar configuration 100 (FIG. 22A) and a monopolar
configuration 102 (FIGS. 22B and 22C) and a change in configuration
to the bipolar configuration 100 will change the switches 60 so
that one switch is open 62 and one switch 60 is closed. Each branch
of the circuit includes a diode 122 so that when a switch 60 is
closed power and/or a control signal pass through the diode 122 to
control the electrosurgical device 2. The generator 8 further
includes a transformer 124 electrically connected to the ground pad
66, the working arms 6, and the blade electrode 26. A jumper 12
electrically connects the ground pad 66 to one of the working arms
6. The generator 8 includes power connections 10 that extend from
the electrical surgical device 2 and are plugged into the generator
8. The generator 8 includes a switch 60 that closes to electrically
connect the ground pad 66 and opens 62 to disconnect the ground
pad. FIG. 22A illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in bipolar
configuration 100 so that power flows between the transformer 124
and each of the working arms 6 in the direction 140 and the flow of
power 68 is between to working arms 6. FIG. 22B illustrates
electrosurgical device in the monopolar coagulation configuration.
As illustrated, power flows from the blade electrode 26 to the
ground pad 66 and power flows in the direction 140 between the
transformer 124 and the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66.
FIG. 22C illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in monopolar cut
configuration so that power flows 68 from the mono polar electrode
26 to the ground pad 66. The power then flows in the direction 140
through the closed switch 60 between the transformer 124 and the
blade electrode 26 and ground pad 66.
[0152] FIGS. 23A and 23B illustrate the electrosurgical device 2
having three power connectors 52 extending therefrom for connecting
to a generator 8 (not shown). FIG. 23A illustrates the blade
electrode 26 and shuttle 20 in the retracted position so that the
electrosurgical device 2 is in the bipolar configuration 100. The
handpiece 120 includes a pair of working arms 6 with a blade
electrode 26 therebetween. The handpiece 26 also includes a shuttle
20 with electrical connectors 72 that connect the working arms 8 to
the power connectors 52. As illustrated, the positive pin 52A
connects to a first end of an electrical connector 72 and the
second end connects to a first working arm, and a negative pin 52B
connects to a first end of a second electrical connector 72 and the
second end connects to a second working arm 6 so that the working
arms are powered and power 68 extends between the working arms 6.
The negative pin 52B includes two wires extending therefrom so that
the negative pin 52B is not electrically isolated. One wire from
the negative pin 52B is connected to a working arm 6 through the
electrical connector 72 in the bipolar configuration as shown, and
the other wire from the negative pin 52B connects to the ground pad
66 when in the monopolar configuration as is shown in FIG. 23B. The
ground pad 66 is connected to a return pin 52R and the return pin
52R is disconnected so that power does not flow through the ground
pad 66.
[0153] FIG. 23B illustrates the shuttle 20 of the handpiece 120
moved forward so that the blade electrode 26 is in the monopolar
configuration 102. The handpiece 120 includes working arms 6 and a
blade electrode 26 in a monopolar configuration 102. The working
arms 6 are disconnected so that the working arms 6 are not powered.
Power 68 extends from the blade electrode 26 to ground pad 66. The
ground pad 66 is electrically connected to a return pin 52R and a
negative pin 52B. A wire extends from the return pin 52R through an
electrical connector 72 in the shuttle 20 of the handpiece 120 and
connects to a negative pin 52B. The positive pin 52A is connected
to a second electrical connector 72 in the handpiece 120, but the
second electrical connector 72 is free of a connection on a second
side.
[0154] FIG. 23C illustrates an electrosurgical device 2 in a
monopolar configuration 102. The electrosurgical device 2 includes
a handpiece 120 with a pair of working arms 6 and a blade electrode
26 extending therebetween. Power 68 extends from the blade
electrode 26 to a ground pad 66. The ground pad 66 is electrically
connected to a return pin 52R through a shuttle 20. The shuttle 20
includes electrical connectors 72 that extend through the shuttle
20 and electrically connect the ground pad 66 to a return pin 52R.
A positive pin 52A connects to a blade electrode 26 through a
second electrical connector 72 that extends through the shuttle 20
in the handpiece 120. The negative pin 52B and the return pin 52R
are electrically isolated when compared to FIGS. 23A and 23B.
[0155] FIGS. 24A-24C illustrate the electrosurgical device 2 having
two power connectors 52 extending from the handpiece 120 for
connecting the electrosurgical device to a generator 8. The
electrosurgical device 2 also includes an activation circuit 300
for powering the handpiece 120. The electrosurgical device 2 as
illustrated is free of a ground pad. FIG. 24A illustrates the
electrosurgical device 2 in the bipolar configuration 100 where
both power connectors 52 are connected to the handpiece 120. The
activation circuit 300 includes an activation button 302 in a first
switch state 310 so that the switch is open 62 and a signal does
not flow from the activation circuit 300 through the ports 160 and
to the generator 8 so that the voltage source 64 does not send
power to the electrosurgical device through the power connectors
52. The blade electrode 26 includes a switch 60 that is open so
that the blade electrode 28 is electrically disconnected. The
switch 60 connected to the working arm 6 is closed so that the
working arm is electrically connected.
[0156] FIG. 24B illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in the
bipolar configuration 100 and power 68 extend between the working
arms 6. The activation button 302 on the activation circuit 300 is
in the second switch state 312 so that a signal is sent to the
internal switch and/or central processing unit (CPU) 74 in the
generator 8, through the ports 160. The internal switch and/or CPU
74 triggers the voltage source 64 to power the handpiece 120. Power
flows through the power connectors 52 in the direction 320 through
the switch 60 and powers the working arms 6 so that power 68 flows
therebetween. The switch 60 of the blade electrode 26 is
disconnected so that the blade electrode 26 is not powered.
[0157] FIG. 24C illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 in the
bipolar configuration 102 where both power connectors 52 connect to
the handpiece 120 to the generator 3 and the activation circuit 300
is connected to the generator 8 by the ports 160. The activation
button 302 is in the second switch state 312 so that a signal is
sent to the internal switch and/or CPU 74, which triggers power to
extend in the directions 320 from the voltage source 64. The blade
electrode 26 is in the extended position and the switch 60 of the
blade electrode 26 is connected to a working arm so that the blade
electrode 26 is powered. The other switch 60 extends from one
working arm to the other working arm so that both working arms are
electrically connected and power can travel between the blade
electrode 26 and the working arms 6. The direction arrows show the
movement of the switches 60 between the bipolar configuration of
FIG. 24B to the monopolar configuration of FIG. 24C
[0158] FIGS. 25A-25C illustrate various electrical configurations
within the handpiece 120 of the electrosurgical device 2. The
handpiece 120 includes a pair of working arms 6 and a blade
electrode 26 that extends between the working arms 6, and the
handpiece 120 is connected to a generator 8. The handpiece 120 is
controlled by an activation circuit 300 that is connected to the
generator 8. The electrosurgical device 2 as illustrated is free of
a ground pad and a switch connected to the blade electrode. FIG.
25A illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 off. The activation
button 302 of the activation circuit 300 is in a first switch state
310 and is open 62 so that a signal does not flow to the generator
8 through the ports and into communication with the internal switch
and/or CPU 74. The internal switch and/or CPU 74 controls the
flower of power from the voltage source 64 through the power
connectors 52 and into the working arms 6 and/or blade electrode
26. As illustrated, the switch 60 is closed so that when power is
applied both working arms 6 will be powered.
[0159] FIG. 25B illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 of FIG.
25A powered when the activation button 302 is moved into the second
switch state 312. When the activation button 302 is closed a signal
is sent from the activation circuit 300 to the internal switching
and/or CPU 74 which triggers power to be sent from the voltage
source 64 through the power connectors 52 and to the working arms 6
in the direction 320. The power flows in the direction 68 between
the pair of working arms 6.
[0160] FIG. 25C illustrates switch 60 being moved from the second
working arm 6 to the blade electrode 26 as is indicated by the
arrow so that the second working arm 6 is turned off and remains
open 62 and the blade electrode 26 is powered. Power flows from the
generator 8 in the direction 320 so that the blade electrode is
powered and power 66 flows from the blade electrode 26 to the
working arm 6.
[0161] FIG. 26A through 26C illustrate reconfiguration of the
electrosurgical device 2. The electrosurgical device includes a
ground pad 66, and handpiece 120, and an activation circuit 300.
FIG. 26A illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 turned off. As
illustrated the activation button 302 on the activation circuit 300
is in a first switch state 310 and is open 62 so that a signal is
not sent to the generator 8 powering the handpiece 120. Further the
blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66 are open because the
switches 60 are closed in the direction indicated by the arrow so
that the working arms are connected by the closed switches 6.
[0162] FIG. 26B illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 of FIG.
26A in the bipolar configuration 100 with the activation button 302
of the activation circuit 300 moved to a second switch state 312.
The second switch state 312 completes the circuit so that a signal
passes from the activation circuit 300 through the ports 160 in the
generator 8 and into communication with the internal switching
and/or CPU 74. The internal switching and/or CPU 74 triggers power
to travel from the voltage source 64 into the handpiece 120 through
the power connectors 52 in the direction 320 through the closed
switches 60 so that both working arms 6 are powered and power 68
flows between the working arms 6.
[0163] FIG. 26C illustrates the blade electrode 26 in an extended
position between the pair of working arms 6 so that a monopolar
configuration 102 is formed. When the blade electrode 26 is
extended the switches 60 are moved from the first working arm 6 and
the second working arm 6 to the blade electrode 26 and ground pad
66 respectively so that the blade electrode 26 is powered when the
activation button 302 is in the second switch state 312 as is
illustrated. Power travels in the direction 320 from the power
connectors, through the switched 60, and then to the blade
electrode 26 and ground pad 66 respectively. Power 68 passes
between the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66
[0164] FIGS. 27A through 27D illustrate an electrosurgical device 2
with an activation circuit 300 connected to a generator by a
plurality of ports 160 and a handpiece 120 connected to the
generator 8 by a plurality of pins 152. The activation circuit 300
includes activation buttons 40, 42 that when depressed power the
handpiece 120. FIG. 27A illustrates the activation circuit 300 with
both the bipolar activation button 40 and the monopolar activation
button 42 in the first switch state 310 and open 52 so that the
electrosurgical device 2 is off. The activation circuit 300 has
three electrical paths (i.e., wires) that connect with the
generator 8 via an upper port 160A, a middle port 1608, and a lower
port 1660. The ports 160 connect the activation circuit 300 with
internal switching and/or a CPU 74 that when receives a signal
communicates with the power source 64 powering the handpiece 120.
The power source 64 directs power through a series of switches 60,
which as illustrated are in a neutral position 58. The switches 60
direct the power through the plurality of pins 160. The plurality
of pins are a bipolar positive pin 152A, a bipolar negative pin
152B, a monopolar active pin 152C, and a monopolar return pin 152D
that power one or more parts of the handpiece 120 when the
handpiece 120 is switched between a monopolar configuration and a
bipolar configuration. As illustrated the blade electrode 26 is
retracted and nested within an insulator housing 96.
[0165] FIG. 27B illustrates the electrosurgical device 2 of FIG.
27A in the bipolar configuration 100 with the blade electrode 26
retracted and located within the insulator housing 96 so that stray
currents are prevented from transferring to and/or from the blade
electrode 26, and the bipolar activation button 40 in the second
switch state 312 so that a signal is generated and a circuit is
completed with the upper port 160A and the lower port 160C so that
a signal passes therethrough into the generator 8 and ultimately to
the internal switching and/or CPU 74. The monopolar activation
button 42 is in the first switch state 310 and is open 62. The
internal switching and/or CPU 74 activates the voltage source 64 so
that power extends through the upper switch 60 and through the
bipolar positive pin 152A so that the first working arm 6 is
powered by current traveling in the direction 320. Power extends
through the bottom switch 60 and out the bipolar negative pin 152B
so that the second working arm receives power along the direction
320. The power 68 then extends between the pair of working arms 6.
The ground pad 66 and the blade electrode 26 are electrically
disconnected as illustrated.
[0166] FIG. 27C illustrates the blade electrode 26 extended out
from the insulator housing 96 and between the working arms 6 and
power 68 extending from the blade electrode 26 to the ground pad
66. The activation circuit 300 includes the bipolar activation
button 40 in the second switch state 312 so that a complete circuit
is formed with the upper port 160A and the lower port 166C so that
a signal is transmitted to the internal switching and/or CPU 74 of
the generator 8. The monopolar activation button 42 is in the first
switch state 310 and is open so that a signal is not transmitted
from the monopolar activation button 42. The internal switching
and/or CPU 74 communicates with the voltage source 64 so that power
is directed along the paths 320 to the blade electrode 28 and
ground pad 66 respectively. The switches 60 are configured so that
power extends from the voltage source 64 through the bipolar
positive pin 152A and the bipolar negative pin 152B so that a the
power 68 between the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66 is a
first therapy current.
[0167] FIG. 27D illustrates the blade electrode 26 extended out
from the insulator housing 96 and between the working arms 6 and
power 68 extending from the blade electrode 26 to the ground pad
66. The activation circuit 300 includes the bipolar activation
button 40 in a first switch state 310 and open 62 and the monopolar
activation button 42 in a second switch state 312 so that a
complete circuit is formed with the middle port 160B and the lower
port 160C. A signal is transmitted through the middle port 160B and
the lower port 150C to the internal switching and/or CPU 74 that
communicates with the voltage source 64 so that voltage is provided
through the switches 60 in the direction 320 and through the
monopolar active pin 152C to the blade electrode 62 and through the
monopolar return pin 152D to the ground pad 66. The power 68 that
extends between the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66 is a
second therapy current that differs from the first therapy current.
FIGS. 26A through 28C illustrate an electrosurgical device 2 with
an activation circuit 300 connected to a generator by a plurality
of ports 160 and a handpiece 120 connected to the generator 8 by a
plurality of pins 152. The activation circuit 300 includes an
activation buttons 302 that when depressed powers the handpiece 120
and a selector 308 that changes the signal sent from the activation
circuit 300 to the generator 8. FIG. 28A illustrates the activation
circuit 300 with the activation button 302 in the first switch
state 310 and open 62 so that the electrosurgical device 2 is off.
The activation circuit 300 has three electrical paths (i.e., wires)
that connect with the generator 6 via an upper port 160A, a middle
port 160B, and a lower port 160C. The ports 160 connect the
activation circuit 300 with internal switching and/or a CPU 74 that
when receives a signal communicates with the power source 64
powering the handpiece 120. The power source 64 directs power
through a series of switches 60, which as illustrated are in a
neutral position 58. The switches 60 direct the power through the
plurality of pins 160. The plurality of pins are a bipolar positive
pin 152A, a bipolar negative pin 152B, a monopolar active pin 152C,
and a monopolar return pin 152D that power one or more parts of the
handpiece 120 when the handpiece 120 is switched between a
monopolar configuration and a bipolar configuration.
[0168] FIG. 28B illustrates the activation button 302 in the second
switch state 312 and the selector 308 in a first position so that a
signal extends through the upper port 160A and the middle port 160B
to the generator 8 and the internal switching and/or CPU 74. The
internal switching and/or CPU 74 communicates with the voltage
source 64 so that voltage extends in the direction 320. The
switches 60 direct the voltage through the bipolar positive pin
152A into a first working arm 6 and through the bipolar negative
pin 152B into the second working arm 6. Power 68 extends between
the first working arm 6 and the second working arm 6.
[0169] FIG. 28B illustrates the activation button 302 in the second
switch state 312 and the selector in a second position so that a
signal extends through the upper port 160A and a lower port 160C to
the generator 8 and the internal switching and/or CPU 74. The
internal switching and/or CPU 74 communicates with the voltage
source 64 so that voltage extends in the direction 320. The
switches 60 direct the voltage through the monopolar active pin
152C to the blade electrode 26 and the monopolar return pin 152D to
the ground pad 66. Power 68 extends between the blade electrode 68
and the ground pad 66.
[0170] FIGS. 29A through 29C illustrate a close-up view of the
shuttle 20 of the handpiece 120 and associated reconfiguration that
occurs by movement of the shuttle 20. The handpiece 120 is
connected to a generator 8 that provides voltage from a voltage
source 64 that extends in the direction 320 through the switches.
The power exits the generator 8 from the bipolar positive pin 152A
and the bipolar negative pin 152B into the handpiece 120. The
shuttle 20 is retracted so that power extends from the bipolar
positive pin 152A into the electrical connectors 72 of the
handpiece 120 at points B and F and exits at points E and A so that
the first working arm is powered. Similarly, power that extends
through the bipolar negative pin 152B into the electrical
connectors 72 at points D and H and exits at points G and C so that
the second working arm is powered. Power 68 extends between the
working arms 6 so that a therapy current is produced. As
illustrated electrical connectors 72 between points E and I and
points J and K are open.
[0171] FIG. 29E3 illustrates the blade electrode 26 extended
between the working arms 6 so that the ends A and C of the working
arms do not align with any electrical connectors 72 and the wires
of the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad 66 are aligned as is
discussed herein. Power flows in the direction 320 form the voltage
source 64 to ground pad 66. The ground pad 66 is connected at
points L and K and the connector exits the shuttle at points J and
D and into the generator at the bipolar negative pin 152B. Power
flows from the voltage source 64 to the blade electrode 26 in the
direction 320 along a path through the bipolar positive pin 152A
then into the electrical connector 72 at points B and I until the
power travels between the blade electrode 26 and the ground pad
66.
[0172] FIG. 29C illustrates another way to power the blade
electrode 26 and the ground pad 66. The ground pad 66 and voltage
source 64 are connected through the monopolar return pin 152D where
power does not pass through the shuttle 20 and passes in the
direction 320. The blade electrode 26 is powered through the
monopolar active phi 152C where power extends through the shuttle
20 at points B and I and then to the tip of the blade electrode 26
where power 68 flows between the blade electrode 26 and the ground
pad 66.
[0173] FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrate two possible wiring schematics
that may be used to power the handpiece 120 as is taught herein.
FIG. 30A illustrates an example of a four prong connector. The
ground pad 66 as illustrated is directly connected to the plug at
point W and is indirectly connected to the plug at point R through
the shuttle T and electrical connector at points J and K. The first
working arm 6 is connected to the plug at point N through the
electrical connector at points E and F. The first working arm 6 is
indirectly connected to the plug at point U through a connection
between points M and N so that power can also pass through points E
and F of the electrical connector 74 of the shuttle 20. The second
working arm is directly connected to the plug at point R when
connects through points G and H.
[0174] FIG. 30B illustrates an example of a three prong connector.
The ground pad 66 is directly connected to the plug at point W. The
plug at point U is directly connected to the first working arm 6
through points E and F. The plug at point U also directly connects
to the blade electrode 26 when extended at point I. The plug at
point N is connected to the first working arm at points E and F.
The plug at point A is connected to the second working arm through
points G and H.
[0175] Any numerical values recited herein include all values from
the lower value to the upper value in increments of one unit
provided that there is a separation of at least 2 units between any
lower value and any higher value. As an example, if it is stated
that the amount of a component or a value of a process variable
such as, for example, temperature, pressure, time and the like is,
for example, from 1 to 90, preferably from 20 to 80, more
preferably from 30 to 70, it is intended that values such as 15 to
85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc. are expressly enumerated in
this specification. For values which are less than one, one unit is
considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 as appropriate. These
are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible
combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the
highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly
stated in this application in a similar manner.
[0176] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints
and all numbers between the endpoints. The use of "about" or
"approximately" in connection with a range applies to both ends of
the range. Thus, "about 20 to 30" is intended to cover "about 20 to
about 30", inclusive of at least the specified endpoints.
[0177] The disclosures of all articles and references, including
patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference
for all purposes. The term "consisting essentially of" to describe
a combination shah include the elements, ingredients, components or
steps identified, and such other elements ingredients, components
or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel
characteristics of the combination. The use of the terms comprising
or "including" to describe combinations of elements, ingredients,
components or steps herein also contemplates embodiments that
consist essentially of the elements, ingredients, components or
steps. By use of the term may herein, it is intended that any
described attributes that "may" be included are optional.
[0178] Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be
provided by a single integrated element, ingredient, component or
step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, ingredient,
component or step might be divided into separate plural elements,
ingredients, components or steps. The disclosure of "a" or "one" to
describe an element, ingredient, component or step is not intended
to foreclose additional elements, ingredients, components or
steps.
[0179] It is understood that the above description is intended to
be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments as well as
many applications besides the examples provided will be apparent to
those of skill in the art upon reading the above description. The
scope of the teachings should, therefore, be determined not with
reference to the above description, but should instead be
determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The
disclosures of all articles and references, including patent
applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for
all purposes. The omission in the following claims of any aspect of
subject matter that is disclosed herein is not a disclaimer of such
subject matter, nor should it be regarded that the inventors did
not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed
inventive subject matter.
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