U.S. patent application number 14/738107 was filed with the patent office on 2016-02-11 for surgical instruments and methods for performing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy procedures.
The applicant listed for this patent is COVIDIEN LP. Invention is credited to JOHN R. TWOMEY.
Application Number | 20160038220 14/738107 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55266544 |
Filed Date | 2016-02-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160038220 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TWOMEY; JOHN R. |
February 11, 2016 |
SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING TONSILLECTOMY AND
ADENOIDECTOMY PROCEDURES
Abstract
A surgical instrument includes an end effector assembly having
first and second jaw members each including a tissue-treating
plate. The jaw members are movable between a spaced-apart position
and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the
tissue-treating plates thereof. One or both of the jaw members
includes a bifurcated body having first and second jaw components.
Each jaw component includes a tissue-treating plate portion
disposed thereon. One or both of the jaw components is rotatable
relative to the other between an aligned orientation, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions are substantially co-planar, and an
angled orientation, wherein the tissue-treating plate portions are
angled relative to one another. Rotation of the jaw component(s)
from the aligned orientation to the angled orientation effects
cutting of tissue grasped between the tissue-treating plates of the
jaw members.
Inventors: |
TWOMEY; JOHN R.; (SUPERIOR,
CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COVIDIEN LP |
MANSFIELD |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55266544 |
Appl. No.: |
14/738107 |
Filed: |
June 12, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62035764 |
Aug 11, 2014 |
|
|
|
62035751 |
Aug 11, 2014 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/52 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/26 20130101;
A61B 2017/2926 20130101; A61B 2017/2944 20130101; A61B 2018/1457
20130101; A61B 2018/00327 20130101; A61B 18/1445 20130101; A61B
18/1442 20130101; A61B 18/1447 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 18/14 20060101
A61B018/14 |
Claims
1. A surgical instrument, comprising: an end effector assembly
including first and second jaw members, each jaw member including a
tissue-treating plate disposed thereon, the first and second jaw
members movable between a spaced-apart position and an approximated
position for grasping tissue between the tissue-treating plates, at
least one of the first and second jaw members including: a
bifurcated body having first and second jaw components, each of the
first and second jaw components including a tissue-treating plate
portion disposed thereon, the tissue-treating plate portions
cooperating to define the tissue-treating plate of the jaw member,
at least one of the first and second jaw components rotatable
relative to the other between an aligned orientation, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions are substantially co-planar relative
to one another, and an angled orientation, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions are angled relative to one another,
wherein rotation of the at least one of the first and second jaw
components from the aligned orientation to the angled orientation
effects cutting of tissue grasped between the tissue-treating
plates of the first and second jaw members.
2. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the
tissue-treating plates define serrated configurations to facilitate
grasping and cutting of tissue.
3. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, further including
an actuation assembly operably coupled to the end effector
assembly, the actuation assembly including an actuation member
movable between a first position and a second position to rotate
the at least one of the first and second jaw components between the
aligned orientation and the angled orientation.
4. The surgical instrument according to claim 3, wherein the
actuation assembly includes a trigger coupled to the actuation
member, the trigger selectively actuatable for moving the actuation
member between the first position and the second position.
5. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, further including
at least one biasing member interdisposed between the first and
second jaw components and configured to bias the at least one of
the first and second jaw components towards the aligned
orientation.
6. The surgical instrument according to claim 1, wherein the
tissue-treating plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy
for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween to treat
tissue.
7. A surgical instrument, comprising: an end effector assembly
including first and second jaw members movable between a
spaced-apart position, a first approximated position for grasping
tissue therebetween, and a second approximated position, the first
jaw member including: a body having first and second spaced-apart
tissue-treating plate portions disposed thereon and an insulative
member extending from the body between the first and second
tissue-treating plate portions, the second jaw member including: a
bifurcated body having first and second jaw components, each of the
first and second jaw components including a tissue-treating plate
portion disposed thereon, the first and second jaw components
movable relative to one another and the first jaw member between a
first position, wherein the tissue-treating plate portions of the
first and second jaw components are respectively aligned with the
first and second tissue-treating plate portions of the first jaw
member, and a second position, wherein the tissue-treating plate
portions of the first and second jaw components are offset relative
to the first and second tissue-treating plate portions of the first
jaw member, wherein movement of the first and second jaw members
from the first approximated position to the second approximated
position moves the insulative member between the first and second
jaw components to urge the first and second jaw components from the
first position to the second position to cut tissue grasped between
the first and second jaw members.
8. The surgical instrument according to claim 7, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions define serrated configurations to
facilitate grasping and cutting of tissue.
9. The surgical instrument according to claim 7, further including
at least one biasing member interdisposed between the first and
second jaw components and configured to bias the first and second
jaw components towards the first position.
10. The surgical instrument according to claim 7, wherein the first
and second tissue-treating plate portions of the first jaw member
and the tissue-treating plate portions of the second jaw member are
adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy
through tissue grasped therebetween to treat tissue.
11. The surgical instrument according to claim 7, further including
a handle assembly operably coupled to the end effector assembly,
the handle assembly including a movable handle movable between an
initial position, a first actuated position, and a second actuated
position for moving the first and second jaw members between the
spaced-apart position, the first approximated position, and the
second approximated position, respectively.
12. A surgical instrument, comprising: an end effector assembly
including first and second jaw members, each jaw member including a
jaw body having a tissue-treating plate disposed thereon, the first
and second jaw members movable between a spaced-apart position and
a first approximated position for grasping tissue between the
tissue-treating plates, the first and second jaw members further
movable from the first approximated position to a second
approximated position, wherein moving the first and second jaw
members from the first approximated position to the second
approximated position transitioning the jaw members from an aligned
orientation, wherein the tissue-treating plates are aligned with
one another, to an offset orientation, wherein the tissue-treating
plates are offset relative to one another, and wherein
transitioning the jaw members from the aligned orientation to the
offset orientation cuts tissue grasped between the tissue-treating
plates.
13. The surgical instrument according to claim 12, wherein the
tissue-treating plates define serrated configurations to facilitate
grasping and cutting of tissue.
14. The surgical instrument according to claim 12, further
including at least one biasing member configured to bias the first
and second jaw members towards the aligned orientation.
15. The surgical instrument according to claim 12, wherein the
tissue-treating plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy
for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween to treat
tissue.
16. The surgical instrument according to claim 12, wherein each of
the first and second jaw members further includes a proximal
flange, the proximal flanges of the first and second jaw members
pivotably coupled to one another for movement of the first and
second jaw members between the spaced-apart position, the first
approximated position, and the second approximated position.
17. The surgical instrument according to claim 16, wherein a
protrusion extends from each of the proximal flanges, the
protrusions operably positioned relative to one another such that,
upon movement of the first and second jaw members from the first
approximated position to the second approximated position, the
protrusions contact one another and urge the proximal flanges apart
from one another, thereby urging the jaw members from the aligned
orientation to the offset orientation.
18. A surgical instrument, comprising: an end effector assembly
including first and second jaw members each defining a bifurcated
body having first and second jaw components, the first and second
jaw components of each of the jaw members including a
tissue-treating plate portion disposed thereon, wherein the jaw
components of the first jaw member and the jaw components of the
second jaw member are movable relative to one another between a
spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping
tissue between the tissue-treating plate portions of the first jaw
components and between the tissue-treating plate portions of the
second jaw components, and wherein the first jaw components of the
jaw members and the second jaw components of the jaw members are
movable relative to one another between an un-actuated position,
wherein the first and second jaw components of each jaw member are
disposed in close proximity to one another, and an actuated
position, wherein the first and second jaw components of each jaw
member are spaced further-apart from one another, to separate
tissue grasped between the first jaw components from tissue grasped
between the second jaw components.
19. The surgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions define serrated configurations to
facilitate grasping and cutting of tissue.
20. The surgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions are adapted to connect to a source
of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween
to treat tissue.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to,
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/035,764 and 62/035,751,
both of which were filed on Aug. 11, 2014. This application is
related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed on
______. The entire contents of each of the above applications are
hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and
methods and, more particularly, to surgical instruments and methods
for performing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy procedures.
[0004] 2. Background of Related Art
[0005] The tonsils and adenoids are part of the lymphatic system
and are generally located in the back of the throat. These parts of
the lymphatic system are generally used for sampling bacteria and
viruses entering the body and activating the immune system when
warranted to produce antibodies to fight oncoming infections. More
particularly, the tonsils and adenoids break down the bacteria or
virus and send pieces of the bacteria or virus to the immune system
to produce antibodies for fighting off infections.
[0006] Inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids (e.g., tonsillitis)
impedes the ability of the tonsils and adenoids to destroy the
bacteria resulting in a bacterial infection. In many instances, the
bacteria remain even after treatment and serve as a reservoir for
repeated infections (e.g., tonsillitis or ear infections).
[0007] A tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy may be performed when
infections persist and antibiotic treatments fail. Persistent
infection typically leads to enlarged tonsil tissue which may need
to be removed since in many cases the enlarged tissue causes airway
obstruction leading to various sleep disorders such as snoring or,
in some cases, sleep apnea. Some individuals are also born with
larger tonsils that are more prone to cause obstruction. An
adenoidectomy may also be required to remove adenoid tissue when
ear pain persists, or when nose breathing or function of the
Eustachian tube is impaired. Often times, tonsillectomy and
adenoidectomy procedures are performed at the same time.
SUMMARY
[0008] As used herein, the term "distal" refers to the portion that
is being described which is further from a user, while the term
"proximal" refers to the portion that is being described which is
closer to a user. Further, to the extent consistent, any of the
aspects described herein may be used in conjunction with any or all
of the other aspects described herein.
[0009] In accordance with the present disclosure, a surgical
instrument is provided including an end effector assembly having
first and second jaw members. Each of the first and second jaw
members includes one or more tissue-treating plates disposed
thereon. The first and second jaw members are movable between a
spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping
tissue between the tissue-treating plates. One or both of the first
and second jaw members includes a bifurcated body having first and
second jaw components. Each of the first and second jaw components
includes a tissue-treating plate portion disposed thereon. The
tissue-treating plate portions cooperate to define the
tissue-treating plate of the jaw member. One or both of the first
and second jaw components is rotatable relative to the other
between an aligned orientation, wherein the tissue-treating plate
portions are substantially co-planar relative to one another, and
an angled orientation, wherein the tissue-treating plate portions
are angled relative to one another. Rotation of the first jaw
component and/or the second jaw components from the aligned
orientation to the angled orientation effects cutting of tissue
grasped between the tissue-treating plates of the first and second
jaw members.
[0010] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the tissue-treating
plates define serrated configurations to facilitate grasping and
cutting of tissue.
[0011] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the surgical
instrument further includes an actuation assembly operably coupled
to the end effector assembly. The actuation assembly includes an
actuation member movable between a first position and a second
position to rotate the jaw component(s) between the aligned
orientation and the angled orientation.
[0012] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, upon
movement of the actuation member from the first position to the
second position, the actuation member is inserted between the first
and second jaw components to urge the jaw component(s) to rotate to
the angled orientation.
[0013] In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the
actuation assembly includes a trigger coupled to the actuation
member. The trigger is selectively actuatable for moving the
actuation member between the first position and the second
position.
[0014] In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, one
or more biasing members is interdisposed between the first and
second jaw components and to bias the jaw component(s) towards the
aligned orientation.
[0015] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the
tissue-treating plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy
for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween to treat
tissue.
[0016] Another surgical instrument provided in accordance with the
present disclosure includes an end effector assembly having first
and second jaw members movable between a spaced-apart position, a
first approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween, and a
second approximated position. The first jaw member includes a body
having first and second spaced-apart tissue-treating plate portions
disposed thereon and an insulative member extending from the body
between the first and second tissue-treating plate portions. The
second jaw member includes a bifurcated body having first and
second jaw components. Each jaw component includes a
tissue-treating plate portion disposed thereon. The jaw components
are movable relative to one another and the first jaw member
between a first position, wherein the tissue-treating plate
portions of the first and second jaw components are respectively
aligned with the first and second tissue-treating plate portions of
the first jaw member, and a second position, wherein the
tissue-treating plate portions of the first and second jaw
components are offset relative to the first and second
tissue-treating plate portions of the first jaw member. Movement of
the first and second jaw members from the first approximated
position to the second approximated position moves the insulative
member between the first and second jaw components to urge the
first and second jaw components from the first position to the
second position to cut tissue grasped between the first and second
jaw members.
[0017] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the tissue-treating
plate portions define serrated configurations to facilitate
grasping and cutting of tissue.
[0018] In another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more
biasing members is interdisposed between the first and second jaw
components to bias the first and second jaw components towards the
first position.
[0019] In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the first
and second tissue-treating plate portions of the first jaw member
and the tissue-treating plate portions of the second jaw member are
adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy
through tissue grasped therebetween to treat tissue.
[0020] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a handle
assembly operably coupled to the end effector assembly is provided.
The handle assembly includes a movable handle movable between an
initial position, a first actuated position, and a second actuated
position for moving the first and second jaw members between the
spaced-apart position, the first approximated position, and the
second approximated position, respectively.
[0021] In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the
insulative member defines angled side surfaces configured to
facilitate urging the first and second jaw components from the
first position to the second position.
[0022] Another surgical instrument provided in accordance with the
present disclosure includes an end effector assembly having first
and second jaw members each including a jaw body having one or more
tissue-treating plates disposed thereon. The jaw members are
movable between a spaced-apart position and a first approximated
position for grasping tissue between the tissue-treating plates.
The jaw members are further movable from the first approximated
position to a second approximated position. Moving the first and
second jaw members from the first approximated position to the
second approximated position transitions the jaw members from an
aligned orientation, wherein the tissue-treating plates are aligned
with one another, to an offset orientation, wherein the
tissue-treating plates are offset relative to one another.
Transitioning the jaw members from the aligned orientation to the
offset orientation cuts tissue grasped between the tissue-treating
plates.
[0023] In an aspect of the present disclosure, the tissue-treating
plates define serrated configurations to facilitate grasping and
cutting of tissue.
[0024] In another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more
biasing members is provided for biasing the first and second jaw
members towards the aligned orientation.
[0025] In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the
tissue-treating plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy
for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween to treat
tissue.
[0026] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, each of the
jaw members includes a proximal flange. The proximal flanges of the
members are pivotably coupled to one another for movement of the
first and second jaw members between the spaced-apart position, the
first approximated position, and the second approximated
position.
[0027] In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a
protrusion extends from each of the proximal flanges. The
protrusions are operably positioned relative to one another such
that, upon movement of the first and second jaw members from the
first approximated position to the second approximated position,
the protrusions contact one another and urge the proximal flanges
apart from one another, thereby urging the jaw members from the
aligned orientation to the offset orientation.
[0028] Another surgical instrument provided in accordance with
aspects of the present disclosure includes an end effector assembly
including first and second jaw members each defining a bifurcated
body having first and second jaw components. The first and second
jaw components of each of the jaw members include a tissue-treating
plate portion disposed thereon. The jaw components of the first jaw
member and the jaw components of the second jaw member are movable
relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an
approximated position for grasping tissue between the
tissue-treating plate portions of the first jaw components and
between the tissue-treating plate portions of the second jaw
components. Further, the first jaw components of the jaw members
and the second jaw components of the jaw members are movable
relative to one another between an un-actuated position, wherein
the first and second jaw components of each jaw member are disposed
in close proximity to one another, and an actuated position,
wherein the first and second jaw components of each jaw member are
spaced further-apart from one another, to separate tissue grasped
between the first jaw components from tissue grasped between the
second jaw components.
[0029] In aspects, the tissue-treating plate portions define
serrated configurations to facilitate grasping and cutting of
tissue.
[0030] In aspects, the tissue-treating plate portions are adapted
to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through
tissue grasped therebetween to treat tissue.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] Various aspects and features of the present disclosure are
described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:
[0032] FIG. 1 is a front, side, perspective view of an endoscopic
surgical forceps configured for use in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0033] FIG. 2 is a front, side, perspective view of an open
surgical forceps configured for use in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0034] FIG. 3A is a side, cut-away view of the proximal portion of
the surgical forceps of FIG. 1, wherein a portion of the housing
and some of the internal components thereof have been removed to
unobstructively illustrate the handle, actuation, and drive
assemblies of the forceps;
[0035] FIG. 3B is a perspective, cut-away view of the distal
portion of the surgical forceps of FIG. 1, wherein the shaft has
been removed to illustrate the drive bar, actuation assembly, and
end effector assembly of the forceps;
[0036] FIG. 4A is a top view of one of the jaw members of the end
effector assembly of FIG. 3B and the actuation assembly of FIG.
3A-3B, disposed in an un-actuated condition;
[0037] FIG. 4B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the end
effector assembly of FIG. 3B and the actuation assembly of FIG.
3A-3B, disposed in the un-actuated condition;
[0038] FIG. 5A is a top view of jaw member of FIG. 3B and the
actuation assembly of FIG. 3A-3B, disposed in an actuated
condition;
[0039] FIG. 5B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the end
effector assembly of FIG. 3B and the actuation assembly of FIG.
3A-3B, disposed in the actuated condition;
[0040] FIG. 6A is a top view of one of the jaw members of another
end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present
disclosure, disposed in an un-actuated condition;
[0041] FIG. 6B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the end
effector assembly of FIG. 6A, disposed in the un-actuated
condition;
[0042] FIG. 7A is a top view of the jaw member of FIG. 6A, disposed
in an actuated condition;
[0043] FIG. 7B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the end
effector assembly of FIG. 7A, disposed in the actuated
condition;
[0044] FIG. 8A is a transverse, cross-sectional view of proximal
flanges of the jaw members of another end effector assembly
provided in accordance with the present disclosure, disposed in an
un-actuated condition;
[0045] FIG. 8B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the jaw
bodies of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of FIG. 8A,
disposed in the un-actuated condition;
[0046] FIG. 9A is a is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the
proximal flanges of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of
FIG. 8A, disposed in an actuated condition;
[0047] FIG. 9B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the jaw
bodies of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of FIG. 8A,
disposed in the actuated condition;
[0048] FIG. 10A is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the jaw
bodies of another end effector assembly provided in accordance with
the present disclosure, disposed in an un-actuated condition;
and
[0049] FIG. 10B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the jaw
bodies of the jaw members of the end effector assembly of FIG. 10A,
disposed in an actuated condition.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0050] Turning to FIGS. 1 and 2, FIG. 1 depicts a handheld,
shaft-based surgical forceps 10 and FIG. 2 depicts a hemostat-style
forceps 10'. For the purposes herein, either forceps 10, forceps
10', or any other suitable surgical instrument may be utilized in
accordance with the present disclosure. Obviously, different
electrical and mechanical connections and considerations apply to
each particular type of instrument; however, the aspects and
features of the present disclosure remain generally consistent
regardless of the particular instrument used.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 1, forceps 10 generally includes a housing
20, a handle assembly 30, an actuation assembly 60, a rotating
assembly 70, an activation switch 4, and an end effector assembly
100. Forceps 10 further includes a shaft 12 having a distal end 14
configured to mechanically engage end effector assembly 100 and a
proximal end 16 that mechanically engages housing 20. Forceps 10
also includes cable 2 that connects forceps 10 to an energy source
(not shown), e.g., a generator or other suitable power source,
although forceps 10 may alternatively be configured as a
battery-powered device. Cable 2 includes a wire (or wires) (not
shown) extending therethrough that has sufficient length to extend
through shaft 12 in order to provide energy to one or both
tissue-treating plates 114, 124 (FIG. 3B) of jaw members 110, 120,
respectively. Activation switch 4 is coupled to tissue-treating
plates 114, 124 (FIG. 3B) of jaw members 110, 120, respectively,
and the source of energy for selectively activating the supply of
energy to jaw members 110, 120 for treating, e.g., cauterizing,
coagulating/desiccating, and/or sealing, tissue.
[0052] With additional reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, handle
assembly 30 includes fixed handle 50 and a movable handle 40. Fixed
handle 50 is integrally associated with housing 20 and handle 40 is
movable relative to fixed handle 50. Movable handle 40 of handle
assembly 30 is operably coupled to a drive assembly 140 that,
together, mechanically cooperate to impart movement of one or both
of jaw members 110, 120 about a pivot 103 between a spaced-apart
position and an approximated position to grasp tissue between jaw
members 110, 120. In particular, movable handle 40 is coupled to
drive bar 142 via a drive mandrel 144 such that movement of movable
handle 40 relative to housing 20 effects longitudinal translation
of drive bar 142 through housing 20 and shaft 12. The distal end of
drive bar 142 is coupled to one or both jaw members 110, 120 such
that longitudinal translation of drive bar 142 relative to end
effector assembly 100 pivots one or both of jaw members 110, 120
relative to one another. As shown in FIG. 1, movable handle 40 is
initially spaced-apart from fixed handle 50 and, correspondingly,
jaw members 110, 120 are disposed in the spaced-apart position.
Movable handle 40 is depressible from this initial position to a
depressed position corresponding to the approximated position of
jaw members 110, 120. Further, a biasing member 146 may be disposed
within housing 20 and positioned to bias drive bar 142 distally,
thereby biasing jaw members 110, 120 towards the spaced-apart
position. However, other configurations are also contemplated.
[0053] Actuation assembly 60 includes a trigger 62 coupled to
housing 20 and movable relative thereto between an un-actuated
position and an actuated position. More specifically, trigger 62 is
operably coupled to an actuation bar 161 (e.g., similarly as with
the coupling of movable handle 40 to drive bar 142) such that
movement of trigger 62 relative to housing 20 effects longitudinal
translation of actuation bar 161 through housing 20 and shaft 12.
The distal end of actuation bar 161 is coupled to one or both jaw
members 110, 120 such that longitudinal translation of actuation
bar 161 effects transitioning of end effector assembly 100 between
the un-actuated condition (FIGS. 4A and 4B) and the actuated
condition (FIGS. 5A and 5B). Trigger 62, as shown in FIG. 1, is
initially disposed in the un-actuated position and,
correspondingly, end effector assembly 100 is disposed in the
un-actuated condition (FIGS. 4A and 4B). Trigger 62 is selectively
actuatable from this un-actuated position to an actuated position
corresponding to the actuated condition of end effector assembly
100 (FIGS. 5A and 5B). Further, a biasing member 166 may be
disposed within housing 20 and positioned to bias actuation bar 161
proximally, thereby biasing end effector assembly 100 towards the
un-actuated condition and trigger 62 towards the un-actuated
position. The operable distal components of actuation assembly 60
and the functions thereof are described in greater detail
below.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 2, forceps 10' is shown including two
elongated shaft members 12a, 12b, each having a proximal end 16a,
16b, and a distal end 14a, 14b, respectively. Forceps 10' is
configured for use with an end effector assembly 100' similar to
end effector assembly 100 (FIGS. 1 and 3B). More specifically, end
effector assembly 100' includes first and second jaw members 110',
120' attached to respective distal ends 14a, 14b of shaft members
12a, 12b. Jaw members 110', 120' are pivotably connected about a
pivot 103'. Each shaft member 12a, 12b includes a handle 17a, 17b
disposed at the proximal end 16a, 16b thereof. Each handle 17a, 17b
defines a finger hole 18a, 18b therethrough for receiving a finger
of the user. As can be appreciated, finger holes 18a, 18b
facilitate movement of the shaft members 12a, 12b relative to one
another to, in turn, pivot jaw members 110', 120' from the
spaced-apart position, wherein jaw members 110', 120' are disposed
in spaced relation relative to one another, to the approximated
position, wherein jaw members 110', 120' cooperate to grasp tissue
therebetween.
[0055] One of the shaft members 12a, 12b of forceps 10', e.g.,
shaft member 12a, includes a proximal shaft connector 19 configured
to connect the forceps 10' to a source of energy (not shown), e.g.,
a generator. Proximal shaft connector 19 secures a cable 2' to
forceps 10' such that the user may selectively supply energy to jaw
members 110', 120' for treating tissue and for energy-based tissue
cutting. More specifically, an activation switch 4' is provided for
supplying energy to jaw members 110', 120' to treat tissue upon
sufficient approximation of shaft members 12a, 12b, e.g., upon
activation of activation switch 4' via shaft member 12b.
[0056] Forceps 10' further includes an actuation assembly 60'
including a trigger 62' coupled to one of the shaft members, e.g.,
shaft member 12b, and movable relative thereto between an
un-actuated position and an actuated position for transitioning end
effector assembly 100' between an un-actuated condition and an
actuated condition, similarly as with end effector assembly 100
(FIG. 3B).
[0057] With reference to FIG. 3B, end effector assembly 100 of
forceps 10 (FIG. 1) is shown, although end effector assembly 100
may similarly be used in conjunction with forceps 10' (FIG. 2), or
any other suitable surgical instrument. For purposes of simplicity,
end effector assembly 100 is described herein as configured for use
with forceps 10 (FIG. 1). Further, end effector assembly 100 is
initially generally described below with reference to FIG. 3B,
followed by a more detailed description of the particular features
and function thereof with reference to FIGS. 4A-5B. End effector
assembly 100, and the various other configurations of end effector
assemblies detailed below with respect to FIGS. 6A-10B, are
suitable for use in performing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy
procedures, although such end effector assemblies may equally be
applicable for use in other surgical procedures. Each of the
various configurations detailed below with respect to FIGS. 6A-10B
may incorporate the general features of end effector assembly 100
and may likewise be used with forceps 10 (FIG. 1), forceps 10'
(FIG. 2), or any other suitable surgical instrument. That is, the
general features detailed with respect to end effector assembly 100
(FIG. 3B), are also applicable to the end effector assemblies of
FIGS. 6A-10B, except where specifically contradicted.
[0058] Each jaw member 110, 120 of end effector assembly 100
includes a jaw frame having a proximal flange portion 111, 121, an
outer insulative jaw housing 112, 122 disposed about the distal
portion (not explicitly shown) of each jaw frame, and a
tissue-treating plate 114, 124, respectively. Proximal flange
portions 111, 121 are pivotably coupled to one another about pivot
103 for moving jaw members 110, 120 between the spaced-apart and
approximated positions, although other suitable mechanisms for
pivoting jaw members 110, 120 relative to one another are also
contemplated. The distal portions (not explicitly shown) of the jaw
frames are configured to support jaw housings 112, 122, and
tissue-treating plates 114, 124, respectively, thereon.
[0059] Outer insulative jaw housings 112, 122 of jaw members 110,
120 support and retain tissue-treating plates 114, 124 on
respective jaw members 110, 120 in opposed relation relative to one
another. Tissue-treating plates 114, 124 are formed from an
electrically conductive material, e.g., for conducting electrical
energy therebetween for treating tissue, although tissue-treating
plates 114, 124 may alternatively be configured to conduct any
suitable energy, e.g., thermal, microwave, light, ultrasonic, etc.,
through tissue grasped therebetween for energy-based tissue
treatment. As mentioned above, tissue-treating plates 114, 124 are
coupled to activation switch 4 (FIG. 1) and the source of energy
(not shown), e.g., via the wires (not shown) extending from cable 2
(FIG. 1) through forceps 10 (FIG. 1), such that energy may be
selectively supplied to tissue-treating plate 114 and/or
tissue-treating plate 124 and conducted therebetween and through
tissue disposed between jaw members 110, 120 to treat tissue.
Tissue-treating plates 114, 124 may define serrated configurations
to facilitate grasping and cutting of tissue, as detailed
below.
[0060] With additional reference to FIGS. 4A-5B, one of the jaw
members of end effector assembly 100, e.g., jaw member 120, defines
a bifurcated configuration including first and second jaw
components 120a, 120b. First and second jaw components 120a, 120b
of jaw member 120 extend longitudinally in side-by-side relation
relative to one another and each includes a tissue-treating plate
portion 124a, 124b that together form tissue-treating plate 124.
Although shown as substantially equal, it is envisioned that jaw
components 120a, 120b may define any suitable equal or unequal
widths.
[0061] One of the jaw components of jaw member 120, e.g., jaw
component 120a, is rotatably coupled to proximal flange portion 121
of jaw member 120 via a rod 126, although it is also contemplated
that both jaw components 120a, 120b be rotatable relative to
proximal flange portion 121. Rod 126 extends longitudinally such
that jaw component 120a is rotatable between an aligned
orientation, corresponding to the un-actuated condition of end
effector assembly 100, wherein tissue-treating plate portion 124a
and tissue-treating plate portion 124b are substantially coplanar
relative to one another (FIGS. 4A and 4B), and an angled
orientation, corresponding to the actuated condition of end
effector assembly 100, wherein tissue-treating plate portion 124a
is angled with respect to tissue-treating plate portion 124b (FIGS.
5A and 5B). Further, one of the jaw components, e.g., jaw component
120b, may define a cut-out 125 to permit rotation of jaw component
120a relative thereto.
[0062] Actuator drive bar 161 of actuator assembly 60 (FIG. 3A)
includes an actuator member 168 disposed at the distal end thereof
that is configured for insertion between jaw components 120a, 120b
to rotate jaw component 120b relative to jaw component 120a,
thereby rotating tissue-treating plate portion 124a relative to
tissue-treating plate portion 124b from the aligned orientation to
the angled orientation. More specifically, actuator member 168
defines a wedge-like configuration and is configured for insertion
between jaw components 120a, 120b at a position offset, e.g., above
or below, relative to rod 126. As such, insertion of the wedge-like
actuator member 168 jaw components 120a, 120b urges jaw component
120a and tissue-treating plate portion 124a thereof to rotate
towards the angled orientation. Trigger 62 of actuator assembly 60
(FIG. 3A), as noted above, is selectively actuatable to advance
actuator drive bar 161 and, thus, actuator member 168 between jaw
components 120a, 120b to transition end effector assembly 100 to
the actuated condition. One or more biasing members 129 may be
disposed between jaw components 120a, 120b at a position offset
relative to rod 126, on an opposite side of rod 126 as compared to
actuator member 168 to bias jaw components 120a, 120b towards the
aligned orientation, corresponding to the un-actuated condition of
end effector assembly 100.
[0063] In use, with end effector assembly 100 disposed in the
un-actuated condition (FIGS. 4A and 4B) and jaw members 110, 120
disposed in the spaced-apart position, end effector assembly 100 is
manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is
disposed between jaw members 110, 120. With respect to
tonsillectomy procedures, for example, end effector assembly 100 is
positioned between the cavity wall tissue (or other tissue to
remain) and the tonsil tissue (or other tissue to be removed). Once
the desired position has been achieved, jaw members 110, 120 are
moved to the approximated position, e.g., via moving movable handle
40 (FIG. 3A) to the depressed condition, to grasp tissue between
tissue-treating plate 114 and tissue-treating plates 124a, 124b.
Thereafter, tissue-treating plate 114 may be energized to a first
electrical potential and tissue-treating plate portions 124a, 124b
to a second, different electrical potential for conducting energy
between plate 114 and plate portions 124a, 124b and through tissue
grasped therebetween to treat tissue.
[0064] Once tissue has been treated the tissue to be removed, e.g.,
the tonsil tissue, is separated from the tissue to remain, e.g.,
the wall tissue. In order to separate the tissue, while maintaining
jaw members 110, 120 in the approximated position grasping the
previously treated tissue between the serrated tissue-treating
plate 114 and plate portions 124a, 124b, trigger 62 (FIG. 3A) is
moved from the un-actuated position to the actuated position.
Actuation of trigger 62 (FIG. 3A) advances actuation drive rod 161
and actuation member 168 distally such that actuation member 168 is
inserted between jaw components 120a, 120b to urge jaw component
120a to rotate relative to jaw component 120b from the aligned
orientation, e.g., the un-actuated condition of end effector
assembly 100, to the angled orientation, e.g., the actuated
condition of end effector assembly 100. As tissue-treating plate
portion 124a is rotated relative to tissue-treating plate portion
124b and tissue-treating plate 114, the previously treated tissue
grasped between jaw members 110, 120, which is substantially held
in position via the serrated tissue-treating plate 114 and plate
portions 124a, 124b, is cut in a dynamic shearing and/or ripping
fashion, ultimately separating the tonsil tissue to be removed from
the wall tissue to remain. The separated tonsil tissue may then be
removed using end effector assembly 100, another grasping
instrument, a suction device, or via other suitable method.
[0065] Turning to FIGS. 6A-7B, another embodiment of an end
effector assembly is shown generally identified by reference
numeral 200. End effector assembly 200 may be configured for use
with forceps 10 (FIG. 1), forceps 10' (FIG. 2), or any other
suitable surgical instrument, except that actuation assembly 60,
60' (FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively), need not be provided. Rather, as
detailed below, end effector assembly 200 is configured for
treating and cutting tissue by moving jaw members 210, 220 from a
spaced-apart position to a first approximated position to grasp and
treat tissue, and further to a second approximated position to cut
tissue. With additional reference to FIG. 1 momentarily, this may
be accomplished, for example, via moving movable handle 40 of
forceps 10 from the initial position to a first compressed position
corresponding to the first approximated position of jaw members
210, 220, and to then further to a second approximated position of
jaw members 210, 220.
[0066] Each jaw member 210, 220 of end effector assembly 200
includes a jaw frame having a proximal flange portion 221 (although
not shown, the proximal flange portion of jaw member 210 is similar
proximal flange portion 221 of jaw member 220), an outer insulative
jaw housing 212, 222 disposed about the distal portion (not
explicitly shown) of each jaw frame, and a tissue-treating plate
214, 224, respectively. The proximal flange portion (not shown) of
jaw member 210 and proximal flange portion 221 of jaw member 220
are pivotably coupled to one another for moving jaw members 210,
220 between the spaced-apart position, first approximated position
(FIG. 6B), and second approximated position (FIG. 7B). The distal
portions of the jaw frames are configured to support jaw housings
212, 222, and tissue-treating plates 214, 224, respectively,
thereon. Tissue-treating plates 214, 224 are formed from an
electrically conductive material, e.g., for conducting electrical
energy therebetween for treating tissue, similarly as detailed
above. Further, tissue-treating plates 214, 224 may define serrated
configurations to facilitate grasping and cutting of tissue, as
detailed below.
[0067] One of the jaw members of end effector assembly 200, e.g.,
jaw member 220, defines a bifurcated configuration including first
and second jaw components 220a, 220b. First and second jaw
components 220a, 220b of jaw member 220 extend longitudinally in
side-by-side relation relative to one another and each includes a
tissue-treating plate portion 224a, 224b of tissue-treating plate
224. One or more biasing members 229 may be disposed between jaw
components 220a, 220b to bias jaw components 220a, 220b towards one
another, corresponding to the un-actuated condition of end effector
assembly 200. As detailed below, when jaw members 210, 220 are
moved to the second approximated position, jaw member 210 urges jaw
components 220a, 220b apart from one another against the bias of
biasing members 229, corresponding to the actuated condition of end
effector assembly 200.
[0068] The other jaw member of end effector assembly 200, e.g., jaw
member 210 includes a pair of spaced-apart, substantially planar
tissue-contacting plate portions 214a, 214b that together define
plate 214. Positioned between the spaced-apart plate portions 214a,
214b of jaw member 210 is an insulative member 218. More
specifically, insulative member 218 extends longitudinally between
plate portions 214a, 214b and towards jaw member 220. Insulative
member 218 defines generally trapezoidal transverse cross-sectional
configuration having angled sides 219a, 219b, although other
configurations are also contemplated. Angled sides 219a, 219b
permit the free end of insulative member 218 to extend partially
between jaw components 220a, 220b of jaw member 220 in the first
approximated position of end effector assembly 200 without
effecting relative movement of jaw components 220a, 220b (the
un-actuated condition of end effector assembly 200). However, upon
further approximation of jaw members 210, 220, e.g., to the second
approximated position, insulative member 218 extends further
between jaw components 220a, 220b such that angled sides 219a, 219b
urge jaw components 220a, 220b apart from one another against the
bias of biasing member 229 (the actuated condition of end effector
assembly 200).
[0069] In use, with end effector assembly 200 disposed in the
un-actuated condition (FIGS. 6A and 6B) and jaw members 210, 220
disposed in the spaced-apart position, end effector assembly 200 is
manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is
disposed between jaw members 210, 220. With respect to
tonsillectomy procedures, for example, end effector assembly 200 is
positioned between the cavity wall tissue (or other tissue to
remain) and the tonsil tissue (or other tissue to be removed). Once
the desired position has been achieved, jaw members 210, 220 are
moved to the first approximated position to grasp tissue between
tissue-treating plates 214, 224 and, more specifically, between
tissue-treating plate portions 214a, 214b and tissue-treating plate
portions 224a, 224b, respectively. In the first approximated
position, jaw components 220a, 220b of jaw member 220 are disposed
in close proximity to one another such that plate portions 214a,
214b and plate portions 224a, 224b, respectively, are aligned with
one another. Thereafter, tissue-treating plate portions 214a, 214b
may be energized to a first electrical potential and
tissue-treating plate portions 224a, 224b to a second, different
electrical potential for conducting energy therebetween and through
tissue grasped between jaw members 210, 220 to treat tissue.
[0070] Once tissue has been treated, the tissue to be removed,
e.g., the tonsil tissue, is separated from the tissue to remain,
e.g., the wall tissue. In order to separate the tissue, jaw members
210, 220 are moved from the first approximated position to the
second approximated position such that insulative member 218 is
advanced between jaw components 220a, 220b of jaw member 220 and
urges jaw components 220a, 220b apart from one another to the
actuated condition of end effector assembly 200. Movement of jaw
components 220a, 220b to the actuated condition moves
tissue-treating plate portions 224a, 224b apart from one another
and relative to tissue-treating plate portions 214a, 214b such that
the previously treated tissue grasped between jaw members 210, 220,
which is substantially held in position via the serrated
tissue-treating plate portions 214a, 214b and 224a, 224b,
respectively, is cut in a dynamic shearing and/or ripping fashion,
ultimately separating the tonsil tissue to be removed from the wall
tissue to remain. The separated tonsil tissue may then be removed
using end effector assembly 200, another grasping instrument, a
suction device, or via other suitable method.
[0071] Turning to FIGS. 8A-9B, another embodiment of an end
effector assembly is shown generally identified by reference
numeral 300. End effector assembly 300 may be configured for use
with forceps 10 (FIG. 1), forceps 10' (FIG. 2), or any other
suitable surgical instrument, except that actuation assembly 60,
60' (FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively), need not be provided. Rather,
similarly as with end effector assembly 200 (FIGS. 6A-7B), and as
detailed below, end effector assembly 300 is configured for
treating and cutting tissue by moving jaw members 310, 320 from a
spaced-apart position to a first approximated position to grasp and
treat tissue, and further to a second approximated position to cut
tissue.
[0072] Each jaw member 310, 320 of end effector assembly 300
includes a jaw frame having a proximal flange portion 311, 321, an
outer insulative jaw housing 312, 322 disposed about the distal
portion (not explicitly shown) of each jaw frame, and a
tissue-treating plate 314, 324, respectively. Proximal flange
portions 311, 321 are pivotably coupled to one another about a
pivot 303 for moving jaw members 310, 320 between the spaced-apart
position, first approximated position (FIG. 8B), and second
approximated position (FIG. 9B). The distal portions of the jaw
frames are configured to support jaw housings 312, 322, and
tissue-treating plates 314, 324, respectively, thereon.
Tissue-treating plates 314, 324 are formed from an electrically
conductive material, e.g., for conducting electrical energy
therebetween for treating tissue, similarly as detailed above.
Further, tissue-treating plates 314, 324 may define serrated
configurations to facilitate grasping and cutting of tissue, as
detailed below.
[0073] As mentioned above, proximal flange portions 311, 321 are
pivotably coupled to one another about pivot 303. More
specifically, proximal flange portions 311, 321 are disposed about
pivot 303 with at least some play therebetween to permit one or
both of proximal flange portions 311, 321 to move towards and away
from the other along pivot 303. A biasing member 305 may be
disposed about pivot 303 and coupled between proximal flange
portions 311, 321 to bias proximal flange portions 311, 321 towards
one another, thereby biasing jaw members 310, 320 towards an
aligned configuration, corresponding to the un-actuated condition
of end effector assembly 300. Biasing member 305 further serves to
inhibit jaw splay during movement of jaw members 310, 320 between
the spaced-apart position and the first approximated position.
[0074] Proximal flange portions 311, 321 of jaw members 310, 320
each further include an inwardly-extending protrusion 317, 327
defining a ramped surface 318, 328, respectively. Ramped surfaces
318, 328 are positioned to oppose one another and to slidably
contact one another upon movement of jaw members 310, 320 from the
first approximated position (FIG. 8A) to the second approximated
position (FIG. 9A). More specifically, in the first approximated
position, ramped surfaces 318, 328 are spaced-apart from one
another (see FIG. 8A) and, as such, jaw members 310, 320 are biased
to the aligned configuration, corresponding to the un-actuated
condition of end effector assembly 300 (see FIG. 8B). Upon movement
of jaw members 310, 320 to the second approximated position, ramped
surfaces 318, 328 slidably contact one another and, due to the
ramped configurations of protrusions 317, 327, increasingly urge
proximal flange portions 311, 321 apart from one another (see FIG.
9A) to thereby move jaw members 310, 320 towards an offset
configuration, corresponding to the actuated condition of end
effector assembly 300 (see FIG. 9B).
[0075] In use, with end effector assembly 300 disposed in the
un-actuated condition (FIGS. 8A and 8B) and jaw members 310, 320
disposed in the spaced-apart position, end effector assembly 300 is
manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is
disposed between jaw members 310, 320. With respect to
tonsillectomy procedures, for example, end effector assembly 300 is
positioned between the cavity wall tissue (or other tissue to
remain) and the tonsil tissue (or other tissue to be removed). Once
the desired position has been achieved, jaw members 310, 320 are
moved to the first approximated position to grasp tissue between
tissue-treating plates 314, 324. Thereafter, tissue-treating plate
314 may be energized to a first electrical potential and
tissue-treating plate 324 to a second, different electrical
potential for conducting energy therebetween and through tissue
grasped between jaw members 310, 320 to treat, e.g., seal,
tissue.
[0076] Once tissue has been treated, the tissue to be removed,
e.g., the tonsil tissue, is separated from the tissue to remain,
e.g., the wall tissue. In order to separate the tissue, jaw members
310, 320 are moved from the first approximated position to the
second approximated position such that ramped surfaces 318, 328
slidably contact one another and urge proximal flange portions 311,
321 apart from one another to move jaw members 310, 320 to the
actuated condition of end effector assembly 300. Movement of jaw
members 310, 320 to the actuated condition moves tissue-treating
plates 314, 324 relative to one another such that the previously
treated tissue grasped between jaw members 310, 320, which is
substantially held in position via the serrated tissue-treating
plates 314, 324 is cut in a dynamic shearing and/or ripping
fashion, ultimately separating the tonsil tissue to be removed from
the wall tissue to remain. The separated tonsil tissue may then be
removed using end effector assembly 300, another grasping
instrument, a suction device, or via other suitable method.
[0077] Turning to FIGS. 10A and 10B, another embodiment of an end
effector assembly is shown generally identified by reference
numeral 400. End effector assembly 400 may be configured for use
with forceps 10 (FIG. 1), forceps 10' (FIG. 2), or any other
suitable surgical instrument. End effector assembly 400 is
configured for treating and cutting tissue by moving jaw members
410, 420 from a spaced-apart position to an approximated position
(FIG. 10A) to grasp and treat tissue, and then by moving each jaw
member 410, 420 from an un-actuated position to an actuated
position (FIG. 10B) to cut tissue. Movement between the
spaced-apart and approximated positions may be accomplished via
moving movable handle 40 of forceps 10 (FIG. 1) from the initial
position to a first compressed position, while moving movable
handle 40 (FIG. 1) from the first compressed position to a second
compressed position may be effected to both move jaw members 410,
420 to a further approximated position and move of each of jaw
members 410, 420 from the un-actuated position to the actuated
position, similarly as with end effector assemblies 200 or 300
(FIGS. 6A-7B and FIGS. 8A-9B, respectively). Alternatively, with
jaw members 410, 420 disposed in the approximated position, each
jaw member 410, 420 may be moved from the un-actuated position to
the actuated position via actuation of trigger 62 (FIG. 3A),
similarly as with end effector assembly 100 (FIGS. 4A-5B).
[0078] Each jaw member 410, 420 of end effector assembly 400
defines a bifurcated configuration including first and second jaw
components 410a, 410b and 420a, 420b, respectively. First and
second jaw components 410a, 410b and 420a, 420b of respective jaw
members 410, 420 extend longitudinally in side-by-side relation
relative to one another and each includes a tissue-treating plate
portion 414a, 414b and 424a, 424b that cooperate to define the
tissue-treating plates of jaw members 410, 420. Tissue-treating
plate portions 414a, 414b and 424a, 424b are formed from an
electrically conductive material, e.g., for conducting electrical
energy therebetween for treating tissue, similarly as detailed
above. Further, tissue-treating plate portions 414a, 414b and 424a,
424b may define serrated configurations to facilitate grasping and
cutting of tissue, as detailed below.
[0079] As noted above, jaw members 410, 420 of end effector
assembly 400 are configured to move between a spaced-apart position
and an approximated position (FIG. 10A), and each jaw member 410,
420, with the jaw members 410, 420 disposed in the approximated
position (FIG. 10A), is further configured to move between an
un-actuated position (FIG. 10A) and an actuated position (FIG.
10B). As also noted above, in some embodiments, the actuated
position of each of jaw members 410, 420 corresponds to a further
approximated position of jaw members 410, 420. In either
configuration, in the un-actuated position, jaw components 410a,
410b of jaw member 410 are positioned adjacent one another in close
proximity to one another and, similarly, jaw components 420a, 420b
of jaw member 420 are positioned adjacent one another in close
proximity to one another. Upon movement of jaw members 410, 420 to
the actuated position, jaw components 410a, 410b of jaw member 410
are moved apart from one another and, similarly, jaw components
420a, 420b of jaw member 420 are moved apart from one another.
[0080] In use, with jaw members 410, 420 initially disposed in the
spaced-apart position, end effector assembly 400 is manipulated
into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed
between jaw members 410, 420. With respect to tonsillectomy
procedures, for example, end effector assembly 400 is positioned
between the cavity wall tissue (or other tissue to remain) and the
tonsil tissue (or other tissue to be removed). Once the desired
position has been achieved, jaw members 410, 420 are moved to the
approximated position to grasp tissue between the tissue-treating
plate portions 414a, 414b of jaw member 410 and the tissue-treating
plate portions 424a, 424b of jaw member 420. More specifically, a
first portion of tissue is grasped between tissue-treating plate
portions 414a, 424a and a second portion of tissue is grasped
between tissue-treating plate portions 414b, 424b.
[0081] Thereafter, tissue-treating plate portions 414a, 414b may be
energized to a first electrical potential and tissue-treating plate
portions 424a, 424b to a second, different electrical potential for
conducting energy therebetween and through tissue grasped between
jaw members 410, 420 to treat tissue. More specifically, both the
first portion of tissue grasped between tissue-treating plate
portions 414a, 424a and a second portion of tissue grasped between
tissue-treating plate portions 414b, 424b are treated via the
conduction of energy therethrough.
[0082] Once tissue has been treated, the tissue to be removed,
e.g., the tonsil tissue, is separated from the tissue to remain,
e.g., the wall tissue. In order to separate the tissue, jaw members
410, 420 are moved from the un-actuated position to the actuated
position such that jaw components 410a, 420a are moved apart from
respective jaw components 410b, 420b. Thus, as jaw members 410, 420
are moved from the un-actuated position to the actuated position,
the first and second portions of previously-treated tissue are
pulled apart from one another, ultimately such that the tissue
disposed therebetween is ripped and/or torn, separating the first
and second portions of previously-treated tissue from one another.
With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example, moving jaw
members 410, 420 from the un-actuated position to the actuated
position separates the tonsil tissue to be removed from the wall
tissue to remain. The separated tonsil tissue (or other tissue) may
then be removed using end effector assembly 400, another grasping
instrument, a suction device, or via other suitable method.
[0083] The various embodiments disclosed herein may also be
configured to work with robotic surgical systems and what is
commonly referred to as "Telesurgery." Such systems employ various
robotic elements to assist the surgeon and allow remote operation
(or partial remote operation) of surgical instrumentation. Various
robotic arms, gears, cams, pulleys, electric and mechanical motors,
etc. may be employed for this purpose and may be designed with a
robotic surgical system to assist the surgeon during the course of
an operation or treatment. Such robotic systems may include
remotely steerable systems, automatically flexible surgical
systems, remotely flexible surgical systems, remotely articulating
surgical systems, wireless surgical systems, modular or selectively
configurable remotely operated surgical systems, etc.
[0084] The robotic surgical systems may be employed with one or
more consoles that are next to the operating theater or located in
a remote location. In this instance, one team of surgeons or nurses
may prep the patient for surgery and configure the robotic surgical
system with one or more of the instruments disclosed herein while
another surgeon (or group of surgeons) remotely control the
instruments via the robotic surgical system. As can be appreciated,
a highly skilled surgeon may perform multiple operations in
multiple locations without leaving his/her remote console which can
be both economically advantageous and a benefit to the patient or a
series of patients.
[0085] The robotic arms of the surgical system are typically
coupled to a pair of master handles by a controller. The handles
can be moved by the surgeon to produce a corresponding movement of
the working ends of any type of surgical instrument (e.g., end
effectors, graspers, knifes, scissors, etc.) which may complement
the use of one or more of the embodiments described herein. The
movement of the master handles may be scaled so that the working
ends have a corresponding movement that is different, smaller or
larger, than the movement performed by the operating hands of the
surgeon. The scale factor or gearing ratio may be adjustable so
that the operator can control the resolution of the working ends of
the surgical instrument(s).
[0086] The master handles may include various sensors to provide
feedback to the surgeon relating to various tissue parameters or
conditions, e.g., tissue resistance due to manipulation, cutting or
otherwise treating, pressure by the instrument onto the tissue,
tissue temperature, tissue impedance, etc. As can be appreciated,
such sensors provide the surgeon with enhanced tactile feedback
simulating actual operating conditions. The master handles may also
include a variety of different actuators for delicate tissue
manipulation or treatment further enhancing the surgeon's ability
to mimic actual operating conditions.
[0087] From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure
drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain
modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without
departing from the scope of the same. While several embodiments of
the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended
that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the
disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the
specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description
should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications
of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision
other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims
appended hereto.
* * * * *