U.S. patent application number 17/404113 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-02 for temperature-sensing electrically-conductive plate for an end effector of an electrosurgical instrument.
The applicant listed for this patent is Covidien LP. Invention is credited to Allan G. Aquino, Kim V. Brandt.
Application Number | 20210369330 17/404113 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005782802 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210369330 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brandt; Kim V. ; et
al. |
December 2, 2021 |
TEMPERATURE-SENSING ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE PLATE FOR AN END
EFFECTOR OF AN ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT
Abstract
An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical
instrument, an electrosurgical power generating source, and a
controller. The electrosurgical instrument includes a shaft
extending from a housing. The shaft includes a distal end
configured to support an end-effector assembly. The end-effector
assembly includes opposing jaw members movably mounted with respect
to one another and moveable from a first position in spaced
relation relative to one another to at least one subsequent
position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue
therebetween. At least one of the jaw members includes a
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
defining a bottom surface. One or more temperature sensors are
coupled to the bottom surface. The controller is configured to
control one or more operating parameters associated with the
electrosurgical power generating source based on one or more
signals indicative of a tissue impedance value and indicative of a
temperature sensed by the one or more temperature sensors.
Inventors: |
Brandt; Kim V.; (Loveland,
CO) ; Aquino; Allan G.; (Longmont, CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Covidien LP |
Mansfield |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005782802 |
Appl. No.: |
17/404113 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14538402 |
Nov 11, 2014 |
11090109 |
|
|
17404113 |
|
|
|
|
61938232 |
Feb 11, 2014 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2018/00702
20130101; A61B 2018/00404 20130101; A61B 2018/1455 20130101; A61B
2018/00648 20130101; A61B 2018/00791 20130101; A61B 2018/00875
20130101; A61B 2018/00714 20130101; A61B 18/1442 20130101; A61B
18/1206 20130101; A61B 2018/0063 20130101; A61B 2018/00726
20130101; A61B 2018/00797 20130101; A61B 2018/0016 20130101; A61B
2018/00755 20130101; A61B 2018/00767 20130101; A61B 18/1445
20130101; A61B 2018/0072 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 18/14 20060101
A61B018/14; A61B 18/12 20060101 A61B018/12 |
Claims
1-17. (canceled)
18. An electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a pair of jaw
members configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to tissue, at
least one of the jaw members having a tissue-contacting surface and
a bottom surface disposed opposite to the tissue-contacting
surface; a first heating zone defined by a distal end portion of
the bottom surface; a second heating zone defined by a proximal
portion of the bottom surface and disposed proximal to the first
heating zone; a knife channel disposed through the bottom surface
along the second heating zone and configured to receive a knife for
cutting tissue; a first temperature sensor disposed on the bottom
surface within the first heating zone; and a second temperature
sensor disposed on the bottom surface within the second heating
zone, the first and second temperature sensors configured to sense
a temperature of tissue disposed between the pair of jaw members
for controlling thermal spread during use of the pair of jaw
members to deliver electrosurgical energy to tissue.
19. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein
the knife channel extends from a proximal end of the bottom surface
to a distal end of the second heating zone.
20. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein
the first heating zone extends from a distal end of the knife
channel to a distal end of the bottom surface.
21. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein:
the first temperature sensor is electrically connected to a first
conductive trace printed on the first and second heating zones of
the bottom surface; and the second temperature sensor is
electrically connected to a second conductive trace printed on the
second heating zone of the bottom surface.
22. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 21, wherein
the first conductive trace is electrically insulated from the
second conductive trace.
23. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 21, wherein
the first and second temperature sensors are electrically coupled
to a controller via the respective first and second conductive
traces, the controller configured to control delivery of
electrosurgical energy to the first and second heating zones based
on a temperature of the tissue sensed by the respective first and
second temperature sensors.
24. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 18, wherein
the first temperature sensor is electrically insulated from the
second temperature sensor.
25. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 18, further
comprising: a third temperature sensor disposed on the bottom
surface within the first heating zone; and a fourth temperature
sensor disposed on the bottom surface within the second heating
zone, the third and fourth temperature sensors configured to sense
a temperature of the tissue.
26. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 25, wherein:
the third temperature sensor is electrically connected to a third
conductive trace printed on the first and second heating zones of
the bottom surface; and the fourth temperature sensor is
electrically connected to a fourth conductive trace printed on the
second heating zone of the bottom surface.
27. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 18, further
comprising a third heating zone defined by a proximal end portion
of the bottom surface and disposed proximal to the second heating
zone.
28. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 27, wherein:
the third heating zone is disposed along opposing sides of the
knife channel between a proximal end of the bottom surface and a
proximal end of the second heating zone; the second heating zone is
disposed along opposing sides of the knife channel between a distal
end of the third heating zone and a distal end of the knife
channel; and the first heating zone is disposed between a distal
end of the knife channel and a distal end of the bottom
surface.
29. An electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a pair of jaw
members configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to tissue, at
least one of the jaw members having a tissue-contacting surface and
a bottom surface disposed opposite to the tissue-contacting
surface; a knife channel disposed through the bottom surface and
configured to receive a knife for cutting tissue; a first heating
zone disposed on the bottom surface between a distal end of the
knife channel and a distal end of the bottom surface; a second
heating zone disposed on the bottom surface between a proximal end
of the bottom surface and the first heating zone; a first
temperature sensor disposed on the bottom surface within the first
heating zone; and a second temperature sensor disposed on the
bottom surface within the second heating zone, the first and second
temperature sensors configured to sense a temperature of tissue
disposed between the pair of jaw members for controlling thermal
spread during use of the pair of jaw members to deliver
electrosurgical energy to tissue.
30. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 29, wherein
the knife channel extends from a proximal end of the bottom surface
to a distal end of the second heating zone.
31. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 29, wherein:
the first temperature sensor is electrically connected to a first
conductive trace printed on the first and second heating zones of
the bottom surface; and the second temperature sensor is
electrically connected to a second conductive trace printed on the
second heating zone of the bottom surface.
32. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 29, further
comprising: a third temperature sensor disposed on the bottom
surface within the first heating zone; and a fourth temperature
sensor disposed on the bottom surface within the second heating
zone.
33. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 32, wherein:
the third temperature sensor is electrically connected to a third
conductive trace printed on the first and second heating zones of
the bottom surface; and the fourth temperature sensor is
electrically connected to a fourth conductive trace printed on the
second heating zone of the bottom zone.
34. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 29, further
comprising a third heating zone disposed on the bottom surface
proximal to the second heating zone.
35. The electrosurgical instrument according to claim 34, wherein:
the third heating zone is disposed along opposing sides of the
knife channel between a proximal end of the bottom surface and a
proximal end of the second heating zone; the second heating zone is
disposed along opposing sides of the knife channel between a distal
end of the third heating zone and a distal end of the knife
channel; and the first heating zone is disposed between a distal
end of the knife channel and a distal end of the bottom
surface.
36. An electrically-conductive plate for an end effector of an
electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a tissue-contacting surface
configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to tissue; a bottom
surface disposed opposite to the tissue-contacting surface; a knife
channel disposed through the bottom surface and configured to
receive a knife for cutting tissue; a first heating zone disposed
on the bottom surface and having a proximal end disposed distal to
a distal end of the knife channel; a second heating zone disposed
on the bottom surface between a proximal end of the bottom surface
and the first heating zone; a first temperature sensor disposed on
the bottom surface within the first heating zone; and a second
temperature sensor disposed on the bottom surface within the second
heating zone, the first and second temperature sensors configured
to sense a temperature of tissue for controlling thermal spread
during use of the tissue-contacting surface to deliver
electrosurgical energy to tissue.
37. The electrically-conductive plate according to claim 36,
wherein the knife channel extends from a proximal end of the bottom
surface to a distal end of the second heating zone.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/538,402, filed on Nov. 11, 2014, which
claims the benefit of the filing date of provisional U.S. Patent
Application No. 61/938,232, filed on Feb. 11, 2014.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to electrosurgical
instruments. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates configured for use in electrosurgical jaw members,
electrosurgical systems including the same, and methods of
controlling vessel sealing using the same.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Electrosurgical instruments, such as electrosurgical
forceps, are well known in the medical arts. Electrosurgery
involves the application of thermal and/or electrical energy to
cut, dissect, ablate, coagulate, cauterize, seal or otherwise treat
biological tissue during a surgical procedure. Electrosurgery is
typically performed using an electrosurgical generator operable to
output energy and a handpiece including a surgical instrument
(e.g., end-effector) adapted to transmit energy to a tissue site
during electrosurgical procedures. Electrosurgery is typically
performed using either a monopolar or a bipolar instrument.
[0004] The basic purpose of both monopolar and bipolar
electrosurgery is to produce heat to achieve the desired
tissue/clinical effect. In monopolar electrosurgery, devices use an
instrument with a single, active electrode to deliver energy from
an electrosurgical generator to tissue, and a patient return
electrode or pad that is attached externally to the patient (e.g.,
a plate positioned on the patient's thigh or back) as the means to
complete the electrical circuit between the electrosurgical
generator and the patient. When the electrosurgical energy is
applied, the energy travels from the active electrode, to the
surgical site, through the patient and to the return electrode.
[0005] In bipolar electrosurgery, both the active electrode and
return electrode functions are performed at the site of surgery.
Bipolar electrosurgical devices include two electrodes that are
located in proximity to one another for the application of current
between their respective surfaces. Bipolar electrosurgical current
travels from one electrode, through the intervening tissue to the
other electrode to complete the electrical circuit. Bipolar
instruments generally include end-effectors, such as graspers,
cutters, forceps, dissectors and the like.
[0006] Bipolar electrosurgical forceps utilize two generally
opposing electrodes that are operably associated with the inner
opposing surfaces of the end-effectors and that are both
electrically coupled to an electrosurgical generator. In bipolar
forceps, the end-effector assembly generally includes opposing jaw
members pivotably mounted with respect to one another. In a bipolar
configuration, only the tissue grasped between the jaw members is
included in the electrical circuit. Because the return function is
performed by one jaw member of the forceps, no patient return
electrode is needed.
[0007] A variety of types of end-effector assemblies have been
employed for various types of electrosurgery using a variety of
types of monopolar and bipolar electrosurgical instruments. Jaw
member components of end-effector assemblies for use in
electrosurgical instruments are required to meet specific tolerance
requirements for proper jaw alignment and other closely-toleranced
features. Gap tolerances and/or surface parallelism and flatness
tolerances are parameters that, if properly controlled, can
contribute to a consistent and effective tissue seal. Thermal
resistance, strength and rigidity of surgical jaw members also play
a role in determining the reliability and effectiveness of
electrosurgical instruments.
[0008] By utilizing an electrosurgical forceps, a surgeon can
cauterize, coagulate, desiccate and/or seal tissue and/or simply
reduce or slow bleeding by controlling the intensity, frequency and
duration of the electrosurgical energy applied through the jaw
members to the tissue. During the sealing process, mechanical
factors such as the pressure applied to the vessel or tissue
between opposing jaw members and the gap distance between the
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces (electrodes) of
the jaw members play a role in determining the resulting thickness
of the sealed tissue and effectiveness of the seal. Accurate
application of pressure is important to oppose the walls of the
vessel; to reduce the tissue impedance to a low enough value that
allows enough electrosurgical energy through the tissue; to
overcome the forces of expansion during tissue heating; and to
contribute to the end tissue thickness which is an indication of a
good seal. A variety of instruments have been developed that
utilize technology to form a vessel seal utilizing a combination of
pressure, gap distance between opposing surfaces and electrical
control to effectively seal tissue or vessels.
[0009] Methods and systems have been developed for controlling an
output of a generator, such as a radio-frequency (RF)
electrosurgical generator, based on sensor signals indicative of
impedance changes at a surgical site. In some systems employing
changes in impedance to control the amount of electrosurgical
energy applied to tissue, when the sensor signal meets a
predetermined level based on a control algorithm, the system
provides an end tone that indicates to the surgeon that a
procedure, such as a vessel-sealing procedure, is complete. In
generators employing an impedance-based control algorithm,
impedance is a proxy for temperature, and there are cases where an
end tone may be given when no tissue sealing has occurred because
the impedance proxy was incorrect.
SUMMARY
[0010] A continuing need exists for methods and systems for
controlling one or more operating parameters of an electrosurgical
power generating source based on one or more signals indicative of
a temperature sensed by one or more temperature sensors. A
continuing need exists for temperature-sensing devices that can be
readily integrated into the manufacturing process for
electrosurgical jaw members.
[0011] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an
electrosurgical system is provided. The electrosurgical system
includes an electrosurgical instrument, an electrosurgical power
generating source, and a controller. The electrosurgical instrument
includes a housing and a shaft extending from the housing. The
shaft includes a distal end configured to support an end-effector
assembly. The end-effector assembly includes opposing jaw members
movably mounted with respect to one another At least one of the jaw
members includes a temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate defining a tissue-contacting surface and a
bottom surface. One or more temperature sensors are coupled to the
bottom surface. The jaw members are moveable from a first position
in spaced relation relative to one another to at least one
subsequent position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp
tissue therebetween. The electrosurgical system also includes an
electrosurgical power generating source and a controller operably
coupled to the electrosurgical power generating source. The
controller is configured to control one or more operating
parameters associated with the electrosurgical power generating
source based on one or more signals indicative of a tissue
impedance value and indicative of a temperature sensed by the one
or more temperature sensors.
[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure a
method of controlling vessel sealing is provided including the
initial step of providing an electrosurgical instrument having an
end-effector assembly including opposing jaw members movably
mounted with respect to one another, each one of the jaw members
including a temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate having a tissue-contacting surface and a
bottom surface. The method also includes the steps of moving at
least one jaw member relative to the other jaw member to grasp
tissue between the tissue-contacting surface of each one of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates, transmitting energy from an electrosurgical power
generating source to at least one of the jaw members, and
controlling one or more operating parameters associated with the
electrosurgical power generating source based on one or more
signals indicative of a temperature sensed by one or more
temperature sensors.
[0013] According to another aspect of the present disclosure a
method of controlling vessel sealing is provided. The method
includes the initial step of providing an electrosurgical
instrument having an end-effector assembly including opposing jaw
members movably mounted with respect to one another. At least one
of the jaw members includes a temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate having a
tissue-contacting surface and a bottom surface. The method also
includes the steps of positioning the jaw members to energize
tissue, transmitting energy from an electrosurgical power
generating source to the at least one of the jaw members,
transmitting one or more signals indicative of a tissue impedance
value and a tissue temperature value to a controller operably
associated with the electrosurgical power generating source, and
controlling one or more operating parameters associated with the
electrosurgical power generating source based on the one or more
signals indicative of the tissue impedance value and the tissue
temperature value sensed by the one or more temperature
sensors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Objects and features of the presently-disclosed
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
configured for use in an electrosurgical jaw member,
electrosurgical systems including the same, and methods of
controlling vessel sealing using the same will become apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art when descriptions of various
embodiments thereof are read with reference to the accompanying
drawings, of which:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a left, perspective view of an endoscopic bipolar
forceps showing a housing, a rotatable member, a shaft and an
end-effector assembly having first and second jaw members including
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 2 is an enlarged, perspective view of the end-effector
assembly of FIG. 1 shown grasping tissue;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an open bipolar forceps in
accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of an electrosurgical
system in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 5 is an enlarged, perspective view of first and second
jaw members of the end-effector assembly of FIG. 1, shown with
parts separated, illustrating a first configuration of a sensor
arrangement associated with the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw
member in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 6 is an enlarged, perspective view of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
of the first jaw member shown in FIG. 5;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines "7-7"
of FIG. 6 illustrating a first configuration of a sensor
arrangement associated with the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw
member in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 8 is an enlarged, perspective view of a
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
illustrating a first configuration of zones, e.g., heating zones,
as indicated by dashed lines, on the tissue-contacting surface
thereof in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 9 is an enlarged, perspective view of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
shown in FIG. 8, illustrating a first configuration of zones, as
indicated by dashed lines, on the bottom surface thereof in
accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 10 is an enlarged, perspective view a
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plate, illustrating a second configuration of zones, as indicated
by the generally U-shaped dashed line, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 11 is an enlarged, perspective view of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
of FIG. 10 illustrating a dual zone sensor arrangement on the
bottom surface thereof in accordance with an embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 12 is an enlarged, perspective view of a
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
illustrating a third configuration of zones in accordance with an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 13 is an enlarged, perspective view of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
of FIG. 12 illustrating a multi-zone configuration of a sensor
arrangement on the bottom surface thereof in accordance with an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling
vessel sealing in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure; and
[0029] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling
vessel sealing in accordance with another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of a temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate configured for use
in an electrosurgical end-effector assembly, electrosurgical
systems including the same, and methods of controlling vessel
sealing using the same of the present disclosure are described with
reference to the accompanying drawings. Like reference numerals may
refer to similar or identical elements throughout the description
of the figures. As shown in the drawings and as used in this
description, and as is traditional when referring to relative
positioning on an object, the term "proximal" refers to that
portion of the apparatus, or component thereof, closer to the user
and the term "distal" refers to that portion of the apparatus, or
component thereof, farther from the user.
[0031] This description may use the phrases "in an embodiment," "in
embodiments," "in some embodiments," or "in other embodiments,"
which may each refer to one or more of the same or different
embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0032] As it is used in this description, "electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate" generally refers to an
electrically-conductive member including one or more tissue
engaging surfaces that can be used to transfer energy from an
electrosurgical power generating source, such as RF electrosurgical
generator, to tissue. As it is used in this description,
"electrically conductive", or simply "conductive", generally refers
to materials that are capable of electrical conductivity,
including, without limitation, materials that are highly
conductive, e.g., metals and alloys, or materials that are
semi-conductive, e.g., semi-conducting materials and composites. As
it is used in this description, "transmission line" generally
refers to any transmission medium that can be used for the
propagation of signals from one point to another.
[0033] Vessel sealing or tissue sealing utilizes a combination of
radiofrequency energy, pressure and gap control to effectively seal
or fuse tissue between two opposing jaw members or sealing plates
thereof. Vessel or tissue sealing is more than "cauterization"
which may be defined as the use of heat to destroy tissue (also
called "diathermy" or "electrodiathermy"), and vessel sealing is
more than "coagulation" which may be defined as a process of
desiccating tissue wherein the tissue cells are ruptured and dried.
As it is used in this description, "vessel sealing" generally
refers to the process of liquefying the collagen, elastin and
ground substances in the tissue so that it reforms into a fused
mass with significantly-reduced demarcation between the opposing
tissue structures.
[0034] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide
electrosurgical instruments suitable for sealing, cauterizing,
coagulating, desiccating, and/or cutting tissue, e.g., vessels and
vascular tissue, during a surgical procedure. Embodiments of the
presently-disclosed electrosurgical instruments may be suitable for
utilization in endoscopic surgical procedures and/or suitable for
utilization in open surgical applications. Embodiments of the
presently-disclosed electrosurgical instruments may be implemented
using electrosurgical energy at radio frequencies (RF) and/or at
other frequencies.
[0035] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide
electrosurgical instruments that include an end-effector assembly
having jaw members including a temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate including one or
more temperature sensors coupled to a bottom surface thereof. One
or more operating parameters associated with an electrosurgical
power generating source may be controlled based on one or more
signals indicative of a temperature sensed by the one or more
temperature sensors coupled to the bottom surface of each one of
the temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates. The presently-disclosed tissue-contacting plate embodiments
may include a plurality of zones, wherein each zone includes one or
more temperature sensors (and/or pressure sensors), e.g., to
provide feedback to an electrosurgical power generating source
configured to turn on/off different zones to provide more uniform
heating patterns across the jaw members and/or to help control
thermal spread.
[0036] 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 in the operating theater 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.
[0037] 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 controls 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.
[0038] 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. In various embodiments disclosed herein, an end-effector
assembly may be coupled to a pair of master handles by a
controller. 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).
[0039] 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 jaw members 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.
[0040] Although the following description describes the use of an
endoscopic bipolar forceps, the teachings of the present disclosure
may also apply to a variety of electrosurgical devices that include
an end-effector assembly.
[0041] In FIG. 1, an embodiment of an electrosurgical instrument
10, e.g., an endoscopic bipolar forceps, is shown for use with
various surgical procedures and generally includes a housing 20, a
handle assembly 30, a rotatable assembly 80, a trigger assembly 70
and an end-effector assembly 100 that mutually cooperate to grasp,
seal and/or divide tubular vessels and vascular tissue (e.g., "T"
shown in FIG. 2). Handle assembly 30 includes a fixed handle 50 and
a movable handle 40. Although FIG. 1 depicts a bipolar forceps 10
for use in connection with endoscopic surgical procedures, the
teachings of the present disclosure may also apply to more
traditional open surgical procedures. For the purposes herein, the
device 10 is described in terms of an endoscopic instrument;
however, it is contemplated that an open version of a forceps
(e.g., open bipolar forceps 300 shown in FIG. 3) may also include
the same or similar operating components and features as described
below.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the shaft 12 includes a distal end 16
configured to mechanically engage the end-effector assembly 100. In
some embodiments, the end-effector assembly 100 is selectively and
releasably engageable with the distal end 16 of the shaft 12. The
proximal end 14 of the shaft 12 is received within the housing 20,
and connections relating thereto are shown and described in
commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,097 entitled "METHOD OF
MANUFACTURING JAW ASSEMBLY FOR VESSEL SEALER AND DIVIDER," commonly
assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,156,846 entitled "VESSEL SEALER AND
DIVIDER FOR USE WITH SMALL TROCARS AND CANNULAS," commonly assigned
U.S. Pat. No. 7,597,693 entitled "VESSEL SEALER AND DIVIDER FOR USE
WITH SMALL TROCARS AND CANNULAS," and commonly assigned U.S. Pat.
No. 7,771,425 entitled "VESSEL SEALER AND DIVIDER HAVING A VARIABLE
JAW CLAMPING MECHANISM."
[0043] End-effector assembly 100 generally includes a pair of
opposing jaw members 110 and 120 movably mounted with respect to
one another. End-effector assembly 100 is configured as a
unilateral assembly, i.e., the end-effector assembly 100 includes a
stationary or fixed jaw member 120 mounted in fixed relation to the
shaft 12 and a pivoting jaw member 110 mounted about a pivot pin
103 coupled to the stationary jaw member 120. Alternatively, the
forceps 10 may include a bilateral jaw assembly, i.e., both jaw
members move relative to one another.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 5, the jaw members 110 and 120 include a
structural support member 116 and 126, respectively, and a
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
112 and 122, respectively. Temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate 112 includes a
tissue-contacting surface 113, a bottom surface 119, and a slot
142a defined therethrough. Temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate 122 includes a
tissue-contacting surface 123, a bottom surface 129, and a slot
142b defined therethrough.
[0045] The structural support members 116 and 126 are configured to
mechanically engage the bottom surfaces 119 and 129, respectively.
Structural support members 116 and 126 may be manufactured from any
suitable materials, e.g., metal, plastic and the like.
[0046] Slots 142a and 142b extend distally from a proximal end 117
and 127, respectively, of the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plates 112 and 122 and
provide a path for longitudinal translation of a knife blade (not
shown) therein. In some embodiments, the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plates 112 and 122 are
configured in such a manner that when the jaw members 110 and 120
are in a closed configuration, a knife blade (not shown), or
portion thereof, is translatable within a knife channel formed by
the slot 142a of temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate 112 and the slot 142b of
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
122.
[0047] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, slots 142a and 142b
are open at the bottom surface 119 and 129 of their respective
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates 112 and 122. In other embodiments, slots 142a and 142b may
be closed at the bottom surface of their respective
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates 112 and 122.
[0048] In some embodiments, the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plates 112 and 122 may
have a thickness that varies (i.e., non-uniform) from a proximal
end 117 and 127 to a distal end 118 and 128, respectively. For
example, temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plates 112 and 122 each may have a proximal end
117 and 127, respectively, having a thickness that is slightly
larger than a thickness at the distal end 118 and 128 thereof,
e.g., depending on a particular purpose.
[0049] Jaw members 110 and 120 are electrically isolated from one
another. End-effector assembly 100 (FIG. 1) may additionally, or
alternatively, include electrically-insulative members and/or
electrically-insulative, thermally non-degrading coatings
configured to electrically isolate, at least in part, the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates 112 and 122 from the jaw members 110 and 120,
respectively.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 1, the end-effector assembly 100 is
rotatable about a longitudinal axis "A-A" defined through shaft 12,
either manually or otherwise, by the rotatable assembly 80.
Rotatable assembly 80 generally includes two halves (not shown),
which, when assembled, form a generally circular rotatable member
82. Rotatable assembly 80, or portions thereof, may be configured
to house a drive assembly (not shown) and/or a knife assembly (not
shown), or components thereof. Examples of rotatable assembly
embodiments, drive assembly embodiments, knife assembly
embodiments, and handle assembly embodiments of the electrosurgical
instrument 10 are shown and described in the above-mentioned,
commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,150,097, 7,156,846, 7,597,693
and 7,771,425.
[0051] Electrosurgical instrument 10 includes a switch 90
configured to permit the user to selectively activate the
instrument 10 in a variety of different orientations, i.e.,
multi-oriented activation. When the switch 90 is depressed,
electrosurgical energy is transferred through one or more
electrical leads (e.g., leads 125a and 125b shown in FIG. 5) to the
jaw members 110 and 120.
[0052] Forceps 10 includes an electrosurgical cable 15 formed from
a suitable flexible, semi-rigid or rigid cable, and may connect
directly to an electrosurgical power generating source 28, e.g., a
microwave or RF electrosurgical generator. In some embodiments, the
electrosurgical cable 15 connects the forceps 10 to a connector 17,
which further operably connects the instrument 10 to the
electrosurgical power generating source 28.
[0053] Electrosurgical power generating source 28 may be any
generator suitable for use with electrosurgical devices, and may be
configured to provide various frequencies of electromagnetic
energy. Examples of electrosurgical generators that may be suitable
for use as a source of electrosurgical energy are commercially
available under the trademarks FORCE EZ.TM., FORCE FX.TM.,
SURGISTAT.TM. II, and FORCE TRIAD.TM. offered by Covidien. Forceps
10 may alternatively be configured as a wireless device or
battery-powered.
[0054] FIG. 2 shows the end-effector assembly 100 of FIG. 1 shown
grasping tissue "T". In some embodiments, the end-effector assembly
100 may include a gap distance "G" between opposing sealing
surfaces 112 during sealing, e.g., in the range from about 0.001
inches to about 0.006 inches. In some embodiments, the end-effector
assembly 100 includes a gap distance "G" between opposing
tissue-contacting surfaces during sealing that ranges from about
0.002 to about 0.003 inches.
[0055] As energy is being selectively transferred to the
end-effector assembly 100, across the jaw members 110 and 120 and
through the tissue "T", a tissue seal forms isolating two tissue
halves (not shown). A knife assembly (not shown) which, when
activated via the trigger assembly 70, progressively and
selectively divides the tissue "T" along a tissue plane in a
precise manner to divide the tissue "T" into two sealed halves (not
shown). Once the tissue "T" is divided into tissue halves (not
shown), the jaw members 110 and 120 may be opened by re-initiation
or re-grasping of the handle 40.
[0056] In FIG. 3, an open forceps 300 is shown for use with various
surgical procedures and generally includes a pair of opposing
shafts 312a and 312b having an end-effector assembly 320 attached
to the distal ends 316a and 316b thereof, respectively.
End-effector assembly 320 is similar in design to the end-effector
assembly 100 and includes a pair of opposing jaw members 322 and
324 that are pivotably connected about a pivot pin 365 and movable
relative to one another to grasp tissue. Each shaft 312a and 312b
includes a handle 315 and 317, respectively, disposed at the
proximal end 314a and 314b thereof which each define a finger
and/or thumb hole 315a and 317a, respectively, therethrough for
receiving the user's finger or thumb. Finger and/or thumb holes
315a and 317a facilitate movement of the shafts 312a and 312b
relative to one another pivot the jaw members 322 and 324 from an
open position, wherein the jaw members 322 and 324 are disposed in
spaced relation relative to one another, to a clamping or closed
position, wherein the jaw members 322 and 324 cooperate to grasp
tissue therebetween. End-effector assembly 320 may include any
feature or combination of features of the temperature-sensing seal
plate embodiments disclosed herein.
[0057] FIG. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of the
electrosurgical power generating source 28 of FIG. 1 including a
controller 420, a power supply 427, an RF output stage 428, and a
sensor module 422. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the
sensor module 422 is formed integrally with the electrosurgical
power generating source 28. In other embodiments, the sensor module
422 may be provided as a separate circuitry coupled to the
electrosurgical power generating source 28. The power supply 427
provides DC power to the RF output stage 428 which then converts
the DC power into RF energy and delivers the RF energy to the
instrument 10 (FIG. 1). The controller 420 includes a
microprocessor 425 having a memory 426 which may be volatile type
memory (e.g., RAM) and/or non-volatile type memory (e.g., flash
media, disk media, etc.). The microprocessor 425 includes an output
port connected to the power supply 427 and/or RF output stage 428
that allows the microprocessor 425 to control the output of the
generator 400 according to either open and/or closed control loop
schemes.
[0058] A closed loop control scheme generally includes a feedback
control loop wherein the sensor module 422 provides feedback to the
controller 420 (e.g., information obtained from one or more sensing
mechanisms for sensing various tissue parameters such as tissue
impedance, tissue temperature, output current and/or voltage,
etc.). The controller 420 then signals the power supply 427 and/or
RF output stage 428 which then adjusts the DC and/or RF power
supply, respectively. The controller 420 also receives input
signals from the input controls of the electrosurgical power
generating source 28 and/or instrument 10 (FIG. 1). The controller
420 utilizes the input signals to adjust one or more operating
parameters associated with the electrosurgical power generating
source 28 and/or instructs the electrosurgical power generating
source 28 to perform other control functions.
[0059] The microprocessor 425 is capable of executing software
instructions for processing data received by the sensor module 422,
and for outputting control signals to the electrosurgical power
generating source 28, accordingly. The software instructions, which
are executable by the controller 420, are stored in the memory 426
of the controller 420.
[0060] The controller 420 may include analog and/or logic circuitry
for processing the sensed values and determining the control
signals that are sent to the electrosurgical power generating
source 28, rather than, or in combination with, the microprocessor
425. The sensor module 422 may include a plurality of sensors (not
shown) strategically located for sensing various properties or
conditions, e.g., tissue impedance, voltage at the tissue site,
current at the tissue site, etc. The sensors are provided with
leads (or wireless) for transmitting information to the controller
420. The sensor module 422 may include control circuitry that
receives information from multiple sensors, and provides the
information and the source of the information (e.g., the particular
sensor providing the information) to the controller 420.
[0061] In some embodiments, the controller 420 is configured to
control one or more operating parameters associated with the
electrosurgical power generating source 28 based on one or more
signals indicative of a sensed temperature in one or more zones of
the presently-disclosed temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate, e.g., the outer zone "Z.sub.OUT" (FIG. 11)
to regulate thermal spread. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG.
4, the controller 420 is formed integrally with the electrosurgical
power generating source 28. In other embodiments, the controller
420 may be provided as a separate component coupled to the
electrosurgical power generating source 28.
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate 112 of the first
jaw member 110 includes a configuration of a plurality of sensors
located on the bottom surface 119 thereof. As seen in FIG. 6, the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
112 includes a first sensor 161, a second sensor 162, a third
sensor 163, a fourth sensor 164, and a fifth sensor 165 disposed on
the bottom surface 119. The first and second sensors 161 and 162
are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another on the
bottom surface 119 along one side of the slot 142a, and the fourth
and fifth sensors 164 and 165 are disposed in spaced relation
relative to one another on the bottom surface 119 along the
opposite side of the slot 142a. The third sensor 163 is disposed on
the bottom surface 119 proximate the distal end 118 of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
112.
[0063] In some embodiments, the first, second, third, fourth and
fifth sensors 161, 162, 163, 164 and 165, respectively, are
temperature sensors, e.g., thermocouples and/or thermistors. One or
more of the sensors 161-165 may be a thermocouple that includes one
or more deposited layers formed utilizing vapor deposition.
Additionally, or alternatively, one or more of the first, second,
third, fourth and fifth sensors 161, 162, 163, 164 and 165,
respectively, may be J-type thermocouples; however, it is to be
understood that any suitable type of thermocouple may be
utilized.
[0064] In some embodiments, the first, second, third, fourth and
fifth sensors 161, 162, 163, 164 and 165, respectively, are
electrically coupled to first, second, third, fourth and fifth
electrically-conductive traces 171, 172, 173, 174 and 175,
respectively. A variety of trace geometries may be used, e.g.,
planar conductor lines.
[0065] FIGS. 8 and 9 show a temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate 811 having a
proximal end 817, a distal end 818, a tissue-contacting surface
813, a bottom surface 819, and a slot 842a defined therethrough.
FIG. 8 shows a first configuration of zones, e.g., heating zones,
as indicated by dashed lines, on the tissue-contacting surface 813
thereof. FIG. 9 shows a first configuration of zones, as indicated
by dashed lines, on the bottom surface 819 of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
811.
[0066] FIG. 10 shows a partial, temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate including a second
configuration of zones. As seen in FIG. 10, a bottom surface 619 of
an electrically-conductive substrate 611 is arranged into two
different regions or zones, as indicated by the generally U-shaped
dashed line in FIG. 10. For ease of understanding, the region
around the periphery of the bottom surface 619 disposed outwardly
of the dashed line in FIGS. 10 and 11 is referred to herein as the
outer zone "Z.sub.OUT", and the region disposed inwardly of the
dashed line in FIGS. 10 and 11 is referred to herein as the inner
zone "Z.sub.IN".
[0067] FIG. 11 shows a temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate 612 that includes a tissue-contacting
surface 613 and a bottom surface 619. The tissue-contacting surface
613 may be curved or straight depending upon a particular surgical
purpose. For example, the tissue-contacting surface 613 may be
curved at various angles to facilitate manipulation of tissue
and/or to provide enhanced line-of-sight for accessing targeted
tissues. In some embodiments, the temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate 612 may have a
thickness that varies (i.e., non-uniform) from a proximal end 617
to a distal end 618 thereof.
[0068] Temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate 612 includes a plurality of sensors
associated with the bottom surface 619 thereof. One or more
sensors, e.g., temperature sensors, may be disposed within the
outer zone "Z.sub.OUT" and/or one or more sensors, e.g.,
temperature sensors, may be disposed within the inner zone
"Z.sub.IN". In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, a first sensor
621, a second sensor 622, a third sensor 623 and a fourth sensor
624 are disposed within the outer zone "Z.sub.OUT", and a first
sensor 641, a second sensor 642, a third sensor 643, a fourth
sensor 644, a fifth sensor 645, a sixth sensor 646 and a seventh
sensor 647 are disposed within the inner zone "Z.sub.IN". The
first, second, third and fourth sensors 621, 622, 623 and 624,
respectively, are electrically coupled to first, second, third and
fourth electrically-conductive traces 631, 632, 633 and 634,
respectively. The first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and
seventh sensors 641, 642, 643, 644, 645, 646 and 647, respectively,
are electrically coupled to first, second, third, fourth, fifth,
sixth and seventh electrically-conductive traces 651, 652, 653,
654, 655, 656 and 657, respectively.
[0069] In some embodiments, the sensors 621-624 and/or the sensors
641-647 include thermocouples and/or thermistors. In some
embodiments, the sensors 621-624 and/or the sensors 641-647 may
include J-type thermocouples, but it is to be understood that any
suitable type of thermocouple may be utilized. In alternative
embodiments, one or more of the sensors 621-624 and/or one or more
of the sensors 641-647 may include pressure sensors (e.g., piezo
sensors, multilayer bending sensors, etc.).
[0070] FIG. 12 shows a partial, temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate including a third
configuration of zones, as indicated by the dashed lines. In FIG.
12, three heating zones, "Z.sub.1", "Z.sub.2", and "Z.sub.3", are
shown on an electrically-conductive substrate 711.
[0071] FIG. 13 shows a temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate 712 having a proximal end 717, a distal end
718, a tissue-contacting surface 713, and a bottom surface 719.
Temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
712 includes a plurality of sensors associated with the bottom
surface 719 thereof. As seen FIG. 13, bottom surface 719 includes
three different regions or zones, as indicated by the dashed lines
in FIG. 7. The region at a distal end portion of the bottom surface
719 is referred to herein as the first zone "Z.sub.1", the middle
region is referred to herein as the second zone "Z.sub.2", and the
region at a proximal end portion or "heel" of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
712 is referred to herein as the third zone "Z.sub.3".
[0072] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, two sensors (e.g.,
a first sensor 721 and a second sensor 722) are disposed within the
first zone "Z.sub.1", six sensors (e.g., a first sensor 741, a
second sensor 742, a third sensor 743, a fourth sensor 744, a fifth
sensor 745 and a sixth sensor 746) are disposed within the second
zone "Z.sub.2", and four sensors (e.g., a first sensor 761, a
second sensor 762, a third sensor 763 and a fourth sensor 764) are
disposed within the third zone "Z.sub.3". As seen in FIG. 7, a
plurality of electrically-conductive traces is provided. For
example, the first and second sensors 721 and 722, respectively,
are electrically coupled to first and second
electrically-conductive traces 731 and 732, respectively.
[0073] In some embodiments, the sensors 721-722, the sensors
741-746, and/or the sensors 761-764 may include temperature sensors
(e.g., thermocouples, thermistors, etc.) and/or pressure sensors
(e.g., piezo sensors, multilayer bending sensors, etc.).
[0074] Hereinafter, methods of controlling vessel sealing are
described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. It is to be understood
that the steps of the methods provided herein may be performed in
combination and in a different order than presented herein without
departing from the scope of the disclosure.
[0075] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling
vessel sealing according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. In step 1410, an electrosurgical instrument 10 is
provided. The electrosurgical instrument 10 has an end-effector
assembly 100 including opposing jaw members 110 and 120 movably
mounted with respect to one another. The jaw members 110 and 120
each include a temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate 111 and 112, respectively. The
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates 111 and 112 each define a tissue-contacting surface 113 and
123 and a bottom surface 119 and 129, respectively.
[0076] In step 1420, at least one jaw member is moved relative to
the other jaw member to grasp tissue "T" between the
tissue-contacting surface 113 and 123 of each of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates 111 and 112, respectively.
[0077] In step 1430, energy from an electrosurgical power
generating source 28 is transmitted to at least one of the jaw
members 110, 120.
[0078] In step 1440, one or more operating parameters associated
with the electrosurgical power generating source 28 are controlled
based on one or more signals indicative of a temperature sensed by
one or more temperature sensors 160 coupled to the bottom surface
of each one of the temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plates. Some examples of operating parameters
associated with the electrosurgical power generating source 28 that
may be adjusted include temperature, impedance, power, current,
voltage, mode of operation, and duration of application of
electrosurgical energy. In some embodiments, one or more operating
parameters associated with the electrosurgical power generating
source 28 are controlled based on one or more signals indicative of
a sensed temperature in a plurality of zones (e.g., two zones
"Z.sub.OUT" and "Z.sub.IN" shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, or three zones
"Z.sub.1", "Z.sub.2", and "Z.sub.3" shown in FIGS. 12 and 13) of
the temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plate.
[0079] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling
vessel sealing according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. In step 1510, an electrosurgical instrument 10 is
provided. The electrosurgical instrument 10 has an end-effector
assembly 100 including opposing jaw members 110 and 120 movably
mounted with respect to one another. At least one of the jaw
members (e.g., jaw member 110) includes a temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate 111 defining a
tissue-contacting surface 113 and a bottom surface 119.
[0080] In step 1520, the end-effector assembly 100 is positioned to
tissue "T". For example, the jaw members 110 and 120 are positioned
to energize tissue "T".
[0081] In step 1530, energy from an electrosurgical power
generating source 28 is transmitted to at least one of the jaw
members 110, 120.
[0082] In step 1540, one or more signals indicative of a tissue
impedance value are transmitted to a controller 420 operably
associated with the electrosurgical power generating source 28.
Transmitting one or more signals indicative of a tissue impedance
value may include measuring an impedance of tissue using a sensor
module 422 coupled to the controller 420.
[0083] In step 1550, one or more operating parameters associated
with the electrosurgical power generating source 28 are controlled
based, at least in part, on the one or more signals indicative of
the tissue impedance value and, at least in part, on one or more
signals indicative of a temperature sensed by the one or more
temperature sensors 160 coupled to the bottom surface 119 of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
111. In some embodiments, one or more operating parameters
associated with the electrosurgical power generating source 28 are
controlled based on one or more signals indicative of a sensed
temperature in a plurality of zones (e.g., two zones "Z.sub.OUT"
and "Z.sub.IN" shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, or three zones "Z.sub.1",
"Z.sub.2", and "Z.sub.3" shown in FIGS. 12 and 13) of the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plate.
[0084] The presently-disclosed jaw members including a
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plate
are capable of directing energy into tissue, and may be suitable
for use in a variety of procedures and operations. The
above-described bipolar forceps embodiments may utilize both
mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to effect
hemostasis by heating tissue and blood vessels to coagulate,
cauterize, cut and/or seal tissue. The jaw assemblies may be either
unilateral or bilateral. The above-described bipolar forceps
embodiments may be suitable for utilization with endoscopic
surgical procedures and/or open surgical applications.
[0085] In the above-described bipolar forceps embodiments, the
temperature-sensing electrically-conductive tissue-contacting
plates may be used to ensure that tissue has been properly sealed,
e.g., by providing a temperature measurement to a controller for
use in determining that the tissue has met a minimum threshold
temperature for tissue sealing.
[0086] The above-described temperature-sensing
electrically-conductive tissue-contacting plates may be curved at
various angles to facilitate manipulation of tissue and/or to
provide enhanced line-of-sight for accessing targeted tissues. In
some embodiments, the temperature-sensing electrically-conductive
tissue-contacting plate may have a thickness that varies (i.e.,
non-uniform) from a proximal end to a distal end thereof.
[0087] The above-described tissue-contacting plate embodiments may
include a plurality of zones, wherein each zone includes one or
more sensors, including temperature sensors and/or pressure
sensors, e.g., to provide feedback to an electrosurgical power
generating source and/or a controller configured to turn on/off
different zones to provide more uniform heating patterns across the
jaw members and/or to help control thermal spread.
[0088] Although embodiments have been described in detail with
reference to the accompanying drawings for the purpose of
illustration and description, it is to be understood that the
inventive processes and apparatus are not to be construed as
limited thereby. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in
the art that various modifications to the foregoing embodiments may
be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *