Feedback mechanism for use with an ultrasonic surgical instrument

• US 20060079877A1
• Filed: 10/07/2005
• Published: 04/13/2006
• Est. Priority Date: 10/08/2004
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Cilag Gmbh International (Johnson & Johnson)
• Original Assignee: Cilag Gmbh International (Johnson & Johnson)
• Inventors: Houser, Kevin L., Faller, Craig N., Neurohr, Mark A., Neuenfeldt, Steven K.
• Application Number:
  US11/246,384
• Publication Number:
  US 20060079877A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 606/40
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 17/2909 Handles
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 17/320092 with additional movable means for clamping or cutting tissue, e.g. with a pivoting jaw
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/00353 one mechanical instrument performing multiple functions, e.g. cutting and grasping
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/00424 ergonomic, e.g. fitting in fist
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/2825 Inserts of different material in jaws
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/2845 with a spring pushing the handle back
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/2911 rings
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/320094 additional movable means performing clamping operation
• CPC Class Codes: A61B 2017/320095 with sealing or cauterizing means
• CPC Class Codes: Y10T 29/49005 Acoustic transducer
• CPC Class Codes: Y10T 29/49998 Work holding

Abstract

An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes a clamping mechanism, including a clamp arm pivotally mounted at the distal portion of the instrument, which is specifically configured to create a desired level of tissue clamping forces, exceeding 4 pounds when the trigger is fully closed. The clamping mechanism includes a two-piece pad design and pad material that enables the higher tissue clamping forces and a force-limiting mechanism that effectively smooths out abusive tissue forces. The assembly also features hand activation configured to provide an ergonomical grip and operation for the surgeon. Hand switches are placed in the range of the natural swing of the surgeon'"'"'s thumb, whether gripping the surgical instrument right-handed or left handed.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic clamp coagulator apparatus comprising:

a housing comprising an actuator having a first open position and a second closed position;

a tube having a proximal end joined to the housing, and a distal end;

an ultrasonic waveguide having a proximal end and a distal end and further positioned within the outer tube;

an ultrasonically actuated blade attached to the distal end of the waveguide;

a clamp member pivotable with respect to the blade for clamping tissue between the clamp member and the blade; and

a feedback element for providing an indication that the actuator is in the closed position.

2. The ultrasonic clamp coagulator apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the feedback element provides an audible indication.

3. The ultrasonic clamp coagulator apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the feedback element provides a tactile indication.

4. The ultrasonic clamp coagulator apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the feedback element is operatively attached to the actuator.

5. The ultrasonic clamp coagulator apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein the feedback element is operatively attached to the housing.