Insulated electrode and method of assembly
First Claim
1. A method of insulating a wire element of a surgical electrode device comprising the steps of:
- providing an uninflated silicone tube of a material suitable for incorporation in a surgical electrode device;
sliding one end of the uninflated silicone tube over an assembly tool tip;
securing said uninflated silicone tube to said assembly tool tip;
positioning an end of the wire element in a second open end of said uninflated silicone tube;
inflating said silicone tube with a flow of fluid through said assembly tool tip;
directing said wire element into said silicone tube; and
discontinuing said flow of fluid so that said silicone tube sheaths said wire element.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A design and method of manufacture is disclosed for an insulated electrode used during surgical procedures. The electrode includes a durable electrical insulation element that can withstand the range of temperatures generated during an electrosurgical procedure. Such insulation characteristics include resistance to meltback and manufacturability to ensure the device is biocompatible and non-toxic so as to prevent adverse reactions in both patients and users of the device. The insulated electrode further includes properties that reduce the incidence of scope damage caused by the intensity of heat generated during the cutting and coagulation cycles.
94 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method of insulating a wire element of a surgical electrode device comprising the steps of:
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providing an uninflated silicone tube of a material suitable for incorporation in a surgical electrode device;
sliding one end of the uninflated silicone tube over an assembly tool tip;
securing said uninflated silicone tube to said assembly tool tip;
positioning an end of the wire element in a second open end of said uninflated silicone tube;
inflating said silicone tube with a flow of fluid through said assembly tool tip;
directing said wire element into said silicone tube; and
discontinuing said flow of fluid so that said silicone tube sheaths said wire element. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A method of insulating a wire element of a surgical cutting and coagulation electrode device, the method comprising the steps of:
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providing an elongated elastomeric uninflated tube constructed of a material that is suitable for incorporation in the surgical device;
introducing a flow of fluid through said uninflated tube;
moving said wire element into said tube during said flow of fluid; and
,discontinuing said flow of fluid so that said tube sheaths said wire element. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification