Surgical forceps

US10376306B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Covidien LP · US

Inventors

• Duane E. Kerr · Loveland, US
• James D. Allen, IV · Broomfield, US
• Edward M. Chojin · Boulder, US
• Allan J. Evans · Golden, US
• Russell D. Hempstead · Lafayette, US
• Glenn A. Horner · Boulder, US
• Mark J. Huseman · Broomfield, US
• Daniel A. Joseph · Golden, US
• Arlen J. Reschke · Longmont, US
• Robert M. Sharp · Boulder, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 28, 2016
• Grant date: Aug 13, 2019
• Expiry date: Aug 9, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T29/49815
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members movable between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. A knife assembly having a cutting blade disposed at a distal end thereof is also provided. The knife assembly is translatable relative to the end effector assembly between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the cutting blade extends between the jaw members to cut tissue grasped therebetween. The knife assembly includes a proximal component and a first distal component that includes the cutting blade. The proximal and first distal components are removably coupled to one another to facilitate replacement of the first distal component. Methods of preparing such forceps for reuse are also provided.