Features and methods to control delivery of cooling fluid to end effector of ultrasonic surgical instrument

US10555748B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon, Inc. · US

Inventors

• David C. Yates · Morrow, US
• Benjamin M. Boyd · Fairborn, US
• Benjamin D. Dickerson · Cincinnati, US
• Brian D. Black · Loveland, US
• Craig N. Faller · Batavia, US
• Kristen G. Denzinger · Cincinnati, US
• Paul F. Riestenberg · North Bend, US
• David M. Locke · Springboro, US
• Jacob S. Gee · Cincinnati, US
• Joseph Dennis · Wyoming, US
• Ashvani K. Madan · Mason, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 25, 2016
• Grant date: Feb 11, 2020
• Expiry date: Mar 22, 2037

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2218/002
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apparatus includes a body assembly, an acoustic waveguide, an ultrasonic blade, a liquid dispensing feature, and a control module. The liquid dispensing feature is positioned distally relative to the body assembly. The liquid dispensing feature is positioned adjacent to the ultrasonic blade. The liquid dispensing feature is configured to deliver a flow of cooling liquid to the ultrasonic blade. The control module is operable to regulate fluid flow through the liquid dispensing feature.