Bipolar electrosurgical instrument with replaceable electrodes
US6050996A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 1997 |
| Grant date | Apr 18, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2018/1495
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A bipolar electrosurgical instrument for vessel sealing comprises first and second members connected by a pivot. A pair of jaws have opposable seal surfaces that are designed to grasp vascular tissue and conduct bipolar electrosurgical current therethrough. Electrodes on the jaws, including the seal surfaces, are removable and disposable. The jaws of the instrument have mechanical interfaces designed to accept replacement electrodes. The instrument further comprises interlocking ratchets designed to hold a constant closure force between the seal surfaces. Wires extend from the electrodes along one of the members and are connectable to electrosurgical generator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.