Bipolar electrosurgical instrument with replaceable electrodes

US6464704B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• SHERWOOD SERVICES AG · CH

Inventors

• Dale Schmaltz · Fort Collins, US
• Robert Luzzi · Pleasanton, US
• David N. Heard · Boulder, US
• Steven Buysee · Longmont, US
• Kate Lawes · Lafayette, US
• Daniel Lee Trimberger, II · Greeley, US
• Mathew Erle Mitchell · Pelham, US
• Jenifer Kennedy · Boulder, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 20, 2001
• Grant date: Oct 15, 2002
• Expiry date: Jun 20, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2018/1495
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

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 an electrosurgical generator.