Electro-surgical instrument with replaceable end-effectors and inhibited surface conduction
US7367973B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 30, 2003 |
| Grant date | May 6, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 13, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2034/305
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Improved robotic surgery end-effectors include at least one insulation material for inhibiting surface conduction of electrical current in a proximal direction, from a distal active electrode toward the proximal end of the end-effector and toward the rest of the surgical instrument itself. Some embodiments include two layers of insulation to further prevent proximally-directed current. By inhibiting proximal current flow, the end-effectors prevent unwanted patient burns as well as electricity-related wear and tear in and around the area where the end-effector is coupled with the rest of the surgical instrument. In various embodiments, such end-effectors are preferably removably coupleable with a robotic surgical instrument.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.