Surgical instrument

US8353898B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Aesculap AG · DE

Inventors

• Theodor Lutze · Spaichingen, DE
• Olaf Hegemann · Lörrach, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 28, 2011
• Grant date: Jan 15, 2013
• Expiry date: Nov 28, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2017/320032
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A surgical instrument is provided, comprising proximal and distal end sections each comprising an area of articulation, as well as a flexurally rigid central section arranged therebetween. The proximal end section can be connected to an actuating device. A tool which can be driven by means of a drive element can be connected to the distal end section. To provide greater flexibility and a greater working area, the instrument further comprises outer and inner hollow cylindrical shafts and a control element which is arranged between the shafts. Two or more longitudinal elements extend at least substantially from the proximal to the distal area of articulation of the instrument and transfer traction and/or pressure forces. The longitudinal elements are arranged at essentially regular angular distances in a circumferential direction of the instrument and are connected to one another in the circumferential direction at their proximal and distal ends.