Surgical instrument with improved handleability

US8636725B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Erbe Elektromedizin GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Tobias Amann · Geislingen, DE
• Martina Heim · Neckartenzlingen, DE
• Ralf Kühner · Stuttgart, DE
• Stefanie Schmidt · Neckartenzlingen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 14, 2012
• Grant date: Jan 28, 2014
• Expiry date: Feb 14, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2017/2922
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A surgical instrument comprises a tool part and a grip part connected to each other via a ball and socket joint or other double-axis joint. The double axis joint allows the surgeon to work in a non-fatiguing, ergonomic and sensitive manner. The tool on the tool part can be activated e.g., mechanically by an actuation member. Additional actuation elements such as, e.g., electrical switches, can be arranged on the grip part to activate the tool. The transmission connection between the grip part and the tool can be achieved via rigid levers and connecting pieces or also via flexible elements (e.g., a traction cord), or rigid components with an integral hinge. To uncouple a pivoting movement of the grip part towards the tool part from an actuation of the tool, at least one joint of the transmission is arranged in the center of the joint.