Surgical instruments and end effectors therefor

US8685020B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Patrick A. Weizman · Monroe, US
• Jeffrey L. Aldridge · Lebanon, US
• Raymond M. Banks · Cupertino, US
• Timothy G. Dietz · Wayne, US
• Jason L. Harris · Lebanon, US
• Zhifan F. Huang · Mason, US
• David K. Norvell · Woodsfield, US
• David A. Witt · Maineville, US
• Steve G. Bernath · San Martin, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 17, 2010
• Grant date: Apr 1, 2014
• Expiry date: Aug 21, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2018/1465
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Various forms of surgical instruments are disclosed. In various embodiments, an end effector having operable and closable jaws is attached to a distal end of an elongate shaft such that portions of the jaws are axially offset from the elongate shaft. Other jaw embodiments are coupled to an actuation arrangement that permits portions of the jaws to be moved out of axial alignment with the elongate shaft. Other jaw embodiments are configured to facilitate tissue dissection. Electrosurgical instruments are also disclosed. One embodiment employs a flexible electrode that is conformable to tissue.