Surgical instrument with feedback at end effector

US9050100B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• David C. Yates · Morrow, US
• Frederick E. Shelton, IV · Hillsboro, US
• Kevin L. Houser · Springboro, US
• Aron O. Zingman · Cambridge, US
• Donna L. Korvick · Maineville, US
• Ashvani K. Madan · Mason, US
• John W. Willis · Cincinnati, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 10, 2012
• Grant date: Jun 9, 2015
• Expiry date: Apr 25, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2218/006
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apparatus for operating on tissue includes a body, a lip in communication with the body, and at least one electrode also in communication with the body. The body is able to mechanically couple with a portion of an end effector, which may be controlled by a user through a handpiece. The lip is configured to grip a portion of the end effector. The at least one electrode is configured to provide sufficient electrical energy to weld at least a portion of tissue. In some versions, a temperature sensitive material may be positioned on a portion of the end effector. Additionally, in some versions, the handpiece of the end effector may comprise feedback features able to convey information to the user.