US20080114389A1

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Info

Publication number: US20080114389A1
Application number: US12/007,756
Authority: US
Inventors: Constance Johnston; Phillip Ryan; Carrie Mills; Perry Mykleby; Andrew Burroughs; Benjamin Rush; Tasos Karahalios; Jacob Brauer; Rodney Monson; Eric Sugalski; Dickon Isaacs; James Tappel; Thomas Enders; Benjamin Chow; Energy Cruse; Scott Brenneman
Original assignee: Gyrus Ent LLC
Current assignee: Gyrus Ent LLC
Priority date: 2002-03-22
Filing date: 2008-01-15
Publication date: 2008-05-15
Also published as: AU2003207302A1; US20050107814A1; CN1981711A; US7473263B2; US8454640B2; DE60316778D1; CN1649547A; JP2005520618A; CN100536794C; CN1301087C; AU2003207302A2; JP2009297528A; US20050131437A1; EP2292164B1; US7799044B2; ATE375124T1; EP1803406A1; US7247161B2; EP2292163A1; US20030181934A1

Abstract

A powered surgical apparatus can be used with a source of irrigation fluid and a source of suction. The powered surgical apparatus can include a cutting blade assembly and a handle. The handle can include an upper portion defining a distal section connectable to the cutting blade assembly and a lower portion extending downwardly from the upper portion. The handle can be connectable to the source of irrigation fluid and the source of suction. The system can also include a manually actuable input device that provides at least one signal relevant to at least one operation of the system, and a controller that receives the at least one input signal and provides an output signal to perform the at least one operation of the system.

Description

This is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/933,381, filed Sep. 3, 2004, which is Divisional of application Ser. No. 10/103,104 filed Mar. 22, 2002. The entire disclosure of the prior application is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The invention relates to a powered surgical apparatus, a method of manufacturing the powered surgical apparatus, and a method of using the powered surgical apparatus. In particular, the invention relates to such a powered surgical apparatus usable to shave, cut and/or remove tissue, bone and/or any other bodily material.

2. Description of Related Art

Surgical apparatus are powered to enhance shaving, cutting and/or removal of tissue, bone and/or other bodily material. Such powered surgical apparatus can include a shaving or cutting instrument, such as a rotating blade, for example. The rotating blade can be connected to a handpiece which is held by an operator of the apparatus, such as a surgeon, for example. The surgeon, by holding the handpiece in the surgeon's hand, can thereby manipulate the rotating blade to shave or cut desired tissue, bone and/or other bodily material.

One example of such a surgical apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,492,527 (hereinafter “the 527 patent”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The 527 patent is specifically directed to a surgical shaver, for use in endoscopic surgical procedures, that drives an elongated rotatable surgical instrument and aspirates material from a surgical work site. As shown inFIGS. 1-5 and14 of the 527 patent, the surgical shaver includes ahandpiece10 with abody12 having adistal end14, aproximal end16, acollet assembly18, amotor seal assembly20 and acable assembly22. Ashaver blade assembly172, which is attached to thebody12 of thehandpiece10 by thecollet assembly18, includes an elongated rotatableinner blade174 and an elongatedouter blade176. The elongatedouter blade176 defines acutting window188 facing a direction that is traverse to the axis of the shaver. Thecollet assembly18 is manually rotatable to enable rotation of thecutting window188.

In operation, a surgeon grasps theelongated body12 of thehandpiece10 in a manner similar to gripping a writing apparatus, such as a pencil or pen. While gripping thebody12 of thehandpiece10 in this manner, the surgeon is able to direct the distal end of the shaver blade assembly to the bodily material to be cut. With the tips of the surgeon's fingers, the surgeon can also rotate thecollet assembly18 to rotate thecutting window188 to an appropriate position to cut the bodily material.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

However, the body of the handpiece of a surgical apparatus, such as the surgical shaver of the 527 patent, is typically more heavy than a common writing apparatus, such as a pencil or a pen. Thus, the hand muscles of an operator, such as a surgeon, used to grasp the body of the handpiece of the surgical apparatus in this manner may tire during a surgical operation, which can take a considerable amount of time. Also, the surgeon may find it difficult to rotate the collet assembly to move the cutting window of the outer blade while supporting the weight of the surgical apparatus by grasping the body of the handpiece as if it was a writing instrument. Further, the surgeon may find the operation of gripping the body of the handpiece of the surgical apparatus as if it was a writing apparatus to be otherwise cumbersome, unnatural or troublesome.

The invention addresses the above and/or other concerns and can provide a powered surgical apparatus, method of manufacturing the powered surgical apparatus, and method of using the powered surgical apparatus that facilitates ease of operation and/or promotes utility of operation. The invention can also provide apparatus and methods that facilitate and promote ease and effectiveness of cleaning and/or sterilization of at least a portion of the apparatus.

The invention can be used to cut, shave and/or remove tissue, bone and/or any other bodily material in a variety of surgical procedures, such as general ear, nose and throat (hereinafter “ENT”), head and neck, and oteneurologic procedures, for example. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, it is used as a sinus debrider. However, the invention can be used in other surgical procedures. More specifically, the invention can be used in sinus procedures, such as ethmoidectomy/sphenoethmoidectomy, polypectomy, septoplasty, antrostomy, endoscopic DCR, frontal sinus drill-out, frontal sinus trephination and irrigation, septal spurs removal, and trans-spehnoidal procedures, for example. The invention can be used in nasopharyngeal/laryngeal procedures, such as adenoidectomy, laryngeal lesion de-bulking, laryngeal polypectomy, tracheal procedures, and tonsillectomy, for example. The invention can be used in head & neck procedures, such as soft tissue shaving, rhinoplasty (narrowing the bony valut and revision of the bony pyramid), removal of fatty (adipose) tissue (lipodebridement) in the maxillary and mandibular regions of the face, and acoustic neuroma removal, for example. The invention can also be used in otology procedures, such as mastoidectomy, and mastoidotomy, for example.

The above list of surgical operations and procedures is not intended to be exhaustive, and the surgical apparatus in accordance with the invention is intended to be used in any other applicable currently known or later developed surgical operation and procedure. In fact, the apparatus in accordance with the invention is not only intended to be used in surgical operations and procedures for humans, but can also be used in applicable surgical operations and procedures for animals and other organic matter.

However, even though the apparatus is intended to be usable in a variety of other applications, for convenience of explanation it is described below in the context of human surgery, such as ear, nose and throat surgery, and in particular sinus surgery. In this context, the apparatus and methods in accordance with the invention can be provided to comply with, but do not necessarily need to be provided to comply with, standards for surgical instruments, such as the following current voluntary standards: UL 2601-1: Medical Electrical Equipment, Part 1: General Requirements for Safety Australian Deviations, CSA 22.2 No. 601: Canadian Standards, IEC 601-1-1 (EN 60601-1): Medical Electrical Equipment, Part 1: General Requirements for Safety, IEC 601-1-2 (EN 60601-1-2) Medical Safety Equipment, Part 2: Particular Requirements for Safety, IEC 601-1-4 (EN 60601-1-2) Medical Electrical Equipment, Part 1: General Requirements forSafety 4. Collateral Standard: Programmable Electrical Medical Systems, IEC 61000-4-2: Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)—Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques—Section 2: Electrostatic Discharge Immunity Test, IEC 61000-4-3: Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)—Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques—Section 3: Radiated, Radio Frequency, Electromagnetic Field Immunity Test, IEC 61000-4-4: Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)—Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques—Section 4: Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Immunity, IEC 61000-4-5: Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)—Part 4: Testing and Measurement Techniques—Section 5: Surge, IEC 529: Installation Protective Equipment, ISO 10993-1: Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices, and EN 55011 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Electromagnetic Disturbance Characteristics of Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) Radio-Frequency Equipment, Class B, for example. The apparatus and methods in accordance with the invention can also be provided to comply with other current standards and/or any later developed standards.

Various aspects of the invention are described below. These aspects are provided for exemplary purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

I. Handle

The invention includes a handle that is usable as a powered surgical apparatus with a movable cutting blade assembly. The handle includes an upper portion defining a distal section connectable to the cutting blade assembly. The handle also includes a lower portion that extends downwardly from the upper portion so as to define an angle of less than 90° with the distal section of the upper portion.

This structure provides ergonomic advantages over other handle structures. For example, the operator of the above handle may grasp the handle as if was a pistol, and find the pistol grip easier to hold for long periods of time, easier to operate with one hand or easier to precisely manipulate the cutting blade assembly to its desired area, for example. The orientation of the lower portion relative to the upper portion also reduces, minimizes or prevents interference between the lower portion and the patient's chin during certain surgical procedures, such as sinus surgery. This orientation also enables at least one of a surgeon's fingers to be disposed at a position to facilitate manipulation of a collet assembly, which can be provided to form a distal section of the upper portion and enables rotation of a cutting window of the cutting blade assembly.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing the above handle. The method includes forming an upper portion having a distal section that is connectable to the movable cutting blade assembly, and connecting a lower portion to the upper portion such that the lower portion extends downwardly from the upper portion so as to define an angle of less than 90° with the distal section of the upper portion.

The invention also provides a handle that is usable as a powered surgical apparatus with a movable cutting blade assembly and a source of irrigation fluid. The handle includes an upper portion defining a distal section connectable to the cutting blade assembly. The upper portion includes a proximal end that defines an irrigation fluid coupling that is connectable to the source of irrigation fluid. The upper portion defines an irrigation fluid channel that extends from the irrigation fluid coupling to the cutting blade assembly. The handle also includes a lower portion that extends downwardly from the upper portion.

This handle provides various advantages. For example, this handle provides ergonomic advantages while also enabling the use of irrigation fluid.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing this handle. The method includes forming an upper portion having a distal section that is connectable to the movable cutting blade assembly, forming an irrigation fluid coupling that is connectable to the source of irrigation fluid at a proximal end of the upper portion, forming an irrigation fluid channel from the irrigation fluid coupling to the cutting blade assembly, and connecting a lower portion to the upper portion so as to extend downwardly from the upper portion.

II. Handle Assembly

The invention also provides a handle assembly that is usable as a powered surgical apparatus with a movable cutting blade assembly and a source of irrigation fluid. The handle assembly includes a handle having a distal section that is connectable to the movable cutting blade assembly. The handle includes a proximal end that defines an irrigation fluid coupling. The handle defines an irrigation fluid channel that extends from the irrigation fluid coupling to the cutting blade assembly. The handle assembly also includes a connector that is connectable to the proximal end of the handle at the irrigation fluid coupling. The connector defines an irrigation fluid entry channel that is contiguous with the irrigation fluid channel of the handle.

This invention provides various advantages. For example, utilizing the connector obviates connecting the source of irrigation fluid directly to the cutting blade assembly. Thus, the source of irrigation fluid does not need to be detached from the handle assembly when the cutting blade assembly is changed.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing this handle assembly. The method includes forming a handle having a distal section that is connectable to the movable cutting blade assembly, forming an irrigation fluid coupling at a proximal end of the handle, forming an irrigation fluid channel in the handle from the irrigation fluid coupling to the cutting blade assembly, connecting a connector to the proximal end of the handle at the irrigation fluid coupling, and forming an irrigation fluid entry channel in the connector that is contiguous with the irrigation fluid channel of the handle.

The invention also provides a handle assembly that is usable as a powered surgical apparatus with a movable cutting blade assembly. The handle assembly includes an upper portion defining a distal section that is connectable to the cutting blade assembly and a lower portion that extends downwardly from the upper portion. The handle assembly also includes a trigger switch assembly that is connected to the lower portion that provides at least one output signal relevant to operation of the powered surgical apparatus.

This handle assembly provides various advantages. For example, because of its disposition on the lower portion of the handle, the trigger switch assembly can be easier to operate than other types of actuating mechanisms, such as a footswitch, for example.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing this handle assembly. The method includes forming an upper portion that has a distal section connectable to the cutting blade assembly, connecting a lower portion to the upper portion so as to extend downwardly from the upper portion, and connecting a trigger switch assembly to the lower portion that provides at least one output signal relevant to operation of the powered surgical apparatus.

III. Cutting Blade Assembly

The invention also provides a cutting blade assembly that is usable with a handle as a powered surgical apparatus. The handle can have an interior surface that defines at least one channel and a motor that rotates the interior surface. The cutting blade assembly includes an outer tube defining a cutting window and an outer hub secured to the outer tube. The cutting blade assembly also includes an inner tube that extends within the outer tube and defines a cutting surface. The cutting blade assembly also includes an inner hub that is secured to the inner tube. The inner tube defines an exterior and at least one drive spline extending longitudinally along the exterior. The at least one drive spline communicates with the at least one channel of the handle to enable rotation of the inner hub and the inner tube.

This cutting blade assembly provides various advantages. For example, the communication between the at least one drive spline and the at least one channel provides sufficient surface area to effectively communicate the motor torque to the inner hub.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing this cutting blade assembly. The method includes forming an outer tube that includes a cutting window, securing an outer hub to the outer tube, forming an inner tube that defines a cutting surface, extending the inner tube within the outer tube, securing the inner tube to an inner hub, and forming at least one drive spline that extends longitudinally on an exterior of the inner hub, wherein the at least one drive spline communicates with the at least one channel of the handle to enable rotation of the inner hub and the inner tube.

The invention also provides a cutting blade assembly that is usable with a handle as a powered surgical apparatus. The handle can include a manually rotatable collet assembly and at least one retention ball. The cutting blade assembly includes an inner tube defining a cutting surface, an inner hub secured to the inner tube, an outer tube defining a cutting window such that the inner tube extends within the outer tube, and an outer hub that is secured to the outer tube. The outer hub has an exterior that defines at least one dimple that is engageable with the at least one retention ball to secure the outer hub to the collet assembly.

This cutting blade assembly provides various advantages. For example, the communication between the at least one retention ball and the at least one dimple provides increased surface area to effectively secure the outer hub to the collet assembly.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing this cutting blade assembly. The method includes forming an inner tube that defines a cutting surface, securing the inner tube to an inner hub, forming an outer tube that defines a cutting window, extending the inner tube within the outer tube, securing the outer tube to the outer hub, and forming at least one dimple in an exterior of the outer hub that is engageable with the at least one retention ball to secure the outer hub to the collet assembly.

The invention also provides a cutting blade assembly that is usable with a handle and a source of irrigation fluid as a powered surgical apparatus. The handle can include a barrel that defines an irrigation fluid channel that defines a longitudinal section and a transverse section. The cutting blade assembly includes an inner tube defining a cutting surface, an inner hub secured to the inner tube, an outer tube defining a cutting window such that the inner tube extends within the outer tube so as to define a tube gap therebetween, and an outer hub secured to the outer tube. The outer hub defines a transverse through hole that communicates with the transverse section of the irrigation fluid channel of the barrel and the tube gap, such that irrigation fluid can flow through the irrigation fluid channel of the barrel into the tube gap via the transverse through hole of the outer hub.

This cutting blade assembly provides various advantages. For example, the cutting blade assembly provides a structure that does not require the source of irrigation fluid to directly be connected to it, which enables the cutting blade assembly to be changed without requiring that the source of irrigation fluid be disconnected from the handle.

The invention also includes a method of manufacturing this cutting blade assembly. The method includes forming an inner tube that defines a cutting surface, securing an inner hub to the inner tube, forming an outer tube that defines a cutting window, extending the inner tube within the outer tube so as to define a gap therebetween, securing an outer hub to the outer tube, and forming a transverse through hole in the outer hub that communicates with the transverse section of the irrigation fluid channel of the barrel and the tube gap, such that irrigation fluid can flow through the irrigation fluid channel of the barrel into the tube gap via the transverse through hole of the outer hub.

IV. Powered Surgical Apparatus System

The invention also provides a powered surgical apparatus system for use with a source of irrigation fluid and a source of suction. The system includes a cutting blade assembly and a handle. The handle includes an upper portion defining a distal section connectable to the cutting blade assembly and a lower portion extending downwardly from the upper portion. The handle is connectable to the source of irrigation fluid and the source of suction. The system also includes a manually actuable input device that provides at least one signal relevant to at least one operation of the system, and a controller that receives the at least one signal and provides an output signal to perform the at least one operation of the system.

The powered surgical apparatus system provides various advantages, such as advantages discussed above, for example.

These and other features and advantages of this invention are described in, or are apparent from, the following detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods according to this invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic of a powered surgical apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic showing the exterior of thehandle2;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exterior of thehandle2;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing various sub-elements of thehandle2;

FIG. 5 is a sectional side view showing various sub-elements of thehandle2;

FIG. 6 is a sectional top view showing various sub-elements of thehandle2;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing various sub-elements of thecollet assembly36;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the exterior of thecollet assembly36;

FIG. 9 is a front plan view showing various sub-elements of thecollet assembly36;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the exterior of thetube connector112;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of thetube connector112;

FIG. 12 is a side sectional view of thetube connector112 taken along plane A-A ofFIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the exterior of thecutting blade assembly8;

FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view showing a portion of the exterior of thecutting blade assembly8;

FIG. 15 is a sectional view of thecutting blade assembly8 taken along plane B-B ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of theouter hub138 of thecutting blade assembly8;

FIG. 17 is side plan view of theouter hub138 shown inFIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of theouter hub138 taken along plane C-C ofFIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a side plan view of anirrigation hole142 defined in theouter hub138 shown inFIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is a side plan view of a portion of theouter hub38 definingretention channels146 shown inFIG. 17;

FIG. 21 is a sectional view of a portion of theouter hub138 defining theproximal end160 shown inFIG. 18;

FIG. 22 is a sectional view of theouter hub138 taken along plane D-D ofFIG. 17;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of theinner hub162 of thecutting blade assembly8;

FIG. 24 is a side plan view of theinner hub162 shown inFIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is another side plan view of theinner hub162 that is rotated 90° relative to the view ofFIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a sectional view of theinner hub162 taken along plane E-E ofFIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a sectional view of theinner hub162 taken along plane F-F ofFIG. 25;

FIG. 28 is a sectional view of a portion of theinner hub162 defining thespring retention channels174 shown inFIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of thetrigger switch assembly180 and related sub-elements of thehandle2;

FIG. 30 is a schematic of thesensor strip192 of thetrigger switch assembly180;

FIG. 31 is a side perspective view of the trigger switch assembly mounted on thehandle2;

FIG. 32 is a front schematic view of thetrigger switch assembly180 mounted on thehandle2;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view showing the exterior of thefootswitch4;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of thetwin tubing226 as well as devices connected thereto;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view showing asection236 of thetwin tubing226 in a connected state;

FIG. 36 is a sectional view of thetwin tubing226 taken along plane G-G ofFIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view showing the front of thecontroller6 and the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26; and

FIG. 38 is a perspective view showing the rear of thecontroller6 and the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

For convenience of explanation, exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the figures in the context of human surgery, such as ear, nose and throat surgery, and in particular sinus surgery. However, as previously discussed, all exemplary embodiments of the invention are intended to be used in any applicable field of endeavor.

I. Overall System Description

FIG. 1 is a schematic of a poweredsurgical apparatus1 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown inFIG. 1, theapparatus1 includes ahandle2, afootswitch4 and acontroller6. A general description of these elements as well as their interrelationship is provided below.

Thehandle2 includes acutting blade assembly8 at its distal end. The distal end of thecutting blade assembly8 is usable to cut, shave and/or remove bodily material during a surgical procedure or operation. The distal end of thecutting blade assembly8 can perform the cutting, shaving and/or removal in any manner, such as by rotation, for example. In operation, a surgeon grasps thehandle2 as if grasping a pistol and brings the distal end of thecutting blade assembly8 into contact with the bodily material to be shaved, cut and/or removed.

Thefootswitch4 is connected to thecontroller6 via afootswitch signal line10, such as an electric cable, for example. Thefootswitch4 is typically disposed on the floor of a surgical room within reach of the surgeon's foot. Thefootswitch4 includes an actuator member, such as afoot pedal12, the actuation of which results in an input signal being transmitted to thecontroller6 via thefootswitch signal line10. In operation, the surgeon places his or her foot on thefootswitch4 and depresses thefoot pedal12 to provide an input signal to the controller for the purpose of controlling at least one operation of the apparatus, such as energizing/de-energizing rotation of thecutting blade assembly8, or speed of rotation of thecutting blade assembly8, for example. However, thefootswitch signal line10 can be used for any other purpose, such as to transmit other types of signals to thecontroller6, to transmit signals from thecontroller6 to thefootswitch4, or to supply power to thefootswitch4, for example.

A trigger switch assembly (not shown inFIG. 1) can be attached to thehandle2 and used in lieu of, or in addition to, thefootswitch4. The trigger switch assembly can be actuable such that, while the surgeon grasps the handle as if grasping a pistol, one or more of the surgeon's fingers can press a part of the trigger switch assembly toward the handle as if pulling the trigger of the pistol.

Thecontroller6 is also connected to thehandle2 via ahandle signal line14, such as an electric cable, for example. Thecontroller6 can output signals to the handle via thehandle signal line14, such as control signals controlling on/off status of the cutting blade assembly, and/or rotation speed of thecutting blade assembly8 based upon input signals received by thecontroller6 from thefootswitch4, for example.

However, thehandle signal line14 can be used for any other purpose, such as to transmit other types of signals to thehandle2, to transmit signals from thehandle2 to thecontroller6, or to supply power to thehandle2, for example. For example, thehandle supply line14 can be used to transmit signals to thecontroller6 indicating the type ofhandle2 that is currently connected to thecontroller6.

Thecontroller6 is also connected to apower source16 via a powersource supply line18, such as a standard electric cable or hospital grade power cord, for example. Thecontroller6 receives and utilizes a source of AC electric voltage from thepower source16. However, the controller can also receive and utilize a source of DC electric voltage. Further, the AC orDC power source16 does not have to be remote from thecontroller6, and instead can be integral therewith.

As shown inFIG. 1, thecontroller6 can be slidably disposed on avertical rail20. Slidably disposing thecontroller6 on thevertical rail20 enables the mounting height of the controller to adjusted to facilitate viewing data on the face of the controller, to take into account space constraints, or for any other purpose.

However, thecontroller6 does not have to be mounted on thevertical rail20. Instead, the controller can be mounted on a horizontal rail. In fact, thecontroller6 can be disposed and/or mounted in any manner or location. The controller can even be mounted at a location remote from the surgical room or location of the other elements of the surgical apparatus.

The handpiece can be connected to a source ofirrigation fluid22 by an irrigationfluid supply tube24. The irrigation fluid can be provided to travel through thehandle2 and to thecutting blade assembly8 and/or the surgical site for the purpose of lubricating the blade or blades for enhanced cutting or shaving efficiency, for example. However, the irrigation fluid can be provided for any other purpose, such as flushing out the surgical site for enhanced removal of cut or shaven bodily material, for example.

The irrigation fluid can be supplied from theirrigation fluid source22 to thehandle2 by any method. For example, the irrigation fluid may be supplied to thehandle2 by an irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 disposed on a side of thecontroller6.

Thehandle2 can also be connected to a source ofsuction28 by asuction supply tube30. The suction can be provided so as to extend through thehandle2 and to thecutting blade assembly8 and/or the surgical site for the purpose or removing cut or shaven bodily material and/or irrigation fluid, for example. However, the suction can be provided for any other purpose.

The above overall system description of theapparatus1 is provided for exemplary purposes only. The invention is not only intended to cover the above described overall system, but also various other aspects of the individual elements or combinations of the individual elements of the overall system. Thus, any of the other aspects of the individual elements of the invention can be utilized individually, with combinations of the above individual elements or in conjunction with systems that are quite different than the overall system discussed above and still be within the spirit and scope of the invention.

II. Handle

Various views of exemplary embodiment of thehandle2 are shown inFIGS. 2-6, whereinFIG. 2 is a schematic showing the exterior of the handle,FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exterior of the handle,FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing various sub-elements of thehandle2,FIG. 5 is a sectional side view showing various sub-elements of thehandle2, andFIG. 6 is a sectional top view showing various sub-elements of thehandle2. An exemplary embodiment of thehandle2 is described below in conjunction withFIGS. 2-6.

Thehandle2 includes anupper portion32 and alower portion34 that define a pistol grip. The operator, such as a surgeon, grasps thehandle2 as if gripping a pistol. The specific manner of grasping thehandle2 may be determined by the operator's preference. However, an exemplary method of grasping thehandle2 is described below. For example, when grasping thehandle2, the surgeon's palm can be pressed against a rear end of thelower portion34, while one or more of the surgeon's fingers can wrap around a front end of thelower portion34. One or more of the surgeon's fingers may also extend along theupper portion32.

The pistol grip provides ergonomic advantages over other handle structures, such as those requiring an operator to grasp the handle as if grasping a writing instrument, for example. The operator may find the pistol grip easier to hold for long periods of time, easier to operate with one hand or easier to precisely manipulate thecutting blade assembly8 to its desired target area, for example. However, these advantages are only provided for exemplary purposes, and the pistol grip may provide other advantages and conveniences.

As shown inFIGS. 2 and 5, theupper portion32 extends approximately or generally parallel to thecutting blade assembly8, while thelower portion34 extends at an angle θ relative to theupper portion32. The angle θ defined between the upper and

lower portions

32 and34 is less than 90° such that thelower portion34 extends forward of thehandle2 and generally towards a surgical site in operation.

Orienting thelower portion34 at the angle θ (less than 90°) relative to theupper portion32 can provide advantages over other possible orientations. For example, this orientation reduces, minimizes or prevents interference between thelower portion34 and a patient's chin during certain surgical procedures, such as sinus surgery. This orientation also enables at least one of a surgeon's fingers to be disposed at a position to facilitate manipulation of thecollet assembly36, which as is discussed in one of the succeeding sections, rotates a cutting window of thecutting blade assembly8. However, these advantages are only provided for exemplary purposes, and this orientation can provide other advantages in sinus surgery or other applications.

As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, amotor assembly38 is disposed within thelower portion34. Themotor assembly38 can be relatively heavy in comparison to other sub-elements of thehandle2. Disposing the relativelyheavy motor assembly38 in the lower portion lowers the disposition of weight of thehandle2 and thereby makes thehandle2 easier to hold since, for example, the relatively heavylower portion34 may be grasped between an operator's palm and one or more fingers.

However, disposing themotor assembly38 within thelower portion34 may provide other advantages over other dispositions. For example, this disposition enables the irrigation fluid and/or suction to travel along a relatively straight path through thehandle2 substantially or generally parallel to thecutting blade assembly8. This relatively straight path can enhance regularity of fluid supply or suction, and/or reduce, minimize or prevent obstructions or blockages in the fluid supply or suction.

Themotor assembly38 can be disposed within ahandle chassis40, which in turn is disposed within ahandle shell42 of thelower portion34. Thehandle shell42 defines the exterior of thelower portion34. The exterior of the upper portion is defined by abarrel44.

The upper and

lower portions

32 and34 are secured together byhandle fasteners46 andinternal fasteners48. The handle and

internal fasteners

46 and48 communicate with apertures defined in thehandle shell42,handle chassis40 and abracket50 of thebarrel44 to secure the upper and

lower portions

32 and34 together.

However, the handle and

internal fasteners

46 and48 are only provided for exemplary purposes, and the upper and

lower portions

32 and34 can be secured together in any manner. In fact, the upper and

lower portions

32 and34 do not even have to be separate elements and instead can be integral.

As shown inFIGS. 3-6, the irrigation fluid and suction are provided to extend through thebarrel44 andcollet36 of thehandle2. The irrigation fluid is supplied to thehandle2 via anirrigation fluid coupling52 at a rear end of thebarrel44. The suction is supplied to thehandle2 via asuction coupling54 adjacent and below theirrigation fluid coupling52 at the rear end of thebarrel44.

The suction is provided within thehandle2 through asuction channel56 defined in thesuction coupling54 and extends along a substantially straight path through thebarrel44 andcollet36 to thecutting blade assembly8. The suction path extends generally along a central axis ofbarrel44,collet36 and cuttingblade assembly8.

The irrigation fluid is provided within thehandle2 through anirrigation fluid channel58 which extends generally parallel to thesuction channel56 to a front section of thebarrel44, and then extends substantially transverse to thesuction channel56 along atransverse channel60. The irrigation fluid then travels through thecollet36 substantially parallel to thesuction channel56 to thecutting blade assembly8.

Thehandle signal line14 is connected to thehandle2 via acable assembly62, which is then electrically connected to themotor assembly38. Thecontroller6 can thereby send control signals to themotor assembly38 via thehandle signal line14 andcable assembly62 to actuate the motor on and off and to regulate the speed of the motor. However, thecontroller6 can send and/or receive any other signals to or from themotor assembly38 via thehandle signal line14 andcable assembly62.

Thecable assembly62 is disposed at a rear end of the handle adjacent to and beneath theirrigation fluid coupling52 and thesuction coupling54. Disposing thecable assembly62 at this location enables thehandle supply line14, irrigationfluid supply tube24 andsuction supply tube30 to extend from the rear end of thehandle2 substantially together and substantially parallel to each other as shown inFIG. 2. This disposition and direction of extension facilitates case of operation of thehandle2 during surgery since thehandle signal line14, irrigationfluid supply tube24 andsuction supply tube30 are collectively away from the surgical site. However, other advantages may be provided by this disposition and direction of extension, such as reducing, minimizing or preventing the line and tubes from becoming intertangled with each other and/or other lines, wires or tubes, for example.

Some or all of the sub-elements of thehandle2 can be made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum or ceramic, for example. Forming at least some of the sub-elements out of light weight materials reduces the overall weight of thehandle2 and thereby enhances its ease of operation.

The handle can include various other sub-elements. As shown inFIGS. 4-6, these sub-elements can include anirrigation dowel pin64, rear seals66 and68, arear shim70, atolerance ring72, agear shaft74, arear bearing76, afront bearing78, afront bearing holder80, and

front seals

82 and84, for example.

To facilitate the manufacture of the handle with as few parts as possible, the irrigation supply bore may be drilled into the housing and theirrigation dowel pin64 provides a means to close the irrigation supply hole to prevent unwanted leakage of irrigation fluid from the open end of the hole. Thegear shaft74 is mounted inside thehandle2 with its axis in line with the main axis of the handle and is supported on afront bearing78 andrear bearing76 such that it is free to rotate. A gear is formed as a part of the gear shaft, with gear teeth placed radially around the gear shaft. These gear teeth engage with themotor assembly38 by means of a pinion gear mounted to the output shaft of the motor. In this particular implementation a face gear is used to provide for easier alignment of the motor assembly to the gear shaft where the pinion of the face gear may be a straight spur gear and its axial position-relative to the gear shaft is not critical, provided that the faces of the spur teeth fully overlap the teeth on the gear. This means allows for easier assembly and alignment during manufacture.

The assembly of themotor assembly38,gear shaft74,front bearing78 andrear bearing76 form a mechanical transmission which may be designed to engage at any angle to suit the preference of the operator or the task. The transmission may utilize a lubricant material such as an oil or grease. Front seals82 and84 and

rear seals

66 and68 provide a means to prevent such lubricant from leaving the transmission and also to prevent the contamination of the transmission housing and gears by foreign material that may be present in the device during use or cleaning. The gears that form the transmission are optimally assembled in close contact to provide the best performance. One means of providing repeatable adjustment of such mechanical elements is the use of ashim70 or shims to axially align thegear shaft74 to themotor assembly38. Once the correct shim size has been determined it may be used repeatedly to provide a consistent assembly location for the gear shaft into thehousing2.

The

bearings

76 and78 that are used to support the gear shaft are optimally mounted with precise concentricity in thehousing2 such that relative movement of the outer race of the bearings with respect to thehousing2 is prevented. One means to achieve such is to use an adhesive to bond the outer race of the bearing to the inner bore of thehousing2. Another preferred means to mount the bearings that may employed is the use of atolerance ring72 placed in to thehousing2. Thetolerance ring72 provides a means to maintain a tight fit between the outer race of the bearing and the inside diameter of the housing to prevent relative movement of the bearing outer race relative to the housing and further provides a means to repeatedly dis-assemble and re-assemble the bearing into the housing without damage to the bearing or housing or the necessity of removing adhesive.

III. Collet Assembly

Various views of an exemplary embodiment of thecollet assembly36 are shown inFIGS. 7-9, whereinFIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing various sub-elements of thecollet assembly36,FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the exterior of thecollet assembly36, andFIG. 9 is a front plan view showing some sub-elements of thecollet assembly36. An exemplary embodiment of thecollet assembly36 is described below in conjunction withFIGS. 7-9.

As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, thecollet assembly36 is provided at the front end of theupper portion32 of thehandle2. Disposing thecollet assembly36 at this location enables an operator, such as a surgeon, holding thehandle2 in a pistol grip manner, to touch and rotate theassembly collet36 or a portion thereof with the tip of at least one of the surgeon's fingers. Rotating at least a portion of thecollet assembly36 in this manner enables the cutting window of thecutting blade assembly8 to rotate, thereby orienting the direction of the shaving and/or cutting of the desired bodily material.

However, the orientation of the cutting window of thecutting blade assembly8 does not need to be changed by rotating at least a portion of thecollet assembly36. Instead, the orientation of the cutting window of thecutting blade assembly8 can be changed in accordance with any other method. For example, the orientation of the cutting window can be changed by moving thecollet assembly36, or one or more of the sub-elements thereof, in a linear direction. However, an exemplary embodiment is described below wherein rotation of at least a part of thecollet assembly36 changes the orientation of the cutting window.

As shown inFIGS. 7 and 8, thecollet assembly36 includes aswivel shell86 that defines at least one grippingchannel88. The at least one grippingchannel88 enhances the surgeon's ability to grip thecollet assembly36 with the tip of at least one of the surgeon's fingers so as to rotate at least a part of thecollet assembly36. A singlegripping channel88 can be defined at the exterior of theswivel shell86, or alternatively two or moregripping channels88 can be provided to enhance ease of rotation or to address or accomplish any other purpose.

Theswivel shell86 does not have to include the at least one grippingchannel88. Instead, theswivel shell86 can define a smooth exterior and not provide any method to enhance rotation of at least part of thecollet assembly36.

Alternatively, any other method of enhancing rotation of at least part of thecollet assembly36 can be provided. For example, the exterior of theswivel shell86 can define a rough exterior to enhance gripping ability. Alternatively, the exterior of theswivel shell86 can define ridges, bumps or any other projections to enhance gripping ability, for example.

Thecollet assembly36 can be provided such that only a portion of thecollet assembly36 is rotatable to enable the orientation of the cutting window of thecutting blade assembly8 to be changed while an inner blade of thecutting blade assembly8 rotates. For example, theswivel shell86 can be mechanically separated from the outer hub of thecutting blade assembly8 so that in the event of a jam theswivel shell86 does not rotate. However, thecollet assembly36 can also be provided so that the entire assembly is rotatable.

Although the invention is intended to cover any method to perform this operation,FIGS. 7 and 9 show a combination of sub-elements that enable manual rotation of theswivel shell86 to change the orientation of the cutting window while the inner blade of thecutting blade assembly8 rotates. As shown inFIGS. 7 and 9, the collet assembly can include release pins90, arelease ring92,retention balls94, alock spring96, unlockingballs98, a slidingcam100, astationary cam102, aretention sleeve104, a retainingclip106, theswivel shell86, abase mount108, and base mount seals110. These sub-elements are also shown in their assembled state inFIGS. 5 and 6.

The collet assembly can include astationary cam102 which is attached to thebase mount108 such that an interior gap defines a location for the retention of aflange105 on the proximal end of theretention sleeve104, thus capturing theretention sleeve104 and preventing it from moving axially, but allowing it to rotate freely and concentrically with respect to the main axis of thecollet assembly36. One method of capturing theflange105 on theretention sleeve104 is to use aretaining clip106 which fits into aninternal groove107 in thestationary cam102 and defines a gap which ensures that rotation is free, but that axial movement is restricted. The use of the retainingclip106 further facilitates the assembly of the mechanism, by allowing thebase mount108 to be assembled into contact with the retainingclip106 thereby setting the relative position of thebase mount108 to thestationary cam102 and eliminating the need to manually adjust this engagement.

Twointerior grooves109 are located on thestationary cam102 to provide relief to allow thestationary cam102 to slide over twokeys111 on the exterior of theretention sleeve104. These two grooves are provided as a means to aid assembly and are not functional once thecollet assembly36 has been completed. The slidingcam100 also has twointerior grooves113 which engage with thekeys111 on the exterior of theretention sleeve104 preventing relative rotational motion of these parts, but allowing the slidingcam100 to slide freely in an axial direction along the length of theretention sleeve104. This engagement is the means by which rotational motion is transmitted between the slidingcam100 and theretention sleeve104 and subsequently to the blade hub when theswivel shell86 is rotated. The slidingcam100 engages with thestationary cam102 by means of

teeth

115 and117 that are located on the faces of each part facing towards each other. The

teeth

115 and117 are held in engagement by thespring96 which is in turn retained by therelease ring92 which is retained by the release pins90 which are engaged in holes in therelease ring90 and whose ends are placed inslots119 in theretention sleeve104. The release pins90 are retained by the assembly of theswivel shell86 which prevents the pins from falling out the holes which capture them in therelease ring92.

The

teeth

115 and117 on the

cams

100 and102 that engage with each other have geometry which when urged into engagement by thelock spring96, are not permitted to slide against each other by means of friction. In order to prevent sliding of the teeth against other the contact angle of the

teeth

115 and117 is substantially less than 45 degrees and in this case is 15 degrees. The contact angle can be adjusted to be as low as zero degrees or even to an negative angle if desired to further prevent the possibility of sliding of the

cam teeth

115 and117, however reduction of the angle to near zero degrees has the undesirable effect of introducing backlash between the teeth which would correspond to backlash in the retention of the blade hub. In the optimal implementation, an angle is chosen that provides for strong retention and no sliding, whilst minimizing or eliminating backlash between the

teeth

115 and117. An angle of 15 degrees for example permits excellent retention of the

teeth

115 and117 with respect to each other and also permits thelock spring96 to push the angled teeth into engagement with each other eliminating virtually all backlash from the tooth engagement.

Thegrooves121 on the exterior of the slidingcam100 are shaped with a V profile and receive the unlockingballs98 which engage in pockets inside theswivel shell86. Theballs98 slide in the V shapedgrooves121 in the slidingcam100 when theswivel shell86 is rotated. The angle of the V shapedgroove121 is important to facilitate the optimal feel of the swivel in surgeons fingers. If theV groove121 is too steep with an included angle of much less that 90 degrees, the friction will prevent easy sliding of theballs98 in theV groove121 and the swivel will not rotate and lift the slidingcam100 up. Conversely if the included angle of theV groove121 is too shallow, substantially greater than 90 degrees then the unlockingballs98 will slide easily but the surgeons fingers will be required to rotate the swivel shell86 a large degree of rotation before the slidingcam100 has been lifted out of engagement with thestationary cam102, thereby giving a loose feel to the swivel assembly. Optimally, an angle of approximately 90 degrees gives a good feel to the surgeon and allows the unlockingballs98 to lift the sliding cam up without significant frictional resistance.

Rotation of theswivel shell86 by the surgeon causes a corresponding rotation of the slidingcam100, lifting the slidingcam100 out of engagement with thestationary cam102. Once the slidingcam100 is free from thestationary cam102, it can cause a corresponding rotation of theretention sleeve104. In this way, a rotation of theswivel shell86 causes a reorientation of the cutting window in thecutting blade assembly8, viaretention sleeve104. However, should theretention sleeve104 be urged to rotate, for example by thecutting blade assembly8 becoming jammed, the rotation will be prevented by the engagement of the slidingcam100 in thestationary cam102. The action of theswivel shell86 to lift the slidingcam100 out of engagement with thestationary cam102 means that while a rotation of the swivel shell will cause a corresponding rotation of theretention sleeve104, the reverse will not be permitted (i.e. an attempt to rotate theretention sleeve104 will not cause a corresponding rotation of the swivel shell86). This provides the assurance that in the event of a jam the swivel shell will be prevented from rotating, thereby avoiding the possibility of injury to the surgeon.

As well as providing a rotation for the cutting window of the cutting blade assembly, the collet assembly also provides a mechanism for the removal and replacement of the cutting blade assembly. The blade hub has a number of radially disposeddimples144 which are engaged by theretention balls94. The retention balls are held into engagement with the blade hub by an angled surface on the interior of therelease ring92 which functions as a wedge. The wedge is held into engagement with the retention balls by the lock spring and further the lock spring forces the wedge to press on the retention balls pushing them radially inward and in to contact with the blade hub with a force substantially greater than the axial force of the lock spring due to the shallow angle of the wedge surface on the interior of therelease ring92.

In order to unlock the blade hub from engagement with the retention balls, the surgeon or nurse presses the release ring in a proximal direction, compressing thelock spring96 and sliding the wedge surface away from contact with the retention balls. Once the release ring has been depressed, the blade may be retracted from the collet assembly and as it is retracted, the shallow angle of the dimples pushes the retention balls radially outward such that they no longer engage the dimples and permit the blade hub to be removed. During storage when no blade hub is present in the collet assembly, the spring pushes on the proximal end of the release ring and moves it in a distal direction. To prevent long term pressure on the retention balls by the wedge, the release pins90 may be made to contact the end of the slots in the retention sleeve, such that pressure on the balls is relieved at the end of the travel. This may be desirable to discourage the retention balls from sticking in the pockets provided in the retention sleeve.

IV. Tube Connector

Various views of an exemplary embodiment of the tube connector are shown inFIGS. 10-12, whereinFIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the exterior of thetube connector112,FIG. 11 is a rear plan view of thetube connector112, andFIG. 12 is a side sectional view of thetube connector112 taken along plane A-A ofFIG. 11. An exemplary embodiment of thetube connector112 is described below in conjunction withFIGS. 10-12.

Thetube connector112 shown inFIGS. 10-12 is connected to a rear end of thebarrel44 shown inFIGS. 3 and 4. Specifically, when connected,surface114 of thetube connector112 abuts against, or is disposed adjacent to, surface116 of thebarrel114, such that theirrigation fluid coupling52 of thebarrel44 extends within irrigationfluid entry channel118, and thesuction coupling54 extends withinsuction entry channel120.

Theirrigation fluid coupling52 and thesuction coupling54 can be formed of an elastic or substantially elastic material, such as rubber, for example, so as to provide a leak-proof or substantially leak-proof fitting within the irrigationfluid entry channel118 and thesuction entry channel120. However, any method can be used to provide a leak-proof or substantially leak-proof fitting between these elements. For example, the irrigationfluid entry channel118 and thesuction entry channel120 can be formed of an elastic or substantially elastic material, such as rubber, for example, in addition to, or instead of, theirrigation fluid coupling52 and thesuction coupling54. Most preferably, theirrigation fluid coupling52 and thesuction coupling54 are formed from a rigid material such as aluminum, and rubber O-rings are inserted in

channels

118 and120 to provide a leak-proof fitting. All of these fitting methods provide the advantage of enabling the

couplings

52 and54 to be easily and quickly removed from the

channels

118 and120.

However, the

couplings

52 and54 can be permanently or semi-permanently fixed to the

channels

118 and120. For example, theirrigation fluid coupling52 and thesuction coupling54 can be bonded to either interior or exterior walls that define the irrigationfluid entry channel118 and thesuction entry channel120 by any other method, such as by glue, epoxy, press fitting, melting, or welding, for example.

However, thetube connector112 can be permanently or semi-permanently secured to thebarrel44. For example, thetube connector112 can be secured to thebarrel44 by any other method, such as by glue, epoxy, press fitting, melting, or welding, for example.

Regardless of the attachment method between thetube connector112 and thebarrel44, either or both of these elements can be keyed to the other. Providing this structure reduces, minimizes or prevents thetube connector112 from turning relative to thehandle2, which is especially likely to occur when the irrigationfluid supply tube24 and thesuction supply tube30 are being connected to thetube connector112, which is described below.

Thetube connector112 defines anirrigation fluid projection126 and asuction projection128. The

projections

126 and128 are formed to be an appropriate size such that the irrigationfluid supply tube24 can snugly fit inside theirrigation fluid projection126, and thesuction supply tube30 can snugly fit inside thesuction projection128 and are glued in position so as to provide leak-proof or substantially leak-proof fittings. However, any other method of attachment can be provided between these elements, including push fit attachments which allow the irrigation fluid supply tube and the suction supply tube to be disconnected from theirrigation fluid projection126 and thesuction projection128.

The correct orientation of thetube connector112 is ensured by theangled surface114, and by the different sizes of the

couplings

52 and54. The size of theirrigation fluid coupling52 matches the size of the irrigationfluid entry channel118, but not that of thesuction entry channel120. Similarly the size of thesuction coupling54 matches the size of thesuction entry channel120, but not that of the irrigationfluid entry channel118. Thus the tube connector can be attached to the handpiece in one orientation only. Additionally, theangled surface114 on thetube connector112 matches theangled surface116 on thebarrel44 of the handpiece, again preventing attachment of the tube connector in an incorrect orientation.

Thetube connector112 enables the irrigationfluid supply tube24 and thesuction supply tube30 to be connected to the rear end of thehandle2. Thus, the irrigationfluid supply tube24 and/or thesuction supply tube30 are not directly connected to thecutting blade assembly8. This structure provides an advantage of enabling thecutting blade assembly8 or a part thereof to be changed without requiring that the irrigationfluid supply tube24 and/or thesuction supply tube30 be disconnected from thehandle2, which enhances operation of theapparatus1. This feature is especially advantageous in surgical procedures that require thecutting blade assembly8 or a part thereof to be changed during the surgical procedure or operation, such as in sinus surgery which may require the use of more than one blade during a single operation or procedure.

V. Cutting Blade Assembly

Various views of an exemplary embodiment of the cutting blade assembly8 are shown inFIGS. 13-28, whereinFIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the exterior of the cutting blade assembly8;FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view showing a portion of the exterior of the cutting blade assembly8;FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the cutting blade assembly8 taken along plane B-B ofFIG. 14;FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the outer hub138 of the cutting blade assembly8;FIG. 17 is side plan view of the outer hub138 shown inFIG. 16;FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the outer hub138 taken along plane C-C ofFIG. 17;FIG. 19 is a side plan view of an irrigation hole142 defined in the outer hub138 shown inFIG. 17;FIG. 20 is a side plan view of a portion of the outer hub38 defining retention channels146 shown inFIG. 17;FIG. 21 is a sectional view of a portion of the outer hub138 defining the proximal end160 shown inFIG. 18;FIG. 22 is a sectional view of the outer hub138 taken along plane D-D ofFIG. 17;FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the inner hub162 of the cutting blade assembly8;FIG. 24 is a side plan view of the inner hub162 shown inFIG. 23;FIG. 25 is another side plan view of the inner hub162 that is rotated 90° relative to the view ofFIG. 24; andFIG. 26 is a sectional view of the inner hub162 taken along plane E-E ofFIG. 25. An exemplary embodiment of thecutting blade assembly8 is described below in conjunction withFIGS. 13-28.

Thecutting blade assembly8 in accordance with the invention can be used to shave, cut and/or remove bodily tissue from a surgical site. The invention is intended to cover any structure that can accomplish this and/or other operations.

For convenience of explanation,FIG. 13 depicts acutting blade assembly8 that includes a straight blade structure. However, any other blade structure can be used, such as a bent blade structure, for example, that may provide other advantages, such as providing access to bodily tissue that would be difficult or impossible to reach via a straight blade structure, for example.

A blade structure can be used that defines a knife edge with a substantially uniform cutting surface at and/or adjacent to its distal end. Alternatively, other cutting surfaces can be used, such as a cutting surface that defines one or more cutting teeth, for example. In fact, the blade structure does not even have to define a sharp cutting surface, and instead can define another structure, such as a burr, for example, that may provide other advantages, such as facilitating the shaving and/or cutting of muscle and/or bone, for example.

The cutting blade structure of thecutting blade assembly8 can be manufactured from rigid material, such as stainless steel, for example. However, the cutting blade can be manufactured from other materials, such as elastic and/or bendable materials for example, that may provide advantages over rigid materials, such as providing enhanced access to certain surgical sites, for example. One common arrangement is to provide a flexible shaft, typically of a mesh or wound spring construction, covered by a sealing sleeve.

For convenience of explanation, an exemplary embodiment is described below that includes a rotating cutting surface. However, any other type of cutting surface can be provided, such as a cutting surface that is linearly movable.

All or part of thecutting blade assembly8 can be provided as sterile, and can be sterilized using ethylene oxide gas (EO), for example. All or part of the cutting blade assembly can be placed in a protective tray, that is heat sealed inside a Tyvek® and ionomer pouch, which in turn is placed inside of a paperboard carton and shrink-wrapped.

As shown inFIGS. 13-15, thecutting blade assembly8 includes aninner tube130 that extends within anouter tube132. Agap134 is defined between the inner and

outer tubes

130 and132. Both the inner and

outer tubes

130 and132 are hollow, such that adistal suction channel136 is defined within theinner tube132.

Thedistal suction channel136 communicates with thesuction channel56 shown inFIG. 5. Thus, in operation, bodily material and/or irrigation fluid can be removed from the surgical site by suction provided to the surgical site via thesuction source28, thesuction supply tube30, thesuction channel56 and thedistal suction channel136.

As shown inFIGS. 5 and 15, thedistal suction channel136 and thesuction channel56 generally extend through a central portion of each of thecutting blade assembly8 and theupper portion32 of thehandle2. In fact, in the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 5 and 15, thedistal suction channel136 and thesuction channel56 are generally co-axial with thecutting blade assembly8 and theupper portion32 of thehandle2. This enables the bodily material and/or irrigation fluid to be removed along a generally straight path which enhances operation and reduces, minimizes or prevents blockages between the surgical site and thesuction source28.

However, the invention is intended to cover other methods and structures to remove the bodily material and/or irrigation fluid from the surgical site. For example, thedistal suction channel136 and thesuction channel56 do not have to be co-axial with thecutting blade assembly8 and theupper portion32 of thehandle2. In fact, thedistal suction channel136 and thesuction channel56 do not even have to define a straight or substantially straight path between the surgical site and thesuction supply tube30.

Thegap134 that is defined between the inner and

outer tubes

130 and132 communicates with thetransverse channel60 and theirrigation fluid channel58 of thebarrel44 shown inFIG. 5. This communication, which is discussed in more detail below with regard to other sub-elements of thecutting blade assembly8, enables irrigation fluid to be supplied to the cutting surface and/or the surgical site via theirrigation fluid source22 and the irrigationfluid supply tube24.

Defining and utilizing thegap134 between the inner and

outer tubes

130 and132 provides a convenient and simple structure to supply irrigation fluid to the cutting surface and/or the surgical site. However, the invention is intended to cover other structures and methods of supplying irrigation fluid to the cutting surface and/or the surgical site. In fact, the invention is intended to cover an apparatus that does not even utilize irrigation fluid.

The distal end of theinner tube130 defines a cutting surface. The distal end of theouter tube132 defines a cutting window, such as an opening, to expose the cutting surface of theinner tube130 to the bodily tissue to be shaved, cut and/or removed. The cutting window can define any sized opening, such as an opening that extends along approximately half of the cross-sectional area of theouter tube132, for example. A cutting opening of this size provides an advantage of enabling a surgeon to expose a significant amount of bodily tissue to the cutting surface of theinner tube130 while also shielding other tissue that is not to be cut, shaved and/or removed.

As previously discussed, the cutting surface of theinner tube130 can define a sharp uniform or substantially uniform edge or can have any other appropriate shape, such as a shape defining one or more teeth, for example. Further, the walls of theouter tube132 that define the cutting window can cooperate with the cutting surface of theinner tube130. For example, theouter tube132 walls can define sharp uniform or substantially uniform edges, or can have any other appropriate shape, such as a shape defining one or more teeth which, in one exemplary embodiment, may cooperate with teeth of the cutting surface of theinner tube130.

In operation, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, theinner tube130 is rotated such that its cutting surface contacts and thereby cuts and/or shaves bodily tissue via the cutting window of theouter tube132. Theinner tube130 is rotated via themotor assembly38 shown inFIG. 4. Themotor assembly38 can rotate theinner tube130 at any rotational speed, such as up to 44,000 rpm, for example. The communication between theinner tube130 and themotor assembly38 is discussed previously in detail with regard to other sub-elements of thecutting blade assembly8.

Theouter tube132 is isolated from theinner tube130 such that theouter tube132 does not rotate with theinner tube130. However, theouter tube132 can be manually rotated by the surgeon via thecollet assembly36 so as to reorient the cutting window. The communication between thecollet assembly36 and theouter tube132 as well as its isolation from theinner blade130 is discussed in detail previously with regard to other sub-elements of thecutting blade assembly8.

The cutting blade assembly also includes anouter hub138. Theouter tube132 extends partially through alongitudinal channel139, which is defined in theouter hub138 and shown inFIGS. 16 and 18. An exemplary embodiment of theouter hub138 is more fully shown inFIGS. 13-15 with other sub-elements of thecutting blade assembly8, whileFIGS. 16-22 exclusively shown theouter hub138 and sub-elements thereof.

Theouter tube132 is secured to an interior surface of theouter hub138 at a location such that the proximal end of theouter tube132 is distal to a throughhole142, which extends through theouter hub132 transverse to thelongitudinal channel139. Thus, theouter tube132 does not extend entirely through theouter hub138. These elements can be secured together by any method, such as by overmolding, glue, epoxy, press fitting, or welding, for example.

Theouter hub138 is received within a longitudinal channel defined within thecollet assembly36. Specifically, the proximal end of theouter hub138 is flared and defines flared guides140 that communicate with corresponding grooves defined in the interior surface of thecollet assembly36. Further, the exterior of theouter hub138 definesdimples144 that communicate withretention balls94, which are shown inFIG. 7 and disposed inside of thecollet assembly36. In particular, theretention balls94 are disposed in thedimples144 and apply a pressing force between an interior surface of thecollet assembly36 and an exterior surface of theouter hub138 in a direction transverse to longitudinal axis of these elements. As shown inFIG. 22, thedimples144 are substantially uniformly defined around a circumference of theouter hub138, and are spaced apart from each other at angles of approximately 45°. Disposing thedimples144 around the circumference of theouter hub138 provides an advantage of enabling a substantially uniformly distributed pressing force to be applied around the circumference of theouter hub138. However, any number of one ormore dimples144 andretention balls94 can be used. Further, ifmultiple dimples144 andretention balls94 are used, thedimples144 can be spaced apart from each other by any distance.

The exemplary embodiment shown in the figures provides thedimples144 at substantially the same longitudinal position around the periphery of theouter hub138. However, the dimples can be provided at different longitudinal positions along the periphery of theouter hub138.

The communication between the above structures enables theouter hub138 to remain substantially static relative to thecollet assembly36, and in particular enables rotation of thecollet assembly36 to cause a corresponding rotation of theouter hub138. Further, since theouter tube132 is secured to theouter hub138, rotation of thecollet assembly36 causes a corresponding rotation of theouter tube132, which enables a surgeon to reorient the cutting window.

The communication between thedimples144 and theretention balls94 is advantages in that it provides a rather uniformly distributed transverse pressure over a relatively large surface area of thecollet assembly36 and theouter hub138. However, other structures can be used to retain theouter hub138 within thecollet assembly36. For example, the exterior of theouter hub138 can define grooves to communicate with a corresponding structure to provide a pressure fitting between theouter hub138 and thecollet assembly36.

As shown inFIGS. 17 and 20, the exterior of theouter hub138 definesretention channels146 on opposing sides of the throughhole142. As shown inFIGS. 13-15, static O-rings148 are disposed and held within theretention channels146. A throughhole channel150 is defined by the exterior of theouter hub138 at substantially the same longitudinal position as the throughhole142. A pair ofribs152 separate theretention channels146 and corresponding O-rings148 from the throughhole142 and the throughhole channel150.

When theouter hub138 is disposed within thecollet assembly36, the throughhole142 and the throughhole channel150 are disposed at substantially the same longitudinal position as thetransverse channel60 defined in thebarrel44. Thus, irrigation fluid flowing distally along theirrigation fluid channel58 and thetransverse channel60 enters the throughhole channel150 and the throughhole142. The irrigation fluid then travels distally along the exterior of theinner tube130 and thegap134 defined between the inner and

outer tubes

132 and134 to the cutting window of theouter tube132.

The irrigation fluid entering the throughhole channel150 is prevented or substantially prevented from leaking out and traveling longitudinally along the exterior of theouter hub138 by the static O-rings148. However, the static O-rings148 do not have to be used, and any other structure can be provided to prevent or substantially prevent the irrigation fluid from leaking out of the throughhole channel150 and traveling longitudinally along the exterior of theouter hub138.

As shown inFIG. 15, a dynamic O-ring154 is disposed at a proximal end of theouter hub138. The dynamic O-ring154 seals the proximal end of thegap156 defined between the exterior surface of theinner tube130 and the interior surface of theouter hub138. This seal prevents or substantially prevents irrigation fluid that has passed down the throughhole142 from traveling proximally along the exterior of theinner blade130 beyond the proximal end of theouter hub138.

The dynamic O-ring154 is held in place by adonut158 that is secured to theproximal end160 of theouter hub138. Thedonut158 can be secured to the proximal end of theouter hub138 by any method, such as by ultrasonic welding. As shown inFIG. 21, theproximal end160 can be shaped to enhance acceptance of thedonut158 by ultrasonic welding. However, any other method can be used to secure thedonut158 in place, such as with glue, epoxy, or press fitting, for example.

Thecutting blade assembly8 also includes aninner hub162. Theinner tube130 extends entirely through alongitudinal channel164, which is defined in theinner hub162 and shown inFIGS. 23 and 26. An exemplary embodiment of theinner hub162 is more fully shown inFIGS. 23-26, and sub-elements of theinner hub162 are shown inFIGS. 27 and 27.

Theinner tube130 is secured to an interior surface of theinner hub162, such that proximal end of theinner tube130 extends beyond the proximal end of theinner hub162, and the distal end of theinner tube130 is distal to the distal end of theinner hub162. These elements can be secured together by any method, such as by overmolding, glue, epoxy, press fitting, or welding, for example. Extending the proximal end of theinner tube130 beyond the proximal end of theinner hub162 can provide various advantages. For example, the structure enables the material traveling in a proximal direction through thedistal suction channel136 via suction to pass in an unobstructed manner through theinner hub162, thereby enhancing the cleanability of the apparatus.

Theinner hub162 is received within a longitudinal channel defined within thecollet assembly36 and thebarrel44. Structures that enable theinner hub162 to be received and held within thecollet assembly36 and thebarrel44 are discussed below.

As shown inFIGS. 23-27, the exterior of theinner hub162 defines anannular hub165 at its distal end, and a pair offirst ribs166 that extend longitudinally along theinner hub162. Thefirst ribs166 includedrive splines168 that extend from a position approximately adjacent the proximal end of theinner hub162 to approximately the longitudinal midpoint of theinner hub162. Thefirst ribs166 also includespring retention sections170 that extend from the distal end of the drive splines168 to theannular hub165.Spring retention projections172 are defined on thespring retention sections170 adjacent and spaced from theannular hub165 so as to definespring retention channels174 therebetween, an enlarged view of which is shown inFIG. 28.

Aspring176, shown inFIGS. 13-15, is retained along thespring retention sections170. Specifically, a distal end of thespring176 is held in thespring retention channels174 between thespring retention projections172 and theannular hub165. Thespring retention projections172 can be tapered to facilitate insertion of thespring176. The distal end of the drive splines168 can also serve to hold the proximal end of the spring within thespring retention sections170.

Thespring176 provides axial pressure on theinner hub162 helping to guarantee good contact between the bearing surfaces at the distal end of the shaver blades. In the case of burrs, the same function is performed, but the bearing surface with the pair of washers. The axial force is applied as the blade is engaged. The proximal end of thespring176 comes into contact with a shoulder machined into the drive shaft. The purpose of this shoulder is to be a positive location for initiating compression of thespring176. Thespring176 can be compressed 100% in extreme cases with no detrimental effects. In this case, theannular hub165 of theinner hub162 will eventually contact the shaft or the distal end of the solid height of the spring.

The exemplary embodiment discussed above includes a pair offirst ribs166 that are disposed on opposite sides of the circumference of the periphery of theinner hub162, such that they are spaced approximately 180° from each other. This disposition of thefirst ribs166 is advantageous in that it provides substantially uniform retention of thespring176 and provides for substantially uniform operation of the drive splines, which is discussed in more detail below. However, any number of one or morefirst ribs166 can be used. Further, if multiplefirst ribs166 are used, then they can be spaced any distance from each other around the circumference of the periphery of theinner hub162. Still further, thefirst ribs166 do not have to include the drive splines168, thespring retention sections170 and thespring retention projections172 discussed above. Instead, thefirst ribs166 can be any shape and include any structures to retain thespring176 and perform the operation of the drive splines, which is discussed in more detail below.

As shown inFIGS. 23-25, the exterior of theinner hub162 also defines a pair ofsecond ribs178. The pair ofsecond ribs178 extend longitudinally and proximally from theannular hub165 to approximately the longitudinal midpoint of the drive splines168. A proximal end of thesecond ribs178 is tapered.

In operation, the drive splines168 are received within corresponding channels defined in an interior surface of thegear shaft74, which is rotated by themotor assembly38, shown inFIGS. 4-6. Receiving the drive splines168 within the channels of thegear shaft74 enables theinner hub162, and thus theinner tube130 which is served thereto, to be rotated by themotor assembly38.

The drive splines168 are advantageous over some other structures, such as a T-bar arrangement defined at the proximal end of theinner hub162, in that they provide theinner hub162 with a relatively large engageable surface area relative to the driving mechanism, i.e., themotor assembly38 and thegear shaft74. The drive splines168 are also advantageous in that they provide for an axial tolerance which may facilitate insertion of theinner hub162 within thebarrel44 and/or provide other benefits.

However, as discussed above, the drive splines168 do not have to be used, and instead any other structure can be provided that enables rotation of theinner hub162. For example, the substantially continuous drive splines168 shown in the exemplary embodiment can each be replaced with one or more discretely defined blocks, for example. Further, the drive splines can be square, triangular lobes, hex drive, etc.

Thecutting blade assembly8 is intended to be mounted into and secured in thehandle2 in accordance with any acceptable method. For example, thecutting blade assembly8 can be mounted by pulling thecollet assembly36 rearwardly toward the rear of thehandle2, rotating the hub until the key aligns on the chucking mechanism, inserting theinner hub162 into thehandle2 until it stops completely, releasing thecollet assembly36 and firmly pushing thecutting blade assembly8 into thehandle2 until thecollet assembly36 springs back into its original position.

In other words, theinner hub162 begins to engage the spline geometry of the inner diameter of the drive shaft. As insertion continues, the pair ofribs140 must be aligned by the operator with any two of the slots present in the fixedlock sleeve104. The retention sleeve must be retracted as described in the application for any of this to be possible. Otherwise, the retention balls will interfere with the outer hub as it is inserted. After inserting the blade fully, releasing the release ring will allow the retention balls to seat into the dimples on the outer hub. These relative locations are defined by theribs140. The retention sleeve is spring loaded and will return to its locked position upon release. The operator should gently pull on the outer tube of the blade assembly to make sure it is properly retained.

Thecutting blade assembly8 can similarly be disengaged from thehandle2. This can be accomplished by pulling thecollet assembly36 rearwardly toward the rear of thehandle2, and then pulling thecutting blade assembly8 out of thehandle2.

In other words, to remove the blade, the operator must only retract the retention sleeve and pull on the blade. Thespring176 will push the blade assembly out a small amount increasing the amount of outer hub available for handling during removal.

Thecutting blade assembly8 can be disposable. Thus, after a surgical procedure or operation, thecutting blade assembly8 can be disengaged from thehandle2 as discussed above and disposed of.

After removing thecutting blade assembly8, thehandle2 and other associated or connected elements that are intended on being reused need to be cleaned and sterilized in an acceptable manner. An exemplary method of cleaning and sterilization is discussed below.

All cleaning should be performed in a manner designed to minimize exposure to blood borne pathogens. Reusable medical devices should be kept moist immediately after use until cleaning. Devices capable of disassembly must be disassembled prior to cleaning. Thorough cleaning and rinsing should be carried out as soon as possible. Manual cleaning should be done while the instrument is immersed (if applicable). The purpose of cleaning and rinsing is to remove all adherent visible soil and to reduce particulate matter, microorganisms and pyrogens. Furthermore, thorough rinsing is necessary to remove any residual cleaning agents from the medical devices that could protect microorganisms from destruction and reduce the lethality of the sterilization process. Medical devices that will be stored between cleaning and decontamination should be dried with low linting, non-abrasive soft cloth to prevent microbial contamination that could result from wet instruments.

Enzymatic detergents with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0 should be used. These detergents have nonionic surfactants. Detergents should be used at the concentration level recommend by the manufacturer. Undiluted detergents and ones with pHs greater than 8.0 can strip the coloration from metal instruments.

The quality of water should be carefully considered for use in preparing enzymatic detergents and for rinsing in the cleaning procedure. Water hardness is a concern because deposits left on medical devices may result in ineffective cleaning decontamination. Demonized water can help prevent discoloration and staining associated with mineral residues found in tap water.

Thehandle2 and/or associated re-usable elements can be cleaned using the exemplary cleaning method as follows:

- a) Wipe down the external surface of the handpiece with warm soapy water,
- b) Gently scrub the interior of the handpiece using a non-metallic soft bristle brush moistened with the soapy water,
- c) Holding the handpiece with the chuck end upwards, flush the interior of the handpiece with running water, to rinse away cleaning residue and loosened debris,
- d) Visually inspect and repeat if necessary.

The handle can be sterilized by steam sterilization.

VI. Trigger Switch Assembly

Various views of an exemplary embodiment of trigger switch assembly are shown inFIGS. 29-32, whereinFIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of thetrigger switch assembly180 and related sub-elements of thehandle2,FIG. 30 is a schematic of thesensor strip192 of thetrigger switch assembly180,FIG. 31 is a side perspective schematic view of thetrigger switch assembly180 mounted on thehandle2, andFIG. 32 is a front schematic view of thetrigger switch assembly180 mounted on thehandle2. An exemplary embodiment of thetrigger switch assembly180 is described below in conjunction withFIGS. 29-32.

Thetrigger switch assembly180 can be used in lieu of, or in addition to, thefootswitch4 shown inFIG. 1. As shown inFIGS. 31 and 32, thetrigger switch assembly180 includes anexterior trigger182 that is disposed at an exterior of the lower portion34 (specifically thehandle shell42 shown inFIG. 29) of thehandle2. Theexterior trigger182 includes a lowerannular end cap184 that is formed to surround the base of the lower portion34 (specifically thehandle shell42 shown inFIG. 29) of thehandle2. In fact, theend cap184 can be sized such that the base of thelower portion34 can be press fitted into theend cap184 to secure theexterior trigger182 to thehandle2.

Theexterior trigger182 also includes anelongated trigger186. While thelower portion34 is press fitted to theend cap184, theelongated trigger186 extends generally longitudinally along the exterior of the lower portion34 (specifically thehandle shell42 shown inFIG. 29). The bottom of theelongated trigger186, which is adjacent to theend cap184, is either in contact with, or disposed close to, thelower portion34 of thehandle2. However, theelongated trigger186 is shaped so that it defines an increasing gap with thelower portion34 of thehandle2 as it extends upwardly toward theupper portion32 of thehandle2.

The bottom of theelongated trigger186, which is adjacent to theend cap184, forms a fulcrum with regard to the remaining upwardly extending section of theelongated trigger186. Thus, a surgeon, while grasping thehandle2 as if it was a pistol, can pull an upper section of theelongated trigger186 toward thelower portion34 of thehandle2 with one or more of the surgeon's fingers. In this operation, the upper section of theelongated trigger186 pivots about its bottom.

As shown inFIG. 29,lower magnet188 is disposed at or on an interior surface of theend cap184, such that thelower magnet188 is disposed between the interior surface of theend cap184 and an exterior surface of the bottom of thehandle shell42 of thelower portion34 of thehandle2. Anupper magnet190 is disposed at or on an interior surface of theelongated trigger186, such that theupper magnet190 is disposed between the interior surface of theelongated trigger186 and an exterior surface of thehandle shell42 of thelower portion34 of thehandle2.

While theexterior trigger182 is attached to thehandle shell42 of thelower portion34 of thehandle2, thelower magnet188 remains substantially static relative thereto. However, the distance separating theupper magnet190 and thehandle shell42 as the surgeon presses theelongated trigger186 toward thehandle shell42 decreases.

Thetrigger switch assembly180 also includes aflexible sensor strip192 shown inFIGS. 29 and 30. Theflexible sensor strip192 includes arear portion194, abottom portion196, a lowerfront portion198, and anupper front portion200.

Theflexible sensor strip192 is fixed to the exterior of thehandle chassis40, which is itself disposed inside of thehandle shell42 of thelower portion34 of thehandle2. A strip ofinsulation tape202 is attached to thehandle chassis40 so as to extend longitudinally along a rear surface thereof. Therear portion194 of theflexible sensor strip192 contacts and may be connected to theinsulation tape202 as to aid in securing theflexible sensor strip192 to thehandle chassis40. The bottom of thehandle chassis40 may apply downward pressure to thebottom portion196 of theflexible sensor strip192 to also aid in securing theflexible sensor strip192 to thehandle chassis40. Afastener204 can also be used to further secure theflexible sensor strip192 to thehandle chassis40 by extending through anaperture206 defined in thehandle chassis40 and acorresponding aperture208 defined in theupper front portion200 of theflexible sensor strip192.

The invention is intended to cover any one or more of the above securing methods discussed above. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and any other method of securing theflexible sensor strip192 to thehandle chassis40 can be used. In fact, theflexible sensor strip192 does not even have to be secured to thehandle chassis40. Instead, theflexible sensor strip192 can be statically or substantially statically disposed within thehandle shell42 in accordance with any method or structure.

Theflexible sensor strip192 also includes alower sensor210 and anupper sensor212, which can be Hall sensors that sense a magnetic field. Thelower sensor210 is disposed at or on thebottom portion196 so as to generally oppose thelower magnet188. Theupper sensor212 is disposed at or on the lowerfront portion198 so as to generally oppose theupper magnet190. The operation of the lower and

upper sensors

210 and212 is discussed below.

Whileexterior trigger182 is secured to thehandle shell42, thelower magnet188 remains in close proximity to thelower sensor210. In this state, thelower sensor210 senses the close proximity of the magnetic field of thelower magnet188. However, if theexterior trigger182 is removed and/or spaced from the handle shell, thelower sensor210 fails to sense the magnetic field of thelower magnet188. Under this circumstance, thelower sensor210 can provide an output signal indicating that theexterior trigger182 is not properly secured to thehandle shell42.

However, the invention is intended to cover any method of determining whether theexterior trigger182 is properly secured to thehandle shell42. For example, while theexterior trigger182 is properly secured to thehandle shell42, thelower sensor210 can continuously provide an appropriate output signal, such that cessation of the output signal can be construed as an indication that theexterior trigger182 is no longer properly secured to thehandle shell42.

In operation, while theexterior trigger182 is secured to thehandle shell42, and the surgeon is not actuating theelongated trigger186, theupper magnet190 is spaced from theupper sensor212. However, as the surgeon presses theelongated trigger186 toward thehandle shell42, theupper magnet190 moves into close proximity with theupper sensor212 such that theupper sensor212 senses its magnetic field. Under this circumstance, theupper sensor212 can provide an output signal for the purpose of energizing themotor assembly38 to rotate theinner hub162 and theinner tube130. Upon the surgeon releasing theelongated trigger186, theupper magnet190 moves away from theupper sensor212 such that theupper sensor212 no longer senses the magnetic field of theupper magnet190. Under this circumstance, theupper sensor212 ceases providing the output signal such that themotor assembly38 is de-energized.

The exemplary embodiment of thetrigger switch assembly180 shown inFIGS. 29-32 is especially advantageous over other actuating mechanisms, such as a footswitch, since it is easy for a surgeon to operate. For example, the operation of grasping thehandle2 as a pistol, and pressing theelongated trigger186 toward thehandle shell42 as if it was the trigger of the pistol, is easier than searching for and depressing a pedal on a footswitch disposed under an operating table.

Further, any or all of the sub-elements of thetrigger switch assembly180 can be manufactured relatively inexpensively. Thus, any or all of the sub-elements of thetrigger switch assembly180 can be considered disposable after one or more operations, which makes sterilization of the apparatus easier and more effective. The disposability of any or all of the sub-elements of thetrigger switch assembly180 is enhanced by the fact that thetrigger switch assembly180 is easy to install at thelower portion34 of thehandle2. Thus, installing a newtrigger switch assembly180, or a portion thereof, prior to a surgical procedure can be accomplished quickly, easily and/or inexpensively.

However, the invention is intended to cover any method of determining whether the surgeon has pressed theelongated trigger186 toward thehandle shell42 for the purpose of energizing/de-energizing the motor assembly. Thus, any or all of the elements discussed above can be replaced with other elements to provide this operation. For example, the gap separating the upper section of theelongated trigger186 can be maintained via a spring or similar compressible mechanism, instead of being maintained by virtue of the shape of theelongated trigger186. Further, for example, theflexible sensor strip192 does not have to be flexible, and instead can be rigid and preformed into an appropriate shape, such as that shown inFIG. 29.

Further, theelongated trigger186, theupper magnet190 and theupper sensor212 can be used to also control the speed of rotation of themotor assembly38. For example, the further the surgeon presses theelongated trigger186, causing theupper magnet190 to become incrementally or gradually closer to theupper sensor212, can cause theupper sensor212 to provide output signals to increase the speed of rotation of themotor assembly38. Similarly, the surgeon gradually releasing pressure on theelongated trigger186 may cause theupper sensor212 to provide output signals to decrease the speed of rotation of themotor assembly38.

VII. Footswitch

FIG. 33 is a perspective view showing the exterior of an exemplary embodiment of thefootswitch4 in accordance with the invention. The exemplary embodiment of thefootswitch4 is described below in conjunction withFIG. 33.

Thefootswitch4 includes a base214 which is supported on the floor of the surgical room byfeet216,sides218 disposed on or above a rear portion of thebase214, and a top220 disposed on or above thesides218.

Thefoot pedal12 is movably supported in an upright orientation via abar assembly222 that extends through apertures defined in thesides218. A spring or any other mechanism can be used with, or in lieu of, thebar assembly222 to support thefoot pedal12 in this orientation. Thefoot pedal12 is operationally connected to a signal generating device (not shown) disposed in the space defined by thesides218 and the top220, such that depressing thefoot pedal12 so that it rotates downwardly about thebar assembly222 causes the signal generating device to generate an input signal to be input to thecontroller6 via thefootswitch signal line10.

In operation, the surgeon, after placing the heel or his or her foot on or adjacent to the front of thebase214, depresses thefoot pedal12 with the front and/or toes of the surgeon's foot so that thefoot pedal12 rotates downwardly toward thebase214. After a predetermined amount of rotation, the signal generating device (not shown) is actuated to provide an appropriate input signal to thecontroller6 via thefootswitch signal line10. Upon receipt of the appropriate input signal, thecontroller6 outputs an output signal to themotor assembly38 of thehandle2 via thehandle signal line14 to energize themotor assembly38 and thereby rotate theinner hub162 andinner tube130. Releasing thefoot pedal12 enables it to rotate back to its upright orientation, thereby causing the signal generating device to provide an appropriate input signal to thecontroller6, which in turn de-energizes themotor assembly38.

Thefootswitch4 can also include a light (not shown). The light can be disposed at an appropriate location and be of a sufficient brightness to illuminate all or a part of thefootswitch4. Illuminating thefootswitch4 in this manner is advantageous over non-lighted footswitches, or footswitches that only include LED's for indicating on/off status, in that it enables the surgeon to more easily find the lightedfootswitch4, which may be disposed among other footswitches and similar devices during surgery or in a surgical room. This advantage is enhanced if thefootswitch4 is provided with a light of a distinctive color, such as blue, for example.

Thebase214 of thefootswitch4 can also define anopening224 which can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, theopening224 can be used by the surgeon to reorient thefootswitch4, or maintain the surgeon's foot at an appropriate position during operation. Theopening224 can also be used to hang the footswitch up in a vertical orientation when not in operation.

Thefootswitch4 can also include abutton225 to perform an operation. For example, thebutton225 can actuate the creation of an input signal to be input to thecontroller6 for the purpose of changing the mode of operation of thecutting blade assembly8. For example, thecontroller6 can actuate themotor assembly38 between a constant mode where theinner hub162 and theinner tube130 are rotated at a constant or substantially constant speed, and a variable mode where theinner hub162 and theinner tube130 are rotated at a variable speed.

The invention is not limited to the structure of thefootswitch4 discussed above. The invention is intended to cover any method of providing an appropriate input signal to thecontroller6 enabling thecontroller6 to perform an operation, such as to energize/de-energize themotor assembly38, for example.

Further, thefootswitch4 can be used to send other types of input signals to thecontroller6 via thefootswitch signal line10. For example, the signal generating device may provide thecontroller6 with a variable input signal based upon the amount of depression of thefoot pedal12 to vary the speed of rotation of theinner hub160 and theinner tube130.

VIII. Integrated Strippable Twin Tubing

The irrigationfluid supply tube24 and thesuction supply tube30 can be provided as integrated strippabletwin tubing226. Various views of an exemplary embodiment of the twin tubing are shown inFIGS. 34-36, whereinFIG. 34 is a perspective view of thetwin tubing226 as well as devices connected thereto,FIG. 35 is a perspective view showing asection236 of thetwin tubing226 in a connected state, andFIG. 36 is a sectional view of thetwin tubing226 taken along plane G-G ofFIG. 35. An exemplary embodiment of thetwin tubing226 is discussed below in conjunction withFIGS. 34-36.

Thetwin tubing226 can be disposable. Thus, thetwin tubing226 can be disposed of subsequent to each surgical procedure or operation.

As shown inFIG. 34, the irrigationfluid supply tube24 supplies irrigation fluid from theirrigation fluid source22, via a ventedspike cap228 and anon-vented irrigation spike230, to the irrigationfluid entry channel118 of thetube connector112 that is provided at the rear end of theupper portion32 of thehandle2. Thesuction supply tube30 supplies suction from thesuction source28, via asuction connector232, to thesuction entry channel120 of thetube connector112. Adhesive234 can be used to connect the irrigationfluid supply tube24 to thetube connector112 and thenon-vented irrigation spike230, as well as thesuction supply tube30 to thetube connector112 and thesuction connector232.

Thetwin tubing226 can have an integratedtubing portion236, wherein the irrigationfluid supply tube24 is connected to thesuction supply tube30 via aconnection section238.FIGS. 35 and 36 specifically show theintegrated tubing portion236 as well as theconnection section238. Theintegrated tubing portion236 keeps the irrigationfluid supply tube24 and thesuction supply tube30 together, which saves space and/or enhances organization in and/or around the surgical area.

Theconnection section238 can be split, separated and/or stripped so as to separate the irrigationfluid supply tube24 and thesuction supply tube30. As shown inFIG. 34, the

tubes

24 and30 can be separated at or near their ends to facilitate their respective direct or indirect connections to thetube connector112,irrigation fluid source22 andsuction source28. However, the

tubes

24 and30 can be separated at any other location or for any other purpose.

Although the integrated strippabletwin tubing226 provides advantages as discussed above, the invention is intended to cover any other medium to supply irrigation fluid and suction to thehandle2. For example, the

tubes

24 and30 can be either completely separated or completely connected across their entire lengths. Also, one or more of the ventedspike cap228, thenon-vented irrigation spike230 and thesuction connector232 can either be obviated or replaced with any appropriate structure to facilitate or accomplish any purpose.

Further,FIGS. 34-36 show the irrigationfluid supply tube24 as being smaller than thesuction supply tube30. However, the invention is intended to cover each of the

tubes

24 and30 as being any respective size. The irrigationfluid supply tube24 is also shown as being disposed above thesuction supply tube30. However, the invention is intended to cover any respective orientation between the

tubes

24 and30.

In the exemplary embodiment, the irrigationfluid supply tube24 is manufactured from a deformable material, such as a rubber-based material, for example. This material is advantageous since it facilitates connection to the various devices and enables the use of a simple irrigationfluid supply mechanism26. However, the irrigationfluid supply tube24 can be manufactured from any other material, such as a semi-deformable or non-deformable material.

IX. Irrigation Fluid Supply Mechanism

Various views of an exemplary embodiment of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 are shown inFIGS. 37 and 38, whereinFIG. 37 is a perspective view showing the front of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26, andFIG. 38 is a perspective view showing the rear of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26. An exemplary embodiment of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 is discussed below in conjunction withFIGS. 37 and 38.

The exemplary embodiment of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 supplies irrigation fluid from theirrigation fluid source22, via the irrigationfluid supply tube24, to the irrigationfluid entry channel118 of thetube connector112 that is provided at the rear end of theupper portion32 of the handle2 (refer toFIGS. 1 and 12). As shown inFIGS. 37 and 38, the exemplary embodiment of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 is disposed at or on a side of thecontroller6.

However, the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 does not have to be disposed at this location. Instead, the irrigation fluid supply mechanism can be disposed at any location, such as at or on theirrigation fluid source22.

As shown inFIGS. 37 and 38, the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 defines atube channel240 through which the irrigationfluid supply tube24 extends. Thetube channel240 can be an inverted L-shape that includes a horizontal portion and a vertical portion. The irrigationfluid supply tube24 can be inserted into thetube channel240 via the horizontal portion and ultimately disposed at the bottom of the vertical portion.

The irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 also includes acam242 that is extendible into the vertical portion of thetube channel240. Thecam242 can increase the pressure of the irrigation fluid supplied to thehandle2 by extending into the vertical portion of thetube channel240 and contacting the irrigationfluid supply tube24 disposed therein so as to compress and thereby reduce the opening defined by the inner diameter of thetube24. Thus, thecam242 presses one side of the irrigationfluid supply tube24 while the opposite side of thetube24 is held against the bottom surface of the vertical portion of thetube channel240. Reducing the inner diameter of the irrigationfluid supply tube24 correspondingly increases the pressure of the irrigation fluid supplied to thehandle2. Similarly, the pressure of the irrigation fluid supplied to thehandle2 can be reduced by moving thecam242 out of contact with the irrigationfluid supply tube24 so as to increase its inner diameter.

The amount of contact pressure provided by thecam242 to the irrigationfluid supply tube24 can be varied to supply irrigation fluid to thehandle2 at a specific pressure. An embodiment enables the contact pressure, and thus the irrigation fluid supply pressure, to be manually regulated by aknob244. Theknob244 communicates with thecam242, such that rotating theknob244 in one direction, such as clockwise, for example, moves thecam242 downwardly within the vertical portion of thetube channel240 and into contact with the irrigationfluid supply tube24, while rotating theknob244 in the opposite direction, such as counterclockwise, for example, moves thecam242 upwardly and away from thetube24. Thus, by manually rotating theknob244, the surgeon or member of the surgical team, may provide the desired irrigation fluid supply pressure. However, in another exemplary embodiment, theknob244 is only used to move thecam242 out of the way to enable insertion of theirrigation fluid supply24, and the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 is controlled by thecontroller6 to provide a desired fluid pressure.

Although the exemplary embodiment of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 is described above as utilizing a cam mechanism, the invention is intended to cover any method of supplying irrigation fluid to thehandle2. For example, the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 can be a rotary type peristaltic pump. In fact, the invention is even intended to cover an apparatus that does not utilize irrigation fluid.

X. Controller

Various views of an exemplary embodiment of thecontroller6 are shown inFIGS. 37 and 38, whereinFIG. 37 is a perspective view showing the front of thecontroller6, andFIG. 38 is a perspective view showing the rear of thecontroller6. An exemplary embodiment of thecontroller6 is discussed below in conjunction withFIGS. 37 and 38.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment or the apparatus, thecontroller6 can be used to receive input signals and/or provide output signals relevant to the operation of the apparatus. Thecontroller6 can be an electronic device to provide this function. Thus, as shown inFIG. 38, the powersource supply line18 can be plugged into the rear of thecontroller6. A source of AC or DC power can be provided to thecontroller6 from thepower source16 via the powersource supply line18 to supply power for operation of thecontroller6. For example, the controller can operate from a source of 100-240 VIC, 50-60 Hz. However, theremote power source16 can be replaced with a power source that is integral with thecontroller6, such as a battery, for example.

The body of thecontroller6 can be made from any material. For example, the body of thecontroller6 can be molded from flame retardant plastic (synthetic resin).

Thecontroller6 can also include agrounding post246, as well as aserial port248 for connection to any electronic device. Alabel253 providing relevant data can also be provided at the rear of thecontroller6.

As shown inFIG. 38, the controller is vertically mounted in the surgical room at or on avertical rail20, such as an IV pole, that extends through a mountingchannel252 defined in the rear of thecontroller6. Anattachment clamp250 can be provided to secure thecontroller6 in place on thevertical rail20. Thecontroller6 can be movably mounted at or on thevertical rail20, and may include ahandle254 provided at its upper surface to facilitate an operator manually moving thecontroller6 along thevertical rail20.

Movably mounting thecontroller6 on thevertical rail20 is advantageous in that it enhances viewability of thecontroller6 and may satisfy space constraints. However, thecontroller6 does not have to be mounted on thevertical rail6, and instead can be mounted to anything or anywhere. Thecontroller6 does not even have to be mounted on anything, and can be disposed on the surgical room floor, for example. In fact, thecontroller6 can even be disposed remote from the surgical site.

As shown inFIG. 37, the front face of thecontroller6 can be used to provide various input/output connections, buttons, and displays, for example, which are discussed below. For example, thefootswitch signal line10 can be connected to thecontroller6 via afootswitch input connector256, which enables various sub-elements of thefootswitch4, such as the signal generating device, for example, to send and/or receive signals to/from thecontroller6. If thetrigger switch assembly180 is used in lieu of, or in addition to, thefootswitch4, it can similarly be connected to thecontroller6. Handleinput connectors258 can also be provided for connection of thehandle signal line14 to thecontroller6, which enable thecontroller6 to send and/or receive signals to/from sub-elements of thehandle2, such as to energize/de-energize themotor assembly38, and/or to receive identification information to enable thecontroller6 to determine the type ofhandle2 current being used, which can be provided by an EEPROM. Multiplehandle input connectors258 can be provided to enable the connection ofmultiple handles2 to thecontroller6.

The front face of thecontroller6 can also include a power on/offbutton260 to turn thecontroller6 on/off. If the type ofhandle2 is determined, adisplay262 can display the maximum RPM provided by themotor assembly38 of the identifiedhandle2. Handlespeed adjustment buttons264 can be provided to increase/reduce the speed of rotation of theinner hub162 and theinner tube130.

Activehandle selection buttons266 can also be provided ifmultiple handles2 are connected to thecontroller6 via thehandle input connectors258. In this circumstance, pressing either of the activehandle selection buttons266 can select one of theconnected handles2 for operation.

Anotherdisplay268 can also be provided on the front face of thecontroller6 to display theactual handle2 RPM. Specifically, thisdisplay268 indicates the actual or current RPM being provided by themotor assembly38 to rotate theinner hub162 and theinner tube130 of thecutting blade assembly8.

Handle operatingmode buttons270 can be provided to change the operating mode of thehandle2. For example, thesebuttons270 can be used to change the rotation of theinner hub162 and theinner tube130 of thecutting blade assembly8 between a forward direction, a reverse direction, and/or an oscillating type of rotation.

Footswitchoperating mode buttons272 can also be provided to change the mode of operation of thefootswitch4. For example, thesebuttons272 can be used to actuate thefootswitch4 between a constant mode, wherein any depression of thefoot pedal12 results in a constant speed of rotation of theinner hub162 and theinner tube130 of thecutting blade assembly8, and a variable mode, wherein the amount of depression of thefoot pedal12 varies the speed of rotation of theinner hub162 and theinner tube130.

An irrigating pump on/offbutton274 can be provided to enable the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 to provide irrigation fluid toentry channel118 of thetube connector112 at thehandle2, or prevent the supply thereof. An irrigation pumpflow rate display276 can be provided to indicate the irrigation fluid flow rate currently being provided by the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26. Irrigation pumpflow rate buttons278 can further be provided in lieu of, or in addition to, theknob244, to increase/decrease the irrigation fluid flow rate provided by the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26. If theknob244 is used in conjunction with the irrigation fluidflow rate buttons278, theknob244 may solely be used to move thecam242 out of the way to enable insertion of the irrigationfluid supply tube24 into the vertical portion of thetube channel240, for example. An irrigation pumpprime button280 can also be provided to prime the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26. Specifically, activating thisbutton280 allows continuous operation of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 to fill all tubing and/or thehandle2 with irrigation fluid to facilitate easy set-up of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26.

Various input/output connections, buttons and displays have been discussed above in the context of the exemplary embodiment of thecontroller6 shown inFIGS. 37 and 38. However, the invention is intended to cover any method of performing the functions discussed above. In fact, the invention is intended to cover any method of providing any relevant function in relation to the surgical apparatus.

Thecontroller6 can be configured so as to be divided into two main components, such as a handle motor controller and a coordinating/main controller. The handle motor controller can contain an embedded module that implements its particular responsibilities and provides an interface to the main controller.

The main controller can be responsible for managing the user interface and related device configuration, detecting the presence and type ofhandle2 and other peripheral components, and coordinating the response of thehandle2, and the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26 in response to user input. Because of the simplicity of the device, the main controller can be directly responsible for the control of the irrigationfluid supply mechanism26.

The handle controller can be responsible for meeting most of the performance and safety requirements of thehandle2. It can directly control themotor assembly38 and can interpret high-level commands from the main controller into the appropriate signals to provide forward, reverse and oscillating rotation of themotor assembly38 at the required speed. The handle controller can also be responsible for detecting faults in themotor assembly38 and responding to them appropriately.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention as set forth above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.