US20160038224A1 - Surgical instruments and methods for performing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy procedures - Google Patents

Abstract

An end effector assembly for a surgical instrument includes a pair of jaw members each including one or more tissue-contacting plates. One or both jaw members is movable relative to the other between spaced-apart and approximated positions for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates. The tissue-contacting plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped between. One of the jaw members includes an insulative member extending towards the other member. The insulative member includes a plurality of crests each defining a blunt apex and a proximally-facing sharpened edge. The blunt apexes contact tissue upon approximation of the first and second jaw members to grasp tissue, while the proximally-facing sharpened edges facilitate tissue cutting in a ripping fashion upon proximal translation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/035,814 and 62/035,799, both of which were filed on Aug. 11, 2014. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, filed on ______. The entire contents of each of the above applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
• 1. Technical Field
• The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and methods and, more particularly, to surgical instruments and methods for performing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy procedures.
• 2. Background of Related Art
• The tonsils and adenoids are part of the lymphatic system and are generally located in the back of the throat. These parts of the lymphatic system are generally used for sampling bacteria and viruses entering the body and activating the immune system when warranted to produce antibodies to fight oncoming infections. More particularly, the tonsils and adenoids break down the bacteria or virus and send pieces of the bacteria or virus to the immune system to produce antibodies for fighting off infections.
• Inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids (e.g., tonsillitis) impedes the ability of the tonsils and adenoids to destroy the bacteria resulting in a bacterial infection. In many instances, the bacteria remain even after treatment and serve as a reservoir for repeated infections (e.g., tonsillitis or ear infections).
• A tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy may be performed when infections persist and antibiotic treatments fail. Persistent infection typically leads to enlarged tonsil tissue which may need to be removed since in many cases the enlarged tissue causes airway obstruction leading to various sleep disorders such as snoring or, in some cases, sleep apnea. Some individuals are also born with larger tonsils that are more prone to cause obstruction. An adenoidectomy may also be required to remove adenoid tissue when ear pain persists, or when nose breathing or function of the Eustachian tube is impaired. Often times, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy procedures are performed at the same time.
SUMMARY
• As used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion that is being described which is further from a user, while the term “proximal” refers to the portion that is being described which is closer to a user. Further, to the extent consistent, any of the aspects described herein may be used in conjunction with any or all of the other aspects described herein.
• In accordance with the present disclosure, an end effector assembly for a surgical instrument is provided including first and second jaw members each having one or more tissue-contacting plates disposed thereon. One or both of the jaw members is movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates. The tissue-contacting plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween. One of the jaw members, e.g., the first jaw member, includes an insulative member extending from the first jaw member towards the second jaw member. The insulative member includes a plurality of crests each defining a blunt apex and a proximally-facing sharpened edge. The blunt apexes are configured to contact tissue upon approximation of the first and second jaw members to grasp tissue. The proximally-facing sharpened edges, on the other hand, are configured to facilitate tissue cutting in a ripping fashion upon proximal translation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.
• In an aspect of the present disclosure, the first jaw member includes a pair of spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates and the insulative member is disposed between the spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member.
• In another aspect of the present disclosure, the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member is positioned to oppose the spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member and the insulative member of the first jaw member.
• In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, energy is configured to be conducted between the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member and each of the spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member to define a pair of tissue treatment areas on either side of the insulative member.
• In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the insulative member is configured to define a minimum gap distance between the tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member and the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member in the approximated position of the first and second jaw members.
• In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of crests are spaced-apart from one another to define a lull between each pair of adjacent crests.
• In accordance with the present disclosure, another end effector assembly for a surgical instrument is provided including first and second jaw members each having a tissue-contacting plate disposed thereon. One or both of the first and second jaw members is movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates. The tissue-contacting plates define a tissue-treatment area therebetween and are adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped within the tissue-treatment area. One of the jaw members, e.g., the first jaw member, includes an insulative member extending from the first jaw member towards the second jaw member. The first jaw member is positioned on an outer peripheral edge of the first jaw member exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area and is configured to facilitate cutting of tissue positioned adjacent the tissue-treatment area upon movement of the jaw members to the approximated position and/or manipulation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.
• In an aspect of the present disclosure, the insulative member includes a first finger extending from an outer side edge of the first jaw member towards the second jaw member. The first finger is positioned exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area in close proximity to or abutment with the second jaw member when the first and second jaw members are disposed in the approximated position. As such, tissue disposed between the first finger and the second jaw member is shear-cut upon movement of the first and second jaw members to the approximated position.
• In another aspect of the present disclosure, a portion of the first jaw member overhangs the second jaw member. In such a configuration, the first finger may be positioned to extend from the first portion of the first jaw member.
• In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the second jaw member includes a second finger positioned on an outer peripheral edge of the second jaw member exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area between the tissue-treatment area and the first finger. The first and second fingers are positioned in close proximity to or abutment with one another when the first and second jaw members are disposed in the approximated position such that tissue disposed between the first and second fingers is shear-cut upon movement of the first and second jaw members to the approximated position.
• In still another aspect of the present disclosure, the insulative member includes a tooth extending from an outer side edge of the first jaw member towards the second jaw member. The tooth is positioned exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area. The tooth defines a sharpened edge configured to facilitate tissue cutting in a ripping fashion upon manipulation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.
• In still yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the tooth is configured for at least partial receipt within a cut-out defined within the second jaw member.
• In accordance with the present disclosure, another end effector assembly for a surgical instrument is provided. The end effector assembly includes first and second jaw members each having a tissue-contacting plate disposed thereon. One or both of the jaw members is movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates. The tissue-contacting plates are adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween. The tissue contacting plate of one of the jaw members, e.g., the second jaw member, defines a symmetrical configuration having a first side and a second side. The tissue-contacting plate of the other jaw member, e.g., the first jaw member, defines an asymmetrical configuration having a first side and a second side. The first and second sides of the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member are respectively positioned to oppose the first and second sides of the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member and define a tissue-treatment area therebetween. The first side of the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member defines a minimum height and the second side of the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member defines a maximum height such that tissue-contacting surfaces of the tissue-contacting plates of the first and second jaw members are disposed in non-parallel orientation relative to one another. An insulative member is disposed on the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member at the second side thereof and is positioned to oppose the second side of the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member. The insulative member is configured to facilitate cutting tissue along an outer edge of the tissue-treatment area in a ripping fashion upon manipulation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.
• In an aspect of the present disclosure, the insulative member is an insulative cap disposed on the first jaw member at the second side thereof. Alternatively, an insulative coating may be disposed on the first jaw member at the second side thereof. Other suitable insulative members are also contemplated.
• In another aspect of the present disclosure, the insulative member defines a sharpened tip portion.
• In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the insulative member is configured to define a minimum gap distance between the tissue-contacting plates of the first and second jaw members in the approximated position of the first and second jaw members.
• Methods of treating and separating, e.g., cutting, tissue are also provided in accordance with the present disclosure. Such methods may find particular use in conjunction with any of the above-detailed end effector assemblies.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• Various aspects and features of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:
• FIG. 1 is a front, side, perspective view of an endoscopic surgical forceps configured for use in accordance with the present disclosure;
• FIG. 2 is a front, side, perspective view of an open surgical forceps configured for use in accordance with the present disclosure;
• FIG. 3 is a side, cut-away view of the proximal portion of the surgical forceps ofFIG. 1, wherein a portion of the housing and some of the internal components thereof have been removed to unobstructively illustrate the handle and drive assemblies of the forceps;
• FIG. 4 is a perspective, cut-away view of the distal portion of the surgical forceps ofFIG. 1, wherein the shaft has been removed to illustrate the drive bar and end effector assembly of the forceps;
• FIG. 5A is a longitudinal, cross-sectional side view of the distal portion of an end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument;
• FIG. 5B is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the end effector assembly ofFIG. 5A taken along section line “5B-5B” ofFIG. 5A;
• FIG. 6 is a transverse, cross-sectional view of another end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument;
• FIG. 7 is a transverse, cross-sectional view of still another end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument;
• FIG. 8 is a transverse, cross-sectional view of yet another end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument;
• FIG. 9 is a transverse, cross-sectional view of still yet another end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument;
• FIG. 10 is a transverse, cross-sectional view of another end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument; and
• FIG. 11 is a transverse, cross-sectional view of still another end effector assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with the surgical forceps ofFIGS. 1 and 2, or any other suitable surgical instrument.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• Turning toFIGS. 1 and 2,FIG. 1 depicts a handheld, shaft-basedsurgical forceps10 andFIG. 2 depicts a hemostat-style forceps10′. For the purposes herein, eitherforceps10,forceps10′, or any other suitable surgical instrument may be utilized in accordance with the present disclosure. Obviously, different electrical and mechanical connections and considerations apply to each particular type of instrument; however, the aspects and features of the present disclosure remain generally consistent regardless of the particular instrument used.
• Referring toFIG. 1,forceps10 generally includes ahousing20, ahandle assembly30, a rotatingassembly70, an activation switch4, and anend effector assembly100.Forceps10 further includes ashaft12 having a distal end14 configured to mechanically engageend effector assembly100 and aproximal end16 that mechanically engageshousing20.Forceps10 also includescable2 that connectsforceps10 to an energy source (not shown), e.g., a generator or other suitable power source, althoughforceps10 may alternatively be configured as a battery-powered device.Cable2 includes a wire (or wires) (not shown) extending therethrough that has sufficient length to extend throughshaft12 in order to provide energy to one or both tissue-contactingplates114,124 (FIG. 4) ofjaw members110,120, respectively. Activation switch4 is coupled to tissue-contactingplates114,124 (FIG. 4) ofjaw members110,120, respectively, and the source of energy for selectively activating the supply of energy tojaw members110,120 for treating, e.g., cauterizing, coagulating/desiccating, and/or sealing, tissue.
• With additional reference toFIGS. 3 and 4, handleassembly30 includes fixedhandle50 and amovable handle40. Fixedhandle50 is integrally associated withhousing20 and handle40 is movable relative to fixedhandle50.Movable handle40 ofhandle assembly30 is operably coupled to adrive assembly140 that, together, mechanically cooperate to impart movement of one or both ofjaw members110,120 about apivot103 between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to grasp tissue betweenjaw members110,120. In particular,movable handle40 is coupled to drivebar142 via adrive mandrel144 such that movement ofmovable handle40 relative tohousing20 effects longitudinal translation ofdrive bar142 throughhousing20 andshaft12. The distal end ofdrive bar142 is coupled to one or bothjaw members110,120 such that longitudinal translation ofdrive bar142 relative to endeffector assembly100 pivots one or both ofjaw members110,120 relative to one another. As shown inFIG. 1,movable handle40 is initially spaced-apart from fixedhandle50 and, correspondingly,jaw members110,120 are disposed in the spaced-apart position.Movable handle40 is depressible from this initial position to a depressed position corresponding to the approximated position ofjaw members110,120. Further, a biasingmember146 may be disposed withinhousing20 and positioned to biasdrive bar142 distally, thereby biasingjaw members110,120 towards the spaced-apart position. However, other configurations are also contemplated.
• Referring toFIG. 2,forceps10′ is shown including twoelongated shaft members12a,12b, each having aproximal end16a,16b, and adistal end14a,14b, respectively.Forceps10′ is configured for use with anend effector assembly100′ similar to end effector assembly100 (FIGS. 1 and 4). More specifically,end effector assembly100′ includes first andsecond jaw members110′,120′ attached to respective distal ends14a,14bofshaft members12a,12b.Jaw members110′,120′ are pivotably connected about apivot103′. Eachshaft member12a,12bincludes ahandle17a,17bdisposed at theproximal end16a,16bthereof. Each handle17a,17bdefines afinger hole18a,18btherethrough for receiving a finger of the user. As can be appreciated, finger holes18a,18bfacilitate movement of theshaft members12a,12brelative to one another to, in turn,pivot jaw members110′,120′ from the spaced-apart position, whereinjaw members110′,120′ are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another, to the approximated position, whereinjaw members110′,120′ cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween.
• One of theshaft members12a,12bofforceps10′, e.g.,shaft member12a, includes aproximal shaft connector19 configured to connect theforceps10′ to a source of energy (not shown), e.g., a generator.Proximal shaft connector19 secures acable2′ to forceps10′ such that the user may selectively supply energy tojaw members110′,120′ for treating tissue and for energy-based tissue cutting. More specifically, an activation switch4′ is provided for supplying energy tojaw members110′,120′ to treat tissue upon sufficient approximation ofshaft members12a,12b, e.g., upon activation of activation switch4′ via shaft member12b.
• With reference toFIG. 4,end effector assembly100 of forceps10 (FIG. 1) is shown, althoughend effector assembly100 may similarly be used in conjunction withforceps10′ (FIG. 2), or any other suitable surgical instrument. For purposes of simplicity,end effector assembly100 is described herein as configured for use with forceps10 (FIG. 1). Further,end effector assembly100 is generally described below with reference toFIG. 4, followed by a detailed description, in conjunction withFIGS. 5A-11, of various configurations of end effector assemblies suitable for use in performing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy procedures. Each of these configurations may incorporate the general features ofend effector assembly100 and may likewise be used with forceps10 (FIG. 1),forceps10′ (FIG. 2), or any other suitable surgical instrument. The general features detailed with respect to end effector assembly100 (FIG. 4), although applicable to the end effector assemblies ofFIGS. 5A-11, will not be repeated for purposes of brevity.
• Eachjaw member110,120 ofend effector assembly100 includes a jaw frame having aproximal flange portion111,121, an outerinsulative jaw housing112,122 disposed about the distal portion (not explicitly shown) of each jaw frame, and a tissue-contactingplate114,124, respectively.Proximal flange portions111,121 are pivotably coupled to one another aboutpivot103 for movingjaw members110,120 between the spaced-apart and approximated positions, although other suitable mechanisms for pivotingjaw members110,120 relative to one another are also contemplated. The distal portions (not explicitly shown) of the jaw frames are configured to supportjaw housings112,122, and tissue-contactingplates114,124, respectively, thereon.
• Outerinsulative jaw housings112,122 ofjaw members110,120 support and retain tissue-contactingplates114,124 onrespective jaw members110,120 in opposed relation relative to one another. Tissue-contactingplates114,124 are formed from an electrically conductive material, e.g., for conducting electrosurgical energy therebetween for treating tissue, although tissue-contactingplates114,124 may alternatively be configured to conduct any suitable energy, e.g., thermal, microwave, light, ultrasonic, etc., through tissue grasped therebetween for energy-based tissue treatment. As mentioned above, tissue-contactingplates114,124 are coupled to activation switch4 (FIG. 1) and the source of energy (not shown), e.g., via the wires (not shown) extending from cable2 (FIG. 1) through forceps10 (FIG. 1), such that energy may be selectively supplied to tissue-contactingplate114 and/or tissue-contactingplate124 and conducted therebetween and through tissue disposed betweenjaw members110,120 to treat tissue.
• Various different configurations of end effector assemblies, similar to end effector assembly100 (FIG. 4) are detailed below with respect toFIGS. 5A-11. Each of these end effector assemblies is configured to facilitate performing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy procedures, although such end effector assemblies may similarly be beneficial for use in a variety of other procedures. To the extent consistent, any of the features of any of these end effector assemblies may be used in conjunction with any or all of the other end effector assemblies described herein.
• Turning toFIGS. 5A-5B,end effector assembly200 includes first andsecond jaw members210,220, respectively. One of the jaw members, e.g.,jaw member220 includes aninsulative jaw housing222 having a substantially planar tissue-contactingplate224 disposed on the opposing surface thereof.Plate224 is adapted to connect to a source of energy. The other jaw member, e.g.,jaw member210, includes aninsulative jaw housing212 and a pair of spaced-apart, substantially planar tissue-contacting plates214a,214bdisposed on the opposing surface thereof. Plates214a,214bare likewise adapted to connect to the source of energy.End effector assembly200 may define a bipolar configuration, wherein plates214a,214bare charged to a first electrical potential andplate224 is charged to a second, different electrical potential such that an electrical potential gradient is created for conducting energy between plates214a,214bandplate224 and through tissue grasped therebetween for treating tissue.
• Positioned between the spaced-apart plates214a,214bofjaw member210 is aninsulative member218. More specifically,insulative member218 extends longitudinally between plates214a,214band towardsjaw member220.Insulative member218 defines a configuration having a plurality ofcrests219aspaced-apart via a plurality oflulls219b. Eachcrest219adefines ablunt apex219cand a proximally-extending sharpenededge219d. As a result of this configuration,blunt apexes219c, not sharpenededges219d, contact tissue upon movement ofjaw members210,220 to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Thus, tissue is not cut during grasping and supplying energy thereto.Insulative member218 may also function as a stop member to set a minimum gap distance betweenjaw members210,220 in the approximated position. Accordingly,insulative member218 may be configured to define a height of between about 0.001 inches and about 0.010 inches to achieve a similar minimum gap distance betweenjaw members210,220.
• In use,end effector assembly200, withjaw members210,220 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members210,220. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly200 is positioned between the cavity wall tissue (or other tissue to remain) and the tonsil tissue (or other tissue to be removed). Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members210,220 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Thereafter, plates214a,214bandplate224 may be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy between plates214a,214bandplate224 and through tissue grasped therebetween to treat the grasped tissue.
• Once tissue has been treated, the tissue to be removed, e.g., the tonsil tissue, is separated from the tissue to remain, e.g., the wall tissue. In order to separate the tissue, while maintainingjaw members210,220 in the approximated position grasping the previously treated tissue therebetween,end effector assembly200 is moved proximally relative to tissue. Asend effector assembly200 is moved proximally, sharpenededges219dofinsulative member218 cut through tissue disposed between the two tissue treatment areas, e.g., the area between plate214aand the opposed portion ofplate224 and the area between plate214band the opposed portion ofplate224, in a “ripping” fashion, thereby separating the tonsil tissue to be removed (on one side of the end effector assembly200) from the wall tissue to remain (on the other side of end effector assembly200). The separated tonsil tissue may then be removed usingend effector assembly200, another grasping instrument, a suction device, or via other suitable method.
• Turning toFIG. 6,end effector assembly300 includes first andsecond jaw members310,320, respectively. Eachjaw member310,320 includes a respectiveinsulative jaw housing312,322 and a pair of spaced-apart, substantially planar tissue-contactingplates314a,314band324a,324b, respectively.Plates314a,314bare positioned to opposeplates324a,324band to grasp tissue therebetween upon movement ofjaw members310,320 to the approximated position.Plates314a,314band324a,324bare adapted to connect to a source of energy. More specifically,end effector assembly300 may define a bipolar configuration, whereinplates314a,314bare charged to a first electrical potential andplates324a,324bare charged to a second, different electrical potential such that an electrical potential gradient is created for conducting energy betweenplates314a,314bandplates324a,324band through tissue grasped therebetween for treating tissue.
• Positioned between the spaced-apartplates314a,314band324a,324bof eachjaw member310,320, respectively, is aninsulative member318,328, although in some embodiments only onejaw member310,320 includes theinsulative member318,328. Insulativemembers318,328 extend fromjaw members310,320 longitudinally betweenplates314a,314band324a,324b, respectively, and towards theother jaw member320,310, respectively. Insulativemembers318,328 define generally triangular transverse, cross-sectional configurations withapexes319,329, respectively, thereof oriented in opposed relation relative to one another such thatapexes319,329 meet one another upon full approximation ofjaw members310,320.Apexes319,329 may be sharpened or blunt. Insulativemembers318,328 may further function as stop members to set the minimum gap distance betweenjaw members310,320 in the approximated position. Accordingly,insulative members318,328 may cooperate to define a total height, e.g., the sum of the respective heights, of between about 0.001 inches and about 0.010 inches to achieve a similar minimum gap distance betweenjaw members310,320 in the approximated position.
• In use,end effector assembly300, withjaw members310,320 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members310,320. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly300 is positioned between the wall tissue to remain and the tonsil tissue to be removed. Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members310,320 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Thereafter,plates314a,314bandplates324a,324bmay be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy therebetween and through the grasped tissue to treat the grasped tissue.
• Once tissue has been treated, the tonsil tissue is separated from the wall tissue and removed. In order to separate the tonsil tissue, while maintainingjaw members310,320 in the approximated position grasping the previously treated tissue therebetween,end effector assembly300 is manipulated, e.g., translated longitudinally, translated laterally, and/or rotated relative to tissue. Asend effector assembly300 is moved relative to tissue, tissue pinched betweenapexes319,329 is cut or separated via the sharpenedapexes319,329, in embodiments where so provided, and/or the relatively high pressure concentration on tissue disposed therebetween in a “ripping” fashion. More specifically, the tissue is separated between the two treatment areas, e.g., betweenplates314a,324aon one side ofinsulative members318,328 and betweenplates314b,324bon the other side ofinsulative members318,328, thereby separating the tonsil tissue on one side ofend effector assembly300 and the wall tissue on the other side ofend effector assembly300. The separated tonsil tissue may then be removed similarly as detailed above.
• Turning toFIG. 7,end effector assembly400 includes first andsecond jaw members410,420, respectively. Eachjaw member410,420 includes a respectiveinsulative jaw housing412,422 and a pair of spaced-apart, substantially planar tissue-contactingplates414a,414band424a,424b, respectively.Plates414a,414bare positioned to opposeplates424a,424band to grasp tissue therebetween upon movement ofjaw members410,420 to the approximated position.Plates414a,414band424a,424bare adapted to connect to a source of energy. More specifically,end effector assembly400 may define a bipolar configuration, whereinplates414a,414bare charged to a first electrical potential andplates424a,424bare charged to a second, different electrical potential such that an electrical potential gradient is created for conducting energy betweenplates414a,414bandplates424a,424band through tissue grasped therebetween for treating tissue.
• One of the jaw members, e.g.,jaw member410, includes aninsulative member418 extending longitudinally between spaced-apartplates414a,414b.Insulative member418 extends fromjaw member410 towardsjaw member420 and defines a generally rectangular transverse, cross-sectional configuration. As a result of this configuration,insulative member418 includes a pair of corner edges419a,419bwhich may be sharpened to facilitate cutting tissue. Alternatively,corners419a,419bmay be angled or curved to define blunt configurations.
• The other jaw member, e.g.,jaw member420, includes arecess428 defined withinjaw housing422 thereof and positioned between spaced-apartplates424a,424b.Recess428 extends longitudinally alongjaw member420 and defines a generally rectangular transverse, cross-sectional configuration that is complementary to the configuration ofinsulative member418. More specifically,recess428 may be similarly sized or slightly larger than insulativemember418 so as to at least partially receiveinsulative member418 therein upon approximation ofjaw members410,420. As a result of this configuration, corner edges419a,419babut or are disposed in close proximity tointerior walls429 definingrecess428 whenjaw members410,420 are moved to the approximated position.
• Insulative member418 andrecess428 may cooperate to function as a stop member to set a minimum gap distance betweenjaw members410,420 in the approximated position. More specifically, the difference between the height ofinsulative member418 and the depth ofrecess428 may be selected so as to define a minimum gap distance betweenjaw members410,420 within the ranges detailed above (or other suitable range), when insulativemember418 bottoms out within or is no longer capable of being advanced intorecess428.
• In use,end effector assembly400, withjaw members410,420 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members410,420. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly400 is positioned between the wall tissue to remain and the tonsil tissue to be removed. Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members410,420 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. At least some tissue cutting or perforation due to shearing ofinsulative member418 relative tointerior walls429 ofrecess428 may be effected asjaw members410,420 are moved to the approximated position. With tissue grasped betweenplates414a,414bandplates424a,424b,plates414a,414bandplates424a,424bmay be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy therebetween and through the grasped tissue to treat the grasped tissue.
• Once tissue has been treated, the tonsil tissue is separated from the wall tissue and removed. In order to separate the tonsil tissue, if not sufficiently separated already, while maintainingjaw members410,420 in the approximated position grasping the previously treated tissue therebetween,end effector assembly400 is manipulated, e.g., translated longitudinally, translated laterally, and/or rotated relative to tissue. Asend effector assembly400 is moved relative to tissue, the partially cut or perforated tissue is pinched between corner edges419a,419bofinsulative member418 andinterior walls429 definingrecess428 to further cut and, ultimately separate the tonsil tissue to be removed from the wall tissue to remain in a shearing fashion. The cut-line, similarly as above, is defined between the two treatment areas, e.g., betweenplates414a,424aon one side ofinsulative member418 andrecess428 and betweenplates414b,424bon the other side ofinsulative member418 andrecess428. The separated tonsil tissue may then be removed similarly as detailed above.
• With reference toFIG. 8,end effector assembly500 includes first andsecond jaw members510,520, respectively. Eachjaw member510,520 includes aninsulative jaw housing512,522 having a substantially planar tissue-contactingplate514,524 disposed on the opposing surface thereof.Plates514,524 are adapted to connect to a source of energy. More specifically,end effector assembly500 may define a bipolar configuration, whereinplate514 is charged to a first electrical potential andplate524 is charged to a second, different electrical potential such that an electrical potential gradient is created for conducting energy betweenplates514,524 and through tissue grasped therebetween for treating tissue.
• One of the jaw members, e.g.,jaw member510, defines an increased width as compared to the other jaw member, e.g.,jaw member520, such that a portion ofjaw housing512overhangs jaw member520, e.g., is disposed outside the peripheral bounds ofjaw member520. Extending from the overhanging portion ofjaw member510 is aninsulative finger518.Finger518 extends longitudinally along the outer side edge ofjaw housing512 and extends fromjaw housing512 generally towardsjaw member520. However, due to the fact thatjaw housing512overhangs jaw member520,finger518 extends alongside at least a portion ofjaw housing522 ofjaw member520, outside the tissue grasping area defined betweenplates514,524. Further,finger518 extends in contact with or close proximity with the corresponding outerperipheral edge528 ofjaw housing522 ofjaw member520 such that shearing betweenfinger518 and outerperipheral edge528 is achieved upon movement ofjaw members510,520 to the approximated position.Finger518 may define a sharpened edge to facilitate shear cutting of tissue, or may define a blunt edge.
• In use,end effector assembly500, withjaw members510,520 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members510,520. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly500 is positioned between the wall tissue to remain and the tonsil tissue to be removed withfinger518 disposed adjacent the tonsil tissue to be removed, e.g., spaced-apart from the wall tissue to remain. Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members510,520 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. At least some tissue cutting or perforation due to shearing offinger518 relative to outerperipheral edge528 may be effected asjaw members510,520 are moved to the approximated position. Thereafter,plates514,524 may be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy therebetween and through the grasped tissue to treat the grasped tissue.
• Once tissue has been treated, the tonsil tissue is separated from the wall tissue and removed. In order to separate the tonsil tissue, if not sufficiently done so already, while maintainingjaw members510,520 in the approximated position grasping the previously treated tissue therebetween,end effector assembly500 is manipulated, e.g., translated longitudinally, translated laterally, and/or rotated relative to tissue. More specifically,end effector assembly500 is moved relative to tissue to further cut and ultimately separate the tonsil tissue to be removed from the wall tissue to remain via separating the tissue pinched betweenfinger518 ofjaw member510 and outerperipheral edge528 ofjaw member520 in a shearing fashion. In this configuration, the cut-line is disposed on the tissue-to-be-removed side of the tissue treatment area, spaced-apart from the wall tissue to remain. The separated tonsil tissue may ultimately be removed, similarly as detailed above.
• Turning toFIG. 9,end effector assembly600 generally includes first andsecond jaw members610,620, respectively, each having aninsulative jaw housing612,622 and a substantially planar tissue-contactingplate614,624 disposed on the opposing surface thereof.Plates614,624 are adapted to connect to a source of energy and may define a bipolar configuration, similarly as detailed above with respect to end effector assembly500 (FIG. 8).
• One of the jaw members, e.g.,jaw member620, defines an increased width as compared to the other jaw member, e.g., jaw member610, such that aportion623 ofjaw housing622overhangs jaw housing612 of jaw member610, e.g., is disposed outside the peripheral bounds of jaw member610. Extending fromportion623 ofjaw member620 is an outerinsulative finger628, disposed outside the tissue-grasping area defined betweenplates614,624.Outer finger628 extends longitudinally along the outer side edge ofportion623 ofjaw housing622 and extends fromjaw housing622 generally towards jaw member610.
• Jaw member610 includes an innerinsulative finger618 disposed outside the tissue-grasping area defined betweenplates614,624 and positioned on the same side asouter finger628.Inner finger618 extends longitudinally along the outer side edge ofjaw housing612 and extends fromjaw housing612 towardsjaw member620opposite portion623 oflaw member620.Inner finger618 defines a reduced height as compared toouter finger628 to permit full approximation ofjaw members610,620. Inner andouter fingers618,628 are disposed in close proximity or abutment with one another such that, upon movement ofjaw members610,620 to the approximated position, shear-cutting of tissue disposed betweenfingers618,628 is effected.
• As an alternative to being fixedly engaged tojaw housings610,620,fingers618,628 may be movably coupled tojaw housing610,620 via a biasing member (not explicitly shown) to delay the shearing effect offingers618,628 relative to the approximation ofjaw members610,620. As such, grasping of tissue and, if also desired, initiation of tissue treatment may be effected prior tofingers618,628 cutting tissue disposed therebetween.Finger518 of end effector assembly500 (seeFIG. 8) may also be configured in this manner.
• In use,end effector assembly600, withjaw members610,620 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members610,620. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly600 is positioned between the wall tissue to remain and the tonsil tissue to be removed such thatfingers618,628 are positioned adjacent the tonsil tissue to be removed. Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members610,620 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Movingjaw members610,620 to the approximated position effects shear-cutting (or at least partial shear-cutting) of tissue disposed betweenfingers618,628 to at least partially separate the tonsil tissue to be removed from the wall tissue. Thereafter, or overlapping therewith,plates614,624 may be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy therebetween and through the grasped tissue to treat the grasped wall tissue. The tonsil tissue may be further and fully separated via shearing, if needed, by manipulatingend effector assembly600, and ultimately removed, similarly as above.
• Referring toFIG. 10,end effector assembly700 includes first andsecond jaw members710,720, respectively. Eachjaw member710,720 includes aninsulative jaw housing712,722 having a substantially planar tissue-contactingplate714,724 disposed on the opposing surface thereof.Plates714,724 are adapted to connect to a source of energy and may define a bipolar configuration, similarly as detailed above.
• One of the jaw members, e.g.,jaw member710, includes a longitudinally-extending cut-out718 defined along one of the outerside edge portions713 ofjaw housing712 such that one side ofjaw housing712 defines a rounded outerside edge portion713. The other jaw member, e.g.,jaw member720 defines atooth728 extending longitudinally along the outer side edge ofjaw housing722 opposite cut-out718.Tooth728 extends fromjaw housing722 generally towardsjaw member710 and defines a sharpenededge729. Cut-out718 at least partially accommodatestooth728 to permit full approximation ofjaw members710,720. Further, both cut-out718 andtooth728 are disposed outside the tissue-grasping area defined betweenplates714,724.
• In use,end effector assembly700, withjaw members710,720 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members710,720. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly700 is positioned between the wall tissue to remain and the tonsil tissue to be removed withtooth728 positioned adjacent the tonsil tissue to be removed. Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members710,720 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Some tissue cutting or perforation via sharpenededge729 oftooth728 may be effected asjaw members710,720 are moved to the approximated position. Thereafter,plates714,724 may be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy therebetween and through the grasped tissue to treat the grasped tissue.
• Once tissue has been treated, the tonsil tissue is separated from the wall tissue and removed. In order to separate the tonsil tissue, while maintainingjaw members710,720 in the approximated position grasping the previously treated tissue therebetween,end effector assembly700 is manipulated, e.g., translated longitudinally, translated laterally, and/or rotated relative to tissue to cut (or further cut) and ultimately separate the tonsil tissue from the wall tissue in a ripping fashion using sharpenededge729 oftooth728. In this configuration, the cut-line, similarly as withend effector assemblies500,600 (FIGS. 8 and 9, respectively) is disposed on the tissue-to-be-removed side, e.g., the tonsil tissue side, of the tissue treatment area. The separated tonsil tissue may ultimately be removed, similarly as detailed above.
• FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of anend effector assembly800.End effector assembly800 includes first andsecond jaw members810,820, respectively, each including aninsulative jaw housing812,822 and a tissue-contactingplate814,824 that is adapted to connect to a source of energy.Plates814,824 may define a bipolar configuration, similarly as detailed above. The plate of one of the jaw members, e.g.,plate824 ofjaw member820, defines a substantially planar, symmetrical, rectangular transverse cross-sectional configuration. The plate of the other jaw member, e.g.,plate814 ofjaw member810, defines an asymmetrical, triangular transverse cross-sectional configuration whereinplate814 defines a minimum thickness adjacent a first side thereof and a maximum thickness adjacent a second, opposite side thereof. As a result of this configuration, the tissue-contacting surface ofplate814 is disposed in non-parallel orientation relative to the tissue-contacting surface ofplate824.
• Atip portion818 ofplate814, disposed adjacent the second, maximum thickness side thereof, may include an insulative coating or an insulative cap to maintain electrical isolation betweenplates814,824 in the approximated position ofjaw members810,820 while also setting the minimum gap distance betweenjaw members810,820 (within the range detailed above).Tip portion818 may be sharpened to facilitate tissue cutting, although blunt configurations are also contemplated.Tip portion818 is disposed at the outer boundary of the tissue-grasping area defined betweenplates814,824. As such, substantial tissue treatment is effected only on one side oftip portion818, e.g., betweentip portion818 and the first, opposite side ofplate814.
• In use,end effector assembly800, withjaw members810,820 disposed in the spaced-apart position, is manipulated into position such that tissue to be treated and cut is disposed betweenjaw members810,820. With respect to tonsillectomy procedures, for example,end effector assembly800 is positioned between the wall tissue to remain and the tonsil tissue to be removed such thattip portion818 ofplate814 is disposed adjacent the tonsil tissue to be removed. Once the desired position has been achieved,jaw members810,820 are moved to the approximated position to grasp tissue therebetween. Some cutting or perforation of tissue disposed betweentip portion818 ofplate814 andplate824 may be effected asjaw members810,820 are moved to the approximated position. Thereafter,plates814,824 may be energized to different electrical potentials for conducting energy therebetween and through the grasped tissue to treat the grasped tissue.
• Once tissue has been treated, the tonsil tissue is separated from the wall tissue and removed. In order to separate the tonsil tissue, while maintainingjaw members810,820 in the approximated position grasping the previously treated tissue therebetween,end effector assembly800 is manipulated, e.g., translated longitudinally, translated laterally, and/or rotated relative to tissue. Asend effector assembly800 is moved relative to tissue, tissue pinched betweentip portion818 ofplate814 andplate824 is further cut in a ripping fashion usingtip portion818 to ultimately separate the tonsil tissue to be removed from the wall tissue to remain. As with end effector assemblies500-700 (FIGS. 8-10, respectively), the cut-line in this configuration is disposed on the tissue-to-be-removed side, e.g., the tonsil tissue side, of the tissue treatment area. The separated tonsil tissue may ultimately be removed, similarly as detailed above.
• The various embodiments disclosed herein may also be configured to work with robotic surgical systems and what is commonly referred to as “Telesurgery.” Such systems employ various robotic elements to assist the surgeon and allow remote operation (or partial remote operation) of surgical instrumentation. Various robotic arms, gears, cams, pulleys, electric and mechanical motors, etc. may be employed for this purpose and may be designed with a robotic surgical system to assist the surgeon during the course of an operation or treatment. Such robotic systems may include remotely steerable systems, automatically flexible surgical systems, remotely flexible surgical systems, remotely articulating surgical systems, wireless surgical systems, modular or selectively configurable remotely operated surgical systems, etc.
• The robotic surgical systems may be employed with one or more consoles that are next to the operating theater or located in a remote location. In this instance, one team of surgeons or nurses may prep the patient for surgery and configure the robotic surgical system with one or more of the instruments disclosed herein while another surgeon (or group of surgeons) remotely control the instruments via the robotic surgical system. As can be appreciated, a highly skilled surgeon may perform multiple operations in multiple locations without leaving his/her remote console which can be both economically advantageous and a benefit to the patient or a series of patients.
• The robotic arms of the surgical system are typically coupled to a pair of master handles by a controller. The handles can be moved by the surgeon to produce a corresponding movement of the working ends of any type of surgical instrument (e.g., end effectors, graspers, knifes, scissors, etc.) which may complement the use of one or more of the embodiments described herein. The movement of the master handles may be scaled so that the working ends have a corresponding movement that is different, smaller or larger, than the movement performed by the operating hands of the surgeon. The scale factor or gearing ratio may be adjustable so that the operator can control the resolution of the working ends of the surgical instrument(s).
• The master handles may include various sensors to provide feedback to the surgeon relating to various tissue parameters or conditions, e.g., tissue resistance due to manipulation, cutting or otherwise treating, pressure by the instrument onto the tissue, tissue temperature, tissue impedance, etc. As can be appreciated, such sensors provide the surgeon with enhanced tactile feedback simulating actual operating conditions. The master handles may also include a variety of different actuators for delicate tissue manipulation or treatment further enhancing the surgeon's ability to mimic actual operating conditions.
• From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the same. While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.

Claims (16)

What is claimed is:

1. An end effector assembly for a surgical instrument, comprising:

first and second jaw members, each of the first and second jaw members including at least one tissue-contacting plate disposed thereon, at least one of the first and second jaw members movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates, the tissue-contacting plates of the first and second jaw members adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween, the first jaw member including:

an insulative member extending from the first jaw member towards the second jaw member, the insulative member including a plurality of crests, each crest defining a blunt apex and a proximally-facing sharpened edge, the blunt apexes configured to contact tissue upon approximation of the first and second jaw members to grasp tissue, the proximally-facing sharpened edges configured to facilitate tissue cutting in a ripping fashion upon proximal translation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.

2. The end effector assembly according toclaim 1, wherein the first jaw member includes a pair of spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates, and wherein the insulative member is disposed between the spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member.

3. The end effector assembly according toclaim 2, wherein the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member is positioned to oppose the spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member and the insulative member of the first jaw member.

4. The end effector assembly according toclaim 3, wherein energy is configured to be conducted between the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member and each of the spaced-apart tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member to define a pair of tissue treatment areas on either side of the insulative member.

5. The end effector assembly according toclaim 3, wherein the insulative member is configured to define a minimum gap distance between the tissue-contacting plates of the first jaw member and the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member in the approximated position of the first and second jaw members.

6. The end effector assembly according toclaim 1, wherein the plurality of crests are spaced-apart from one another to define a lull between each pair of adjacent crests.

7. An end effector assembly for a surgical instrument, comprising:

first and second jaw members, each of the first and second jaw members including a tissue-contacting plate disposed thereon, at least one of the first and second jaw members movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates, the tissue-contacting plates defining a tissue-treatment area therebetween and adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped within the tissue-treatment area, the first jaw member including:

an insulative member extending from the first jaw member towards the second jaw member, the insulative member positioned on an outer peripheral edge of the first jaw member exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area and configured to facilitate cutting of tissue positioned adjacent the tissue-treatment area upon at least one of movement of the first and second jaw members to the approximated position or manipulation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.

8. The end effector assembly according toclaim 7, wherein the insulative member includes a first finger extending from an outer side edge of the first jaw member towards the second jaw member and positioned exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area, the first finger positioned in close proximity to or abutment with the second jaw member when the first and second jaw members are disposed in the approximated position such that tissue disposed between the first finger and the second jaw member is shear-cut upon movement of the first and second jaw members to the approximated position.

9. The end effector assembly according toclaim 8, wherein a portion of the first jaw member overhangs the second jaw member, and wherein the first finger extends from the first portion of the first jaw member.

10. The end effector assembly according toclaim 8, wherein the second jaw member includes a second finger positioned on an outer peripheral edge of the second jaw member exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area between the tissue-treatment area and the first finger, the first and second fingers positioned in close proximity to or abutment with one another when the first and second jaw members are disposed in the approximated position such that tissue disposed between the first and second fingers is shear-cut upon movement of the first and second jaw members to the approximated position.

11. The end effector assembly according toclaim 7, wherein the insulative member includes a tooth extending from an outer side edge of the first jaw member towards the second jaw member and positioned exteriorly of the tissue-treatment area, the tooth defining a sharpened edge configured to facilitate tissue cutting in a ripping fashion upon manipulation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.

12. The end effector assembly according toclaim 11, wherein the tooth is configured for at least partial receipt within a cut-out defined within the second jaw member.

13. An end effector assembly for a surgical instrument, comprising:

first and second jaw members, each of the first and second jaw members including a tissue-contacting plate disposed thereon, at least one of the first and second jaw members movable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the tissue-contacting plates, the tissue-contacting plates of the first and second jaw members adapted to connect to a source of energy for conducting energy through tissue grasped therebetween,

wherein the tissue contacting plate of the second jaw member defines a symmetrical configuration having a first side and a second side,

wherein the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member defines an asymmetrical configuration having a first side and a second side, the first and second sides of the tissue-contacting plate of first jaw member positioned to oppose the first and second sides of the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member and define a tissue-treatment area therebetween, the first side of the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member defining a minimum height and the second side of the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member defining a maximum height such that tissue-contacting surfaces of the tissue-contacting plates of the first and second jaw members are disposed in non-parallel orientation relative to one another; and

an insulative member disposed on the tissue-contacting plate of the first jaw member at the second side thereof and positioned to oppose the second side of the tissue-contacting plate of the second jaw member, the insulative member configured to facilitate cutting tissue along an outer edge of the tissue-treatment area in a ripping fashion upon manipulation of the end effector assembly relative to tissue.

14. The end effector assembly according toclaim 13, wherein the insulative member is an insulative cap or coating disposed on the first jaw member at the second side thereof.

15. The end effector assembly according toclaim 13, wherein the insulative member defines a sharpened tip portion.

16. The end effector assembly according toclaim 13, wherein the insulative member is configured to define a minimum gap distance between the tissue-contacting plates of the first and second jaw members in the approximated position of the first and second jaw members.

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