Electrosurgical apparatus with flush port

Abstract

An electrosurgical device is provided. An electrosurgical device of the present disclosure includes a connector, a housing, a shaft, and a distal tip end. The connector is configured to couple to the electrosurgical generator and the gas supply. The electrosurgical device is configured to provide electrosurgical energy and inert gas to an electrode within a distal tip end of the electrosurgical device to generate a plasma beam to coagulate / contract tissue as desired. The housing of the electrosurgical device includes an irrigation port for receiving a fluid, such as physiological saline, to irrigate and / or remove residues in or around the distal tip end and / or to receive a different fluid, such as a swelling anesthetic, to be provided to the surgical site via the distal tip end. In some embodiments, the shaft is flexible and moldable to enable a user to shape the shaft around a compact anatomical location.

Description

(19) State Intellectual Property Office (12) Invention Patent Application (10) Application Publication Number (43) Application Publication Date (21) Application Number 202480063032.8 (22) Application Date 2024.07.08 (30) Priority Data 63 / 587,163 2023.10.02 US (85) PCT International Application Entering National Phase Date 2026.03.31 (86) PCT International Application Application Data PCT / US2024 / 036993 2024.07.08 (87) PCT International Application Publication Data WO2025 / 075690 EN 2025.04.10 (71) Applicant: Apix Medical Inc. Address: USA (72) Inventors: J.J. Mitchell, S.M. Flanders, B.A. Lencher, MD.D. Schnitt (74) Patent Agency: Guangzhou Chuanmo Intellectual Property Agency (General Partnership) 44485 Patent Attorneys: Li Jiepeng, Ke Linjun (51) Int.Cl. A61B 18 / 14 (2006.01) A61B 18 / 04 (2006.01) A61B 18 / 12 (2006.01) (54) Invention Title: Electrosurgical Device with Flushing Port (57) Abstract: An electrosurgical device is provided. The electrosurgical device disclosed herein includes a connector, a housing, a shaft, and a distal head. The connector is configured to couple to an electrosurgical generator and a gas supply. The electrosurgical device is configured to supply electrosurgical energy and an inert gas to electrodes within the distal head of the electrosurgical device to generate a plasma beam to coagulate / shrink tissue as needed. The housing of the electrosurgical device includes a flushing port for receiving fluids, such as saline solution, to flush and / or remove residues in or around the distal tip and / or to receive different fluids, such as tumescent anesthetics, for delivery to the surgical site via the distal tip. In some embodiments, the shaft is flexible and malleable to allow the user to shape the shaft around a compact anatomical location.Claims 3 pages, Description 12 pages, Drawings 10 pages, CN 121941464 A 2026.04.28 CN 1 21 94 14 64 A 1. An electrosurgical device comprising: a connector configured to receive electrosurgical energy and a gas supply; a housing coupled to the connector via at least one cable, the housing including a proximal end and a distal end, the at least one cable including at least one electrical conductor; a shaft including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being at least partially disposed in the distal end of the housing; a gas flow path from the connector to the distal end of the shaft; an adapter including a first input port and a second input port and an output port, the first input port and the output port being within the gas flow path, the second input port being coupled to an irrigation tube; and an electrode disposed in the distal end of the shaft and coupled to the at least one electrical conductor in the at least one cable; 1. Gas or flushing fluid is provided to the distal end of the shaft. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a first check valve disposed at a first input port of the adapter along the gas flow path to prevent flushing fluid from entering the connector. 3. The device of claim 2, further comprising a second check valve disposed at the proximal end of the flushing tube. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the shaft comprises a conductive tube coupled at its proximal end to the at least one electrical conductor in the at least one cable, and the distal end of the conductive tube coupled to the electrode, and an insulating outer sheath disposed on the conductive tube. 5. The device of claim 4, further comprising a ceramic tip coupled to the distal end of the conductive tube, the distal end of the electrode disposed in the ceramic tip. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the proximal end of the ceramic tip includes a first engagement portion, and the distal end of the conductive tube includes a complementary second engagement portion for coupling the ceramic tip to the distal end of the conductive tube. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the electrode includes a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end including two tabs extending from the electrode, and the proximal end including two flexible legs. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the ceramic head end includes two diametrically opposed slots, each slot configured to receive a corresponding tab of the electrode. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the distal end of the conductive tube includes two holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding leg of the electrode to couple the electrode to the distal end of the conductive tube.10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein each slot of the ceramic tip includes a stop such that when the electrode is coupled to the distal end of the conductive tube, the electrode holds the ceramic tip to the distal end of the conductive tube. 11. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the conductive tube is flexible. 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the shaft includes at least one port, the at least one port being arcuate about the longitudinal axis of the shaft by a predetermined arc length, such that the at least one port provides a 180-degree tissue treatment area about the longitudinal axis. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the distal end includes at least one second port, the at least one second port being disposed through an outer wall of the distal end and oriented in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis, the at least one second port being diametrically opposed to at least one first port. 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one first port and the at least one second port are configured such that the at least one first port and the at least one second port provide a 360-degree tissue processing area about the longitudinal axis. 15. A body sculpting system comprising: a handheld device configured to apply plasma to tissue and deliver at least one fluid to the tissue; an electrosurgical generator coupled to the handheld device, the electrosurgical generator providing electrosurgical energy to the handheld device; a gas source coupled to the handheld device, the gas source supplying gas to the handheld device, the handheld device generating plasma upon receiving the electrosurgical energy and the gas; and at least one fluid source coupled to the handheld device for providing the at least one fluid to the handheld device. 16. The body sculpting system of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid is a tumescent anesthetic. 17. The body sculpting system of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid is fat. 18. The body sculpting system of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid is saline solution. 19. The body sculpting system of claim 15, further comprising a fluid controller coupled to the at least one fluid source for receiving the at least one fluid and providing the at least one fluid to the handheld device. 20. The body sculpting system of claim 19, wherein the fluid is at least one of a tumescent anesthetic, fat, and / or saline solution. 21. The body sculpting system of claim 20, further comprising a liposuction system configured to remove fat from a subcutaneous tissue layer and provide the fat to at least one fluid source.22. A method for body sculpting, comprising: providing a handpiece configured to apply plasma to tissue and deliver at least one fluid to the tissue; coupling the handpiece to at least one fluid source via a flushing port connector of the handpiece; configuring a distal tip of the handpiece to penetrate the skin into a subcutaneous tissue layer; and allowing the at least one fluid from the at least one fluid source to enter the subcutaneous tissue layer through the handpiece. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the fluid source is a tumescent anesthetic. 24. The method of claim 22, wherein the fluid source is fat. 25. The method of claim 22, wherein the tissue layer is a subcutaneous tissue layer. 26. The method of claim 22, wherein the tissue layer is an intramuscular tissue layer. 27. The method of claim 23, further comprising aspirating fat from the subcutaneous tissue layer. 28. The method of claim 23, further comprising generating plasma at the distal tip of the handpiece and applying the plasma into the subcutaneous tissue layer. 29. The method of claim 28, further comprising transferring fat from the at least one fluid source into the subcutaneous tissue layer via the hand-held device. Claims 2 / 3 pages 3 CN 121941464 A Claims 3 / 3 pages 4 CN 121941464 A Electrosurgical Device with Flush Port

[0001] Priority

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 587,163, filed October 2, 2023, entitled “Electrosurgical Device with Flush Port,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] Technical Field.

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to electrosurgery and electrosurgery systems and devices, and more specifically, to an electrosurgery device having a flushing port for removing residues from a distal end of the electrosurgery device, the electrosurgery device including electrodes for cold plasma applications, electrosurgery cutting, and mechanical cutting, such as electrosurgery blades, needles, etc.

[0005] Description of Related Art.

[0006] High-frequency electrical energy has been widely used in surgical procedures and is commonly referred to as electrosurgery energy. Electrosurgery energy is used to cut tissue and coagulate bodily fluids.

[0007] Electrosurgery instruments typically include “monopolar” or “bipolar” devices. A monopolar device includes an active electrode on the electrosurgery instrument and a return electrode attached to the patient. In monopolar electrosurgery, electrosurgery energy flows through the active electrode on the instrument, through the patient’s body, and to the return electrode.Such monopolar devices are effective in surgical procedures requiring tissue cutting and coagulation where stray currents do not pose a significant risk to the patient.

[0008] Bipolar devices include an active electrode and a return electrode on the surgical instrument. In a bipolar electrosurgical device, electrosurgical energy flows through the active electrode to the patient's tissue and through a short distance across the tissue to the return electrode. The electrosurgical effect is essentially confined to a small area of ​​tissue between the two electrodes on the surgical instrument. Bipolar electrosurgical devices have been found to be useful in surgical procedures where stray currents may pose a hazard to the patient, or in other surgical problems requiring close proximity of the active and return electrodes. Surgical procedures involving bipolar electrosurgical techniques generally require methods and procedures that are substantially different from those involving monopolar electrosurgical techniques.

[0009] Gas plasma is an ionized gas capable of conducting electrical energy. Plasma is used in surgical devices to conduct electrosurgical energy to the patient. Plasma conducts energy by providing a relatively low-resistance path. Electrosurgical energy will be conducted through the plasma to cut, coagulate, dry, or electrocauterize the patient's blood or tissue. No physical contact is required between the electrodes and the tissue being treated.

[0010] Electrosurgical systems that do not contain a regulated gas source can ionize the ambient air between the active electrodes and the patient, such as atmospheric pressure discharge cold plasma applicators. The resulting plasma delivers electrosurgical energy to the patient, although the plasma arc will generally appear more spatially dispersed compared to systems with a regulated ionizable gas flow.

[0011] Atmospheric pressure discharge cold plasma applicators have been used in a variety of applications, including surface sterilization, hemostasis, and tumor ablation. Typically, problematic tissue is removed using a simple scalpel, and then a cold plasma applicator is used for cauterization, sterilization, and hemostasis. Specification 1 / 12 pages 5 CN 121941464 A Summary of the Invention

[0012] An electrosurgical device is provided. The electrosurgical device of this disclosure includes a connector, a housing, a shaft, and a distal head. The connector is configured to couple to an electrosurgical generator and a gas supply. The electrosurgical device is configured to supply electrosurgical energy and an inert gas to electrodes within the distal head of the electrosurgical device to generate a plasma beam to coagulate / shrink tissue as needed. The housing of the electrosurgical device includes a flushing port for receiving sterile fluid (e.g., saline) to flush and / or remove residue in or around the distal tip. In some embodiments, the shaft is flexible and malleable to allow the user to shape the shaft around a compact anatomical location.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electrosurgical device is provided, comprising: a connector configured to receive electrosurgical energy and a gas supply; a housing coupled to the connector via at least one cable, the housing including a proximal end and a distal end; at least one cable including at least one electrical conductor; a shaft including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being at least partially disposed in the distal end of the housing; a gas flow path from the connector to the distal end of the shaft; an adapter including a first input port and a second input port and an output port, the first input port and the output port being within the gas flow path, the second input port being coupled to an irrigation tube; and an electrode disposed in the distal end of the shaft and coupled to at least one electrical conductor in the at least one cable; wherein gas or irrigation fluid is provided to the distal end of the shaft.

[0014] In one aspect, the electrosurgical device further includes a first check valve disposed along the gas flow path at a first input port of the adapter to prevent irrigation fluid from entering the connector.

[0015] In another aspect, the electrosurgical device further includes a second check valve disposed on the proximal end of the irrigation tube.

[0016] In yet another aspect, the shaft includes a conductive tube and an insulating outer sheath, the conductive tube being coupled at its proximal end to at least one electrical conductor of at least one cable, the distal end of the conductive tube being coupled to an electrode, and the insulating outer sheath being disposed on the conductive tube.

[0017] In one aspect, the electrosurgical device further includes a ceramic tip coupled to the distal end of the conductive tube, the distal end of the electrode being disposed in the ceramic tip.

[0018] In yet another aspect, the proximal end of the ceramic tip includes a first engagement portion, and the distal end of the conductive tube includes a complementary second engagement portion for coupling the ceramic tip to the distal end of the conductive tube.

[0019] In one aspect, the electrode includes a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end including two tabs extending from the electrode, and the proximal end including two flexible legs.

[0020] In another aspect, the ceramic tip includes two diametrically opposed slots, each slot configured to receive a corresponding tab of the electrode.

[0021] In yet another aspect, the distal end of the conductive tube includes two holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding leg of the electrode for coupling the electrode to the distal end of the conductive tube.

[0022] In yet another aspect, each slot of the ceramic tip includes a stop such that when the electrode is coupled to the distal end of the conductive tube, the electrode holds the ceramic tip to the distal end of the conductive tube.

[0023] In yet another aspect, the conductive tube is flexible.

[0024] In one aspect, the distal end of the shaft includes at least one port, the at least one port being arcuate about the longitudinal axis of the shaft by a predetermined arc length, such that the at least one port provides a 180-degree tissue processing area about the longitudinal axis.

[0025] In another aspect, the distal head includes at least one second port configured to pass through the outer wall of the distal head and oriented in a radial direction relative to a longitudinal axis, the at least one second port being diametrically opposed to at least one first port. Specification 2 / 12 pages 6 CN 121941464 A

[0026] In yet another aspect, the at least one first port and the at least one second port are configured such that the at least one first port and the at least one second port provide a 360-degree tissue processing area about a longitudinal axis.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a body shaping system includes: a handpiece configured to apply plasma to tissue and deliver at least one fluid to tissue; an electrosurgical generator coupled to the handpiece to provide electrosurgical energy to the handpiece; a gas source coupled to the handpiece to supply gas to the handpiece, the handpiece generating plasma upon receiving electrosurgical energy and gas; and at least one fluid source coupled to the handpiece for providing at least one fluid to the handpiece.

[0028] In one aspect, the at least one fluid is a tumescent anesthetic.

[0029] In another aspect, at least one fluid is fat.

[0030] In yet another aspect, at least one fluid is saline solution.

[0031] In one aspect, the body sculpting system further includes a fluid controller coupled to at least one fluid source for receiving at least one fluid and providing at least one fluid to a handpiece.

[0032] In another aspect, the fluid is at least one of a tumescent anesthetic, fat, and / or saline solution.

[0033] In yet another aspect, the body sculpting system further includes a fat aspiration system configured to remove fat from a subcutaneous tissue layer and provide the fat to at least one fluid source.

[0034] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for body sculpting includes: providing a handpiece configured to apply plasma to tissue and deliver at least one fluid to tissue; coupling the handpiece to at least one fluid source via a flushing port connector of the handpiece; configuring a distal tip of the handpiece to penetrate the skin into a subcutaneous tissue layer; and allowing at least one fluid from at least one fluid source to enter the subcutaneous tissue layer through the handpiece.

[0035] In one aspect of the method, the fluid source is a tumescent anesthetic and / or fat.

[0036] In yet another aspect, the tissue layer is a subcutaneous tissue layer.

[0037] In yet another aspect, the tissue layer is an intramuscular tissue layer.

[0038] In yet another aspect, the method further includes aspirating fat from the subcutaneous tissue layer.

[0039] In yet another aspect, the method further includes generating plasma at the distal tip of the handpiece and applying the plasma to the subcutaneous tissue layer.

[0040] In one aspect, the method further includes transferring fat from at least one fluid source into a subcutaneous tissue layer via a handheld device.

[0041] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] FIG1 is an illustration of an exemplary monopolar electrosurgical system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] FIG2 is a perspective view of an electrosurgical device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] FIG3 is a top view of the electrosurgical device shown in FIG2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] FIG4 is a bottom view of the electrosurgical device shown in FIG2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] FIG5 is a top view of the internal components of the electrosurgical device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] FIG6 is a perspective view of the internal components of the electrosurgical device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] FIG7 is a side view of the distal portion of the electrosurgical device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0049] FIG8 is a side view of the electrosurgical device shown in FIG7 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the outer sheath has been... (Page 3 / 12 of the specification, 7 CN 121941464 A) Remove;

[0050] FIG9 is a side view of the distal portion of the electrosurgical device of FIG8 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] FIG10 is an exploded perspective view of the distal portion of the electrosurgical device of FIG9 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG11A is a side view of the ceramic tip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0053] FIG11B is a front view of the ceramic tip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG11C is a side sectional view taken along line C-C shown in FIG11B according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] FIG12 is a perspective view of the electrosurgical device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] FIG13 is a perspective view of the distal tip of the electrosurgical device shown in FIG12 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG14 is a top view of the distal tip shown in FIG13;

[0058] FIG15 is a side view of the distal tip shown in FIG13.

[0059] FIG16 is a side sectional view of the distal head shown in FIG15;

[0060] FIG17 is a block diagram of an electrosurgical system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0061] FIG18 is a flowchart illustrating a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] It should be understood that the drawings are intended to illustrate the concepts of the present disclosure and are not necessarily intended to illustrate the only possible configurations of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0063] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well-known functions or structures are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure.In the accompanying drawings and the following description, by convention, the term “proximal” will refer to the end of the device (e.g., instrument, apparatus, applicator, handpiece, forceps, etc.) closer to the user, while the term “distal” will refer to the end further away from the user. In this document, the phrase “coupled” is defined as meaning a direct connection or an indirect connection via one or more intermediate components. Such intermediate components may include hardware- and software-based components.

[0064] This disclosure relates to an electrosurgical device. The electrosurgical device of this disclosure includes a connector, a housing, a shaft, and a distal tip. The connector is configured to couple to an electrosurgical generator and a gas supply. The electrosurgical device is configured to supply electrosurgical energy and an inert gas to electrodes within the distal tip of the electrosurgical device to generate a plasma beam to coagulate / shrink tissue as needed. The housing of the electrosurgical device includes a flushing port for receiving a sterile fluid (e.g., physiological saline) to flush and / or remove residues within or around the distal tip. In some embodiments, the shaft is flexible and malleable, allowing the user to shape the shaft around a compact anatomical location.

[0065] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary monopolar electrosurgical system, generally designated 10, comprising an electrosurgical generator (ESU), generally designated 12, and a plasma generator, generally designated 14. The ESU 12 is used to generate power for the monopolar electrosurgical system, and the plasma generator 14 is used to generate a plasma flow 16 and apply the plasma flow 16 to a surgical site or target area 18 on a patient 20 lying on a conductive plate or support surface 22. The ESU 12 includes a transformer, generally designated 24, comprising a primary 31 and a secondary 33 coupled to a power source (not shown) to provide high-frequency electrical energy to the plasma generator 14. Typically, the ESU 12 includes an isolated floating potential that is not referenced to any potential. Therefore, current flows between the active electrode and the return electrode. If the output is not isolated but referenced to "ground", current can flow to areas with ground potential. Undesirable burns may occur if these areas have relatively small contact surfaces with the patient.

[0066] The plasma generator 14 includes a handpiece or holder 26 having electrodes 28, which are at least partially disposed within a fluid flow housing 29 and coupled to a transformer 24 to receive high-frequency electrical energy from it to at least partially ionize the rare gas fed to the fluid flow housing 29 of the handpiece or holder 26, thereby generating or producing a plasma flow 16. High-frequency electrical energy is fed from the secondary 33 of the transformer 24 through an active conductor 30 to the electrodes 28 in the handpiece 26 (collectively referred to as active electrodes) to generate a plasma flow 16 for application to the surgical site 18 on the patient 20.Furthermore, in some embodiments, the current-limiting capacitor 25 is arranged in series with the electrode 28 to limit the amount of current delivered to the patient 20.

[0067] The return path back to the electrosurgical generator 12 is through the tissue and body fluid of the patient 20, the conductor plate or support member 22 and the return conductor 32 (collectively referred to as the return electrode) to the secondary 33 of the transformer 24 to complete an isolated floating potential circuit.

[0068] In another embodiment, the electrosurgical generator 12 includes an isolated non-floating potential that is not referenced to any potential. The plasma current returning to the electrosurgical generator 12 passes through the tissue and body fluid and the patient 20. From there, the return current circuit is completed through the plasma generator handpiece 26, the surgeon's combined external capacitor and the displacement current. The capacitance is determined by the body size of the patient 20. Such an electrosurgical device and generator is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,316,682, jointly owned by Konesky, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0069] It should be understood that the transformer 24 may be disposed in the plasma generator handpiece 26. In this configuration, additional transformers may be provided in the generator 12 to provide appropriate voltage and current to the transformer in the handheld device 26, such as a step-down transformer, a step-up transformer, or any combination thereof.

[0070] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a plasma generator handheld device or electrosurgical device is provided, which includes a flushing port or cleaning port for removing residues from the distal end of the electrosurgical device.

[0071] For example, referring to Figures 2 through 4, an electrosurgical device 100 including a flushing port according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. The device 100 includes a connector or plug 102, a housing 106, a shaft 108 including a distal head end 110, and electrodes disposed within the distal head end 110.

[0072] The housing 106 includes a proximal end 112 and a distal end 114. The shaft 108 includes a distal head end or end 110 and a proximal end 116 coupled to the distal end 114 of the housing 106. The proximal end 112 of the housing 106 includes a first port 118 and a second port 120. The first port 118 is configured to receive a first end 122 of the cable 104. The second end 124 of the cable 104 is coupled to the connector 102.

[0073] The connector 102 is configured to couple the device 100 to an electrosurgical generator (e.g., ESU 12) for receiving electrosurgical energy and fluid (e.g., an inert gas, such as helium or argon) for procedures performed using the device 100, as will be described in more detail below. The connector 102 includes housings 126A, 126B, which, when coupled together, form a housing for the connector 102.Connector 102 includes conductors or pins 128A-128E protruding from housing 102, and a port 130 for receiving gases (e.g., helium) used in certain electrosurgical procedures. Some pins 128A-128E are coupled to conductors extending from connector 102 through cable 104 to housing 106, with at least one conductor coupled to an electrode disposed in distal end 110. At least one tube is disposed in cable 104 and extends from port 130 to port 118 on proximal end 112 of housing 106.

[0074] In one embodiment, some conductors 128A-128E are coupled to a processor and / or memory (not shown) disposed on connector 102 to form a circuit via which an electrosurgical generator (e.g., ESU 12) can communicate when connector 102 is coupled to a corresponding socket of an electrosurgical generator. In one embodiment, the processor and / or memory is an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) that stores information that can be read by the electrosurgical generator to use the device 100 (e.g., settings, parameters, etc. associated with the device 100). For example, the memory may store information related to: the recommended flow rate of the inert gas supplied to the device 100, the characteristics of the electrosurgical energy to be supplied to the device 100, and the time information for disabling the ESU 12 after the device 100 has been used for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 12 hours), etc. It should be understood from page 5 / 12 of the specification, CN 121941464 A, that additional information and / or only a subset of the above information may be stored in the memory.

[0075] In Figures 5 and 6, the internal components of the device 100 are shown, wherein Figure 5 shows a top view of the internal components without the housing 102, and Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the internal components. A Y-shaped adapter 140 is provided, which includes a first input port 142, a second input port 144, and an output port 146. A first input port 142 is coupled to a tube 148 disposed in a cable 104. The tube 148 includes a first end 150, which is coupled to the first input port 142 via a check valve 152. A second end (not shown) of the tube 148 is coupled to a port 130 in a connector 102. A flushing tube 154 is provided, which includes a first end 156 coupled to a second input port 144 of a Y-adapter 140 and a second end 158 coupled to a second check valve 160. The output port 146 of the Y-adapter 140 is coupled to a conductive shaft 161 (shown in Figures 8 to 10) via a tube 162. It should be understood that the check valve allows fluid to flow in one direction, for example, from the input end of the check valve to the output end of the check valve, but not in the opposite direction.

[0076] It should be understood that the gas flow path extends from the connector 102 to the distal end 110 of the shaft 108.Although the Y-adapter 140 is shown as disposed within the housing 106, it should be understood that the Y-adapter 140 can be positioned anywhere along the gas flow path, for example, in the connector 102, in the cable 104, in the shaft 108, and / or at the distal end 110. In one embodiment, the Y-adapter may be disposed within an electrosurgical generator (ESU) that supplies and / or controls gas to the connector 102.

[0077] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, a distal portion of a device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a side view of the distal portion is shown in Figure 7, and a side view of the distal end 110 with the outer sheath removed is shown in Figure 8. The distal end 110 includes a ceramic tip 170 coupled to the distal end 172 of a conductive tube 161, wherein an electrode 180 is disposed together with the ceramic tip 170 and the conductive tube 161. An outer insulating sheath 174 is disposed on the conductive tube 161, extending from the proximal end of the conductive tube 161 to the distal end of the ceramic head end 170. In one embodiment, the outer sheath 174 comprises a heat-shrinkable material. The conductive tube 161, the ceramic head end 170, and the outer sheath 174 form a shaft 108.

[0078] It should be understood that the outer sheath may be made of other insulating or non-conductive materials. Exemplary materials for the outer sheath may include, but are not limited to: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyimide (PI), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, polyethylene, polyolefin, silicone, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene copolymer (FEP), polypropylene, high-density polypropylene, and PEEK (polyether ether ketone).

[0079] It should be understood that the device shaft 108 is flexible and malleable. In one embodiment, the conductive tube 161 is made of 304 stainless steel, whose hardness provides sufficient rigidity to allow the shaft 108 to maintain its shape during use, but also to deform when subjected to stresses beyond those typically encountered during normal use. This allows the user to “shape” the shaft 108 where a bent or curved shaft is more advantageous. This provides the user with the option to shape the shaft 108 around compact anatomical locations that are typically not accessible with larger, stiffer devices. These areas include the labia majora, hands, knees, and facial areas (forehead, the area around the eyes when entering from the cheekbone or temporal bone, nasolabial folds, etc.).

[0080] Other exemplary materials for the conductive tube 161 may include, but are not limited to: stainless steel, titanium, tungsten carbide, nitinol, kovar (iron-nickel-cobalt alloy), MP25N (nickel-cobalt alloy), and chromium-nickel-iron alloy.

[0081] Referring to FIG9 and FIG10, an exploded view of the distal portion 110 of the device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein FIG9 is a side exploded view and FIG10 is a perspective exploded view.As shown more clearly in Figures 9 and 10, electrode 180 includes a distal end 182 and a proximal end 184. In one embodiment, the distal end 182 of electrode 180 tapers to point 186; however, it should be understood that the distal end 182 can be other shapes and still within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the distal end 182 of electrode 180 can be circular, flattened with an edge perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, square, etc. The distal end 182 of electrode 180 also includes a tab 188 for guiding the distal end 182 of electrode 180 in the ceramic head end 170, details of which will be described below. The proximal end 184 of electrode 180 includes two flexible legs 190, each leg including a pin 191 extending from the leg in a manner perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of electrode 108. When the proximal end 184 of electrode 180 is positioned into the distal end 172 of conductive tube 161, the free ends of flexible legs 190 come together and slide into the distal end 172 of conductive tube 161 until pin 191 reaches a hole 192 formed in conductive tube 161. When pin 191 reaches hole 192, legs 190 move back to their normal position, and the free end of each leg (i.e., pin 191) enters the corresponding hole 192 to hold electrode 180 on conductive tube 161 and electrically couple conductive tube 161 to electrode 180, as shown in FIG8. Optionally, the free end of each leg 190 or pin 191 may be welded to the corresponding hole 192.

[0082] Device or apparatus 100 employs a unique method for joining ceramic tip 170 to stainless steel tube 161. Due to its small size and limited space for forming an adhesive bond, the design employs an interlocking engagement between the tube 161 and the ceramic tip 170, which is locked in place and reinforced when the electrodes are assembled and soldered into position.

[0083] Referring to Figures 11A to 11C, a ceramic tip 170 of a device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 11A is a side view of the ceramic tip 170, Figure 11B is a front view of the ceramic tip 170, and Figure 11C is a side sectional view along line C-C shown in Figure 11B. The ceramic tip 170 includes a proximal end portion 202 and a distal end portion 204, wherein a channel 206 extends the entire length of the tip 170. The proximal end portion 202 includes a first engagement portion 208, which includes at least two recesses 210 and two protrusions 212. Two protrusions 212 are located on the edge of the proximal end 202 of the head end 170, and two recesses 210 are adjacent to the protrusions 212 and toward the distal end 204 of the head end 170.A complementary second engagement portion 214 is formed on the distal end portion 172 of the conductive tube 161, wherein the complementary engagement portion 214 includes two recesses 216 and two protrusions 218. When the first engagement portion 208 contacts the second engagement portion 214, the protrusions 212 are disposed in the recesses 216 and the protrusions 218 are disposed in the recesses 210, as shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0084] Referring to Figures 11B and 11C, the distal end portion 204 of the head end 170 includes diametrically opposed slots 220 that extend longitudinally along the ceramic head end 170 from the distal end portion 204 toward the proximal end portion 202. The slots 220 are configured to receive the tabs 188 of the electrode 180.

[0085] To assemble the distal head end 110, the legs 190 of the electrode 180 are disposed in the channels 206 of the ceramic head end 170 via the distal end portion 204. The tab 188 of electrode 180 is aligned with the slot 220 of ceramic tip 170, and the electrode slides toward the proximal end 202 of ceramic tip 170 until the tab contacts the stop 222 of slot 220. The proximal end 184 of electrode 180 is then positioned into the distal end 172 of conductive tube 161. The free ends of flexible legs 190 are joined together and slid into the distal end 172 of conductive tube 161 until the pin 191 reaches the hole 192 formed in conductive tube 161. When the pin 191 of leg 190 reaches the hole 192, leg 190 moves back to its normal position, and the pin 191 of each leg enters the corresponding hole 192 to hold electrode 180 on conductive tube 161 and electrically couple conductive tube 161 to electrode 180, as shown in FIG8. At this time, the first engagement portion 208 engages with the second engagement portion 214. Optionally, the free end of each leg 190 can be welded to a corresponding hole 192 to lock the ceramic head end 170 in place.

[0086] In use, the connector 102 of the device 100 can be coupled to the ESU (e.g., ESU 12) to receive electrosurgical energy and / or gas from it. In one embodiment, a button 103 located on or accessible from the housing 106 can activate the ESU to provide electrosurgical energy and / or gas. The connector 102 can receive electrical energy via pins 128A-128E and provide electrosurgical energy to the conductive tube 161 via a conductor disposed in the cable 104. In addition, the connector 102 can receive gas (from the ESU 12 or a separate gas source) and provide gas to the conductive tube 161 via a tube 148 disposed in the cable 104. The gas provided via the tube 148 will pass through the check valve 152 and enter the first input port 142 of the Y-adapter 140. The proximal end of the conductive tube 161 is coupled to the output port 146 of the Y-adapter 140 via a conduit 162. When electrosurgical energy and gas are simultaneously supplied to the device 100, plasma is generated and emitted from the distal end 110.Instruction manual, pages 7 / 12, 11 CN 121941464 A

[0087] Due to the location of the plasma outlet port (i.e., the distal end 110) and its small size (e.g., diameter Ø) The distal tip 110 may be clogged with coagulated material (0.0335±0.0015"). To clean or remove the coagulated material from the distal tip 110, it can be flushed with, for example, sterile saline. To flush the distal tip 110, a source of sterile saline (e.g., a syringe) can be coupled to a check valve 160. It should be understood that the check valve 160 is a one-way valve, preventing any fluid pushed into the valve towards the device 100 from returning to the source in the opposite direction. Once the sterile saline is pushed in via the syringe, it flows through tubing 154, into the Y-adapter 140 via the second inlet port 144, out of the Y-adapter 140 via the outlet port 146, and through conductive tubing 161 to force the coagulated material and / or residue out through the distal tip. It should be understood that the check valve 152 prevents any fluid (e.g., sterile saline) from entering tubing 148 and flowing toward the ESU and / or any other gas source.

[0088] In one embodiment, the device includes an extendable / retractable blade electrode. The distal end 182 of electrode 180 is configured as a blade electrode that can extend through the distal end of ceramic tip 170 for mechanical cutting (when no electrosurgical energy / gas is applied to tube 161) or electrical cutting (when electrical energy is applied to tube 161). In this embodiment, the proximal end of outer sheath 174 is rigidly coupled to the distal end 114 of housing 106, while allowing conductive tube 161 to slide within outer sheath 174. Furthermore, ceramic tip 170 can be rigidly coupled to the distal end of outer sheath 170 such that movement of conductive tube 161 allows the distal end 182 of electrode 180 to slide through the distal end of ceramic tip 170. In this embodiment, the proximal end of ceramic tip 170 can be configured such that the distal end of conductive tube 161 can partially move into ceramic tip 170. In this way, the electrode 180 is extended. Furthermore, the button 103 can be coupled to the proximal end of the conductive tube 161 and configured to slide along the longitudinal axis of the housing 106 to move the conductive tube 161 to extend and retract the electrode 180. The conduit 162 can be stretchable (or include a slack section of a predetermined length) to allow movement of the conductive tube 161.

[0089] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a plasma generator handheld device or electrosurgical apparatus is provided having a 360-degree tissue processing area about a longitudinal axis around a distal tip.

[0090] Referring to Figures 12 through 16, an electrosurgical apparatus 300 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown, the electrosurgical apparatus 300 including a flushing port providing a 360-degree tissue processing area.Device 300 includes a connector or plug 302, a housing 306, a shaft 308 including a distal end 310, and electrodes disposed within the distal end 310.

[0091] Housing 306 includes a proximal end 312 and a distal end 314. Shaft 308 includes a distal end or end 310 and a proximal end 316 coupled to the distal end 314 of housing 306. Proximal end 312 of housing 306 includes a first port 318 and a second port 320. First port 318 is configured to receive a first end 322 of cable 304. Second end 324 of cable 304 is coupled to connector 302.

[0092] It should be understood that the configuration and operation of connector 302 are similar to those of connector 102 described above with respect to Figures 1 to 3; therefore, for the sake of brevity, the details of connector 302 will not be repeated here. In addition, the configuration and operation of the internal components of housing 306 are similar to those of the internal components described above with respect to Figures 5 and 6. Therefore, similar components will not be described here; however, structural differences will be described. For example, housing 306 includes a Y-adapter 140, which includes a first input port 142, a second input port 144, and an output port 146. The first input port 142 is coupled to a tube 148 disposed in cable 304. Tube 148 includes a first end 150 coupled to the first input port 142 via a check valve 150. A second end (not shown) of tube 148 is coupled to port 130 in connector 302. A flushing tube 354 is provided, which includes a first end 156 coupled to the second input port 144 of Y-adapter 140 and a second end 158 coupled to a second check valve 360. The output port 146 of Y-adapter 140 is coupled to a non-conductive shaft 308 of the currently described embodiment. In this embodiment, the non-conductive shaft 308 terminates at a distal end 310, which provides a 360-degree processing area.

[0093] It should be understood that the gas flow path extends from connector 302 to the distal end 310 of shaft 308. Although the Y-adapter 140 is described as being disposed in housing 306, it should be understood that the Y-adapter 140 may be positioned anywhere along the gas flow path, for example, in connector 302, in cable 304, in shaft 308 and / or at distal end 310. In one embodiment, the Y-adapter may be disposed in an electrosurgical generator (ESU) that supplies and / or controls the gas to connector 302.

[0094] Referring to Figures 13 to 16, a distal portion 310 of a device 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein Figure 13 is a perspective view of the distal portion 310, Figure 14 is a top view of the distal head end 310, Figure 15 is a side view of the distal head end 310, and Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the side view of the distal head end 310 shown in Figure 15.

[0095] The device 300 includes a conductive member or electrode 318 (as shown in Figure 16) disposed through a shaft 308, such as a conductive rod, wire, or other suitable electrode. The distal end of the conductive member or electrode 318 is disposed in the distal head end 310, while the proximal end is disposed in a housing 306 and coupled to at least one conductor disposed in a tube 304. In one embodiment, the electrode 318 is made of tungsten; however, other suitable materials are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure. The shaft 308 is made of a non-conductive material and configured to supply an inert gas to the head end 310. Electrode 318 is configured to provide electrosurgical energy to tip 310. In some embodiments, shaft 308 is configured to achieve a degree of flexibility (e.g., bending of shaft 308) to facilitate insertion of tip 310 and shaft 308 through subcutaneous tissue during electrosurgical procedures performed using device 300.

[0096] It should be understood that shaft 308 may be constructed of insulating or non-conductive materials. Exemplary materials for the outer sheath may include, but are not limited to: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyimide (PI), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, polyethylene, polyolefin, silicone, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene copolymer (FEP), polypropylene, high-density polypropylene, and PEEK (polyether ether ketone). It should be understood that shaft 308 is flexible and malleable. This allows the user to “shape” shaft 308 where a bent or curved shaft is more advantageous. This provides the user with the option to mold the shaft 308 around compact anatomical locations that are typically not accessible using larger, stiffer devices.

[0097] The head end 310 includes a distal end 330 and a proximal end 332. The head end 310 includes at least one port 334A, 334B configured to pass through the sidewall of the head end 310 and oriented in a radial direction transverse to the axis 336. The head end 310 also includes an interior 338 including inner walls 352A, 352B having slots or channels 340. The inner walls 352A, 352B are angled or inclined such that the walls 352A, 352B are transverse to the longitudinal axis 336 at a predetermined angle.

[0098] Referring to FIG16, the head end 310 is configured to be adjacent to the shaft 308, and the tube 342 is configured to enter the interior of the shaft 308 through the distal end of the shaft 308 and enter the interior 338 of the head end 310 through the proximal end 332 of the head end 310.The tube 342 is bonded to the interior of the shaft 308 and the interior 338 of the head end 310 using an adhesive, thereby coupling the head end 310 to the shaft 308. The tube 342 provides support for the connection or engagement point between the shaft 308 and the head end 310 to prevent bending at the connection or engagement point. It should be understood that in various embodiments of this disclosure, the tube 342 may be made of conductive or non-conductive material.

[0099] When the head end 310 is coupled to the shaft 308, the electrode 318 extends from the interior of the shaft 308 through the tube 342 and the interior 338. The distal end 344 of the electrode 318 is securely received by a slot 340 in the interior 338 such that the distal portion of the electrode 318 is positioned adjacent to at least one port 334A, 334B. The ports 334A, 334B are positioned through the sidewall of the head end 310 such that the ports 334A, 334B are oriented in a radial direction relative to the axis 336. Ports 334A and 334B include a curved surface 338 having a concave, rounded edge periphery 346 configured adjacent to the outer wall of the head end 310. The distal end 330 of the head end 310 includes an outer surface or wall 348 shaped as an elliptical parabola or elliptical cone having a blunted or rounded head end 350 converging toward the distal end 330.

[0100] It should be understood that the head end 310, wall 338, and edge 346 are shaped such that when the head end 310 moves through the subcutaneous tissue, the curved surfaces 350, 338, and 346 of the head end 310 allow the head end 310 to glide through the subcutaneous tissue with minimal resistance.

[0101] When an inert gas (e.g., helium) is supplied through shaft 308 and enters interior 338 and electrode 318 is energized, at least some of the inert gas is ionized and plasma is generated within interior 338 of head end 310. Ports 334A and 334B are arcuate about axis 336 with a fixed arc length as per the preliminary specification (page 9 / 12, 13 CN 121941464 A). In one embodiment, each port 334A and 334B is arcuate about axis 336 such that the arc length of each port 334A and 334B is slightly less than half the circumference of head end 310. It should be understood that the arc lengths of each port 334A and 334B shown are merely exemplary, and other arc lengths are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure. Ports 334A and 334B are opposite to axis 336 in the diametrical direction such that ports 334A and 334B are oriented in opposite directions. As best shown in Figure 16, in this embodiment, the interior of the head end 310 includes a wall having a first portion 352A and a second portion 352B. The first portion 352A is angled to guide the inert gas and the generated plasma out through port 334A, and the second portion 352B is angled to guide the inert gas and the generated plasma out through port 334B.In this way, the tip 310 can be configured such that gas and plasma exit simultaneously from both ports 334A, 334B, and the device 300 can be used to process tissue positioned at various locations around axis 336 at 360° outside the tip 310.

[0102] It should be understood that in other embodiments, only one port 334A, 334B may be used to provide a 180° tissue processing area around longitudinal axis 336.

[0103] In use, the connector 302 of the device 300 may be coupled to the ESU (e.g., ESU 12) to receive electrosurgical energy and / or gas from it. In one embodiment, a button 303 located on or accessible from the housing 306 may activate the ESU to provide electrosurgical energy and / or gas. The connector 302 may receive electrical energy via pins 128A-128E and provide electrosurgical energy to the electrodes 318 via conductors provided in the cable 304. Furthermore, connector 302 can receive gas (from ESU 12 or a separate gas source) and supply gas to shaft 308 via tube 148 disposed in cable 304. The gas supplied via tube 148 will pass through check valve 152 and enter the first input port 142 of Y-adapter 140. The proximal end of non-conductive shaft 308 is coupled to output port 146 of Y-adapter 140 via tube 162. When electrosurgical energy and gas are simultaneously supplied to device 300, plasma is generated and emitted from distal tip 310.

[0104] To clean or remove coagulation from distal tip 310, distal tip 310 can be flushed with, for example, sterile saline. To flush distal tip 310, a source of sterile saline (e.g., a syringe) can be coupled to check valve 360. It should be understood that check valve 360 ​​is a one-way valve, such that any fluid pushed into the valve toward device 300 cannot return to the source in the opposite direction. Once sterile saline solution is injected via a syringe, it flows through tube 354, into Y-adapter 140 via second input port 144, exits Y-adapter 140 via output port 146, and flows through shaft 308 to force coagulated material and / or residue out via distal tip 310 via ports 334A, 334B. It should be understood that check valve 152 prevents any fluid (e.g., sterile saline solution) from entering tube 148 and flowing to the ESU and / or any other gas source.

[0105] Although devices 100, 300 include buttons 103, 303 for controlling electrosurgical energy and / or gas, one or more foot switches may be provided and coupled to the ESU for controlling different operating modes of devices 100, 300, including the characteristics of the plasma beam emitted from tip 110, 310.In response to pressing one or more foot switches, a communication signal is sent to the ESU 12 via the foot switch interface to control the electrosurgical energy supplied to the devices 100, 300 via the ESU 12. In this way, the foot switch interface is configured to control the operating mode (e.g., cold plasma, coagulation, ablation, etc.) of the devices 100, 300 during surgery. In other embodiments, additional foot switches may be included in the foot switch interface for controlling the power supplied to the devices 100, 300 by the ESU 12 and / or the gas supplied to the devices 100, 300 by a gas supply unit (e.g., included in the ESU 12).

[0106] In addition to facilitating cleaning of the distal tip or port of the devices or handpieces 100, 300, adding a flushing port to the devices of this disclosure also allows the devices or handpieces to be used for infiltration and / or fat transfer. In another embodiment of this disclosure, the device may utilize the flushing port to deliver tumescent anesthetic or fat to the patient via the device or handpiece. In this way, the device or handheld device of this disclosure can be used for two purposes: (i) a plasma energy device and (ii) a cannula for infiltration and fat transfer in body sculpting surgery. Specification 10 / 12 pages 14 CN 121941464 A

[0107] Referring to FIG17, a system 400 for body sculpting is shown. System 400 includes devices 100, 300 coupled to an electrosurgical generator 412. The electrosurgical generator 412 is also coupled to a gas source 414. During plasma generation, electrosurgical energy and gas (e.g., helium) are supplied to devices 100, 300 via cable 404, as described above.

[0108] It should be understood that the gas flow path extends from connector 402 to the distal ends 110, 310 of the shaft. Although the Y-adapter is described as being housed within the housing, it should be understood that the Y-adapter can be positioned anywhere along the gas flow path, for example, in connector 402, in cable 404, in shafts 108, 308, and / or at distal ends 110, 310. In one embodiment, the Y-adapter may be housed in an electrosurgical generator (ESU) 412 that supplies and / or controls gas to connector 402.

[0109] System 400 also includes a fat storage source 464 (e.g., syringe, fat transfer container, etc.), an anesthesia source 466, and a saline source 468. In one embodiment, each of the fat storage source 464, the anesthesia source 466, and the saline source 468 may be individually (and at different times) coupled to devices 100, 300 via check valve 460 and flushing line 454. In another embodiment, a fluid controller 462 is provided. In this embodiment, each of the fat storage source 464, the anesthetic source 466, and the saline source 468 can be coupled as an input to the fluid controller 462.The output of fluid controller 462 is then coupled to devices 100, 330 via check valve 460 and flushing line 454. In some embodiments, fluid controller 462 may include at least one pump for facilitating fluid flow from respective sources 464, 466, 468 to devices 100, 300. At least one pump may be regulated to a predetermined flow rate. In another embodiment, fluid controller 462 is coupled to electrosurgical generator 412 via bidirectional communication connection 472. Fluid controller 462 and at least one pump may be controlled via signals transmitted from electrosurgical generator 412. For example, based on a program selected by the user via a user interface provided on electrosurgical generator 412, electrosurgical generator 412 may generate appropriate signals to select sources, such as sources 464, 466, 468, to be fed to devices 100, 300. It should be understood that in one embodiment, electrosurgical generator 412 and fluid controller 462 may be housed in a single housing.

[0110] In addition, system 400 includes an ultrasonic handheld device 470 and a liposuction system 469, which emulsifies and / or removes fat from the subcutaneous tissue layer of patient 476. In one embodiment, the liposuction system 469 is coupled to a fat storage source 464, wherein fat aspirated by the liposuction system 469 is transferred from patient 476 to the fat storage source 464.

[0111] Referring to FIG18, a method 500 for body sculpting according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. First, devices 100, 300 are coupled to an electrosurgical generator 412 via cable 404 and connector 402. Then, devices 100, 300 are coupled to an anesthesia source 466 via a flushing line 454 and a check valve 460. In one embodiment, devices 100, 300 are coupled to the anesthesia source 466 via a fluid controller 462; in other embodiments, devices 100, 300 are coupled to the anesthesia source 466 without the fluid controller 462. In step 502, the distal tips 110, 310 are positioned in the subcutaneous tissue layer of the patient 476, and a tumescent anesthetic, such as that provided from source 466, is injected to control bleeding and reduce pain. This step is also referred to as infiltration. In step 504, an ultrasonic handpiece 470 is positioned in the subcutaneous tissue layer to emulsify the fat in the subcutaneous tissue layer, for example, via ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Then, in step 506, the emulsified fat is aspirated or removed from the subcutaneous tissue layer. In one embodiment, the emulsified fat is removed via a separate aspiration device 471 coupled to a liposuction system 469. The aspirated fat can then be transferred to a fat storage source 464 using the liposuction system 469.

[0112] In step 508, electrosurgical energy and gas are supplied to the devices 100, 300 via cable 404, and plasma is generated at the distal tips 110, 310 and applied to the subcutaneous tissue layer.Optionally, in step 510, the aspirated fat is processed for re-injection into the patient. Next, in step 512, the processed fat is transferred to an area in patient 476 where the patient desires a larger volume. In step 512, devices 100, 300 are coupled to fat storage source 464 via flushing line 454 and check valve 460. In one embodiment, devices 100, 300 are coupled to fat storage source 464 via fluid controller 462; in other embodiments, devices 100, 300 are coupled to fat storage source 464 without fluid controller 462.

[0113] It should be understood that in method 500, the defined steps may be performed in any order, may be fewer than the defined steps, or may be performed simultaneously (unless the context precludes this possibility), and the method may include one or more other steps performed before any defined step, between two defined steps, or after all defined steps (unless the context precludes this possibility). For example, in one embodiment, the method may include an infiltration step 502, an aspiration step 506, a plasma application step 508, and a fat transfer step 512. In this embodiment, the fat emulsification step 504 and the fat processing step 410 may be: 1.) not performed at all, 2.) performed at different times relative to steps 502, 506, 508, 512 as shown in FIG. 18, or 3.) performed after steps 502, 506, 508, 512 are completed.

[0114] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the ESU 12 may include a controller for controlling the electrosurgical energy and / or gas supplied to the devices 100, 300, and the foot switch interface may be removed. For example, the ESU 12 may include an input / output interface disposed on the housing of the ESU 12 for inputting information into the ESU and displaying information to the user. The input / output interface may include, for example, buttons, knobs, etc., for inputting parameters into the ESU 12. In one embodiment, the ESU 12 may include a touch screen capable of inputting and displaying information.

[0115] Throughout this disclosure and elsewhere, block diagrams and flowcharts illustrate methods, apparatus (i.e., systems) and computer program products. Each element of the block diagrams and flowcharts, and the corresponding combinations of each element in the block diagrams and flowcharts, illustrates the functionality of the methods, apparatus, and computer program products.Any and all such functions (“shown functions”) can be implemented by computer program instructions; by a dedicated, hardware-based computer system; by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions; by a combination of general-purpose hardware and computer instructions; etc.—any and all of these may generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module,” “controller,” or “system.”

[0116] It should be understood that the various features shown and described are interchangeable, i.e., features shown in one embodiment may be incorporated into another.

[0117] While this disclosure has been shown and described with reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0118] Furthermore, although the foregoing text sets forth a detailed description of many embodiments, it should be understood that the legal scope of the invention is defined by the words of the claims set forth in this patent. The detailed description should be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment, as describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Many alternative embodiments may be implemented by those skilled in the art using current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which still fall within the scope of the claims.

[0119] It should also be understood that unless the term is explicitly defined herein by the sentence “As used herein, the term '______' is defined to mean…” or a similar sentence, there is no intention to limit the meaning of the term, whether explicitly or implicitly, beyond its simple or ordinary meaning, and the term should not be construed as being limited in scope based on any statement made in any part of this patent (other than the language of the claims). Any term referred to in the claims at the end of this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning is only for clarity so as not to confuse the reader and is not intended to limit such claim terms to that single meaning by implication or otherwise. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by stating the word “apparatus” and function without stating any structure, the scope of any claim element is not intended to be interpreted based on the application of paragraph 6 of 35 USC §112.Instruction Manual Page 12 / 12 16 CN 121941464 A Figure 1 Figure 2 Instruction Manual Appendix 1 / 10 Page 17 CN 121941464 A Figure 3 Figure 4 Instruction Manual Appendix 2 / 10 Page 18 CN 121941464 A Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Instruction Manual Appendix 3 / 10 Page 19 CN 121941464 A Figure 8 Figure 9 Figure 10 Instruction Manual Appendix 4 / 10 Page 20 CN 121941464 A Figure 11A Figure 11B Instruction Manual Appendix 5 / 10 Page 21 CN 121941464 A Figure 11C Figure 12 Instruction Manual Appendix 6 / 10 Page 22 CN 121941464 A Figure 13 Figure 14 Instruction Manual Appendix 7 / 10 Page 23 CN 121941464 A Figure 15 Figure 16 Instruction Manual Appendix 8 / 10 Page 24 CN 121941464 A Figure 17 Appendix to the Instruction Manual, Page 9 / 10, 25 CN 121941464 A Figure 18 Appendix to the Instruction Manual, Page 10 / 10, 26 CN 121941464 A.

Claims

1. An electrosurgical device comprising: Connector, the connector being configured to receive electrosurgical energy and gas supply; A housing, coupled to the connector via at least one cable, the housing including a proximal end and a distal end, The at least one cable includes at least one electrical conductor; A shaft, the shaft including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being at least partially disposed in the distal end of the housing; Gas flow path from the connector to the distal end of the shaft; An adapter, the adapter including a first input port and a second input port and an output port, the first input port and the output port being within the gas flow path, and the second input port being coupled to a flushing pipe; as well as An electrode, the electrode being disposed in the distal end of the shaft and coupled to at least one electrical conductor in the at least one cable; Gas or flushing fluid is supplied to the distal end of the shaft.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a first check valve disposed at a first input port of the adapter along the gas flow path to prevent flushing fluid from entering the connector.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a second check valve disposed on the proximal end of the flushing tube.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the shaft comprises a conductive tube, the conductive tube being coupled at its proximal end to the at least one electrical conductor in the at least one cable, and the distal end of the conductive tube being coupled to the electrode, and An insulating outer sheath is installed on the conductive tube.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a ceramic tip coupled to the distal end of the conductive tube, wherein the distal end of the electrode is disposed in the ceramic tip.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the proximal end of the ceramic tip includes a first engagement portion, and the distal end of the conductive tube includes a complementary second engagement portion for coupling the ceramic tip to the distal end of the conductive tube.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the electrode includes a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end including two tabs extending from the electrode, and the proximal end including two flexible legs.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the ceramic head end includes two diametrically opposed slots, each slot being configured to receive a corresponding tab of the electrode.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the distal end of the conductive tube includes two holes, each hole configured to receive a corresponding leg of the electrode to couple the electrode to the distal end of the conductive tube.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein each slot of the ceramic tip includes a stop such that when the electrode is coupled to the distal end of the conductive tube, the electrode holds the ceramic tip to the distal end of the conductive tube.

11. The device according to claim 4, wherein the conductive tube is flexible.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the shaft includes at least one port, the at least one port being arc-shaped about the longitudinal axis of the shaft by a predetermined arc length, such that the at least one port provides a 180-degree tissue processing area about the longitudinal axis.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the distal end includes at least one second port, the at least one second port being configured to pass through the outer wall of the distal end and oriented in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis, the at least one second port being diametrically opposed to at least one first port.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one first port and the at least one second port are configured such that the at least one first port and the at least one second port provide a 360-degree tissue processing area around the longitudinal axis.

15. A body shaping system comprising: A handheld device configured to apply plasma to tissue and deliver at least one fluid to the tissue; An electrosurgical generator coupled to the handheld device, the electrosurgical generator providing electrosurgical energy to the handheld device; A gas source coupled to the handheld device supplies gas to the handheld device, and the handheld device generates plasma when it receives the electrosurgical energy and the gas; as well as At least one fluid source coupled to the handheld device for supplying the at least one fluid to the handheld device.

16. The body shaping system of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid is a tumescent anesthetic.

17. The body shaping system of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid is fat.

18. The body shaping system of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid is physiological saline.

19. The body shaping system of claim 15, further comprising a fluid controller coupled to the at least one fluid source for receiving the at least one fluid and providing the at least one fluid to the handheld device.

20. The body shaping system of claim 19, wherein the fluid is at least one of a tumescent anesthetic, fat, and / or saline solution.

21. The body sculpting system of claim 20, further comprising a liposuction system configured to remove fat from a subcutaneous tissue layer and deliver the fat to at least one fluid source.

22. A method for body sculpting, comprising: A handheld device is provided, the handheld device being configured to apply plasma to tissue and deliver at least one fluid to the tissue; The handheld device is coupled to at least one fluid source via a flush port connector. The distal end of the handheld device is configured to penetrate the skin into the subcutaneous tissue layer; as well as The at least one fluid from the at least one fluid source is introduced into the subcutaneous tissue layer through the handheld device.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the fluid source is a tumescent anesthetic.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the fluid source is fat.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein the tissue layer is a subcutaneous tissue layer.

26. The method of claim 22, wherein the tissue layer is an intramuscular tissue layer.

27. The method of claim 23, further comprising aspirating fat from the subcutaneous tissue layer.

28. The method of claim 23, further comprising generating plasma at the distal end of the handheld device and applying the plasma to the subcutaneous tissue layer.

29. The method of claim 28, further comprising transferring fat from the at least one fluid source into the subcutaneous tissue layer via the handheld device.

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