Surgical instrument having a jaw part

Abstract

The present invention relates to a surgical instrument (2), in particular for laparoscopic surgeries, comprising a jaw part (4) composed of two instrument branches (6, 8) which are opposite one another and can be moved relative to one another, of which at least one of the instrument branches (8) has a jaw part housing (26) and a rocker branch (28) articulated on the jaw part housing (26) by a joint (30), wherein: a rotation of the rocker branch (28) relative to the jaw part housing (26) is limited by a stop (34); the rocker branch (28) has a distal tip (38); and the stop (34) is designed to limit a rocking movement of the distal tip (38) in the direction away from the opposite instrument branch (6), wherein the stop (34) is proximal to the joint (30).

Description

[0001] Surgical instrument with jaw

[0002] Description

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an (electro-)surgical instrument, in particular of a minimally invasive design, especially for laparoscopic procedures, with a jaw part consisting of two opposing and mutually movable instrument branches.

[0004] Electrosurgical instruments are already known in the art that, by means of a jaw-like section consisting of two (approximately scissor-, clamp-jaw, forceps- or tweezer-shaped) mutually movable instrument branches (or tool-branches), enable the cutting, grasping, holding, and / or clamping of body tissue in order to coagulate, cauterize, or sever the tissue monopolarly or bipolarly by applying a high-frequency voltage (or a high-frequency alternating current) and the resulting heating. Such an instrument is known, for example, from WO 2016 / 071263 A1.

[0005] Such instruments, particularly bipolar sealing instruments, can have a double-moving (with two actuated instrument jaws) or a single-moving (with one actuated and one non-actuated instrument jaw) jaw. The actuated instrument jaws typically perform a rotational movement around a fixed pivot joint to open and close the instrument, which can result in varying surface pressures between the instrument jaws depending on the thickness of the tissue being grasped.

[0006] To achieve a uniform contact force of the instrument jaws and thereby improve sealing quality, jaw joints are known from the prior art, for example from WO 2011 / 097469 A2, WO 2013 / 102602 A2, or WO 2015 / 197395 A1, in which one of the instrument jaws, in particular the non-operable instrument jaw in a single-moving jaw joint design, is mounted in a rocker-like manner. This means that the relevant instrument jaw is preferably mounted approximately centrally in the jaw joint and pivotable to a certain degree, like a rocker, so that its angular position relative to the opposite instrument jaw can be adjusted. In particular, the jaw joint comprises a jaw joint housing and a rocker jaw articulated to the jaw joint housing by a (rocker) joint (or pivot joint).

[0007] To limit geometric deflection or rotation angle of the rocker arm (in both directions of rotation), the jaw section features a stop. In known jaw sections, the stop is positioned very close to the (rocker) joint, resulting in very high forces or surface pressures on the stop surfaces, which can damage the instrument. Furthermore, the manufacturing tolerance of the stop must be very tight, as even small deviations can lead to large deflection at the rocker end and thus cause a malfunction. Additionally, a return spring, which in known designs is often arranged as an extra component between the stop surfaces, can lead to further accumulation of manufacturing tolerances or can itself be damaged.Furthermore, in known solutions, the direction of action of the stop is chosen such that a reaction force acts in the direction of a connection point between the jaw housing and the rocker arm, which is often designed as a crimp connection, so that the delicate crimp connection can be damaged and the rocker arm can detach from the jaw housing.

[0008] The object of this disclosure is therefore to avoid or at least reduce the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, an (electro-)surgical instrument with a jaw section and a rocker arm is to be provided, in which the functionality of the jaw section can be ensured, preferably at all times, and which is also particularly easy to manufacture. Specifically, the limitation of the rocker arm's rocker function is to be designed to be particularly robust with regard to its manufacture and its effect on other components of the instrument. The object of this disclosure is achieved by an (electro-)surgical instrument with the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0009] Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to an (electro-)surgical instrument, in particular of a minimally invasive (shaft) design and especially for laparoscopic procedures, with a jaw section comprising two opposing and mutually movable instrument branches, at least one of which has a jaw section housing and a rocker arm articulated to the jaw section housing by a (rocker) joint (or a pivot joint). Rotation of the rocker arm relative to the jaw section housing is limited by a stop. The rocker arm has a distal tip, and the stop is designed to limit the rotation or rocking movement of the distal tip away from the opposing instrument section (i.e., downwards / outwards). The stop is located proximal to the joint. The stop may, for example, be formed by a mechanical projection.

[0010] The fact that the stop is a stop to limit the rocking movement of the distal tip of the rocker arm downwards / outwards or in the direction away from the opposite instrument arm, i.e. a stop during closing or the closing movement, can be particularly crucial, since large forces can be applied to the jaw part during the closing movement.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, the stop can be a stop to limit the rocking movement of the distal tip of the rocker arm upwards (or towards the opposite instrument arm).

[0012] In other words, the instrument has a jaw section with two instrument branches that are movable relative to each other. At least one of these branches can be pivoted towards the other branch by (manual) actuation of the instrument (active, i.e., by actuation). At least one of the branches, preferably distal to a pivot axis of the actuated branch, is mounted in a rocking position and is pressed into a starting position, particularly towards the opposite branch, by a spring (passive, i.e., not by actuation). The stop for limiting the rocking movement of the rocking branch is not positioned between the joint and a distal end of the rocking branch or a free end of the instrument, but rather on the side of the joint facing away from the free end.

[0013] This has the advantage that the positioning of the rocker stop prevents an unfavorable force application that could lead to the rocker arm being pried open or loosened.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can limit the rotation of the rocker arm relative to the jaw housing when the jaw is closed (or during a closing movement). This prevents high forces that occur, especially during closing.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can be formed by a stop surface on the rocker arm. Preferably, the stop surface can be arranged on the side of the rocker arm facing the opposite instrument arm. This allows the rocking movement of the distal tip in the direction away from the opposite instrument arm to be limited in a simple manner.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can be located in a (proximal) end region of the rocker arm. This means that the stop is positioned far from the joint. With increasing distance from the joint, the deflection of the rocker arm increases, so that manufacturing-related variations at the stop have a lesser impact on the deflection of the rocker arm. Thus, the positioning far from the joint allows for larger manufacturing tolerances in the area of ​​the stop.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can be spaced substantially the same distance from the joint as the distal tip of the rocker arm. This means that the lever arm from the joint to the stop and the lever arm from the joint to the distal tip have a ratio of 0.7 to 1.3, preferably 0.85 to 1.15, more preferably 0.95 to 1.05, and particularly 1. This means that the stop and the distal tip are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the joint. Thus, the lever arm of a distal rocker arm section and a proximal rocker arm section are substantially equal in length, resulting in a uniform force distribution and application.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the rocker arm can rest directly against the jaw housing in the area of ​​the stop. In particular, the stop can be formed without the spring for returning the rocker arm to a defined initial position, especially in the direction of the opposite instrument arm, or with the spring interposed. This prevents an additional component from contributing to the accumulation of tolerances.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the jaw section can have electrical insulation or an insulating layer. According to the preferred embodiment, the stop can be positioned or formed outside the electrical insulation. That is, the stop is located outside the operating area of ​​the jaw section. Thus, the stop force can be transmitted directly, i.e., not via the electrical insulating layer, between the rocker arm and the jaw section housing.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can be formed on a metallic surface of the rocker arm and / or the jaw housing. This has the advantage that a precise stop can be formed.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, a first stop surface of the stop can be formed on an inwardly directed surface of the rocker arm, i.e., facing the opposite instrument arm. This limits rotation of the distal tip of the rocker arm away from the opposite instrument arm. According to a preferred embodiment, a second stop surface of the stop can be formed on an outwardly directed surface of the rocker arm, i.e., facing away from the opposite instrument arm. This limits rotation of the distal tip of the rocker arm towards the opposite instrument arm.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can be arranged such that a resulting force acts away from the opposite instrument branch in the area of ​​the joint. This allows for favorable force application.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the rocker arm can be electrically connected to the jaw housing in the area of ​​the joint. This ensures suitable contact.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the stop can be arranged such that, in the area of ​​the joint, a resultant force is exerted away from an electrical connection point between the rocker arm and the jaw housing. This means that no leverage effect is created in the direction of the connection point, so that the often delicate electrical connection point cannot be damaged by the stop forces.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the rocker arm can have a tongue that projects at least partially from the jaw housing or is exposed relative to the jaw housing, and on which the stop is formed. The tongue is not limited to projecting beyond a surface of the jaw housing. This means that the stop, or a section of the rocker arm forming the stop (particularly on the underside of the jaw housing), is visible, i.e., visible from outside the jaw housing in the assembled state. This has the advantage that a visual inspection for completeness, correct assembly, and / or absence of damage can be performed when the instrument is assembled. Furthermore, manufacturing advantages may arise.

[0026] According to the preferred embodiment, the tongue can project proximally, particularly on the underside of the rocker arm. This means that the tongue is formed on a substantially L-shaped proximal extension of the rocker arm. The extension projects, for example, laterally outwards and proximally. In particular, the tongue (in both the open and closed positions of the jaw) can be spaced apart from the opposite instrument arm and / or a blade to prevent electrical contact. Additionally, the tongue can be split or closed.

[0027] According to the preferred embodiment, the tongue can form a (first) stop surface to limit the rocking movement of the rocker arm. The (first) stop surface can, in particular, serve to limit the rocking movement of the rocker arm when the jaw is closed, i.e., to limit downward movement of the distal tip away from the opposite instrument arm. The (first) stop surface can preferably be formed on a side of the tongue facing the opposite instrument arm. For example, the stop surface can be offset laterally outwards (in particular, approximately parallel) to a contact surface of the rocker arm.

[0028] According to the preferred embodiment, the tongue can form a (second) stop surface to limit the rocking movement of the rocker arm. The (second) stop surface can, in particular, limit upward movement of the distal tip towards the opposite instrument arm. The (second) stop surface can preferably be formed on a side of the tongue facing away from the opposite instrument arm.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one of the instrument branches can be pivoted about a pivot axis by actuating the jaw section. According to the preferred embodiment, the stop can be arranged distal to the pivot axis of the at least one of the instrument branches. This means that the stop is specifically located directly in the area of ​​the instrument branch with the rocker-mounted rocker arm.

[0030] In summary, the present disclosure relates to a rocker stop for (so-called Caiman) jaws or a medical high-frequency surgical instrument, in particular a bipolar vessel sealing instrument, with two metal electrodes in the jaw. A rocker function ensures a uniform contact force between the two electrodes, thereby increasing the sealing quality. To limit geometric deflection or rotation of the rocker / rocker electrode / rocker arm (in both directions of rotation), a mechanical projection located away from the joint is provided. This projection ensures a precise and stable stop against the jaw housing and prevents the rocker electrode / rocker arm from being levered out or detached. In the instrument, the rocker stop is located at the proximal end of the rocker. This positioning away from the joint reduces the forces and / orThe surface pressure of the contact surfaces is significantly reduced, allowing for considerably larger manufacturing tolerances compared to a joint-proximate arrangement. Furthermore, the contact can be located outside the application area, eliminating the need for an insulating layer in this area and enabling the force to be transmitted directly between the two metallic components. With this design, the resulting force acts downwards towards the rocker bearing, thus preventing leverage towards the connection point, particularly in the form of a crimp connection, unlike in conventional solutions. This increases safety with regard to component breakage or ejection of parts.

[0031] The present revelation is explained with the help of drawings:

[0032] Figures 1 to 4 show a basic structure of an instrument or a mouth part of the instrument according to the present disclosure; and

[0033] Figures 5 to 8 show various details of the instrument, the jaw section, or a rocker arm of the jaw section according to the present disclosure. The figures are schematic and serve to aid in understanding the present disclosure. Identical elements are marked with the same reference symbols.

[0034] Figures 1 and 2 show perspective views of a basic structure of an (electro-)surgical instrument 2 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 shows the instrument 2 in a closed position. Figure 2 shows the instrument 2 in an open position. The instrument 2 is, in particular, a minimally invasive instrument of the shaft type and is used especially for laparoscopic procedures. In the following description, proximal and distal are defined with reference to a surgeon using the instrument 2.

[0035] The instrument 2 has an effector in the form of a jaw-like part 4. The jaw-like part 4 is formed from a pair of instrument branches 6 and 8 that are preferably movable relative to each other in a scissor-like or pincer-like manner. The instrument branches 6 and 8 each have a clamping surface and / or electrode surface on their facing sides.

[0036] The instrument branches 6, 8 (or at least one of the instrument branches 6, 8) are (or is) pivotally mounted so that the instrument branches 6, 8 can be moved away from each other in the direction of an open position and towards each other in the direction of a closed position (by (manual) actuation of the instrument 2 or jaw part 4). When the jaw part 4 is actuated, the instrument branches 6, 8 pivot relative to each other, thereby opening or closing them. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the instrument branches 6, 8 are in the open position.

[0037] The instrument 2 has an instrument shaft 10. The instrument shaft 10 is preferably designed in the form of a tubular shaft. The jaw 4 is arranged at or coupled to a distal end of the instrument shaft 10. The jaw 4, or the instrument jaws 6, 8, are pivotally connected to the instrument shaft 10. The instrument 2 has a handle 12. The handle 12 is arranged at or coupled to a proximal end of the instrument shaft 10. The handle 12 is preferably designed in the form of a pistol grip. The handle 12 has a grip housing 14 (or a grip shell) and a trigger guard 16, which is preferably pivotally connected to the grip housing 14 and is operated manually. Actuation or pivoting movement of the trigger guard 16 is coupled to the actuation of the jaw 4.

[0038] In particular, the handle housing 14 comprises a gear housing 18 extending substantially from distal to proximal, i.e., along the longitudinal direction of the shaft, and a fixed handle part 20 extending at an angle, i.e., transversely, to the gear housing 18. The trigger guard 16 is pivotally connected to the handle housing 14 so that the trigger guard 16 can be pivoted towards or away from the handle part 20. The trigger guard 16 may, in particular, have a preferably closed or substantially ring-shaped loop for receiving the operator's fingers. The pivoting movement of the trigger guard 16 towards the handle part 20, actuated, for example, by closing a hand of the operator or by squeezing the trigger guard 16 and the handle part 20 together, is hereinafter referred to simply as actuating the trigger guard 16. The pivoting movement of the trigger guard 16 away from the grip part 20 is actuated, for example, by opening one of the operator's hands.By pushing apart the trigger guard 16 and the grip part 20, this process will in the following be referred to simply as resetting the trigger guard 16.

[0039] The instrument 2 has a shaft rotation device 22, which is particularly operable manually. The shaft rotation device 22 is arranged at or coupled to a proximal end of the instrument shaft 10. The shaft rotation device 22 is preferably designed in the form of a rotating star. The shaft rotation device 22 can be attached to the handle 12. Via the shaft rotation device 22, the instrument shaft 10 and the instrument branches 6, 8 arranged thereon can be rotated relative to the handle 12 about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The instrument 2 has a transmission / actuating mechanism, which is preferably arranged within the instrument shaft 10 and is not shown further. The transmission can be in the form of a cable or, in particular, a longitudinally displaceable push-pull rod. The jaw part 4 and the handle 12, respectively, are connected by the shaft rotation device 22.Trigger levers 16 are operatively connected via the transmission in order to move the instrument branches 6, 8 preferably steplessly from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position by actuating the handle 12 or trigger lever 16.

[0040] The instrument 2 has a (partially shown) line or electrical wiring 24. Via the wiring 24, the instrument 2 or the jaw section 4 is connected or connectable to an RF energy source (not shown) in order to apply an RF voltage between the instrument branches 6, 8 for the electrothermal treatment of tissue.

[0041] Regarding the basic functionality and mechanical design of instrument 2, in particular the actuating mechanism, reference is made, for example, to the published documents WO 2011 / 097469 A2 and EP 3 033 022 A1.

[0042] Figures 3 and 4 show perspective views of a basic structure of the jaw 4 of the electrosurgical instrument 2 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 shows a detail view from Figure 1, in which the instrument 2, or jaw 4, is in the closed position. Figure 4 shows a detail view from Figure 2, in which the instrument 2, or jaw 4, is in the open position.

[0043] The jaw section 4 has two instrument branches 6 and 8: the first (upper in Figs. 1 to 4) instrument branch 6 and the second (lower in Figs. 1 to 4) instrument branch 8. The two instrument branches 6 and 8 are positioned opposite each other. The first instrument branch 6 is preferably formed in one piece. The second instrument branch 8 is preferably formed in multiple parts. The first instrument branch 6 is pivotally mounted / supported at the distal end of the instrument shaft 10 via a first proximal pivot joint about a first transverse axis (i.e., transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the shaft). The second instrument branch 8 can be pivotally mounted / supported at the distal end of the instrument shaft 10 via a second proximal pivot joint about a second transverse axis (i.e., transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the shaft) or be rigidly connected to the distal end of the instrument shaft 10.This means that the jaw part 4 can be designed as a double-moving or single-moving jaw part.

[0044] The second instrument branch 8 has a proximal jaw housing 26 and a distal rocker arm 28. The rocker arm 28 forms the clamping surface and / or electrode surface facing the first instrument branch 6. The rocker arm 28 is pivotally mounted to the jaw housing 26 via a rocker joint 30. One rocker joint axis is transverse or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the shaft. The rocker joint axis is preferably spaced parallel to and spaced apart from the first and / or second transverse axis. The rocker joint axis is distal to the first and / or second transverse axis. A proximal end region of the rocker arm 28 is received on an inner surface of the jaw housing 26 (facing the first instrument branch 6).

[0045] A spring 32 is arranged between the jaw housing 26 and the rocker arm 28. The spring 32 is arranged at or around the (rocker) joint 30 such that a distal (anterior) tongue rocker section of the rocker arm 28 is pressed towards the first instrument arm 6.

[0046] Figures 5 to 8 show various details of the instrument 2, the jaw part 4, and the second instrument branch 8.

[0047] According to the aspect of the present disclosure, a rotation of the rocker arm 28 relative to the jaw housing 26 is limited by a stop 34. The stop is arranged proximal to the (rocker) joint 30. In particular, the stop 34 for limiting the rocker movement is thus not arranged between the joint 30 and a distal end of the rocker arm 28. The stop 34 can, for example, be formed by a mechanical projection.

[0048] Preferably, the stop 34 can be formed in a proximal end region 36 of the rocker arm 28. This means that the stop 34 is located furthest from the joint.

[0049] In particular, the stop 34 can be spaced at essentially the same distance from the joint 30 as a distal tip 38 of the rocker arm 28. This means that the stop 34 and the distal tip 38 are arranged essentially symmetrically with respect to the joint 30.

[0050] Preferably, the rocker arm 28 can bear directly against the jaw housing 26 in the area of ​​the stop 34. In particular, the stop 34 can be formed by the spring 32 or with the spring 32 interposed.

[0051] The stop 34 is formed on a tongue 40 of the rocker arm 28 that projects at least partially from the jaw housing 26. In other words, the tongue 40 is partially exposed relative to the jaw housing 26. This means that the stop 34, or rather the tongue 40 (particularly on the underside of the jaw housing 26), is visible, especially in the assembled state, from outside the jaw housing 26 (see Figs. 5 and 8). The tongue 40 is not limited to projecting beyond a surface of the jaw housing 26.

[0052] The design of the tongue 40 is particularly evident in Figures 7 and 8. The tongue 40 is formed on a substantially L-shaped extension 42 of the rocker arm 28. The extension 42 is formed on, or forms, the proximal end region 36. The extension 42 projects laterally outwards (i.e., extending away from the first instrument arm 6) and proximally. This means that the tongue 40 projects proximally, particularly on an underside of the rocker arm 28. The tongue 40 is spaced apart from the first instrument arm 6, particularly from an upper blade, both in the open and closed states of the jaw section 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the tongue 40 is designed as a closed tongue. Alternatively, the tongue 40 can also be designed as a split tongue, although this is not shown.

[0053] The tongue 40 forms a stop surface 44 to limit the rocking movement of the rocker arm 28 when the jaw section 4 is closed. This means that the tongue 40, or rather the stop surface 44, limits downward movement of the distal tip 38 (i.e., away from the first instrument arm 6). The stop surface 44 is preferably located on the side of the tongue 40 facing the first instrument arm 6. The stop surface 44 is, for example, laterally offset outwards / downwards (in particular, approximately parallel) to the clamping surface and / or electrode surface of the rocker arm 28. A counter-stop surface 46 is formed by the jaw section housing 26 (see Fig. 8).

[0054] Furthermore, the tongue 40 can form a stop surface 48 to limit the rocking movement of the rocker arm 28 when the jaw section 4 is open. This means that the tongue 40, or rather the stop surface 48, limits upward movement of the distal tip 38 (i.e., towards the first instrument arm 6). The stop surface 48 is preferably formed on the side of the tongue 40 facing away from the first instrument arm 6. The stop surface 48 is, for example, formed in the area of ​​a transition between the laterally projecting section and the proximally projecting section of the process 42. A counter-stop surface 50 is formed by the jaw section housing 26 (see Fig. 8).

[0055] A general structure of the rocker arm 28 is described with reference to Fig. 7. The rocker arm 28 has a surface 52 facing the first instrument arm 6. The surface 52 serves as the clamping surface and / or electrode surface. The distal tip 38 is pressed upwards, i.e., towards the first instrument arm 6, by the spring 32 arranged between the rocker arm 28 and the jaw housing 26. The downward movement of the rocker arm 28 (during closing) is limited, in particular, by the (inner) stop surface 44 on the tongue 40 at the proximal end of the rocker arm 28 and the counter-stop surface 46 on the jaw housing 26. The upward movement is limited, in particular, by the (outer) stop surface 48 on the tongue 40 at the proximal end of the rocker arm 28 and the corresponding counter-stop surface 50 on the jaw housing 26.

[0056] On one underside, the rocker arm 28 (in the area of ​​the joint 30) has a bearing surface or force transmission surface 54, with which the rocker arm 28 rests on or rolls on the jaw housing 26. The bearing surface or force transmission surface 54 also serves for electrical contact.

[0057] Furthermore, the rocker arm 28 (in the area of ​​the joint 30) has laterally outward / sideways projecting pins 56 which engage in a corresponding recess 58 in the jaw housing 26. The pins 56 serve to secure the rocker arm 28 against falling out.

[0058] A central section 60 of the rocker arm 28 is formed as a metal injection-molded part. The tongue 40, the surface 52, the bearing surface or force transmission surface 54, and the pins 56 are formed on this central section. Furthermore, the rocker arm 28 has a section 62 surrounding the central section 60 on its outer side, i.e., in particular on its side surfaces and its underside. The surrounding section 62 is formed, in particular, as an injection-molded plastic section 62. The rocker arm 28 also has (preferably ceramic) spacers 64 that project from the surface 52 towards the first instrument arm 6.

[0059] The jaw section 4 can have electrical insulation or an insulating layer 66. The insulating layer 66 is formed (at the second instrument branch 8 or at the rocker branch 28) in particular by the plastic section 62. The insulating layer 66 is formed in particular (only) within an application area of ​​the jaw section 4. Preferably, the stop 34 can be positioned or formed outside the electrical insulating layer 66.

[0060] In particular, the stop 34 can be formed on a metallic surface of the rocker arm 28. This means that one or more rocker arm-side stop surfaces, in particular the stop surfaces 44, 48, are preferably metallic.

[0061] In particular, the stop 34 can be formed on a metallic surface of the jaw housing 26. This means that one or more stop surfaces on the jaw housing side, especially the counter-stop surfaces 46, 50, are preferably metallic.

[0062] For example, a first (rocker-branch-side) stop surface of the stop 34 can be formed on an inwardly directed surface of the rocker branch 28, i.e., towards the first instrument branch 6, and in particular by the stop surface 44. For example, a second (rocker-branch-side) stop surface of the stop 34 can be formed on an outwardly directed surface of the rocker branch 28, i.e., away from the first instrument branch 6, and thus by the stop surface 48.

[0063] The rocker arm 28 can be electrically connected to the jaw housing 26, particularly in the area of ​​the joint 30. This means that an electrical connection point 68 is formed between the rocker arm 28 and the jaw housing 26 in the area of ​​the joint 30 (see Fig. 7). The electrical connection point 68 can, in particular, be designed as a crimp connection.

[0064] Preferably, the stop 34 can be arranged such that a resultant force acts in the area of ​​the joint in the direction away from the first instrument branch 6 or in the direction of the electrical connection point 68 between the rocker arm 28 and the jaw housing 26 (see Fig. 6). As described above, the first instrument branch 6 can be pivoted about a pivot axis 70 by actuating the jaw 4. Preferably, the stop 34 can be arranged distal to the pivot axis 70 of the first instrument branch 6.

Claims

Claims 1. Surgical instrument (2), in particular for laparoscopic procedures, with a jaw section (4) comprising two opposing and mutually movable instrument branches (6, 8), at least one of which has a jaw section housing (26) and a rocker branch (28) articulated to the jaw section housing (26) by a joint (30), wherein a rotation of the rocker branch (28) relative to the jaw section housing (26) is limited by a stop (34), the rocker branch (28) has a distal tip (38) and the stop (34) is designed to limit a rocking movement of the distal tip (38) in the direction away from the opposite instrument branch (6), characterized in that the stop (34) is arranged proximal to the joint (30).

2. Instrument (2) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the stop (34) limits the rotation of the rocker arm (28) relative to the jaw part housing (26) when closing the jaw part (4).

3. Instrument (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed by a stop surface (44) on the rocker arm (28), wherein the stop surface (44) is arranged on a side of the rocker arm (28) facing the opposite instrument arm (6).

4. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed in a proximal end region of the rocker arm (28).

5. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the stop (34) is spaced substantially the same distance from the joint (30) as a distal tip (38) of the rocker arm (28).

6. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rocker arm (28) in the area of ​​the stop (34) rests directly against the jaw part housing (26).

7. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the jaw part (4) has an electrical insulation (66) and the stop (34) is formed outside the electrical insulation (66).

8. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the stop (34) is formed on a metallic surface of the rocker arm (28) and / or the jaw housing (26).

9. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the stop (34) is arranged such that in the area of ​​the joint (30) a resultant force acts in the direction away from the opposite instrument branch (6) and / or from an electrical connection point (68) between the rocker branch (28) and the jaw housing (26).

10. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the rocker arm (28) has a tongue (40) that projects at least partially from the jaw housing (26), on which the stop (34) is formed.

11. Instrument (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that the tongue protrudes proximally on an underside of the rocker arm (28).

12. Instrument (2) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the tongue forms a stop surface (44) for limiting the rocking movement of the rocking arm (28) when closing the jaw part (4) on one side of the tongue (40) facing the opposite instrument arm (6).

13. Instrument (2) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that at least one of the instrument branches (6) can be opened by actuating the jaw part (4) is pivotable about a pivot axis (70) and the stop (34) is arranged distal to the pivot axis (70) of at least one of the instrument branches (6).

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