Electrosurgical systems, electrosurgical instruments and electrosurgical generators

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrosurgical system, an electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical generator, the electrosurgical system having an electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical generator connected thereto, the electrosurgical system having a processor and at least one generator data memory and an optical and / or acoustic signaling device and / or a display device, in order to provide a user with optical and / or acoustic messages during operation. The electrosurgical instrument has at least one instrument data memory, in which data records containing structured data are stored, at least some of which represent signaling instructions, based on which the processor can control the output of optical and / or acoustic messages to the user. The generator data memory contains an operating program for controlling the operation of the electrosurgical generator, and the processor is configured to control the signals or messages to be output by the signaling device and / or the display device based on the data representing the signaling instructions stored in the instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an electrosurgical system having an electrosurgical generator, which is arranged to supply high frequency alternating current to an electrosurgical instrument. The invention also relates to a method of operating an electrosurgical system as well as an electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical generator. Background Art

[0002] An electrosurgical system generally includes an electrosurgical generator for generating high-frequency alternating current. An electrosurgical generator generally has two or more output terminals to which an electrosurgical instrument can be connected and between which a high-frequency alternating voltage is provided during operation. To this end, an electrosurgical generator generally includes a high-voltage power supply portion that generates a direct current during operation and a high-frequency portion that is connected to the high-voltage power supply portion and generates a high-frequency alternating current from the direct current during operation.

[0003] Usually, various electrosurgical instruments for different tasks can be connected to the electrosurgical generator. Conversely, the electrosurgical instrument may also be operated using various electrosurgical generators.

[0004] With the aid of electrosurgery, biological tissue (i.e. body tissue) can be cut, coagulated (vascular occlusion) and / or vaporized. High-frequency alternating current with a frequency between 0.2 MHz and 3 MHz is usually used for electrosurgery. Electrosurgical instruments are generally hand-held instruments with which body tissue can be coagulated, ablated and / or cut.

[0005] Electrosurgical instruments are supplied with high-frequency electrical energy, which can be used to coagulate or cut tissue in a targeted manner. The high-frequency electrical energy is provided by an electrosurgical generator and applied to body tissue with the aid of the electrosurgical instrument that is suitable at the time. Depending on the application, a specific current and voltage profile is required, which is provided to the surgeon in the form of an operating mode (also called operating mode) at the electrosurgical generator for selection. The operating mode can be permanently stored in the electrosurgical generator.

[0006] WO 2011 / 032729 A1 discloses a simply programmable supply device for electrosurgical instruments. The simple programmability results from the possible states that can be set in a defined manner for the state automation, but it also limits the flexibility of the supply device. Summary of the invention

[0007] The invention is based on the task of providing an electrosurgical system which offers improved options for conveying information to the user.

[0008] The invention proposes an electrosurgical system, an electrosurgical generator and an electrosurgical instrument, which can be flexibly combined with one another as individuals and which allow a customized operating mode for the respective application or for the respective electrosurgical instrument. In addition, a method for operating the electrosurgical system and the electrosurgical generator is proposed.

[0009] The electrosurgical system according to the invention comprises an electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical generator, to which the electrosurgical instrument is operatively connected.

[0010] About Electrosurgical Generators:

[0011] The electrosurgical generator has a processor and at least one generator data memory, which the processor can access and in which an operating program for controlling the operation of the electrosurgical generator connected to the electrosurgical instrument is stored. In addition, the electrosurgical generator has an output for connecting the electrosurgical instrument. The electrosurgical instrument connected to the electrosurgical generator during operation can be supplied with electrical energy, in particular a high-frequency alternating voltage or a high-frequency alternating current, via the output. The electrosurgical generator also has a generator data interface, in particular a data link, for data communication with the electrosurgical instrument.

[0012] About Electrosurgical Devices:

[0013] The electrosurgical instrument has an instrument data memory on which is stored at least one data record containing structured data, which is implemented as a plurality of parameterized instructions for control instructions stored in a generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator. In addition, the data record can contain values ​​of operating parameters. The electrosurgical instrument also has an instrument data interface for data communication with the electrosurgical generator. Via the instrument data interface, the electrosurgical generator can read structured data from the data record stored in the instrument data memory during operation. In addition, this enables the instrument data interface to store data records containing structured data implemented as a plurality of parameterized instructions in the instrument data memory.

[0014] About the operating procedures:

[0015] The operating program is designed to trigger, in addition to control interventions on the electrosurgical generator, storage accesses to structured data in the instrument data memory and to execute control instructions stored in the generator data memory and directed by parameterized instructions represented by the structured data.

[0016] Process during the operation of the electrosurgical generator:

[0017] During operation of the electrosurgical generator, the processor executes an operating program stored in the generator data memory and controls the electrosurgical generator in accordance with the operating program. In particular, the processor triggers a control intervention on the electrosurgical generator that is controlled by the operating program. The control intervention here includes, for example, controlling the output of electrical energy to an electrosurgical instrument that is connected to the electrosurgical generator during operation. However, the control intervention may also result in a signal output or information display.

[0018] The control intervention can be controlled directly by the operating program or in conjunction with parameterized instructions contained in structured data stored in the instrument data memory. The values ​​of the parameters for specifying the control intervention can be contained in the structured data in the instrument data memory.

[0019] During operation of the electrosurgical generator, the parameterization instructions stored in the structured data are called up by the operating program and the control instructions indicated by the parameterization instructions represented by the structured data stored in the generator data memory are executed. If the structured data contains values ​​for operating parameters, the control instructions are executed taking into account the operating parameter values ​​specified in the structured data.

[0020] For this purpose, the electrosurgical generator has controllable access to the structured data during operation via the processor and the associated operating program. This can be done by directly accessing the instrument data memory. Alternatively, the operating program can also be designed to enable the structured data to be transferred from the instrument data memory to the generator data memory. This can be done when the electrosurgical generator is put into use or when the electrosurgical instrument is connected. If the structured data is read out into the generator data memory when the electrosurgical generator is put into use or when the electrosurgical instrument is connected, the processor accesses the structured data then stored in the generator data memory.

[0021] Regarding the method of operating the electrosurgical system:

[0022] According to the invention, a method for operating an electrosurgical system having an electrosurgical instrument is also provided. The electrosurgical system has an electrosurgical generator, to which the electrosurgical instrument is connected. The electrosurgical instrument has an instrument data memory. The electrosurgical generator has a processor and at least one generator data memory. The processor executes an operating program stored in the generator data memory for controlling the electrosurgical generator.

[0023] According to the invention, a data record is generated or provided, which contains structured data, wherein the structured data is implemented as a plurality of parameterized instructions for indicating operating specifications stored in a generator data memory of an electrosurgical generator. The operating specifications are in particular control instructions that are potentially ready for use. The structured data can contain operating parameter values ​​in addition to the parameterized instructions. However, the operating parameter values ​​can also be part of the operating specifications stored in the generator data memory. In this case, the parameterized instructions can indicate not only control instructions but also operating parameter values.

[0024] The data record containing the structured data will be or is stored in an instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0025] When the electrosurgical generator is put into use or operation, a data record containing structured data stored in an instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument is read by the electrosurgical generator, and the parameterized instructions stored in the structured data are controllably retrieved via the operating program in order to execute control instructions stored in the electrosurgical generator taking into account operating parameters that may also be in the structured data, so that the electrosurgical generator is controlled in accordance with the operating program, operating specifications (such as control instructions) stored in the generator data memory, and parameterized instructions for several control instructions stored in the generator data memory contained in the structured data.

[0026] The operating program and the structured data preferably cooperate during the execution of the operating program in such a way that the execution of the operating program and the retrieval of the structured data by the operating program define the operation of the electrosurgical generator in the operating mode.

[0027] The data record containing the structured data can preferably be generated manually or using software.

[0028] Preferably, the data records containing structured data stored in the instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument are stored in the generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator after being read out. In this way, the processor only needs to access the generator data memory to retrieve the operating program as well as the structured data and operating specifications. At the same time, the advantages of the data records containing structured data stored in the instrument data memory are retained.

[0029] The operating method may also have the following steps, in which the structured data stored on the electrosurgical instrument are changed when being read by the electrosurgical generator or after being stored in the instrument data memory of the electrosurgical generator. This may include, for example, adding line numbers and associated addresses.

[0030] The structured data may contain signaling instructions which, during operation of the electrosurgical generator, are converted into acoustic and / or visual messages to the user, depending on the configuration and / or operating state.

[0031] The structured data may include definitions for activation tones.

[0032] Structured data can contain conditions and properties for specific notifications or error reports.

[0033] The structured data preferably contain control characters for the data representing the text message, wherein the control characters define the reproduction of the text message on the various displays and the text message is generated during operation of the electrosurgical generator as a function of the control characters and of the text displays present on the electrosurgical generator.

[0034] About Electrosurgery Systems:

[0035] The present invention also proposes an electrosurgical system, which includes an electrosurgical instrument with at least one instrument data memory and an electrosurgical generator connected to the electrosurgical instrument. The electrosurgical generator has a processor and at least one generator data memory, and the processor can access the generator data memory during operation. An operating program is stored in the generator data memory, and the processor can execute the operating program to control the electrosurgical generator. In addition, an operating specification is stored in the generator data memory, which at least defines a plurality of control instructions. The operating specification defining the control instructions is also referred to as control instructions within the scope of this specification.

[0036] A data record containing structured data is stored in an instrument data memory of an electrosurgical instrument. The structured data is implemented as a plurality of parameterized instructions for indicating operating specifications representing control instructions stored in a generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator. The structured data also includes operating parameter values.

[0037] The electrosurgical generator is designed to read a data record containing structured data stored in an instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument when it is put into use or during operation and to call up parameterized instructions stored in the structured data during operation via an operating program in order to execute control instructions stored in the electrosurgical generator as part of the operating specifications and directed by the parameterized instructions. This can be done taking into account the values ​​of the operating parameters specified in the structured data. Thus, during operation, the electrosurgical generator is controlled in accordance with the operating program, the operating specifications (in particular the control instructions) stored in the generator data memory and the parameterized instructions contained in the structured data that direct some of the operating specifications stored in the generator data memory.

[0038] The electrosurgical generator may have an optical and / or acoustic signaling mechanism and / or display mechanism for providing a user with visual and / or acoustic messages during operation of the electrosurgical generator. If the electrosurgical generator has an optical and / or acoustic signaling mechanism and / or display mechanism, the processor of the electrosurgical generator is designed in conjunction with the operating program to control the signals or messages to be output by the signaling mechanism and / or display mechanism according to structured data representing signaling instructions stored in the instrument data memory. The signaling instructions represented by the structured data stored in the instrument data memory define how and under what conditions which signals and / or messages are to be output from the electrosurgical generator on which the electrosurgical instrument is operated.

[0039] The electrosurgical generator preferably has a synthesizer and a speaker connected thereto for outputting sound signals as part of the signaling mechanism. The synthesizer is operatively connected to the processor and is designed to controllably generate sound signals by the processor based on data representing signaling instructions in the instrument data memory and output them through the speaker.

[0040] The electrosurgical generator preferably also has a display as a signaling device for displaying texts and / or symbols. The display is connected to the processor and is designed to output text messages controllably via the processor as a function of data in the instrument data memory representing the signaling instructions.

[0041] The processor is designed, under the control of the operating program, in particular to read data representing the signaling instructions from the instrument data memory and process them taking into account configuration information and / or status information in such a way that signals or information are output to the user in a manner specified in the electrosurgical instrument in relation to the status and / or configuration. The configuration information may, for example, relate to other electrosurgical instruments connected to the electrosurgical generator. The status information may be information about the operating state of the electrosurgical generator obtained by sensors or status information generated by the processor during operation.

[0042] The signaling instructions can be read out from the instrument data memory when the electrosurgical instrument is connected to the electrosurgical generator or during operation of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0043] The output of state-related and / or configuration-related signals or information to the user may include displaying text on a display or outputting an audio signal. In this way, alarm information and / or state information such as operating modes, error notifications, operating states, etc. may be output to the user.

[0044] The control instructions and possibly the operating parameter values ​​indicated by the parameterized instructions are operating specifications stored in the generator data memory. Independently of the interface of the electrosurgical instrument, the generator data memory contains theoretically any number of operating specifications which, considered individually, can be used by the operating program and can influence the operation of the electrosurgical generator, but do not set a fixed operating process. The operating specifications can be control instructions, instruction expressions and / or conditional expressions, etc. on the one hand, but also operating parameter values, such as values ​​for output voltages, current values, time settings, impedance values, theoretical values, etc. on the other hand. In particular, the instrument data memory can also contain sound files, the sound signals of which can be controlled by the processor during the operation of the electrosurgical generator in relation to the operating program and in accordance with the data of the defined signaling instructions in the data memory of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0045] The operating specifications in the instrument data memory can be understood as a library of any number of operating specifications (such as, for example, sound files for sound signals that may be output or control information for a text display or a frequency generator) that can be accessed by the operating program. However, the operating specifications cannot be accessed directly, so that the operating mode of the electrosurgical generator cannot yet be determined solely by the operating specifications and the operating program.

[0046] Instead, a processor controlled by an operating program accesses structured data representing signaling instructions in an instrument data memory during connection of the electrosurgical instrument and / or during operation in order to be able to output signals or information to the user in a manner specified in the electrosurgical instrument.

[0047] Preferably, a sound file is stored in the generator data memory, and the synthesizer converts the sound file into a sound signal in a controllable manner by means of a processor based on structured data representing the signaling instructions in the device data memory.

[0048] Preferably, a data structure is also provided in which any data record containing structured data is stored. The structured data contain references to potentially available operating specifications, such as control commands or operating parameter values. The parameterization references defined by the structured data are retrieved during operation of the electrosurgical generator by the operating program currently running and converted into specifically applicable operating specifications that can then be used with the operating program. The structured data can in particular also be stored in an instrument data memory and contain data representing signaling instructions.

[0049] The specific working mode of the electrosurgical generator is therefore preferably dependent on three different ways of storing data, namely,

[0050] - data defining the operating program in the generator data memory,

[0051] - potentially available operating specifications in the generator data memory, for example defining control instructions or operating parameter values,

[0052] A data record stored in a data structure containing structured data which, when triggered during the execution of an operating program, results in the retrieval of a specific operating specification to be used from potentially available operating specifications stored in the device data memory.

[0053] The plurality of structured data stored in the data structure preferably represent signaling instructions, which are converted by the processor of the electrosurgical generator into acoustic or visual signals and / or messages for the user during operation of the electrosurgical generator. The conversion of the signaling instructions into acoustic or visual signals and / or messages for the user can be carried out in a manner prescribed in the electrosurgical instrument depending on the state and / or configuration, since the data representing the signaling instructions can be stored in a data structure on the electrosurgical instrument.

[0054] The data defining the operating program and the data defining the operating specifications in the instrument data memory and the data structure containing the structured data can be changed and set independently, subject to the limitation that the data formats are compatible. The operating mode of the electrosurgical generator in each operating mode can therefore be changed by changing the operating program stored in the instrument data memory, or by changing the operating specifications stored in the instrument data memory or by changing the structured data in the data structure or by a combination of said changes.

[0055] The electrosurgical instrument comprises a non-volatile instrument data memory (e.g. an EEPROM or similar memory) but does not comprise a processor. A data record comprising structured data is stored in the instrument data memory. The structured data of the data record is compatible with respect to the data structure in the generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator and can form a data structure of the electrosurgical generator or a part of a data structure of the electrosurgical generator.

[0056] The data structure can therefore exist in a generator data memory which is a physical component of the electrosurgical generator, or it can be formed by the contents of an instrument data memory, or by a combination of data records in a generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator and data records in an instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0057] The processor of the electrosurgical generator is configured to read the instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument with the aid of an operating program in the generator data memory.

[0058] The processor of the electrosurgical generator can be configured to read the instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument with the aid of an operating program in the generator data memory after the electrosurgical instrument has been connected to the electrosurgical generator and before the electrosurgical generator is operated in an operating mode. The processor of the electrosurgical generator can be configured to transfer the data record(s) or the structured data contained in the data record(s) with the aid of the operating program in the generator data memory to a data structure stored in the generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator.

[0059] As an alternative, the processor of the electrosurgical generator can be configured to read the instrument data memory with the aid of the operating program in the generator data memory during the operation of the operating program, i.e. during the operation of the electrosurgical generator in the working mode. Therefore, no computer program or algorithm is stored in the instrument data memory, and the structured data can be read neither as a computer program nor as a program-related algorithm, but rather as a guide to the operating specifications stored in the generator data memory.

[0060] The structure of the structured data allows the assignment of line numbers to parameterized instructions. The line numbers allow the corresponding instructions to be called up in a targeted manner with the aid of an operating program. The instructions in turn clearly indicate specific operating specifications in the generator data memory or, alternatively, also other instructions in the structured data.

[0061] Instead of specifying a row number that is explicitly stored in the data record, it can also be specified that the row number is only generated when the data record is read, specifically as a function of the structure of the structured data in the data record that represents the reference. This is then possible when the reference is stored in a data record, for example, in a predetermined order.

[0062] The structured data are preferably in a memory-efficient binary format; they can be represented, for example, in the form of hexadecimal numbers.

[0063] The electrosurgical system preferably has a programming interface or multiple programming interfaces, by means of which data structures are programmed and can be transferred to the electrosurgical instrument. It can also be provided that the operating program and / or operating specifications, in particular the control instructions, in the generator data memory can be changed via the programming interface, for example during a software update of the electrosurgical generator via USB.

[0064] Preferably, a method for operating an electrosurgical generator is provided, in which data representing signaling instructions are read from an instrument data memory of an electrosurgical instrument connected to the electrosurgical generator and converted into configuration-related and / or operating state-related audio and / or visual messages for the user during operation of the electrosurgical generator.

[0065] Preferably, the signaling instructions contain control characters for the data representing the text message, which control characters define the reproduction of the text message on the various displays, so that the text message is generated during operation of the electrosurgical generator as a function of the control characters and the text displays present on the electrosurgical generator.

[0066] Preferably, the data representing the signaling instructions are read from an instrument data memory of an electrosurgical instrument connected to the electrosurgical generator during operation of the electrosurgical generator. Alternatively, the data representing the signaling instructions can also be read from an instrument data memory of an electrosurgical instrument when the electrosurgical instrument is connected to the electrosurgical generator.

[0067] Preferably, the operating specifications and the data structure are provided in separate memory areas of a generator data memory on the electrosurgical generator, wherein the data structure contains references to the operating specifications. The processor of the electrosurgical generator preferably accesses the operating specifications indirectly during the execution of the operating program by first accessing the parameterized references in the data structure and then calling up the one or more operating predefined parameters referred to by the respective references.

[0068] Preferably, the data structure is read from an instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument, more precisely preferably after the electrosurgical instrument has been connected and before the electrosurgical instrument is used. The data records with structured data contained in the data structure on the electrosurgical instrument can be transferred to a data structure stored in a generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator.

[0069] Another aspect of the invention is an electrosurgical generator for an electrosurgical system of the type described above. The electrosurgical generator has an interface for connecting an electrosurgical instrument, as well as a processor and at least one generator data memory and an optical and / or acoustic signaling mechanism and / or display mechanism for providing a user with visual and / or acoustic messages during operation of the electrosurgical generator. The generator data memory contains an operating program for the processor for controlling the operation of the electrosurgical generator in relation to the electrosurgical instrument connected thereto during operation. The processor of the electrosurgical generator is configured to control, by means of the operating program, signals or messages to be output by the signaling mechanism and / or display mechanism during operation of the electrosurgical generator according to structured data representing signaling instructions stored in the instrument data memory of the connected electrosurgical instrument.

[0070] The electrosurgical generator preferably has a synthesizer and a loudspeaker as a signaling means connected thereto for outputting sound signals. The synthesizer is connected to a processor of the electrosurgical generator and is designed to controllably generate sound signals via the processor of the electrosurgical generator based on data representing signaling instructions in a data memory of the electrosurgical instrument and to output the sound signals via the loudspeaker.

[0071] The electrosurgical generator preferably also has a display as a signaling device for displaying texts and / or symbols. The display is connected to the processor of the electrosurgical generator and is designed to reliably output text messages via the processor of the electrosurgical generator based on data representing signaling instructions in the data memory of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0072] Such an electrosurgical generator can be easily used with a variety of different electrosurgical instruments, wherein adjustments to the respective electrosurgical instrument can be made simply via corresponding entries in the data structure representing instructions, without having to change the operating specifications in the generator data memory of the electrosurgical generator.

[0073] Another aspect of the invention is an electrosurgical instrument having an instrument data memory, which contains a data record with structured data, at least some of which signaling specifications represent acoustic signals and / or visual signals output by the electrosurgical generator during operation.

[0074] The structured data may generally contain instructions for operating specifications stored in the generator data memory.Such an electrosurgical instrument may therefore contain the necessary information to allow coordination with the operating mode of each electrosurgical instrument without it being completely defined by the electrosurgical instrument.

[0075] Such an electrosurgical system, such an electrosurgical generator and such an electrosurgical instrument, both individually and in combination, make it possible to avoid having to know the message states and error states and the behavior of the messages at the time of the development of the electrosurgical generator. Subsequent adjustment of the message states and error states and the behavior of the messages can also be easily achieved by updating the software of the electrosurgical instrument. Even an "on-site" optimization of the message states and error states and the behavior of the messages during usability testing is possible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] The present invention will now be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0077] Figure 1 An electrosurgical system having an electrosurgical generator and an electrosurgical instrument connected thereto is shown,

[0078] Figure 2 An electrosurgical instrument is shown,

[0079] Figure 3 shows a circuit schematic diagram of an electrosurgical generator,

[0080] Figure 4 Shown with Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a processor connected to a generator data memory of an electrosurgical generator,

[0081] Figure 5 Shown with Figure 3 Schematic diagram of an alternative configuration of a processor coupled to a generator data storage of an electrosurgical generator.

[0082] Reference numerals list

[0083] 10 Electrosurgical System

[0084] 12 Electrosurgical generator

[0085] 14 Electrosurgical instruments

[0086] 16 Connect the cables

[0087] 18.1,18.2 Electrical output

[0088] 18.3 Interface

[0089] 20 Rod shaft

[0090] 20.1, 20.2 Output

[0091] 22 Active Electrode

[0092] 24 Handle

[0093] 26 Device data storage

[0094] 28,30 Power supply lines

[0095] 32 Data Line

[0096] 40 High voltage power supply section

[0097] 42 Output

[0098] 44 High frequency part

[0099] 46 Output Transformer

[0100] 48 Generator control unit

[0101] 50 Capacitor

[0102] 52 Synchronization Circuit

[0103] 54 Output current detection unit

[0104] 56 Output AC voltage detection unit

[0105] 58 Output DC voltage detection unit

[0106] 60 High voltage rectifier circuit

[0107] 62 Output capacitor

[0108] 64 Switch

[0109] 70 processors

[0110] 72 Generator data memory

[0111] 74 Operating Procedures

[0112] 76 Operation Specifications

[0113] 78 Data Structures

[0114] 80 data records

[0115] 84 Switch

[0116] 86 lines

[0117] 88 Processor control signals

[0118] 90 Detection unit signal

[0119] 92 Synthesizer including frequency generator

[0120] 94 Speakers

[0121] 96 Display for text and / or symbols DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0122] Figure 1 An electrosurgical system 10 is depicted. The electrosurgical system 10 comprises an electrosurgical generator 12 and an electrosurgical instrument 14. The electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected to an electrical output and input 18 of the electrosurgical generator 12 via a connecting cable 16.

[0123] The electrosurgical instrument 14 has a shaft 20 with an active electrode 22 at its distal end. The shaft 20 is fixed to a handle 24 of the electrosurgical instrument 14.

[0124] The electrosurgical instrument 14 has an instrument data memory 26, which has a data record 80 containing structured data, the data structure representing the parameterized instructions for the operating specifications stored in the generator data memory 74 of the electrosurgical generator 12. The structured data also represent signaling instructions, which define how and under what conditions the electrosurgical generator 12 on which the electrosurgical instrument 14 is operated output which signals and / or information. The instrument data memory 26 is non-volatile and can be, for example, a ROM (read-only memory) such as an EPROM (electrically programmable read-only memory), in particular an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory). EEPROM is a non-volatile data memory, which can be deleted and rewritten. The instrument data memory 26 is installed, for example, in the handle 24 of the electrosurgical instrument 14.

[0125] In the connecting cable 16 there are not only supply lines 28, 30, but also at least one data line 32. The supply line 28 connects the active electrode 22 and the neutral electrode (not shown in detail) to the electrical outputs 18.1 and 18.2 of the electrosurgical generator 12. Via the data line 32, the instrument data memory 26 is connected to the corresponding data interface 18.3 of the electrosurgical generator 12. This is Figure 2 is schematically shown in FIG.

[0126] The data line 32 and also the data interface 18.3 in the connecting cable 16 can be multi-core or multi-pole. In addition to or instead of the data line 32, a wireless interface can also be provided for transmitting data from the electrosurgical instrument 14 to the electrosurgical generator 12. Such a wireless interface can be, for example, a Bluetooth interface, an NFC interface or an RFID interface.

[0127] The output AC voltage to be output to the active electrode 22 and the counter electrode of the electrosurgical instrument 14 is provided by the electrosurgical generator 12 during operation. Figure 3 As can be seen in , the electrosurgical generator 12 has for this purpose a high-voltage power supply part 40, which can be connected to a common public power grid, for example, and provides a high-voltage direct current at its output 42 as an output direct current voltage. The output direct current is provided to a high-frequency part 44 of the electrosurgical generator 12. The high-frequency part 44 of the electrosurgical generator 12 acts as an inverter and generates a high-frequency output alternating voltage, which is output to the outputs 18.1 and 18.2 of the electrosurgical generator 12 via an output transformer 46 of the high-frequency part 44. The electrosurgical instrument 14 can be connected to the outputs 18.1 and 18.2 of the electrosurgical generator 12, as in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in .

[0128] To control the output AC voltage of the electrosurgical generator 12 , a generator control unit 48 is provided which controls the output AC voltage at outputs 18 . 1 , 18 . 2 of the electrosurgical generator 12 based on an output AC voltage maximum value so that, for example, the set output voltage maximum value is not exceeded during operation.

[0129] The output AC voltage and, therefore, the output AC current and the output power of the electrosurgical generator 12 can be controlled by the output DC voltage generated by the high voltage power supply section 40 .

[0130] For this purpose, a generator control unit 48 is used which controls the output DC voltage generated by the high voltage power supply part 40 so that, for example, the resulting output AC voltage or output AC current is as required at each time in the respective operating mode of the electrosurgical generator.

[0131] Each operating mode defines a maximum value for the output AC voltage effective value via the output terminals 18.1 and 18.2, the output peak voltage via the output terminals 18.1 and 18.2, the output AC current at the output terminals 18.1 and 18.2, the DC voltage portion of the output AC voltage via the output terminals 18.1 and 18.2, and the output DC voltage of the high-voltage power supply section 40. The maximum values ​​defined by the individual operating modes may be situation-dependent and vary during use.

[0132] The generator control unit 48 controls the high voltage power supply part 40 according to the maximum values ​​defined by each operating mode and the output AC voltage, output peak voltage, output AC current, the DC voltage portion of the output AC voltage or the current value of the output DC voltage or a combination of these parameter values ​​detected by the detection units 54, 56 and 58 during operation.

[0133] The specific maximum value and time variation curve of the output AC voltage used to generate the electrosurgical generator 12 and its correlation with the detected instantaneous value are related to the respective working mode (Mode) in which the electrosurgical generator 12 is located at that moment.

[0134] The operating mode is selected by the user, for example, by actuating a corresponding switch such as a foot switch 84 .

[0135] In each operating mode, the operation of the electrosurgical generator 12 is controlled by the processor 70 in conjunction with an operating program stored in the generator data memory. The processor 70 can, for example, set the maximum value for various operating parameters such as the output AC voltage, the output AC current, the output power, or also the DC voltage portion of the output AC voltage, the respective current values ​​of which are detected during the operation of the electrosurgical generator 12.

[0136] The processor 70 is connected to a generator data memory 74 which stores operating programs for the electrosurgical generator 12 .

[0137] On the one hand, the processor 70 is connected to the generator control unit 48 in order to control the output AC voltage to be output to the electrosurgical instrument during operation. On the other hand, the processor 70 is also connected to the signaling and display means, namely in the specific case a synthesizer 92 with a loudspeaker 94 and a display 96 for displaying texts and / or symbols. The synthesizer 92 can be designed to generate by means of a frequency generator or reproduce in the form of a sound signal predetermined by a sound file through the loudspeaker 94. The synthesizer can also be designed to convert the information stored in the sound file into a corresponding sound signal.

[0138] During the operation of the operating program 74 stored in the generator data memory 72, the processor 70 uses the operating specifications 76 stored in the generator data memory 74 for each operating mode, for example, data and / or control instructions representing operating parameter values. The operating specifications 76 stored in the generator data memory 72 predetermine certain values ​​for the output DC voltage or output AC voltage of the high-voltage power supply part, the output AC current of the high-frequency part, etc. However, the operating specifications 76 stored in the generator data memory 72 also contain certain control instructions, such as "if" or "while" or "true" or "false". In this way, the operating specifications 76 stored in the generator data memory 72, which represent data and control instructions, can be used to define such control instructions, for example, "compare the current value of the output AC voltage with the value 200, and output "true" when the current value of the voltage is less than or equal to 200, and output "false" when the current value is greater than 200. Other data and control instructions can be combined into a control instruction, for example, which indicates that the maximum output DC voltage of the high-voltage power supply part should be 100 volts.

[0139] However, in order to generate and execute such control instructions, the processor 70 does not directly access the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72, but calls the data structure 78 at the corresponding position of the operating program 74, in which there are instructions for each working mode, which are used to instruct the corresponding operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72, such as Figure 4 The instructions can be, for example, numbers, in particular binary numbers of 1 byte in size, which can also be displayed as hexadecimal numbers, since they require less storage space. In this case, the operating specifications 76 can be structured like a table, in which each instruction (i.e., for example, each hexadecimal number) is assigned a corresponding control instruction or data.

[0140] In order to implement the different operating modes, a plurality of data records 80 are stored in the data structure 78, each data record containing one or more references which can be assigned a line number due to the structure of the respective data record and in particular the order in which the references are stored. The reference assigned a line number serves to reference the corresponding operating specification 76 in the generator data memory 72 and causes the processor 70 to read the corresponding operating specification 76 from the generator data memory 72 after the processor 70 has previously accessed the entry address stored in the data structure 78 and referring to the corresponding line number. The operating specification stored in the generator data memory 72 can be, for example, a control description, a control instruction or a parameter value which the operating program should adopt at the respective position of the operating program at which the reference to the line number in the data structure 78 is present in the operating program 74.

[0141] In the data structure 78, the instructions for the operating specifications 76 stored in the generator data memory 72 are stored in a sorted order. The structure of the individual data records in the data structure 78 allows the instructions to be assigned row numbers in the data structure 78 in the form of addresses, so that, for example, it is also possible to jump to or jump back to the corresponding instructions in the data structure 78, rather than just being done sequentially by the operating program. The row number can be used as an entry address in the structured data in the data structure 78, which the processor 70 can access in a controlled manner through the operating program. The instructions corresponding to the row number are used to indicate a specific operating specification from a plurality of operating specifications 76 stored in the generator data memory 72. The operating specification can be a control specification, i.e., a separate control instruction, a combined control statement or a parameter value. The operating specification 76 called up by the parameterized instructions in the data structure 78 controls the operation of the electrosurgical generator 12 in each operating mode in combination with the operating program 74. The operating specification can also be a control instruction, which leads to the calling of other instructions in the data structure 78. However, this can only be realized in the data, i.e., in the instructions belonging to the respective operating mode.

[0142] The parameterization instructions are preferably represented by hexadecimal numbers, which together with the structured data of the data record 80 are formed. A data record belongs to an operating mode and can contain, for example, the following:

[0143]

[0144] The numbers shown in italics are line numbers generated when reading the data record 80 and are not stored in the data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14, but are generated by the operating program according to the order of the instructions in the data itself. The line numbers are therefore derived from the order of the instructions (i.e., their structure) in the data records. The line numbers shown in italics in this example simply correspond to the number of increments of the length of the structured data. The numbers shown in bold serve as pointers (or pointers or indicators), which respectively point to a specific operating specification 76 in the generator data memory 72, more precisely, in the example shown, to a control instruction. Thus, "11" for example points to the control instruction "IF", "36" points to the comparison specified by the subsequently correspondingly assigned numbers "02 30 00 C8 00", "12" points to the control instruction "THEN", "0F" points to a control command for setting a parameter value specified by the subsequently correspondingly assigned numbers "0464 00", and "56" points to the control instruction "ELSE".

[0145] It is also relevant which additional information is obtained from the respective operating specification 76 called up with the aid of the parameterization instructions (eg "02 30 00 C8 00" in the above example).

[0146] The operating program 74 may read and interpret the foregoing examples as follows:

[0147] 11 – If -> No additional information is required

[0148] 36-Compare->5 characters require additional information (02 = 1 character comparison type, 30 00 = 2 character number 1, C800 = 2 character number 2)

[0149] 12---> No additional information required

[0150] 0F – Output value setting -> 3 characters of additional information (04 = 1 character which output value; 64 00 = 2 characters of setting value) ...

[0152] Interpreted, this could mean "Compare whether number 1 (30 00) is greater than number 2 (C8 00). If the result is TRUE, then set the voltage to 100 volts (64 00), otherwise..."

[0153] The binary numbers (here abbreviated as numbers represented by "hexadecimal numbers") shown in the present example as hexadecimal numbers in the respective data records 80 thus represent parameterization instructions, based on which the operating program 74 can access specific operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72. The hexadecimal numbers stored in a structured (sequential) manner in a data record represent parameterization instructions, such as operating specifications stored in the generator data memory 72, such as control instructions and parameters, which can be assigned line numbers based on the data record structure, and the line numbers themselves do not have to be explicitly stored in the data records 80, but can be generated by the operating program 74 when reading in the respective data records 80.

[0154] The binary numbers stored in each data record 80 and shown in this example as hexadecimal numbers serve as pointers (or indicators) that refer to a specific operation specification 76 in the generator data memory 72 of the electrosurgical generator 12, so that the corresponding hexadecimal numbers are logically associated with the corresponding operation specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72 of the electrosurgical generator 12. Therefore, these hexadecimal numbers are used to specify the corresponding storage items in the generator data memory 72 of the electrosurgical generator 12, which represent an operation specification 76. The hexadecimal number is thus a pointer for guiding the operating program to the operation specification 76 in the generator data memory 72 of the electrosurgical generator 12, wherein the operating program can call up the operation specification for the operating program 74 during its execution. The calling up of the pointer is carried out under the control of the operating program and causes the processor 70 to call up the storage item in the generator data memory 72 pointed to by the pointer. Jumping within the pointer can also be realized here, which is identified by its order or line number. The structured data in data record 80 can therefore be converted into operating specifications for an operating program via their corresponding storage entries in generator data memory 72 .

[0155] In the data record reproduced in the example above, the entry in the first column ("006F, 0070, 0076 ...") represents the line number. The line number is not stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14, but is generated by the operating program 74 itself, because the line number is simply a number corresponding to the length of the structured data:

[0156] 0070 36 02 30 00 C8 00 (data length = 6, that is, the next line number is 0076)

[0157] 0076 12 (data length = 1, that is, the next line number is 0077)

[0158] A plurality of entries in each row ("11, 36 02 30 00 C8 00, 12 ...") refer to operation specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72. The entries in the generator data memory 72 marked by 11 can be, for example, "IF" statements, while the entries marked by 12 can be "THEN" statements. The "IF" statement and the "THEN" statement are each an operation specification. The hexadecimal number "36 02 30 00 C8 00" between 11 and 12 in the structured data of the data record shown can be transferred from its associated storage entry in the generator data memory 72 into a control statement such as, for example, "Compare the last read voltage value (30 00) with the number 200 (C8 00), and if the voltage is less than or equal to 200, the result is "TRUE", otherwise the result is "FALSE"". When the operating program 74 retrieves the storage entry for the string "0F 04 64 00" from the generator data memory 72 at address "0077" (generated by the operating program), it can represent the settings for the electrosurgical generator 12, which can, for example, be to adjust the maximum value for the output DC voltage (0F 04) to 100V (64 00).

[0159] An important aspect is the output of messages to the user via the loudspeaker 94 or the display 96. The described structure of the electrosurgical generator 12 also helps here, since the data representing the signaling instructions can be stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 and therefore do not have to be stored in the electrosurgical generator 12.

[0160] According to the invention, the storage of data representing the signaling instructions in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 provides, in particular, the possibility of flexibly defining activation sounds and other acoustic signals by the electrosurgical instrument 14. In practice, for example, a byte sequence is stored in structured data 80 in the instrument data memory 26, i.e., for example, in an EEPROM of the electrosurgical instrument 14. The byte sequence defines, for example, an activation sound or other acoustic signal. In particular, the following possibilities are possible:

[0161] 1. Play the sound file defined in the electrosurgical generator 12 (such as ActivationCut.wav);

[0162] 2. Playing a sound file with a specified pulse-pause ratio defined in the electrosurgical generator 12 (e.g., ActivationCut.wav, with a cycle time of 500 ms and a pause time of 100 ms);

[0163] 3. Playing a prescribed frequency (e.g., 500 Hz) through the frequency generator 92 implemented in the electrosurgical generator;

[0164] 4. Playing a specified frequency (e.g., 500 Hz, with a cycle time of 500 ms and a pause time of 100 ms) through a frequency generator 92 with a specified pulse-pause ratio implemented in an electrosurgical generator;

[0165] 5. Playing a mixed frequency (e.g. 500 Hz, together with 1000 Hz and 2000 Hz) through the frequency generator 92 implemented in the electrosurgical generator 12;

[0166] 6. Playing a mixed frequency by means of a frequency generator 92 with a prescribed pulse-pause ratio implemented in the electrosurgical generator 12 (e.g. 500 Hz, together with 1000 Hz and 2000 Hz, with a cycle time of 500 ms and a pause time of 100 ms);

[0167] 7. Change the activation tone according to the working mode (such as activation tone A under normal conditions, and activation tone B when a certain resistance value is reached).

[0168] This results in a high degree of flexibility, so that even very complex sound sequences can be stored on the electrosurgical instrument 14 by means of the programming interface 82 and the data record 80 in the data structure 78 .

[0169] With regard to outputting the sound signal to the user, the data structure 78 or more precisely the data records within the data structure may contain the following items for the implementation of the above example:

[0170] 1) Play the sound file stored in the generator data memory 72 of the electrosurgical generator 12

[0171] Set Activation Sound File(Start.3,0ms,0ms) 0048 46 00 03 00 00 00 00 00

[0173] 2) Playing a sound file with a specified pulse-pause ratio stored in the generator data memory 72 of the electrosurgical generator 12

[0174] Set Activation Sound File(Start,3,500ms,100ms)

[0175] 0048 46 00 03 00 F4 01 64 00

[0176] 3) Playing a prescribed frequency by the frequency generator 92 implemented in the electrosurgical generator 12

[0177] Set Activation Sound Frequency(Play,500Hz,0ms,0ms)

[0178] 0048 47 00 F4 01 00 00 00 00

[0179] 4) Playing a prescribed frequency by a frequency generator 92 with a prescribed pulse-pause ratio implemented in the electrosurgical generator 12

[0180] Set Activation Sound Frequency(Play,500Hz,500ms,100ms)

[0181] 0048 47 00 F4 01 F4 01 64 00

[0182] 5) Playing the mixed frequency by the frequency generator 92 implemented in the electrosurgical generator 12

[0183] Buffer(Initialize,activationTones_000,3)

[0184] Buffer(Set Value Directly,activationTones_000.0,500)

[0185] Buffer(Set Value Directly,activationTones_000,1,1000)

[0186] Buffer(Set Value Directly,activationTones_000,2,2000)

[0187] Set Activation Sound Multi Frequency(Play,activationTones_000,0ms,0ms)

[0188]

[0189] 6) Playing the mixed frequency by the frequency generator 92 with a specified pulse-pause ratio implemented in the electrosurgical generator 12

[0190] Buffer(Initialize,activationTones_000,3)

[0191] Buffer(Set Value Directly.activationTones_000,0,500)

[0192] Buffer(Set Value Directly.activationTones_000,1,1000)

[0193] Buffer(Set Value Directly.activationTones_000,2,2000)

[0194] Set Activation Sound Mufti Frequency(Play,activationTones_000,500ms,100ms)

[0195]

[0196] 7) Play activation tone according to working mode

[0197]

[0198]

[0199] With regard to the display of texts in a display format which differs according to the possible display modes, the message text can be represented by a character string which additionally contains special symbols or non-printing characters (control characters) which (if required by the display 96) are in particular abbreviations of the message text which are predefined by a processor 70 which is controlled by an operating program 74, operating specifications 76 and structured data.

[0200] This allows the electrosurgical instrument 14 to be operated on a variety of different electrosurgical generators 12 having different displays. Thus, longer message texts can be displayed on a suitable display than on a smaller display.

[0201] The character string results in flexibility of the message text to be displayed, i.e. the text to be displayed is stored on the electrosurgical instrument 14 together with at least one abbreviation. As abbreviations, for example, special symbols or non-printing characters (also referred to herein as control characters) added to the character string are used, which can be used for the desired abbreviation of the text to be displayed after a predetermined adjustment period of the processor 70. Not only abbreviations at the end, but also at the beginning and in the middle of the character string can be realized. Combined abbreviations can be controlled by priority.

[0202] The character string can therefore contain, in addition to the text to be displayed (the actual character string), also control characters which define the adjustment of the text to be displayed when reproduced on the respective display 96 of the electrosurgical generator 12 .

[0203] This will be explained below using a few simplified examples.

[0204] Simplified example 1 (abbreviated at the end):

[0205] Common working mode name: BiSoftCoag

[0206] Working mode name, its abbreviation description: Bi#Soft#Coag

[0207] If there is enough space, the following will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): BiSoftCoag

[0208] If the available space is small, the following will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): BiSoft

[0209] If the available space is small, the following will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12):

[0210] Therefore, the special symbol "#" is not shown, and the character string to be displayed may be shortened at the position where the special symbol "#" is located.

[0211] Simplified Example 2 (abbreviations elsewhere):

[0212] Common working mode name: PK SoftCoag

[0213] Working mode name, its abbreviation description: {PK}SoftCoag

[0214] If there is enough space, the following will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): PK SoftCoag

[0215] If the available space is small, the following message will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): SoftCoag

[0216] The character string enclosed in parentheses is therefore not displayed if necessary.

[0217] Simplified example 3 (combined abbreviations):

[0218] Common working mode name: PK SoftCoag

[0219] Working mode name, its abbreviation description: {PK}Soft#Coag

[0220] If there is enough space, the following will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): PK SoftCoag

[0221] If the available space is small, the following message will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): PK Soft

[0222] If the available space is small, the following message will be displayed on the display of the electrosurgical generator (12): Soft

[0223] Example 3 shows how the measures shown in Examples 1 and 2 for shortening a character string to be displayed can be combined with one another.

[0224] The user can be informed of operating states, errors, etc. by means of signaling and display means in the form of a loudspeaker 94 with a synthesizer 92 and a display 96. The control instructions defining such messages are represented by data stored in the data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14. The message states and error states and the behavior of the messages therefore do not have to be known at the time of development of the electrosurgical generator. Subsequent adjustment of the message states and error states and the behavior of the messages can also be easily achieved by updating the software of the electrosurgical instrument. The message states and error states and the behavior of the messages can even be optimized "on the spot" during usability tests.

[0225] Furthermore, according to the invention, the storage of data representing signaling instructions in the data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 provides the possibility of flexibly defining messages and error notifications as well as message behaviors on the electrosurgical instrument 14. In practice, the byte sequence, for example, within the structured data 80 is stored in the instrument data memory 26, i.e., for example, in the EEPROM, of the electrosurgical instrument 14. The byte sequence defines, for example, conditions and properties for a specific notification or error notification.

[0226] The message types and error notification types described below as examples may be defined on the electrosurgical instrument.

[0227] 1. Presentation of information text

[0228] -Flexible trigger conditions

[0229] - Flexible sound arrangement (silent, standard message sound, custom sound)

[0230] -Flexible HF / US treatment (with HF / US deactivation, without deactivation HF / US)

[0231] 2. Present low priority errors with standard low priority sounds

[0232] -Flexible trigger conditions

[0233] -Flexible HF / ultrasonic treatment (with deactivation of HF / ultrasonic, without deactivation of HF or ultrasonic)

[0234] 3. Present medium priority errors with standard medium priority sounds

[0235] -Flexible trigger conditions

[0236] -Flexible HF treatment (with deactivation of HF / ultrasound, without deactivation of HF or ultrasound)

[0237] 4. Present high priority errors with standard high priority sounds

[0238] The following triggering conditions are particularly likely:

[0239] 1. When the electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected to the electrosurgical generator 12;

[0240] 2. In the "no-load" state of the electrosurgical generator 12 (e.g., after a specified time has passed since the electrosurgical instrument 14 was connected);

[0241] 3. Just before high frequency / ultrasound is output (for example, if the electrosurgical instrument 14 fails, activation is prevented);

[0242] 4. Shortly after high frequency / ultrasonic wave output (e.g. notification that use has not ended);

[0243] 5.During activation, depending on the working mode, e.g.

[0244] - Based on tissue impedance

[0245] -Depending on activation duration

[0246] -When a certain result (such as an electric spark) occurs.

[0247] It is also possible for the displayed text to be stored in multiple languages ​​on the electrosurgical instrument, ie in the instrument data memory 26 .

[0248] The following examples illustrate this:

[0249] A) Examples for different message types

[0250] Silent message text, no deactivation high frequency / ultrasonic

[0251] Generate Error(UInt 16.666)

[0252] 0068 4A 00 9A 02

[0253] Silent message text, accompanied by high frequency / ultrasound deactivation

[0254] Generate Error(Ulnt 16.666)

[0255] Stop Activation°

[0256] 0068 4A 00 9A 02

[0257] 006C 53

[0258] Silent message text with HF / ultrasonic deactivation and own voice arrangement

[0259] Generate Error(UInt 16.666)

[0260] Set Activation Sound Frequency(Play,750Hz.100ms,50ms)

[0261] Busy Wait(Time,1000)

[0262] Stop Activation°

[0263]

[0264] Low priority error, no disable HF / ultrasonic

[0265] Generate Error(UInt 16.676)

[0266] 0068 4A 00 A4 02

[0267] Low priority error with disabling of HF / ultrasonic

[0268] Generate Error(UInt16,676)

[0269] Stop Activation°

[0270] 0068 4A 00 A4 02

[0271] 006C 53

[0272] Medium priority error, no disable HF / ultrasonic

[0273] Generate Error(UInt 16,188)

[0274] 0068 4A 00 BC 00

[0275] Medium priority error with deactivation of HF / ultrasound

[0276] Generate Error(UInt16,188)

[0277] Stop Activation°

[0278] 0068 4A 00 BC 00

[0279] 006C 53

[0280] High priority error

[0281] Generate Error(Ulnt16.14)

[0282] 0068 4A 00 OE 00

[0283] B) Example of trigger conditions

[0284] When connecting electrosurgical instruments

[0285]

[0286] In the "no-load" state of the electrosurgical generator (e.g. after a specified time has passed since the electrosurgical instrument was connected)

[0287]

[0288]

[0289] Before high frequency or ultrasonic wave is output

[0290] Soon after high frequency or ultrasonic output

[0291] During activation, the tissue impedance

[0292]

[0293]

[0294] The operation of the electrosurgical generator 12 in the respective operating mode thus depends on the operating program 74 stored in the generator data memory 72. However, the operating behavior of the electrosurgical generator 12 in the respective operating mode also depends on the data record 80 retrieved for the respective operating mode in the data structure 78 and on the operating specifications 76 also stored in the generator data memory 72 and in particular also on the data representing the signaling instructions stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14. The operating behavior here includes not only the output of the output AC voltage to the electrosurgical instrument 14, but also the display of texts via the display 96 or the output of acoustic signals via the loudspeaker 94.

[0295] An advantage of such an electrosurgical generator 12 is that new operating modes including associated messages for the user can be easily defined by generating new data records 80 in the data structure 78, and individual operating modes can be changed, for example, simply by changing the corresponding data records 80 in the data structure 78, without having to change the operating program 74 in the generator data memory 72 or the operating specifications 72 in the generator data memory 72. In particular, the signaling instructions for the electrosurgical instrument 14 can be easily defined by the data in the data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14.

[0296] The message states and error states as well as the message behavior therefore do not have to be known at the time of development of the electrosurgical generator. Subsequent adjustment of the message states and error states as well as the message behavior can also be easily achieved by updating the software of the electrosurgical instrument. The message states and error states as well as the message behavior can even be optimized "on the spot" during usability testing.

[0297] On the other hand, global parameters such as possibly available control instructions or operating parameters relevant to the electrosurgical generator such as its maximum output AC voltage or minimum permissible output DC voltage can be stored as operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 76 and there also, perhaps centrally, changed simultaneously for all possible operating modes.

[0298] Another advantage of the structure of the electrosurgical generator 12 is that the data record 80 whose structured data indirectly defines the operating mode applicable to the electrosurgical instrument 14 can also be stored in the electrosurgical instrument 14, such as Figure 5 As shown. In particular, the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 can contain data records with structured data, which are compatible with the data structure 78 in the generator data memory 72 and, just like the other structured data in the data structure 78, indirectly define the respective operating mode by corresponding references to the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72. This is particularly advantageous with regard to acoustic or visual signals for notifying the user of operating states or errors, etc., because the control instructions defining such signals can be represented for individual electrosurgical instruments 14 by data that can be stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 and are matched to the respective individual electrosurgical instruments 14.

[0299] The electrosurgical generator 12 is therefore configured such that when an electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected, it first reads its instrument data memory 26 (if any) and enters the structured data from the data records stored in the instrument data memory 26 into the data structure 78 in the generator data memory 72. In this way, the electrosurgical generator 12 is then provided with an operating mode that is precisely tailored to the respective electrosurgical instrument 14 during operation.

[0300] At least a data line 22 with an associated interface 18.3 is provided to allow access to the contents of the device data memory 26. Alternatively or additionally, a wireless interface, such as a Bluetooth interface or an NFC interface, may also be provided for accessing the contents of the device data memory 26.

[0301] When the structured data are transferred from the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 into a corresponding data record within the data structure 78 of the electrosurgical generator 12 , line numbers may be generated which are matched to the operating program 74 of the electrosurgical generator 12 .

[0302] It is very advantageous that the data records stored in the instrument data memory 26 contain only structured ordered instructions (hints to other storage items in the generator data memory 72), but not directly certain control instructions or operating parameters for the individual operating modes, since the control instructions and operating parameters in the generator data memory 76 of the electrosurgical generator 12 are stored centrally.

[0303] Alternatively, the electrosurgical generator 12 can also be configured such that it directly reads the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 during operation, ie during the execution of an operating program. Figure 5 This is the case in the example shown. In this case, it is not necessary to first transfer the structured data of the data record in the instrument data memory 26 to the data structure 78 on the electrosurgical generator 12. However, the line number to be generated must then be adapted to the corresponding call in the operating program and the input in the generator data memory 72.

[0304] An advantage of an electrosurgical system 10 of the type described herein is that the various parameter values ​​and operating specifications that determine the operation of the electrosurgical generator 12 may be maintained independently of one another. Thus, the operating program 74 stored in the generator data memory 72 is stored independently of the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72. The operating specifications 76 are in turn stored independently of the structured data in the data structure 78.

[0305] Therefore, a programming interface 82 is preferably provided, which preferably provides a graphical user interface, which is created by a data record containing structured data implemented as a plurality of parameterization instructions and can be stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 .

[0306] Preferably, the programming interface 82 is configured to assign different rights to different users. Thus, the rights for programming the operating program 74 stored in the generator data memory 72, for inputting the operating specifications 76 also stored in the generator data memory 72, and for the structured data stored in the data structure 78 can be assigned differently. In particular, it can be ensured in this way that changes to the operating specifications 76 or changes to the operating program 74 can only be made by a developer who is familiar with the respective electrosurgical generator 12. The programming of the operating program 74 and the operating specifications 76 can therefore be carried out by a developer who is familiar with the respective electrosurgical generator 12, while the definition of the operating mode for the electrosurgical instrument 14 can be carried out by a developer who is familiar with the electrosurgical instrument 14 by providing a corresponding data record containing the structured data. Preferably, the data record generated by the developer who is familiar with the electrosurgical instrument 14 is stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the corresponding electrosurgical instrument 14, while other operating modes can also be stored directly in the data structure 78 on the electrosurgical generator 12. For this purpose, the electrosurgical generator 12 can, for example, have a USB programming interface. The data line 32 with a corresponding interface in the connecting cable 16 is available for the structured data stored in the instrument data memory 26 of the corresponding electrosurgical instrument 14, or alternatively or additionally, a wireless interface (e.g., a Bluetooth interface or an NFC interface) is also available for it. The structured data from the data record in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14 can then be transferred to the data structure 78 on the electrosurgical generator 12 when the electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected.

[0307] This is particularly relevant with regard to various electrosurgical instruments 14, since the electrosurgical instruments 14 may be programmed by a different developer than the electrosurgical generator 12. The developer of the electrosurgical generator 12 can, if necessary, store specific parameter value data and control instructions that are important for the electrosurgical generator 12 as operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72 according to the operating program 74 stored in the generator data memory 72. Such parameter values ​​can be, for example, maximum or minimum permissible values ​​for an output DC voltage, an output AC voltage, etc.

[0308] Independently of this, the developer of the electrosurgical instrument 14 can use the structured data in the data records in the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument to precisely specify how the operating mode specific to the electrosurgical instrument 14 can be carried out within the limit values ​​defined by the operating program 74 in the generator data memory 72 and the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72. In this case, the developer of the electrosurgical instrument 14 does not have to worry about the setting conditions of the operating program 74 and the operating specifications 76. Instead, the developer of the electrosurgical instrument 14 can accept these specifications given for the respective electrosurgical generator 12.

[0309] In order to define the operating modes for the respective electrosurgical instruments 14, the developer of the electrosurgical instrument 14 provides a programming interface 82, by means of which the developer can completely define the operating mode for the respective electrosurgical instrument 14. This includes, for example, all current and voltage parameter values ​​as well as time setting values ​​and transition conditions for the operation of the electrosurgical instrument. In this way, the development of the operating modes can be carried out by the developer of the electrosurgical instrument with the aid of easy-to-use tools and almost without software development knowledge. The programming interface 82 provides the developer with a series of parameter sets, by means of which various phases can be defined, for example, the connection phase, the cutting phase, the coagulation phase and also the short circuit monitoring or the power monitoring for the respective electrosurgical instruments. The development tool belonging to the programming interface 82 generates a memory-saving structured data record from the setting conditions, which data record can be stored in a non-volatile manner in the data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14.

[0310] If a new operating mode of the electrosurgical instrument 14 defined by the structured data in the data record 80 also requires a change in the operating program 74 in the generator data memory 72 or in the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72, such a change can be made, for example, by a developer familiar with the electrosurgical generator 12 via the programming interface 82. It can thus be ensured that the structured data defining the operating mode are compatible with the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72 and the operating program 74 in the generator data memory 72. The developer of the electrosurgical instrument 14 can coordinate this with the developer familiar with the electrosurgical generator 12. This prevents a developer who is not familiar with the electrosurgical generator 12, for example, the developer of the electrosurgical instrument 14, from creating an incorrect operating specification 76 or changing the operating program 74 so that unintentional effects or errors occur.

[0311] If the electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected to the electrosurgical generator 12, the electrosurgical generator 12 reads the instrument data memory 26 in the electrosurgical instrument 14 and calls up the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72, which are indicated by the instructions contained in the structured data, so that the current and voltage curves defined there, including all time conditions and other conditions, are adopted. In this way, shortened development times and reduced development costs can be achieved. The electrosurgical instrument 14 can be integrated and added basically independently of the electrosurgical generator 12. Shorter product trial marketing times can also be achieved, because the operating mode is also developed and finalized after the trial marketing of the electrosurgical generator 12. Optimization of the operating mode and new operating modes can be easily introduced through updated or new electrosurgical instruments 14. The definition of the operating mode for the electrosurgical instrument can be carried out almost without software development knowledge.

[0312] When the electrosurgical system 10 is to be operated with an electrosurgical instrument 14 connected to the electrosurgical generator 12, a suitable operating mode is available after the electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected, since a corresponding data record 80 containing structured data can be read from the instrument data memory 26 of the electrosurgical instrument 14. The user thus only has to operate, for example, a switch 84 in order to operate the electrosurgical instrument 14 in a suitable operating mode of the electrosurgical generator 12. The user no longer has to complete settings or programming after the electrosurgical instrument 14 is connected.

[0313] The switch 84 is connected to the processor 70 of the electrosurgical generator 12 via a line 86, so that the operation of the operating program 74 stored in the generator data memory 72 is started and interrupted with the operation of the switch 84. The switch 84 can be a foot switch, but it can also be a manual switch, which is located, for example, on the electrosurgical handpiece 14. Instead of the line 86, wireless control communication can also be provided here.

[0314] Another alternative to the switch 84 is the automatic start of an operating program 74 that can be activated in advance by the user. In this case, a small measuring voltage is first output by the electrosurgical instrument 14 in order to detect tissue contact (current flow). If tissue contact is detected, i.e., current flow, the actual operating program 74 for the electrosurgical instrument is called up. If tissue contact is lost, the actual operating program 74 for the electrosurgical instrument ends and a small measuring voltage is output again in order to detect tissue contact again.

[0315] Under the control of the operating program, the processor 70 indirectly accesses several operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory 72 during an operating mode, by first accessing the instructions in the data structure 78, and then calling the one or more operating specifications 76 indicated by each instruction. Regarding outputting messages to the user, the processor 70 indirectly accesses several sound files in the generator data memory 72 during an operating mode, for example, by first accessing the data representing the signaling instructions in the device data memory 26, and then calling the sound file set by the signaling instructions and performing the sound of the synthesizer 92.

[0316] The processor 70 generates control signals 88 for the generator control unit 46 based not only on the operating program 74 but also on the operating specifications 76 in the generator data memory as well as on the instructions and signaling instructions in the data structure 78 and on the signals 90 originating from the detection units 54 , 56 and 58 .

Claims

1. A non-therapeutic method for operating an electrosurgical system (10), the electrosurgical system comprising an electrosurgical generator (12) and an electrosurgical instrument (14) having at least one instrument data memory, the electrosurgical instrument (14) being connected to the electrosurgical generator (12) during operation, wherein: The electrosurgical generator (12) has a processor (70) and at least one generator data memory (72) connected to the processor (70), wherein the processor (70) executes an operating program (74) stored in the generator data memory (72) for controlling the electrosurgical generator (12), characterized in that a data record containing structured data is generated or provided, wherein the structured data is implemented as a plurality of parameterized instructions for operating specifications (76) stored in the generator data memory (72) of the electrosurgical generator (12), the parameterized instructions containing control instructions that may be used and can also contain working parameter values, the data record containing the structured data is stored in the instrument data memory of the electrosurgical instrument, When the electrosurgical generator (12) is put into use or in operation, the data record containing structured data stored in the instrument data memory (72) of the electrosurgical instrument (14) is read by the electrosurgical generator, and the parameterized instructions stored in the structured data are controllably called up through the operating program (74) to execute the control instructions stored in the electrosurgical generator (12) and at this time, if working parameters exist in the structured data, these working parameters are taken into account, so that the electrosurgical generator is controlled according to the operating program, the operating specifications stored in the generator data memory, and the parameterized instructions contained in the structured data for some of the control instructions stored in the generator data memory.

2. The non-therapeutic method according to claim 1, characterized in that A data record containing structured data stored in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14) is stored in a generator data memory (74) of the electrosurgical generator after being read by the electrosurgical generator.

3. The non-therapeutic method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Structured data stored in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14) are changed when being read by the electrosurgical generator (12) or after being stored in the generator data memory (72) of the electrosurgical generator (12).

4. The non-therapeutic method according to claim 1, characterized in that The structured data contain signaling instructions which are converted into audio and / or visual messages to a user during operation of the electrosurgical generator relating to the configuration and / or operating state.

5. The non-therapeutic method according to claim 1, characterized in that The structured data includes a definition for an activation tone.

6. The non-therapeutic method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The structured data contain conditions and properties for generating and / or reproducing messages and / or error messages.

7. The non-therapeutic method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The structured data includes a control symbol for data representing a text message, the control symbol defining the reproduction of the text message on different displays, and the text message is generated when the electrosurgical generator (12) is operating based on the control symbol and a text display (96) present at the electrosurgical generator (12).

8. An electrosurgical system (10), comprising an electrosurgical generator (12) and an electrosurgical instrument (14) having at least one instrument data memory (26), the electrosurgical instrument (14) being connected to the electrosurgical generator (12), wherein: The electrosurgical generator (12) has a processor (70) and at least one generator data memory (72), wherein the processor (70) executes an operating program (74) stored in the generator data memory (72) for controlling the electrosurgical generator, characterized in that a data record containing structured data is stored in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14), wherein the structured data is implemented as a guide to operating specifications containing control instructions and / or multiple parameterization instructions containing additional working parameters as required stored in the generator data memory (72) of the electrosurgical generator (12), and the electrosurgical generator (12) is designed to read the data record containing structured data stored in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14) when the electrosurgical system is put into use or during operation, and to controllably call up the parameterization instructions stored in the structured data through the operating program so as to execute the control instructions stored in the electrosurgical generator (12) while taking into account the working parameters specified in the structured data.

9. The electrosurgical system (10) according to claim 8, wherein: The electrosurgical generator (12) has a synthesizer (92) and a speaker (94) connected to the synthesizer (92) for outputting a sound signal, wherein the synthesizer (92) is operatively connected to the processor (70) and is designed to controllably generate a sound signal through the processor (70) based on data representing a signaling description in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14) and output the sound signal through the speaker (94).

10. The electrosurgical system (10) according to claim 9, wherein: A sound file is stored in the generator data memory (76), and the synthesizer (92) can controllably convert the sound file into a sound signal based on data representing signaling instructions in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14) through the processor (70) and the operating program (74).

11. The electrosurgical system (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The electrosurgical generator (12) has a display (96) for displaying texts and / or symbols, the display (96) being connected to the processor (70) and being designed to controllably output text messages via the processor (70) and the operating program (74) based on data representing signaling instructions in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14).

12. The electrosurgical system (10) according to claim 8, comprising a programming interface (82) or a plurality of programming interfaces, by means of which the content and the data structure (78) of the generator data memory (72) can be programmed.

13. The electrosurgical system (10) according to claim 12, wherein: The operating specifications (76) can be programmed by means of the programming interface (82).

14. An electrosurgical instrument (14) for an electrosurgical system (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 13, the electrosurgical instrument (14) having an instrument data memory (26), the instrument data memory (26) containing a data record (80) with structured data, the structured data representing signaling instructions for outputting acoustic signals and / or visual signals during operation via an electrosurgical generator (12).

15. A method for creating a structured data record for an electrosurgical instrument (14) of an electrosurgical system (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that A programming interface (82) is provided, and a data record containing structured data implemented as a plurality of parameterization guidelines is created via the programming interface (82) and stored in the instrument data memory (26) of the electrosurgical instrument (14).

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