Pliers with two-part drive rod

Abstract

A pair of pliers having a first jaw and a second jaw, wherein at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable between an open position and a closed position. The pliers include an inner shaft located within an outer shaft and extending along a longitudinal axis, and a drive rod coupled to the inner shaft and extending from a distal end of the inner shaft. The drive rod includes a pair of drive rod struts extending from a distal end portion of the inner shaft and positioned laterally inboard of at least one of a first set of flanges and a second set of flanges of the first jaw and the second jaw. A drive pin is securable to the pair of drive rod struts, and the drive rod is translatable within the outer shaft to translate the drive pin, thereby moving the first jaw and / or the second jaw between an open position and a closed position.

Description

[0001] Priority claim

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent No. 62 / 826,532, filed on March 29, 2019, entitled “BLADE ASSEMBLY FOR FORCEPS”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. This application also claims priority to U.S. Patent No. 62 / 826,522, filed on March 29, 2019, entitled “SLIDER ASSEMBLY FORFORCEPS”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. This application also claims priority to U.S. Patent No. 62 / 841,476, filed on May 1, 2019, entitled “FORCEPS WITH CAMMING JAWS”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. This application also claims priority to U.S. Patent Serial No. 62 / 994,220, filed on March 24, 2020, entitled “FORCEPS DEVICES AND METHODS,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This document relates generally, but not by way of limitation, to surgical devices such as forceps, and more particularly to forceps devices having actuatable jaws configured to grasp, manipulate and / or treat tissue. Background Art

[0004] The present disclosure relates to surgical devices such as forceps devices. Forceps devices (hereinafter referred to as forceps) - including but not limited to electrosurgical forceps - are generally used in surgical procedures such as laparoscopic surgery and open surgery. Forceps can be used to manipulate, engage, grasp or otherwise interact with anatomical features, such as blood vessels or other tissues.

[0005] The forceps may include an end effector that is one or more of: rotatable, openable, closable, extendable, retractable, and capable of supplying input such as electrosurgical energy or ultrasound. For example, a jaw at the distal end of the forceps may be actuated via an element at the handpiece of the forceps to cause the jaw to open and close and thereby engage a blood vessel or other tissue. The forceps may also include an extendable and retractable blade or other end effector-type device. Summary of the invention

[0006] Disclosed herein is an exemplary pliers having an actuable claw promoted by one or more of the flanges having a cam groove or track and a drive rod formed by a pair of drive rod struts. The drive rod can receive a drive pin (cam action or cam pin) and translate the drive pin along the cam groove to convert the pliers between a closed position and an open position. The inventors of the present invention have recognized that the drive rod can be improved to simplify the design and manufacture of the pliers, reduce costs and maximize the available space for other components. In an example, the drive rod can include a pair of drive rod struts, which are formed by two substantially identical plates in one example. The two plates can be separately coupled to the inner shaft, for example, via snap-fitting into a groove disposed in the inner shaft and coupled to the inner shaft. Being able to use two substantially identical plates and not having to pre-assemble the drive rod before coupling the drive rod to the inner shaft can simplify the design and manufacture of the pliers, reduce costs and maximize the available space for other components.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, a surgical forceps may include: a drive pin; an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; a first jaw, the first jaw being pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first jaw including a first set of flanges at a proximal portion of the first jaw, each flange of the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving the drive pin; a second jaw, the second jaw being pivotally connected to the outer tube, the second jaw including a second set of flanges at a proximal portion of the second jaw, each flange of the second set of flanges including a second track for receiving the drive pin; an inner shaft, the inner shaft being located within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis; and a drive rod, the drive rod being coupled to the inner shaft and extending distally from the inner shaft. The drive rod includes a pair of drive rod struts extending from the distal portion of the inner shaft and positioned laterally inward of the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges, the drive pin being securable to the pair of drive rod struts, wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks, thereby moving the first jaw and the second jaw between an open position and a closed position.

[0008] In another example, a surgical forceps may include: a drive pin; an outer shaft extending along a longitudinal axis; a first jaw and a second jaw, each of which is capable of pivoting relative to the outer shaft, the first jaw including a first set of flanges, each first flange including a first track in which the drive pin is received, and the second jaw including a second set of flanges, each second flange including a second track in which the drive pin is received; and an inner shaft located within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis; a drive rod, the drive rod being coupled to the inner shaft and extending from the inner shaft distal end. The drive rod includes a first drive rod support extending from the inner shaft and separately coupled to the inner shaft and a second drive rod support extending from the inner shaft and separately coupled to the inner shaft, the drive pin is connected to the first drive rod and the second drive rod, the drive rod being capable of translating within the outer shaft to translate the drive pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks, thereby moving the first jaw and the second jaw between an open position and a closed position.

[0009] In another example, a surgical forceps includes: a drive pin; an outer shaft, the outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; a first jaw, the first jaw is pivotably connected to the outer tube, the first jaw includes a first set of flanges located at a proximal portion of the first jaw, each flange in the first set of flanges includes a first track for receiving the drive pin. The forceps may include: a second jaw, the second jaw is connected to the outer tube; an inner shaft, the inner shaft is located within the outer shaft and extends along the longitudinal axis; a drive rod, the drive rod is coupled to the inner shaft and extends from the inner shaft to the distal end. The drive rod includes: a pair of drive rod struts extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft, a drive pin capable of being fixed to the pair of drive rod struts, wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along a first set of tracks, thereby causing the first claw to move relative to the second claw between an open position and a closed position; and a blade located within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade capable of translating to extend between the first claw and the second claw, wherein each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from a first edge of the drive rod strut to form an L-shaped plate, and wherein the first edge, the second edge, the first face, and the second face of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

[0010] Features described herein can be used with other devices other than forceps, such as medical devices (e.g., equipment) for performing treatment, diagnosis, and imaging. These devices and methods can be used in various medical fields, including but not limited to general surgery, gynecology, urology, respiratory, cardiovascular, or any other suitable field.

[0011] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of this patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about this patent application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In the drawings that are not necessarily drawn to scale, the same reference numerals may describe similar components in different views. The same reference numerals with different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings generally illustrate the various examples discussed herein by way of example and not limitation.

[0013] Figure 1A is a side view of pliers according to an example of the present application, the pliers having the jaws in an open configuration.

[0014] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A side view of a pliers in FIG. 1 having the jaws in a closed configuration.

[0015] Figure 2 is a side view of a portion of a pliers according to an example of the present application.

[0016] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a pliers according to an example of the present application.

[0017] Figure 4 is an expanded view of a portion of a pliers according to an example of the present application.

[0018] Figure 5 is a front end view of a distal plug of a forceps according to an example of the present application.

[0019] Fig. 6A is an expanded view of a drive rod and an inner shaft according to an example of the present application.

[0020] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A An expanded view showing the drive rod rotated one hundred and eighty (180) degrees.

[0021] Fig. 7A According to an example of the present application, a blade is included Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A perspective view of the drive rod and inner shaft shown in FIG.

[0022] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A A cross-sectional view of the drive rod and inner shaft shown in FIG.

[0023] Figure 8 is an expanded view of a driving rod and an inner shaft according to another example of the present application.

[0024] Fig. 9A Includes blade Figure 8 A perspective view of the drive rod and inner shaft shown in FIG.

[0025] Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional view of a drive rod, an inner shaft, and a blade according to an example of the present application.

[0026] Fig.10 is an expanded view of a drive rod, an inner shaft and a blade according to another example of the present application.

[0027] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A perspective view of the drive rod, inner shaft and blade shown in FIG.

[0028] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view of a drive rod, an inner shaft, and a blade according to an example of the present application.

[0029] Fig.13 is an expanded view of a driving rod and an inner shaft according to another example of the present application.

[0030] Fig.14 Includes blade Fig.13 A perspective view of the drive rod and inner shaft shown in FIG.

[0031] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a drive rod, an inner shaft, and a blade according to an example of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] A medical device including a handpiece that operates an end effector allows a surgeon to control the end effector of the device to actuate one or more functions of the end effector. Actuation of the end effector can be facilitated by one or more actuation systems of the handpiece that can retract, extend, or rotate one or more axes to control the action of the end effector.

[0033] The present disclosure generally relates to medical devices, such as surgical instruments. Although the present application is described with reference to forceps, other end effectors may also be used with and operated by the handpieces described herein. In addition, other handpieces may be connected to and may control the end effectors described herein. The present disclosure includes examples of handpieces having one or more actuation systems, examples of end effectors, and examples in which the disclosed actuation systems and end effectors may be used together in a medical device.

[0034] The forceps may include medical forceps, cutting forceps, electrosurgical forceps, or any other type of forceps. The forceps may include an end effector that is controlled by a handpiece that includes an actuation system to be one or more of the following: rotatable, openable, closable, extendable, and capable of supplying electrosurgical energy or ultrasound. For example, a claw at the distal end of the forceps may be actuated via one or more actuators at the handpiece of the forceps to open, close, and rotate the claw to engage a blood vessel or other tissue. The forceps may also include an extendable and retractable blade, such as a blade that may extend distally between a pair of claws to separate a first tissue from a second tissue.

[0035] In the present disclosure, relative terms such as, for example, "about," "generally," or "approximately" are used to indicate possible variations within ±10% of a stated numerical value or ±10° of a numerical value.

[0036] Figure 1A A side view of the pliers 10 is shown with the jaws 12 in an open position and Figure 1B A side view of the forceps 10 is shown with the jaws 12 in a closed position. Directional descriptors such as proximal and distal are used within their ordinary meanings in the art. The proximal direction P and the distal direction D, as well as the top T and the bottom B are in the Figure 1A The forceps may include a hand piece 14, one or more actuators 20, an outer shaft 28 (or outer tube), an inner shaft 26 (or inner tube), a drive rod 27, and an end effector 16.

[0037] The forceps 10 may include a hand piece 14 at a proximal end and an end effector 16 at a distal end. An intermediate portion 18 may extend between the hand piece 14 and the end effector 16 to operably couple the hand piece 14 to the end effector 16. Various movements of the end effector 16 may be controlled by one or more actuation systems 20 of the hand piece 14. In an illustrative example, the end effector 16 may include a jaw 12 that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The end effector 16 may rotate along a longitudinal axis A1 of the forceps 10. The end effector 16 may include a cutting blade and an electrode for applying electrosurgical energy.

[0038] Forceps 10 may include jaws 12, housing 22, lever 24, inner shaft 26, drive rod 27, outer shaft 28, rotary actuator 30, blade assembly 32, trigger 34, and / or actuation button 36. In this example, end effector 16 or a portion of end effector 16 may be one or more of: open, closed, rotated, extended, retracted, and electrosurgically powered.

[0039] To operate the end effector 16, the user can displace the lever 24 proximally to move the jaws 12 from the open position ( Figure 1A ) is driven to the closed position ( Figure 1B ). In the example of forceps 10, moving the jaws 12 from an open position to a closed position allows the user to clamp and compress tissue. The handpiece 14 can also allow the user to rotate the end effector 16. For example, the rotary actuator 30 rotates the end effector 16 by rotating the inner shaft 26, the drive rod 27, and the outer shaft 28 together.

[0040] In some examples, with the tissue compressed, the user can press the activation button 36 to cause electrosurgical energy to be delivered to the end effector 16, such as an electrode. The application of electrosurgical energy can be used to treat tissue, such as to seal tissue or otherwise affect clamped tissue. In some examples, the electrosurgical energy can cause the tissue to be sealed, ablated, and / or coagulated. Example electrodes are described herein, but the electrosurgical energy can be applied to any suitable electrode.

[0041] In some examples, the forceps 10 can be used to cut the tissue being treated via a blade assembly 32 (also referred to as a blade 32). For example, the handpiece 14 can enable a user to extend and retract the blade 32. The blade 32 can be extended by displacing the trigger 34 proximally. The blade 32 can be retracted by allowing the trigger 34 to return to a default position distally. The default position of the trigger 34 is shown in FIG. 1. In some examples, the handpiece 14 can include a feature that inhibits the blade 32 from extending until the jaws 12 are at least partially closed or fully closed.

[0042] The forceps 10 can be used to treat a patient, such as a surgical procedure. In an example, the distal portion of the forceps 10 including the claw 12 can be inserted into the patient's body, such as through an incision or another anatomical feature of the patient's body. The proximal portion of the forceps 10 including the housing 22 remains outside the incision or another anatomical feature of the body. Actuation of the lever 24 causes the claw 12 to clamp on the tissue. The rotating actuator 30 can be rotated via user input to rotate the claw 12 for manipulating the claw 12 at any time during surgery. The activation button 36 can be actuated to provide electrical energy to the claw 12 to cauterize, dry or seal the tissue within the closed claw 12. The trigger 34 can be moved to translate the blade 32 distally so as to cut the tissue within the claw 12.

[0043] Figure 2 A side view of a portion of the forceps 10 in an open position is illustrated. The end effector 16 can be configured as an articulated jaw 12A (top jaw 12A) and an articulated jaw 12B (bottom jaw 12B) (collectively referred to as jaws 12), and the articulated jaws 12A and articulated jaws 12B are configured to manipulate, engage, grasp or otherwise interact with anatomical features, such as blood vessels or other tissues. In one example, the jaw 12 is a double-acting jaw, wherein both the top jaw 12A and the bottom jaw 12B can move (rotate) relative to the outer tube 28. In one example, only one of the top jaw 12 and the bottom jaw 12B rotates relative to the outer tube 28. That is, in one example, the top jaw 12 can be configured to rotate relative to the bottom jaw 12B and the outer tube 28. In another example, the bottom jaw 12 can be configured to rotate relative to the top jaw 12A and the outer tube 28.

[0044] The forceps 10 may include a top jaw 12A, a bottom jaw 12B, a guide 46 (or proximal pin), a drive pin 44 (or cam pin 44), and a pivot pin 40. The jaw 12 of the end effector 16 may be connected to the outer shaft 28 via the pivot pin 40. The pivot pin 40 may extend through a portion of the jaw 12 so that the pivot pin 40 may be secured to the outer arm 50 of the outer shaft 28 (only one outer arm 50 is secured to the outer shaft 28). Figure 2 Accepted.

[0045] The pliers 10 can have a reciprocating drive rod 27 coupled to the inner shaft 26, which is at least partially positioned within the outer shaft 28. As discussed herein, the drive rod 27 can be coupled to the inner shaft 16 and extend distally from the inner shaft 16. The drive rod 27 can have a drive pin 44 (or cam pin 44) attached to the drive rod (e.g., at the distal end of the drive rod). Thus, the drive rod 27 and the drive pin 44 can thus be movable in a translationally movable manner relative to the outer shaft 28. Movement of the drive rod 27 (visible by the slot 42 in the arm 50 of the outer shaft 28) can cause the drive pin 44 to traverse along the longitudinal axis A1 of the outer shaft 28 and the longitudinal axis of the jaw 12 and can move the jaw 12 due to the cam action as further discussed below.

[0046] The guide 46 may be inserted into the aperture 47A and the aperture 47B (collectively referred to as the apertures 47; Figure 2 The guide 46 may be positioned in the outer shaft 28 and may be located on an axis defined by the aperture 47 and generally perpendicular to the axis A1. The aperture 47 may also be generally centered around the outer shaft 28 to center the guide 47. In some examples, the aperture 47 may be offset from the axis A1 (either above or below) and generally perpendicular to the axis A1. In other examples, the aperture 47 may pass through a transverse plane defined in part by the axis A1 such that one aperture is above the axis A1 and one aperture is below the axis A1; in this configuration, the axis defined by the aperture 47 may pass through the axis A1 or may be offset from the axis A1. The axial track 70 of the drive rod 27 and the axial track 72 of the inner shaft 26 (see Figure 3 ) can be configured to match the orientation of the guide 46 to allow the drive rod 27 and the inner shaft 26 to translate relative to the guide 46.

[0047] The outer shaft 28 may include a pair of outer arms 50. The forceps 10 may also include a distal plug 48, which may be a plug positionable within the outer shaft 28 between the outer arms 50 such that the drive rod 27 and the blade 32 may translate through the distal plug 48. As discussed herein, the distal plug 48 may include a passage extending through the distal plug to allow the drive rod 27 and the blade 32 to extend through (and translate relative to) the distal plug 48. The distal plug 48 is discussed in more detail below.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the claws 12A and 12B may have a pair of spaced-apart flanges 52, 54 (in FIG. Figure 2 Only two flanges are visible, namely one flange of each of the jaw portion 12A and the jaw portion 12B. The arrangement and construction of the flanges 52, 54 will be described in more detail later. According to some examples, the pair of flanges 52, 54 of the jaw portion 12 can be arranged generally parallel to each other along the longitudinal direction (e.g., an interface with generally parallel spaced inner surfaces) but spaced apart by the inner drive rod 27. At least one of the pair of flanges 52, 54 can be pivotally coupled to the outer shaft 28 via the pivot pin 40.

[0049] Each of the flanges 52, 54 may also have a track 56, 58 (sometimes referred to herein as a cam slot or slot), respectively, spaced from the pivot pin 40. The tracks 56, 58 may be configured to receive the drive pin 44, which may be movably secured in the tracks 56, 58. The drive pin 44 may have a diameter that is smaller than the width of the tracks 56, 58 so as to be movably received by the tracks 56, 58. When the drive rod 27 moves, such as by applying linear motion to the inner shaft 26, the drive pin 44 may traverse along the longitudinal length of the tracks 56, 58. The drive pin 44, the drive rod 27, and the inner shaft 26 (a portion coupled to one or more actuators 20) may be configured for reciprocating motion relative to the outer shaft 28, such that the drive pin 44 can traverse the tracks 56, 58 in a reciprocating manner. Each track 56, 58 can be configured to act as a cam so that when the drive pin 44 traverses the longitudinal length of the track 56, 58, the claw portion moves from the first open position (at Figure 1A ) is moved toward a second closed (gripping) position ( Figure 1B ) is driven and driven to the second closed position, or the claw is driven from the second closed (gripping) position ( Figure 1B ) is moved toward the first open position (at Figure 1AThe shape and size of the flanges 52, 54 and the shape, size and arrangement of the tracks 56, 58 can be configured to limit or control the extent to which other portions of the jaws 12 can contact the treated blood vessel or other tissue.

[0050] The rails 56, 58 of each of the pair of flanges 52, 54 may be aligned with each other and may have substantially the same shape. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 As shown in , when the end effector 16 is viewed from the side, the tracks 56, 58 of each of the pair of flanges 52, 54 can be aligned. Therefore, the tracks 56, 58 of each of the jaws 12 can be aligned in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis A1 of the jaw 12. The pivot pin 40 can be fixed to the outer shaft 28. The pivot apertures on the flanges 52, 54 can be fixed to the pivot pin 40. The drive pin 44 can be assembled into the tracks 56, 58 on each of the pair of flanges 52, 54. In particular, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown in , the pins 40 , 44 and the pin 46 may be parallel to each other and arranged along the longitudinal axis A1 , and the tracks 54 may have the same size and may be aligned as described above and shown.

[0051] Figure 3 A perspective view of a portion of the pliers 10 is illustrated. The top jaw 12A may include flanges 52A, 52B (collectively, flanges 52) and an upper clamping plate 60, and the bottom jaw 12B may include flanges 54A, 52B (collectively, flanges 52) and a lower clamping plate 62. The flanges 52A and 52B may include tracks 56A and 56B, respectively (collectively, tracks 56; Figure 4 5. Track 56B is shown in FIG. 5. Flange 54A and flange 54B may include track 58A and track 58B, respectively (collectively, track 58).

[0052] The claw 12 may be a rigid member configured to engage tissue. The claw 12 may be pivoted via a pivot pin 40 (see Figure 2 ) is coupled to the outer shaft 28, such as being pivotally coupled to the outer shaft 28. The pivot pin 40 can extend through a portion of the jaw 12, such as through a pivot aperture of each of the jaws 12, so that the pivot pin 40 can be received by the outer arm 50 (see FIG. 1 ) of the outer shaft 28. For example, the flanges 52A and 52B can have pivot apertures 64A and 64B, respectively, and the flanges 54A and 54B can have pivot apertures 66A and 66B (see FIG. 2 ). Figure 4 ).

[0053] like Figure 3As seen in FIG. 5 , flange 52 may be staggered with flange 54. In other examples, flange 54 may be positioned laterally outside of flange 52, or alternatively, flange 52 may be positioned laterally outside of flange 54.

[0054] The clamps 60, 62 of the jaws 12 can each be a rigid or semi-rigid member configured to engage tissue and / or relative jaws to grasp tissue during electrosurgery. One or more of the clamps 60, 62 can include one or more of the saw teeth, protrusions, ridges, etc. configured to increase the engagement pressure and friction between the clamps 60, 62 and the tissue. The flange 52 of the upper jaw 12A can extend proximally away from the clamps 60. Similarly, the flange 54 of the lower jaw 12B can extend proximally away from the clamps 62. The jaws 12 can each include an electrode configured to deliver electricity to the tissue (optionally through the clamps 60, 62), a frame supporting the electrodes, and a blade slot 66, 68 configured to receive a blade between the jaws 12, as discussed herein.

[0055] Track 56 of jaw 12A and track 58 of flange 12B can each be a slot, channel, path or track in flange 52 and flange 54, respectively. In some examples, when pivot pin 40 is coupled to jaw 12 (and optionally to outer shaft 28), track 56 and track 58 can be located proximal to pivot pin 40. Track 56 and track 58 can be shaped to receive drive pin 44 therein. In some examples, track 56 and track 58 can be a slot or channel configured to receive drive pin 44 through the slot or channel to connect drive rod 27 to flange 52 and flange 54 (and thus to jaw 12).

[0056] Tracks 56 and 58 may be straight in some examples and may be arcuate in some examples. In any example, tracks 56 and 58 may be configured to allow drive pin 44 to travel along tracks 56 and 58 simultaneously to open and close jaw 12.

[0057] It is understood that various modifications may be made to the surgical forceps described herein. For example, according to some examples, the jaws may not be double acting but may be single acting. In some examples, a single flange may be used instead of a pair of flanges. Although the jaws are described as having a flange (or multiple flanges), in some cases, the jaws may not utilize flanges so that features such as tracks may pass directly through, for example, the body portion of the jaw itself.

[0058] like Figure 3 As seen in FIG. 1 , the drive rod 27 extends distally from the inner shaft 26. The drive rod 27 and the inner shaft 26 each include an axial track 70, 72 for receiving the guide member 46 (see FIG. Figure 2). For example, the drive rod 27 may include a pair of axial rails 70A and 70B (see Figure 4 , collectively referred to as axial tracks 70) and the inner shaft 26 includes a pair of axial tracks 72A and axial tracks 72B (collectively referred to as axial tracks 72). The axial tracks 70, 72 may also be referred to as axial grooves or channels. In addition, as further discussed herein, the axial track 70 of the drive rod 27 may be referred to as the proximal groove of the drive rod 27, and the axial track 72 of the inner shaft 26 may be referred to as the distal groove of the inner shaft 26. The axial tracks 70 may each be an axial groove extending transversely through the wall of the drive rod 27 so that the guide 50 extends through the drive rod 27. The axial track 72 may be a channel, groove, recess, or other guide configured to receive the guide 46.

[0059] The drive rod 27 can be coupled to the inner shaft 26. In an example, the drive rod 27 can include a pair of drive rod struts 80A and drive rod struts 80B (collectively referred to as drive rod struts 80). As discussed further below, the drive rod struts 80 and the inner shaft 26 can include corresponding features such as protrusions, projections, grooves, recesses, etc. to couple the drive rod struts 80 to the inner shaft 26. Once coupled, the drive rod struts 80 are axially and rotationally coupled to the inner shaft 26. In an example, the inner shaft 26 can include one or more grooves (e.g., grooves 84) and one or more flexible protrusions 74 to enable the drive rod struts 80 to be inserted into the inner shaft 26. For example, when the drive rod strut 80 is inserted into the opening 82 and along the groove 84 of the inner shaft 26, the flexible protrusions 74 can bend to allow a portion of the drive rod strut 80 to pass through and return to the original position while being positioned in the corresponding recess 78 in the drive rod strut.

[0060] As discussed herein, the drive rod 27 can receive the drive pin 44 at the distal end of the drive rod support 80, for example, within the drive pin opening 76. Therefore, the drive rod 27 and the drive pin 44 can thus be movable in a translationally movable manner relative to the outer shaft 28 and the first jaw 12A and / or the second jaw 12B.

[0061] Figure 4 The figure shows an expanded view of a portion of the forceps 10. The distal plug 48 can be a plug that can be positioned within the outer shaft 28 (see Figure 2 ). The distal plug 48 may include a blade channel 92 extending therethrough to allow the blade 32 to extend therethrough (and translate relative to) the distal plug 48. In the example, the blade channel 96 is centrally located along the longitudinal axis A1.

[0062] The blade 32 may be an elongated cutting member including one or more sharp edges 100 configured to cut or remove tissue or other items. The blade 32 may be coupled to the blade shaft 96. The blade 32 may be located within the outer shaft 28 (and within the inner shaft 26 and the drive rod 27) and may extend along the axis A1. The blade 32 may be translatable relative to the inner shaft 26, the drive rod 27, and the outer shaft 28 to extend between the top claw 12A and the bottom claw 12B (or to the top claw 12A and the bottom claw 12B). As discussed herein, the blade 32 may extend axially through the drive rod 27 and through the flanges 52, 54 so that the blade 32 is in a lateral inward position of the first set of flanges 52, the second set of flanges 54, and a pair of drive rod pillars 80.

[0063] The pliers 10 may include a guide tube 90 that may be positioned within and extend through the inner shaft 26 and the outer shaft 28. The guide tube 90 may include a body 91 that defines a blade aperture 92 and a wiring aperture 94. The body 91 may extend along an axis A1 and may be generally cylindrical in some examples, but may have other shapes such as an elliptical prism, a rectangular prism, a hexagonal prism, an octagonal prism, etc. in other examples. The body 91 may be configured, such as sized and shaped to be complementary to the internal aperture of the inner shaft 26. The blade aperture 92 and the wiring aperture 94 may each be an aperture that extends axially through the body 91 along the axis A1. The blade aperture 92 may be sized and shaped to receive a shaft 96 of a blade 32 passing through the blade aperture and may be configured to allow the shaft 96 to translate within the guide tube 90 to allow the blade 32 to be operated according to the handle so that the blade 32 can translate within the blade channel of the jaw 12.

[0064] In some exemplary operations, when the jaws are between the open and closed positions or when the jaws 12 are in the closed position, the blade 32 can be translated distally between the drive rods 27 into the track of the jaws 12. The blade 32 can be used to cut tissue or other items between the jaws 12.

[0065] Figure 4The blade 32 including the blade track 102 (or blade channel 102) is illustrated. The blade track 102 can be configured to contact the guide 46 to limit axial translation of the blade 32 relative to the guide 46 and the outer shaft 28. For example, the proximal edge (the proximal edge can be rounded to be complementary to the guide 46) can be configured to contact the guide 46 to limit distal translation of the blade 32 relative to the inner shaft 26, the drive rod 27, the outer shaft 28, and the claw 12. In addition, the contact between one or more of the guide 46, the drive pin 44, and the pivot pin 40 and the top edge of the blade track 102 can help limit the downward and / or upward movement of the blade 32 relative to the inner shaft 26, the drive rod 27, the outer shaft 28, and the claw 12. Such contact can also help limit the rotation of the blade 32, such as limiting the rotation of the blade around the axis A1.

[0066] Figure 5 A front view of the guide tube 90 is illustrated. In the example, the blade aperture 92 and the routing aperture 94 are positioned along the longitudinal axis A1 and the midline M1 of the guide tube 90. In one example, the routing aperture 94 can be offset from the midline M1 of the guide tube 90.

[0067] FIG. 6A to FIG. 15 Various examples of drive rods having a drive rod strut coupled to an inner shaft are illustrated. 6A to 7B The examples shown in the previous figures are illustrated. The drive rod 27 can be connected to the inner shaft 26. In the example, the drive rod 27 can be formed by a pair of drive rod struts 80A, 80B (collectively referred to as drive rod struts 80) extending from the distal portion of the inner shaft 26. In the example, the drive rod struts 80 are substantially identical plates. For example, the drive rod struts 80 can have the same shape, length and features. That is, features such as protrusions, grooves, recesses, axial tracks and orifices are approximately in the same position between the two plates and have the same size. By having two identical plates of the drive rod struts 80 for the drive rod 27, the manufacture of the drive rod struts 27 can be simplified, the overall production cost can be reduced, and the assembly of the pliers can be made easier. In another example, the drive rod struts 80A and the drive rod struts 80B can be different from each other.

[0068] The drive rod strut 80A and the drive rod strut 80B can extend from the proximal end 110 to the distal end 112. As discussed herein, the drive rod strut 80 may include an axial track 71 and an orifice 76. In an example, the orifice 76 is located at the distal end of the axial track 71. The drive rod strut 80 may include a first edge 114, a second edge 116 opposite the first edge 114, and a blade-facing surface 136 extending between the first edge 114 and the second edge 116. As discussed herein, the blade-facing surface 136 can be the face of the drive rod strut 80 positioned adjacent to each other, so that the blade-facing surface forms a channel (e.g., a blade channel) configured to receive a blade. The first edge 114 and the second edge 116 can be configured to have a shape (profile) corresponding to a feature on the inner shaft 26 so that the drive rod strut 80 can be coupled to the inner shaft 26. In an example, the drive rod support 80 may have a recess 78 along a first edge 114 toward the proximal end 110, and a recess 132 along a second edge 116 toward the proximal end 110. The first edge 114 includes a proximal portion 191 (proximal to the recess 78) and a distal portion 192 (distal to the recess 78). Similarly, the second edge 116 includes a proximal portion 193 (proximal to the recess 132) and a distal portion 194 (distal to the recess 132).

[0069] like Figure 7B As seen in , the outer diameter D1 of the inner shaft 26 is approximately equal to the height H of the drive rod strut 80. In the example, the height H of the drive rod strut 80 can be less than the outer diameter D of the inner shaft 26 but greater than the inner diameter. In the example, the height H of the drive rod strut 80 can be greater than the outer diameter D of the inner shaft 26 and less than the inner diameter of the outer shaft 28, so that the drive rod 27 can still translate within the outer shaft 28. The inner shaft 26 may include a flexible protrusion 74 that is configured to bend to allow the drive rod strut 80 to be inserted into the distal opening of the inner shaft 26. Since the height H of the drive rod strut 80 is greater than the inner diameter of the inner shaft 26, the insertion of the drive rod strut 80 causes the flexible protrusion 74 to bend outward (e.g., away from the longitudinal axis). Once the flexible protrusion 74 is aligned with the recess 78, the flexible protrusion 74 moves into the recess 78 to connect the drive rod strut 80 to the inner shaft 26.

[0070] In an example, the top surface 124 of the inner shaft 26 can define grooves 79A, 79B, 81, and groove 84. The grooves 79A, 79B, and groove 81 can communicate with each other and define the flexible protrusion 74. The flexible protrusion 74 can include a ridge 195 that can be received in two recesses 78 of the drive rod support 80 as discussed herein.

[0071] The slot 84 may extend proximally from the distal end of the inner shaft 26. The width of the slot 84 is such that the slot 84 may receive two drive rod struts 80 and still have a gap 142 sufficient to receive the blade 32 therein. For example, the gap 142 allows the blade 32 to translate freely between the drive rod struts 80 without interference from the drive rod struts 80. In one example, the blade-facing surface 136 may contact the blade 32. In other examples, the blade-facing surface 136 does not contact the blade 36. In addition, as shown in FIG. Figure 7B As seen in , no portion of the drive rod support post 80 covers the top edge 123 or the bottom edge 125 of the blade 32. That is, when assembled, there is a vertical gap 190 above and below the blade 32. In one example, the vertical gap 190 means that no portion of the drive rod is positioned above or below the top and bottom sides of the blade 32. In another example, the vertical gap means that there is sufficient space between the top and bottom sides of the blade 32 and a portion of the drive rod. For example, the vertical gap can mean that there is sufficient space between the top and bottom sides of the blade and the drive rod so that the top and bottom sides of the blade do not contact the drive rod. Therefore, in the example, the top, bottom, and side surfaces of the blade 32 do not contact the drive rod support post 80. In addition, in Figure 7B In the example shown in , no portion of the drive rod support 80 extends above the top or bottom sides of the blade 32 .

[0072] The top surface 124 of the inner shaft 26 may also include parallel grooves 122A and 122B (collectively referred to as grooves 122) located on the flexible protrusion 74. The length of the recess 78 is at least as long as the distance between the proximal end of the groove 84 and the distal end of the groove 122. Therefore, once assembled, the proximal portion 191 of the drive rod strut 80 can be located within the groove 122 (e.g., the proximal portion 191 of the drive rod strut 80A is located in the groove 122A and the proximal portion 191 of the drive rod strut 80B is located in the groove 122B) and the distal portions 192 of the drive rod strut 80A and the drive rod strut 80B are located within the groove 84. In the example shown, the drive rod strut 80A and the drive rod strut 80B do not contact each other.

[0073] Figure 6B Pictured Fig. 6A80A and 80B. The inner shaft 26 and the drive rod support 80 are arranged in the same but rotated 180 degrees. The inner shaft 26 may include a groove 85 that can be opposite (diametrically opposite) to the groove 84. In one example, the length of the groove 85 is different from the length of the groove 84. In another example, the length of the groove 84 and the length of the groove 85 are the same. As discussed herein with respect to the grooves 84 and 85, the grooves 84 and 85 are configured to receive both the drive rod support 80A and the drive rod support 80B. Located near the groove 85 is a pair of parallel grooves 131A and 131B (collectively referred to as grooves 131). The groove 131 can be opposite to the groove 122. Thus, once assembled, the proximal end portion 193 of the drive rod strut 80 may be located within the slot 131 (e.g., the proximal end portion 193 of the drive rod strut 80A is located within the slot 131A, and the proximal end portion 193 of the drive rod strut 80B is located within the slot 131B) and the distal end portions 194 of the drive rod strut 80A and the drive rod strut 80B are located within the slot 85. In the example shown, the drive rod strut 80A and the drive rod strut 80B do not contact each other.

[0074] like 6A to 7B As seen in , two identical plates can be used. Thus, the manufacture of the drive rod struts 80 can be simplified. The drive rod struts 80 can be placed facing each other. In an example, the drive rod struts 80 can have an interface with substantially parallel and spaced apart inner surfaces (or surfaces 136 facing the blade). The drive rod struts 80 can be inserted into the distal end of the inner shaft 26 and simply snap into the inner shaft 26. For example, when the drive rod struts 80 can be inserted into the inner shaft 26 (one drive rod strut at a time or together), the proximal portion 191 of the first edge 114 causes the flexible protrusion 74 (away from the longitudinal axis A1) to bend outward and allow the drive rod struts 80 to snap into place within the inner shaft 26.

[0075] The features discussed herein on the inner shaft 26 and the drive rod strut 80 enable the drive rod strut 80 to be coupled to the inner shaft 26. However, in examples, once the drive rod strut is inserted into the inner shaft 26, the drive rod strut 80 may also be coupled to the inner shaft by, for example, spot welding, soldering, brazing, or other similar processes. Additionally, in examples, the drive pin 44 may be fixed to the drive rod strut 80, such as by spot welding, soldering, brazing, or other similar processes.

[0076] Figures 8 to 9BAnother example of an inner shaft 26 coupled to a drive rod 27' is illustrated. The example shown can be used with all of the components of the pliers 10 described herein. The inner shaft 26 is the same as the inner shaft 26 disclosed herein. However, the previously illustrated drive rod struts 80A and 80B have been modified to drive rod struts 80A' and 80B' (collectively referred to herein as drive rod struts 80'). Drive rod struts 80' are the same as drive rod struts 80, except that drive rod struts 80' include different axial tracks (e.g., axial tracks 200) than drive rod struts 80. As shown in FIG. Figure 8 As seen in FIG. 1 , the axial track 200 is defined by a first side 204, a proximal side 207, a second side 206 (opposite the first side 204), and a distal side 208. The drive rod support 80A′ includes a protrusion 202 extending from a blade-facing surface 136 that forms a blade channel configured to receive the blade 32. Figures 8 to 9B In the example shown in , because the drive rod strut 80' includes additional features (e.g., the protrusion 202), in order to use two identical plates for the drive rod strut 80, the drive rod strut 80B' is the drive rod strut 80A' rotated one hundred and eighty (180) degrees. Therefore, the drive rod strut 80B' includes a protrusion extending from the blade-facing surface 136. The drive rod 27' can be coupled to the inner shaft 26 in a manner similar to the manner in which the drive rod strut 27 is coupled to the inner shaft 26. However, before the drive rod 27' is coupled to the inner shaft 26, the drive rod strut 80' is positioned around the blade 32 so that the protrusion 202 extends through the blade track 102 and forms an H-beam with the blade 23.

[0077] As discussed, drive rod strut 80B is identical to drive rod strut 80A, but rotated one hundred eighty (180) degrees. Thus, once assembled, proximal portion 191 of drive rod strut 80A can be located within slot 122A and proximal portion 193 of drive rod strut 80A' can be located within slot 122B and distal portion 192 of drive rod strut 80A' and distal portion 194 of drive rod strut 80B' are located within slot 84. In the example shown, drive rod strut 80A' and drive rod strut 80B' do not contact each other or the blade 32, even though drive rod strut 80A' and drive rod strut 80B' form an H-beam around blade 32 and tab 202 extends within blade track 102.

[0078] like Fig. 9BAs seen in the figure, the protrusion 202 extends through the blade track 102 and into the axial track 200 of the other drive rod strut 80'. Although the protrusion 202 extends through the blade track 102, the top and bottom surfaces of the blade are not covered by any portion of the drive rod strut 80'. In the example, the protrusion 202 does not extend beyond the outer surface 210 of the corresponding axial track 200 of the other drive rod strut 80' to maximize the available space for other components within the inner tube 26. In addition, preventing the protrusion 202 from extending beyond the outer surface 210 of the other drive rod strut can ensure that the drive rod 27' can be extended through the distal plug 48 (see Figure 4 ).

[0079] Figures 10 to 12 Another example of a drive rod 220 coupled to an inner shaft 222 that can be used in the pliers 10 as disclosed herein is illustrated. The drive rod 220 includes a pair of drive rod struts 224A and drive rod struts 224B (collectively referred to as drive rod struts 224). In the example, the drive rod struts 224A and drive rod struts 224B are the same plate. As described above, the drive rod struts 224 include an axial track 226 that can receive the guide 46 and a bore 228 that can receive the drive pin 44.

[0080] The drive rod support 224 includes a first surface 231, a second surface 232 (opposite to the first surface 231), a first edge 260, and a second edge 262. The first surface 231 and the second surface 232 extend between the first edge 260 and the second edge 262. In the example, the drive rod support 224 has a folded protrusion 230 extending from the first edge 260 away from the second surface 232. That is, the folded protrusion 230 extends substantially perpendicular to the second surface 232. Simply put, the drive rod support 224 is an L-shaped plate. The folded protrusion 230 forms the short end of the L-shaped plate, and the surface extending from the second edge 262 to the folded protrusion 230 forms the long end of the L-shaped plate. The second edge 262 includes a protrusion 234 extending axially from the longitudinal axis A1. As shown in FIG. Fig.10 As can be seen in FIG. 2 , the drive rod support 224A and the drive rod support 224B are the same plate. Therefore, the drive rod support 224A and the drive rod support 224B are positioned within the inner shaft 26, and the drive rod support 224B is the drive rod support 224A rotated one hundred eighty (180) degrees.

[0081] The inner shaft 222 includes a top surface 270 and a bottom surface 272, and each surface 270, 272 includes a groove for receiving a portion of the drive rod support 224. In the example, the inner shaft 222 includes grooves 240A and 243A (along the top surface 270) and grooves 240B and 243B (along the bottom surface 272). The grooves 240A and 240B (collectively referred to as grooves 240 herein) include first groove portions 242A and 242B (collectively referred to as first grooves 242) and second groove portions 244A and 244B (collectively referred to as second groove portions 244). The first groove portion 242 has a width equal to or slightly greater than the width W1 of the protrusion 230. The second groove portion 244 is thinner than the first groove portion 242. For example, the first groove portion 242 receives a portion of the drive rod support 224 along the first edge 260 that includes the folded protrusion 230. The second slot portion 244 receives a portion of the first edge 260 that does not include the folded-over protrusion 230. The slots 243A and 243B (collectively referred to as slots 243) are configured to receive respective protrusions 234 of the drive rod support 224.

[0082] In order to couple the drive rod 220 to the inner shaft 222, the first drive rod support 224A and the second drive rod support 224B will be inserted into the grooves 240A and 240b. For example, the drive rod support 224A can be inserted into the groove 240A from the top surface 270 in the direction of arrow A1. Once the protrusion 234 is inserted into the groove 243B along the bottom surface 272 of the inner shaft 222, the insertion will stop. Similarly, the drive rod support 224B can be inserted into the groove 240B from the bottom surface 272 in the direction of arrow A2. Once the protrusion 234 is inserted into the groove 243A along the top surface 270 of the inner shaft 222, the insertion will stop. Fig.11 and Fig.12 As can be seen in the figure, once coupled to the inner shaft 222, a gap 253 is maintained between the lower surface 151 of the folded protrusion 230 and the second edge 262. Therefore, the drive rod strut 224 is separately coupled to the inner shaft 222. As discussed herein, other coupling methods can be performed. For example, once the drive rod strut 224 is inserted into the inner shaft 222, the coupling can be further enhanced by, for example, but not limited to, spot welding the drive rod strut 224 to the inner shaft 222 when necessary.

[0083] Figure 13 to Figure 14 Another example of a drive rod 300 coupled to an inner shaft 302 that may be used in pliers 10 as disclosed herein is shown. Figure 13 to Figure 14 The example shown in 6A to 7B ; however, in Figure 13 to Figure 14 In the embodiment, drive rod struts 306A and 306B (collectively referred to as drive rod struts 306) are engaged prior to insertion into the inner shaft 302 and are in contact with the inner shaft 302. Fig. 7AInner shaft 302 includes a single slot 304 on flexible tab 74, compared to two slots (122A and 122B) in the inner shaft 302. Drive rod support 306 includes an axial track 320 to receive a guide and a hole 322 to receive drive pin 44, as disclosed herein.

[0084] The drive rod support 306 has a first surface 308, a second surface 310 opposite to the first surface 308, a first edge 311, and a second edge 313 opposite to the first edge 311, wherein the first surface 308 and the second surface 310 extend between the first edge 311 and the second edge 313. The first edge 311 includes folded protrusions 312 and 314. In an example, the folded protrusion 312 is located proximal to the recess 322, and the folded protrusion 314 is located distal to the recess 322. A tooth 318 extends from the folded protrusions 312 and 314. In an example, the folded protrusions 312 and 314 can extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the second surface 310. The second edge 313 includes a recess 317 and a tooth 315 extending from the second edge 313. That is, the tooth 315 can be perpendicular to the tooth 318. In an example, the folded protrusions 312 and 314 are integral with the drive rod support 306. In an example, the folded tabs 312 and 314 may be coupled (eg, spot welded) to the first edge 311 of the drive rod strut 306 .

[0085] Prior to coupling the drive rod struts 306 to the inner shaft 302, the two drive rod struts 306 are placed together such that the second faces 310 of each drive rod strut 306 are opposed. For example, the drive rod strut 306B is identical to the drive rod strut 306A, but rotated one hundred and eighty (180) degrees. When the two drive rod struts 306 are joined together, the folded protrusions 312 and 314 maintain a gap 340 between the two drive rod struts 306A and 306B. When the teeth 318 on the folded protrusions 312 and 314 extend between the teeth 315 on the second edge 313, the two drive rod struts 306A and 306B are engaged. Once engaged, the drive rod struts 80 can be inserted into the inner tube 26 (in a similar manner to inserting the drive rod struts 80 into the inner tube 26). 6A to 7B The drive rod support 306 is inserted into the inner tube 26 in the manner of Figures 13 to 15 In the example shown in , the two drive struts 306 are engaged.

[0086] As discussed herein, the drive rod struts 306 can be identical plates. Thus, the manufacture of the drive rod struts 8306 can be simplified. The drive rod struts 306 can be arranged facing each other. The drive rod struts 306 can be inserted into the distal end of the inner shaft 302 and simply snapped into the inner shaft 302. For example, when the drive rod struts 306 are inserted into the inner shaft 302 (together), the protrusions 312 cause the flexible tabs 74 to bend outward (away from the longitudinal axis A1) and allow the drive rod struts 306 to be snapped into the inner shaft 26. The folded protrusions 312 and the corresponding teeth 315 of the other drive rod struts can be positioned in the groove 304. Similarly, the folded protrusions 314 and the corresponding teeth 315 of the other drive rod struts can be positioned in the groove 84. In one example, once the drive rod struts 306 are snapped into place along the inner shaft 24, the drive rod struts 306 can be further connected (e.g., welded or otherwise) to the inner shaft 26. In another example, the drive rod struts 306 can be coupled (eg, welded) prior to insertion into the inner shaft. In another example, the drive rod struts 306 can be welded (or otherwise coupled) together and then further coupled (eg, welded to the inner shaft).

[0087] Examples and various annotations

[0088] Each of these non-limiting examples may stand alone or may be combined with one or more of the other examples in various permutations or combinations.

[0089] Example 1 provides a surgical forceps, which includes: a drive pin; an outer shaft, which defines a longitudinal axis; a first claw, which is pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first claw including a first set of flanges located at the proximal portion of the first claw, each flange in the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving the drive pin; a second claw, which is connected to the outer shaft; an inner shaft, which is located inside the outer shaft and extends along the longitudinal axis; and a drive rod, which is connected to the inner shaft and extends from the distal end of the inner shaft, the drive rod including: a pair of drive rod struts, the pair of drive rod struts extending from the distal portion of the inner shaft and positioned laterally inward of the first set of flanges, the drive pin can be fixed to the pair of drive rod struts, wherein the drive rod can translate within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first set of tracks, thereby moving the first claw relative to the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

[0090] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes: wherein each of the pair of drive rod struts includes an opening configured to receive the drive pin, wherein the opening is positioned laterally inward of an outer surface of the inner shaft.

[0091] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 can optionally include: wherein the drive rod includes a first pair of axial tracks proximate the opening, the first pair of axial tracks being arranged to receive a guide therein, the guide being fixed to the outer shaft.

[0092] In Example 4, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 3 can optionally include: wherein the inner shaft includes a second pair of axial tracks aligned with the first pair of axial tracks and arranged to receive the guide therein.

[0093] In Example 5, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 4 optionally includes: wherein the second claw is pivotally connected to the outer tube, and wherein the second claw includes a second set of flanges at a proximal portion of the second claw, each flange in the second set of flanges includes a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks, thereby moving the first claw and the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

[0094] In Example 6, the subject matter of Example 5 optionally includes a blade located within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis and capable of translating to extend between the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges, the blade including a track configured to receive the drive pin.

[0095] In Example 7, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 6 optionally includes a blade positioned within the inner shaft and the drive rod, wherein the first edge of the blade and the second edge of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

[0096] In Example 8, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 7 optionally includes a blade positioned within the inner shaft and the drive rod, wherein the first side of the blade and the second side of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

[0097] In Example 9, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 8 can optionally include: wherein each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from a first edge of the drive rod strut to form an L-shaped plate.

[0098] In Example 10, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 9 optionally includes wherein at least one of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from a surface defining a blade channel such that the protrusion extends into the blade channel.

[0099] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally includes: wherein each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from the surface defining the blade channel, wherein the drive rod struts form an H-shaped beam so that the protrusion of each of the drive rod struts extends into the blade channel.

[0100] In Example 12, the subject matter of Examples 1 to 11 optionally includes: wherein the pair of drive rod struts include a first drive rod strut having a first blade channel surface and a second drive rod strut having a second blade channel surface, wherein the first drive rod strut and the second drive rod strut are individually connected to the inner shaft.

[0101] In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 can optionally include: wherein the first drive rod strut and the second drive rod strut are not coupled together.

[0102] Example 14 provides a surgical forceps, which includes: a drive pin; an outer shaft, which extends along a longitudinal axis; a first claw, which is capable of pivoting relative to the outer shaft, the first claw including a first set of flanges, each first flange including a first track, in which the drive pin is received; a second claw, which is connected to the outer shaft; and an inner shaft, which is located inside the outer shaft and extends along the longitudinal axis; a drive rod, which is connected to the inner shaft and extends from the distal end of the inner shaft, the drive rod including: a first drive rod support, which extends from the inner shaft and is separately connected to the inner shaft; and a second drive rod support, which extends from the inner shaft and is separately connected to the inner shaft, the drive pin is connected to the first drive rod and the second drive rod, the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft so that the drive pin translates along the first set of tracks, thereby moving the first claw relative to the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

[0103] In Example 15, the subject matter of Example 14 optionally includes: wherein the second claw is pivotally connected to the outer tube, and wherein the second claw includes a second set of flanges located at a proximal portion of the second claw, each flange of the second set of flanges includes a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks, thereby moving the first claw and the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

[0104] In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 can optionally include: wherein the drive rod is positioned laterally inward of the first set of flanges and the second flange.

[0105] In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 15 optionally includes a blade located within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis and capable of translating to extend between the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges, the blade including a track configured to receive the drive pin.

[0106] In Example 18, the subject matter of Examples 14 to 17 optionally includes a blade extending along the longitudinal axis and translatable to extend between the first jaw and the second jaw, wherein the blade is positioned laterally inboard of the first drive rod strut and the second drive rod strut.

[0107] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 can optionally include: wherein a first edge of the blade and a second edge of the blade opposite the first edge are not covered by a portion of the first drive rod strut and a portion of the second drive rod strut.

[0108] In Example 20, the subject matter of Examples 14 to 19 can optionally include: wherein the first edge of the blade and the second edge of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

[0109] In Example 21, the subject matter of Examples 14 to 21 can optionally include: wherein the first side of the blade and the second side of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

[0110] In Example 22, the subject matter of Examples 14 to 22 can optionally include: wherein the first drive rod strut is independent of and does not contact the second drive rod strut.

[0111] Example 23 provides a surgical forceps, which includes: a drive pin; an outer shaft, which defines a longitudinal axis; a first claw, which is pivotally connected to the outer tube, the first claw including a first set of flanges located at the proximal portion of the first claw, each flange in the first set of flanges including a first track for receiving the drive pin; a second claw, which is connected to the outer tube; an inner shaft, which is located within the outer shaft and extends along the longitudinal axis; a drive rod, which is connected to the inner shaft and extends from the distal end of the inner shaft, the drive rod including: a pair of drive rod struts, the pair of drive rod struts extending from the distal end of the inner shaft Partially extending, the drive pin is capable of being fixed to the pair of drive rod struts, wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first set of tracks, thereby causing the first claw to move between an open position and a closed position relative to the second claw; and a blade, the blade is located within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade is capable of translating to extend between the first claw and the second claw, wherein each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from a first edge of the drive rod strut to form an L-shaped plate, and wherein the first edge, second edge, first face and second face of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

[0112] In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 optionally includes: wherein the second claw is pivotally connected to the outer tube, and wherein the second claw includes a second set of flanges located at a proximal portion of the second claw, each flange of the second set of flanges includes a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks, thereby moving the first claw and the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

[0113] In Example 25, the subject matter of Examples 23 to 25 can optionally include: wherein the drive rod is positioned laterally inward of the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges.

[0114] Example 26 provides a method for forming a portion of a surgical forceps, the method comprising: connecting a first drive rod strut to an inner shaft so that a portion of the first drive rod strut extends from a distal end of the inner shaft, and connecting a second drive rod strut to the inner shaft separately from the first drive rod strut so that a portion of the first drive rod strut extends from a distal end of the inner shaft, wherein the first drive rod strut and the second drive rod strut have distal ends positioned laterally inward of an outer surface of the inner shaft.

[0115] In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 optionally includes: wherein, connecting the first drive rod strut to the inner shaft and connecting the second drive rod strut to the inner shaft includes: inserting the first drive rod strut into the distal opening of the inner shaft to snap the first drive rod strut to the inner shaft, and inserting the second drive rod strut into the distal opening of the inner shaft to snap the first drive rod strut to the inner shaft.

[0116] In Example 28, the subject matter of Examples 26 to 27 optionally includes: connecting the first drive rod strut to the inner shaft and connecting the second drive rod strut to the inner shaft includes: inserting the first drive rod strut into a first axial groove along the top surface of the inner shaft; and inserting the second drive rod strut into a second axial groove along the bottom surface of the inner shaft.

[0117] In Example 29, the subject matter of Examples 26 to 28 can optionally include: wherein the first drive rod strut is the same as the second drive rod strut.

[0118] Example 30 is any one or combination of the examples or elements of Examples 1 to 29.

[0119] The above detailed description includes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. As an illustration, the accompanying drawings show specific embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to as "examples" in this article. These examples may include elements other than the elements shown or described. However, the inventors of the present invention also contemplate examples that only provide those elements shown or described. In addition, the inventors of the present invention also contemplate examples (or one or more aspects thereof) using any combination or arrangement of those elements shown or described with respect to the specific examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof).

[0120] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. As an illustration, the accompanying drawings show specific embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to as "examples" in this article. These examples may include elements other than those shown or described. However, the inventors of the present invention also contemplate examples that only provide those elements shown or described. In addition, the inventors of the present invention also contemplate examples (or one or more aspects thereof) using any combination or arrangement of those elements shown or described with respect to the specific examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof).

[0121] In this document, as is common in patent documents, the terms "a" or "an" are used to include one or more than one, regardless of any other instances or uses of "at least one" or "one or more". In this document, unless otherwise indicated, the term "or" is used to refer to a non-exclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B", "B but not A", and "A and B". In this document, the terms "including" and "in..." are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein". In addition, in the appended claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, combination, formulation, or process that includes elements other than those listed after such terms in a claim is still considered to fall within the scope of the claim. In addition, in the appended claims, the terms "first", "second", and "third", etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0122] The above description is intended to be illustrative, not restrictive. For example, the examples described above (or one or more aspects of the examples) can be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used by those of ordinary skill in the art after consulting the above description. The abstract provided complies with 37C.FR§1.72(b) so that the reader can quickly determine the nature of the disclosure of the present technology. The abstract is submitted with the understanding that the abstract will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the above specific description, various features can be combined together to organize the disclosure. This should not be interpreted to mean that for any claim, the disclosed features that are not claimed for protection are necessary. Specifically, the subject matter of the invention may be less than all the features of a specific disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the attached claims are thus incorporated into the specific embodiments as examples or embodiments, wherein each claim is independently a separate embodiment, and it is expected that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the present invention should be determined with reference to the full scope of the attached claims and the equivalents of these claims.

Claims

1. A surgical forceps comprising: drive pins and pivot pins; an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; a first jaw portion pivotally connected to the outer shaft by the pivot pin, the first jaw portion comprising a first set of flanges at a proximal end portion of the first jaw portion, each flange of the first set of flanges comprising a first track for receiving the drive pin; a second claw portion connected to the outer shaft; an inner shaft disposed within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis, the inner shaft defining a lumen extending along at least a portion of the length of the inner shaft; a blade disposed at least partially within the inner shaft, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis and translatable to extend between the first set of flanges, the blade defining a blade slot configured to receive the drive pin; as well as A driving rod is coupled to the inner shaft and extends distally from the inner shaft, the driving rod comprising: a pair of drive rod struts, wherein a first portion of the pair of drive rod struts is positioned within the lumen of the inner shaft and a second portion of the pair of drive rod struts extends from an opening at a distal end of the inner shaft, the pair of drive rod struts being positioned laterally inboard of the first set of flanges, the drive pin being securable to the pair of drive rod struts, wherein the drive rod is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first set of tracks to move the first jaw relative to the second jaw between an open position and a closed position; Wherein, each of the pair of drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending transversely into the blade slot.

2. The surgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the pair of drive rod struts includes an opening configured to receive the drive pin, wherein the opening is positioned laterally inward of an outer surface of the inner shaft.

3. The surgical forceps according to claim 2, wherein: The drive rod includes a first pair of axial tracks proximal to the opening, the first pair of axial tracks being arranged to receive a guide therein, the guide being fixed to the outer shaft, and the axial tracks being configured to allow the drive rod to move relative to the guide and the outer shaft, and the axial tracks being engaged with the guide to limit movement of the drive rod relative to the outer shaft.

4. The surgical forceps according to claim 3, wherein: The inner shaft includes a second pair of axial tracks aligned with the first pair of axial tracks and arranged to receive the guide therein.

5. The surgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein: The second claw is pivotally connected to the outer shaft, and wherein the second claw includes a second set of flanges at a proximal portion of the second claw, each flange in the second set of flanges includes a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks to move the first claw and the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

6. The surgical forceps of claim 1 further comprising a blade located within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade being located transversely between the pair of drive rod struts, and wherein: The first edge of the blade and the second edge of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

7. The surgical forceps according to claim 1, further comprising a blade located within the inner shaft and the drive rod, wherein: The first face of the blade and the second face of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

8. The surgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from a first edge of the drive rod strut to form an L-shaped plate.

9. The surgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending from a surface defining a blade channel, wherein the drive rod struts form an H-beam such that the protrusion of each of the drive rod struts extends into the blade channel.

10. The surgical forceps according to claim 1, wherein: The pair of drive rod struts includes a first drive rod strut having a first blade passage surface and a second drive rod strut having a second blade passage surface, wherein the first drive rod strut and the second drive rod strut are individually connected to the inner shaft.

11. The surgical forceps according to claim 10, wherein: A proximal end portion of each of the pair of drive rod struts is at least partially positioned within one or more slots of the inner shaft to connect the pair of drive rod struts to the inner shaft.

12. A surgical forceps comprising: drive pins and pivot pins; an outer shaft extending along a longitudinal axis; a first jaw portion connected to the outer shaft by the pivot pin so that the first jaw portion can pivot relative to the outer shaft, the first jaw portion comprising a first set of flanges, each flange in the first set of flanges comprising a first track in which the drive pin is received; a second claw portion connected to the outer shaft; an inner shaft located within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis; a blade disposed at least partially within the inner shaft, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis and translatable to extend between the first set of flanges, the blade including a blade slot configured to receive the drive pin; as well as A driving rod is coupled to the inner shaft and extends distally from the inner shaft, the driving rod comprising: a first drive rod strut extending from the inner shaft and separately coupled to the inner shaft, the first drive rod strut including a first opening and a first axial track positioned proximate the first opening, wherein a cross-sectional area defined by the first opening is smaller than a cross-sectional area defined by the first axial track, the first drive rod strut including a first protrusion extending transversely into the blade slot of the blade; A second drive rod strut, the second drive rod strut extending from the inner shaft and separately connected to the inner shaft, the second drive rod strut including a second opening and a second axial track positioned proximate the second opening, wherein the cross-sectional area defined by the second opening is smaller than the cross-sectional area defined by the second axial track, the second drive rod strut including a second protrusion extending laterally into the blade slot of the blade, wherein the first opening and the second opening are configured to receive the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to translate the drive pin along the set of the first track, thereby moving the first claw relative to the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

13. The surgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein: The second claw is pivotally connected to the outer shaft, and wherein the second claw includes a second set of flanges at a proximal portion of the second claw, each flange of the second set of flanges includes a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks to move the first claw and the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

14. The surgical forceps according to claim 13, wherein: The drive rod is positioned laterally inward of the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges.

15. The surgical forceps according to claim 13, further comprising: A blade is positioned within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade extending along the longitudinal axis and being translatable to extend between the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges, the blade including a track configured to receive the drive pin.

16. The surgical forceps according to claim 12, further comprising: A blade extends along the longitudinal axis and is translatable to extend between the first and second jaws, wherein the blade is positioned laterally inboard of the first and second drive rod struts.

17. The surgical forceps according to claim 16, wherein: A first edge of the blade and a second edge of the blade opposite the first edge are not covered by a portion of the first drive rod strut and a portion of the second drive rod strut.

18. The surgical forceps according to claim 16, wherein: The first edge of the blade and the second edge of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

19. The surgical forceps according to claim 16, wherein: The first face of the blade and the second face of the blade do not contact the drive rod.

20. The surgical forceps according to claim 12, wherein: The first drive rod strut is independent of and does not contact the second drive rod strut.

21. A surgical forceps comprising: drive pins and pivot pins; an outer shaft defining a longitudinal axis; a first jaw portion pivotally connected to the outer shaft by the pivot pin, the first jaw portion comprising a first set of flanges at a proximal end portion of the first jaw portion, each flange of the first set of flanges comprising a first track for receiving the drive pin; a second claw portion connected to the outer shaft; an inner shaft located within the outer shaft and extending along the longitudinal axis; A driving rod is coupled to the inner shaft and extends distally from the inner shaft, the driving rod comprising: a pair of drive rod struts extending from a distal portion of the inner shaft, the drive pin being securable to the pair of drive rod struts, wherein the drive rod is translatable within the outer shaft to drive the drive pin along the first set of tracks to move the first jaw between an open position and a closed position relative to the second jaw; and a blade disposed within the inner shaft and the drive rod, the blade being translatable to extend between the first jaw and the second jaw, and the blade defining a blade slot, wherein each of the drive rod struts includes a protrusion extending laterally from a first edge of the drive rod strut to form an L-shaped plate, the protrusion extending into the blade slot, and Wherein, the first edge, the second edge, the first surface and the second surface of the blade do not contact the driving rod.

22. The surgical forceps according to claim 21, wherein: The second claw is pivotally connected to the outer shaft, and wherein the second claw includes a second set of flanges at a proximal portion of the second claw, each flange of the second set of flanges includes a second track for receiving the drive pin, and wherein the drive rod is capable of translating within the outer shaft to drive the pin along the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks to move the first claw and the second claw between an open position and a closed position.

23. The surgical forceps according to claim 22, wherein: The drive rod is positioned laterally inward of the first set of flanges and the second set of flanges.

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