Disposal device with damping characteristics

Abstract

Treatment devices used for ultrasonic and high-frequency treatment procedures are equipped with an ultrasonic transducer comprising a piezoelectric element that converts electrical energy into ultrasonic vibrations. The treatment device includes a transmission rod with a treatment probe and jaws for gripping an object. The transmission rod includes one or more damping features to minimize or prevent excessive vibration, and in particular to reduce frictional heat caused by friction between the damping features and the transmission rod, which attenuates the ultrasonic vibrations.

Description

[0001] Related application data

[0002] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 152,899, filed on February 24, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasonic treatment device for dissecting and coagulating tissue. The ultrasonic treatment device is equipped with an ultrasonic transducer comprising a piezoelectric element that converts electrical energy into ultrasonic vibrations. The ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted along a transmission member to a probe, which is used to clamp objects together using jaws to perform a treatment procedure on a patient's biological tissue, such as sealing a blood vessel. The transmission member may generate undesirable transverse vibrations, which can lead to problems such as degraded blood vessel sealing performance, heat generation, abnormal stress, and noise. Background Art

[0004] In the following discussion, reference is made to specific structures and / or methods. However, the following references should not be construed as an admission that these structures and / or methods constitute prior art. Applicants expressly reserve the right to demonstrate that such structures and / or methods do not conform to the prior art with respect to the present invention.

[0005] Figure 12 8,696,666). The prior art surgical operating system 1 consists of a handpiece 2, a main device 3 as an output control device, a foot switch 4, and an electrode plate 5. The handpiece 2 is a surgical treatment instrument capable of using both ultrasonic waves and high-frequency currents for treatment. The handpiece 2 is connected to the main device 3 via a detachable cable 2a. The handpiece 2 has an insertion portion 2b and a handle portion 2c. The connector portion 3a connects the handpiece to the main device 3, and the main device 3 controls the output of ultrasonic vibrations and / or high-frequency currents. The main device 3 has multiple displays 3b and multiple different operation buttons 3c for controlling the performance of the handpiece 2. The foot switch 4 is connected to the main device 3 via a cable 4a, and switches the mode from treatment using ultrasonic vibrations to treatment using high-frequency current or treatment using both. The electrode plate 5 is connected to the main device 3 via a cable 5a. The electrode plate 5 is a return electrode for returning the current flowing through the object when the high-frequency current is output in a monopolar manner.

[0006] Figure 13FIG. 1 is a diagram of a portion of an ultrasonic treatment device according to the prior art (U.S. Patent No. 5,989,275). The prior art ultrasonic treatment device includes a transmission rod 86 for transmitting ultrasonic vibrations to an ultrasonic probe. The transmission rod 86 is covered by a damping sheath 160, which is further covered by an elongated tubular member 174. Diametrically opposed openings 162b and 162c and a longitudinal groove 164 are formed in the damping sheath 160. Compliant members 190b and 190c (O-rings and baffles) are arranged around the periphery of the damping sheath 160. The compliant members 190b and 190c are preferably arranged around the nodes to minimize the damping of the desired longitudinal vibrations.

[0007] The damping sleeve 160 is constructed of a polymeric material, preferably having a low coefficient of friction to minimize energy dissipation from axial motion or longitudinal vibration of the transmission rod 86. The damping sleeve 160 is preferably in light contact with the transmission rod 86 to dampen or limit non-axial or lateral side-to-side vibrations of the transmission rod 86. The damping sleeve 160 can dampen lateral motion of unwanted vibrations that are randomly located along the length of the transmission rod 86 relative to the nodes and antinodes of the desired longitudinal vibrations.

[0008] When the ultrasonic probe vibrates, horizontal vibrations generated within the ultrasonic treatment device can cause problems such as degraded blood vessel sealing performance, heat generation, abnormal stress, and abnormal noise. While conventional ultrasonic treatment devices may include structures such as a damping sheath 160, it is not necessary for the damping sheath 160 to consistently contact the entire transmission rod 86 in areas intended to suppress or limit non-axial or lateral side-to-side vibrations. For example, when conventional ultrasonic treatment devices are operated and clamping an object such as human tissue during treatment, the need to mitigate lateral vibrations occurring at the ultrasonic probe is reduced due to direct contact between the ultrasonic probe and the tissue or other clamping characteristics. Furthermore, during treatments involving longitudinal vibrations, contact between the damping sheath 160 and the ultrasonic probe results in an increase in electrical energy and frictional heat. Therefore, a configuration that provides damping when the ultrasonic probe is not clamping, but not when the probe is clamping human tissue, is preferred. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, considering practical applications, it is desirable to design an ultrasonic treatment device with an efficient structure that substantially eliminates one or more of the problems caused by the limitations and shortcomings of prior art treatment devices. The present disclosure provides an improved treatment device with an efficient structure and practical management for related medical procedures. For example, it is desirable to provide improved damping solutions, such as minimizing contact between the transmission rod and the damping structure, to minimize or prevent heating, abnormal noise, or other issues. At least one or more of these objectives are achieved by the treatment device disclosed herein.

[0010] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the disclosed disposal device will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and the scheme as well as the drawings.

[0011] Generally, the disclosed structure and system provide an ultrasonic treatment device that effectively suppresses problems such as heating, abnormal stress and abnormal noise caused by vertical and / or horizontal ultrasonic vibrations. The treatment device for ultrasonic treatment and high-frequency treatment processes is equipped with an ultrasonic transducer, which includes a piezoelectric element that converts electrical energy into ultrasonic vibrations. The treatment device includes a transmission rod with a treatment probe and jaws, and the treatment probe and jaws are used to clamp an object such as a patient's biological tissue. The treatment device may include features for slowing down lateral vibrations associated with ultrasonic vibrations, such as a sheath on a portion of the transmission rod or the treatment probe, an outer surface of the treatment probe that is configured to contact the inner surface of a surrounding structure (such as a probe holder), an outer surface of the transmission rod that is configured to contact the inner surface of a surrounding structure (such as a sheath of the treatment device), or a combination of these features. Damping lateral vibrations minimizes or prevents excessive vibration and, in particular, reduces frictional heat caused by the damping features that attenuate ultrasonic vibrations.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, a damping feature is associated with a probe holder, which is a structure that at least partially surrounds the outer periphery of the treatment probe and through which the treatment probe can slide. Movement of the jaws between an open position (when the jaws are not in contact with the surface of the treatment probe) and a closed position (when the jaws are in contact with the surface of the treatment probe) causes the outer periphery of the treatment probe to move from a first position in which the treatment probe is in contact with the damping feature (such as, for example, contacting the surface of the probe holder) to a second position in which the treatment probe is spaced apart from the damping feature (such as, for example, spaced apart from the surface of the probe holder). When the jaws are in the open position (which is, on the other hand, when the treatment probe is unloaded), the damping feature suppresses lateral vibrations of the treatment probe by contacting the damping feature. As a result, when the treatment probe is in a loaded state due to being used during surgery, the jaws are in the closed position and the treatment probe is forced away from the surface of the probe holder without contacting the damping feature associated with the probe holder, for example, due to the treatment probe being forced away from contact with the surface of the probe holder.

[0013] In other exemplary embodiments, a damping feature is associated with a drive member, which is a structure that slidably moves within the sheath of the treatment device to extend and retract the treatment probe and actuate the movement of the jaws. Movement of the drive member causes the treatment probe to move and also causes the jaws to move between an open position (when the jaws are not in contact with the surface of the treatment probe) and a closed position (when the jaws are in contact with the surface of the treatment probe). The treatment probe is attached to the transmission rod in a transition region, and as the treatment probe moves backward (i.e., in the retraction direction), the proximal end of the drive member moves toward and contacts the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod. The damping feature is located at the portion of the drive member that contacts the transition region. Therefore, when moving in the retraction direction, the damping feature of the drive member is caused to contact the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod. When the jaws are in the open position (which is another case when the treatment probe is unloaded), the damping feature suppresses lateral vibrations of the treatment probe by coordinating the movement of the drive member and the operation of the jaws in a manner that causes the damping feature of the drive member to contact the surface of the transition region of the transmission rod. As a result, movement of the drive member and operation of the jaws can also be coordinated so that when the treatment probe is in a loaded state by being used during surgery, the jaws are in a closed position and the damping feature of the drive member is not in contact with the surface of the transition region of the transfer rod, for example by slidably moving the drive member toward the distal end to separate the damping feature of the drive member from the surface of the transition region of the transfer rod.

[0014] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the damping feature is integrally provided with the structure for opening and closing the jaws, so that the damping feature switches between contact and separation with the transmission rod and / or treatment probe as the jaws open and close. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the damping feature can be positioned at an antinode or node of the ultrasonic vibration.

[0015] Embodiments of the disclosed surgical treatment device include: a transducer for generating ultrasonic vibrations; a transmission rod including a treatment probe, wherein a proximal end of the transmission rod is operably connected to the transducer for transmitting the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the transducer to a treatment probe located at a distal end thereof, and the treatment probe includes a treatment surface and jaws movable from an open position to a closed position relative to the transmission rod. When the jaws are in the open position, a damping feature contacts the transmission rod, and when the jaws are in the closed position, the damping feature is spaced apart from the transmission rod.

[0016] In some embodiments, the damping features are made of an insulating material.

[0017] In some embodiments, the damping features are made of resin.

[0018] In some embodiments, the damping feature is made of rubber.

[0019] In some embodiments, the damping feature covers the transfer rod perpendicular to the treatment surface.

[0020] In some embodiments, the damping feature is positioned within half the wavelength of the ultrasonic vibrations in the axial proximal direction from the distal end of the treatment probe.

[0021] In some embodiments, the damping feature is positioned near the fulcrum of the jaws.

[0022] In some embodiments, the transfer rod is displaced in a direction in which the jaws close in the closed position.

[0023] In some embodiments, contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod does not occur at the nodes of the lateral vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

[0024] In some embodiments, contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod does not occur at antinodes of the longitudinal vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

[0025] In some embodiments, contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at an antinode of the transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

[0026] In some embodiments, the treatment probe is configured for treating biological tissue.

[0027] In some embodiments, the treatment probe is configured as an electrode for treatment using high frequency current.

[0028] In some embodiments, the damping feature prevents short circuiting between the transfer rod and other portions of the treatment device.

[0029] In some embodiments, the treatment probe has a curved shape.

[0030] In some embodiments, a surgical treatment device includes: a transducer that generates ultrasonic vibrations; a transmission rod that includes a treatment probe, wherein the proximal end of the transmission rod is operatively connected to the transducer to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the transducer to the treatment probe at the distal end; the treatment probe includes a treatment surface and a jaw that can be moved from an open position to a closed position relative to the transmission rod; and a slider that moves in a direction parallel to the transmission rod. The slider and the jaws are configured so that when the slider moves toward the proximal end of the transmission rod, the jaws move in an open direction, and when the slider moves toward the distal end of the transmission rod, the jaws move in a closed direction. In addition, the slider includes a damping feature that contacts the transmission rod when the jaws are in the open position and is spaced apart from the transmission rod when the jaws are in the closed position.

[0031] In some embodiments, the damping features are made of an insulating material.

[0032] In some embodiments, the damping features are made of resin.

[0033] In some embodiments, the damping feature is made of rubber.

[0034] In some embodiments, the damping feature has a square or rectangular shape.

[0035] In some embodiments, the damping feature has a triangular shape.

[0036] In some embodiments, the damping feature contacts the transfer rod applying force in a radial direction.

[0037] In some embodiments, the damping feature moves integrally with the slider.

[0038] In some embodiments, contact between the damping member and the transmission rod does not occur at nodes of the lateral vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

[0039] In some embodiments, contact between the damping member and the transmission rod does not occur at antinodes of the longitudinal vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

[0040] In some embodiments, contact between the damping member and the transmission rod occurs at an antinode of the transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

[0041] In some embodiments, the treatment probe is configured for treating biological tissue.

[0042] In some embodiments, the treatment probe is configured as an electrode for treatment using high frequency current.

[0043] In some embodiments, the damping feature prevents short circuiting between the transfer rod and other portions of the treatment device.

[0044] In some embodiments, the treatment probe has a curved shape.

[0045] In some embodiments, the transfer rod includes a portion having a larger diameter than other portions of the transfer rod.

[0046] In some embodiments, the portion having the larger diameter gradually increases in diameter.

[0047] In some embodiments, a method for controlling a surgical treatment device is disclosed. The method includes generating ultrasonic vibrations, connecting a transmission rod including a treatment probe to a transducer to transmit the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the transducer to the treatment probe, and moving a slider in a direction parallel to the transmission rod to open and close jaws movable relative to a treatment surface of the transmission rod, wherein movement of the slider and the jaws is configured such that the jaws move in an opening direction when the slider moves toward the proximal end of the transmission rod and in a closing direction when the slider moves toward the distal end of the transmission rod. Movement of the slider causes a damping feature to contact the transmission rod when the jaws are in an open position and causes the damping feature to be spaced apart from the transmission rod when the jaws are in a closed position.

[0048] Other systems, methods, features and advantages will be or will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this specification, be within the scope of the present disclosure, and be protected by the appended claims. Nothing in this section should be construed as limiting those claims. Further aspects and advantages are discussed below in conjunction with embodiments of the disclosed input device. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the disclosed input device are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the disclosed input device as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] The following detailed description of the preferred embodiments may be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals represent like elements, and in which:

[0050] Figure 1 An embodiment of a treatment device is shown.

[0051] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 Magnified view of the treatment end of the treatment device in region P.

[0052] Figure 3A This is a top view of the treatment area of the ultrasonic probe. Figure 3B It is an exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic vibration of the treatment area in the transverse vibration mode based on simulation.

[0053] Figure 4Ais a side view of the treatment area of the ultrasound probe, Figure 4B It is an exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic vibration of the treatment area in the transverse vibration mode based on simulation.

[0054] Figure 5 It is an exaggerated perspective view of the treatment area of the ultrasonic probe and shows changes in lateral vibration during vibration of the ultrasonic probe.

[0055] Figure 6 is an enlarged schematic view of the treatment end of the treatment device with the jaws in the open position and illustrating aspects of the probe holder structure.

[0056] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the structure of the probe holder.

[0057] Figure 8A and Figure 8B A cross-sectional side view and a cross-sectional axial view, respectively, of the treatment end of the treatment device in the open jaw state.

[0058] Figure 9A and Figure 9B A cross-sectional side view and a cross-sectional axial view, respectively, of the treatment end of the treatment device in the closed jaw state.

[0059] Figure 10A and Figure 10B A first illustration of a treatment end utilizing damping features associated with a drive member is illustrated.

[0060] Figure 11A and Figure 11B A second illustration of a treatment end utilizing damping features associated with a drive member is illustrated.

[0061] Figure 12 An ultrasonic treatment device in the prior art is shown.

[0062] Figure 13 A part of an ultrasonic treatment device in the related art is shown.

[0063] In all the drawings, for the sake of clarity, the dimensions of the various components are appropriately adjusted. For ease of viewing, in some cases, only some named features in the drawings are marked with reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Figure 13 is a diagram of a surgical treatment device 300, which includes a body 302, a sheath 304, and a treatment end 306. The body 302 includes a movable arm 308, a grip portion 310, and a transducer 312. The movable arm 308 is used together with the grip portion 310 to actuate and operate the functions of the treatment end 306. The transducer 312 includes an ultrasonic transducer that is connected to a power source that provides electrical energy for performing ultrasonic treatment and / or high-frequency treatment using the surgical treatment device 300. The power source can be a wired or wireless power source. The sheath 304 protects the wires and components housed therein, such as the wires and components used to operate the functions of the treatment end 306.

[0065] Figure 2 3 is an enlarged view of the treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300. The treatment end 306 includes jaws 402 and an ultrasonic probe 404. In order to clamp biological tissue and other objects for treatment, the jaws 402 are moved relative to the ultrasonic probe 404 (indicated by arrow M) by manipulating the movable handle 308 to open and close in the vertical direction. The ultrasonic probe 404 vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency transmitted by a transmission member within the sheath 304. The ultrasonic vibrations (longitudinal vibrations) generated by the ultrasonic probe 404 in the direction 406 cause frictional heat for treatment purposes such as tissue dissection and frictional heat caused by contact with objects such as damping members. The ultrasonic probe 404 can have a curved shape and can also be used as an electrode for treatment using high-frequency current.

[0066] Figure 3A The ultrasonic probe 404 is shown as viewed from the vertical direction (the direction in which the jaws 402 are opened and closed). Figure 3A Also shown is a transmission member 502 extending distally from the ultrasound probe 404 and extending within the sheath 304 in the configuration of the treatment device and connected to the transducer 312. The transmission member 502 is configured to transmit ultrasonic energy and / or high frequency energy from the transducer to the ultrasound probe 404 having a curved shape. Figure 3A In the view of FIG, the ultrasonic probe 404 and the transmission member 502 are in a static state (ie, a state in which neither ultrasonic vibration nor high-frequency current is applied to the ultrasonic probe 404 and the transmission member 502).

[0067] Figure 3B The ultrasonic probe 404 is also shown as viewed from the vertical direction (the direction in which the jaws 402 are opened and closed). Figure 3B An exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic probe 404 and the transmission member 502 in an oscillating state (ie, a state in which ultrasonic vibrations are applied) is illustrated.

[0068] Considering the use of the ultrasonic probe 404 during treatment, longitudinal vibration will be the desired ultrasonic vibration. In contrast, lateral vibration and torsional vibration are undesirable ultrasonic vibrations that may cause problems during treatment. Longitudinal vibration occurs parallel to the central axis of the ultrasonic probe 404, and undesirable lateral vibration occurs in a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the ultrasonic probe and the longitudinal vibration. Because the ultrasonic probe 404 is bent in the horizontal direction to improve visibility during treatment, when ultrasonic vibration is applied to the ultrasonic probe 404, the axial imbalance of the ultrasonic probe 404 in the horizontal direction may cause significant lateral vibration. Figure 3B In the case shown, the ultrasonic vibrations have caused periodic antinodes (at Figure 3B The lateral vibration at the antinode 504 of the lateral vibration may cause problems such as heating, abnormal stress, and abnormal noise, and therefore needs to be attenuated.

[0069] Figure 4A The diagram shows the horizontal direction (perpendicular to Figure 3A and Figure 3B The ultrasonic probe 404 is observed in the vertical direction (direction indicated in the vertical direction). Figure 4A Also illustrated is a transmission member 502 extending from the ultrasound probe 404, extending within the sheath 304, and connected to the transducer 312. The ultrasound probe 404 and the transmission member 502 are in their resting state (i.e., a state in which neither ultrasonic vibrations nor high-frequency current are applied to the ultrasound probe 404 and the transmission member 502). Figure 4B Also shown is the ultrasound probe 404 viewed from a horizontal direction. Figure 4B The diagram shows an exaggerated representation of the ultrasonic probe 404 and the transmission member 502 in an oscillating state (i.e., a state in which ultrasonic vibrations are applied). Since the ultrasonic probe 404 is not bent in the vertical direction, the axial imbalance in the vertical direction is extremely small compared to the axial imbalance caused by the curved ultrasonic probe 404 bending in the horizontal direction. Figure 3B Compared to the lateral vibration in the horizontal direction disclosed in , the undesired lateral vibration that may occur at the antinode 504 when ultrasonic vibration is applied is weak. Figure 5 Also shown in perspective are exaggerated representations of the ultrasound probe 404 and the transmission member 502 . Figure 5 The ultrasound probe 404 and the transmission member 502 are illustrated in an oscillating state, showing the occurrence of undesirable lateral vibrations due to bending of the ultrasound probe 404 .

[0070] Figure 6FIG3 is a perspective view of the treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the open jaw position, illustrating aspects of the probe holder 700. The jaws 402 include an upper clamping surface 604 facing the ultrasonic probe 404, and the ultrasonic probe 404 includes a lower clamping surface 606 facing the jaws 402. To grip biological tissue for treatment, such as dissection and / or coagulation, the upper clamping surface 604 and the lower clamping surface 606 are typically moved relative to each other by pivoting the jaws 402 about an axis located at a fulcrum 610. This relative movement M is actuated by operation of a movable handle 308 and a motion mechanism, such as a slider 608 embedded within the sheath 304. The jaws 402 are rotatably coupled to the probe holder 700 and the sheath 304, and can rotate together with the sheath 304. The probe holder 700 can be made of an electrically insulating material, such as resin or rubber, and the inner surface of the probe holder 700 at least partially surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the ultrasonic probe 404. The probe holder 700 slidably holds the ultrasonic probe 404, and as described herein, with coordinated movement of the jaws 402 in the opening direction, a region 706 of the probe holder 700 (also referred to herein as an upper holding portion) contacts the surface of the ultrasonic probe 404 in line or area contact, particularly when the ultrasonic probe 404 is in an unloaded state (i.e., not in contact with biological tissue and / or not in contact with the jaws 402, particularly not in contact with the upper clamping surface 604 of the jaws 402). The base end 618 of the sheath 304 is connected to or otherwise interacts with the sheath 304.

[0071] Figure 7 The probe holder 700 is shown without the rest of the associated treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300. A hole 702 in the probe holder 700 receives the fulcrum 610 or other structure in the base of the jaws 402. The protrusion 704 provides a structure for connecting the probe holder 700 to the sheath 304. For example, the protrusion 704 can snap into a corresponding recess or hole in the inner surface of the sheath 304, particularly in the middle region 616 of the sheath 304.

[0072] Figure 8Ais a cross-sectional side view of the treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the open jaw position. The ultrasonic probe 404 extends through the probe holder 700 and the sheath 304. The jaws 402 are opened using a slider 608, which acts on a fulcrum 802 to pivotally move the jaws 402 about a fulcrum 610 (not shown). In this open jaw position, a region 706 of the probe holder 700, such as the upper retaining portion, is in direct contact with the surface of the ultrasonic probe 404 perpendicular to the treatment surface, and this direct contact serves to attenuate ultrasonic vibrations, including transverse vibrations, when the ultrasonic probe 404 is in an oscillating state. The electrical insulation of the probe holder 700 prevents electrical shorting between the ultrasonic probe 404 and other portions of the treatment end 306, such as the fulcrum 802, the jaws 402, the slider 608, or the sheath 304, during high-frequency current treatment procedures.

[0073] Figure 8B is Figure 8A A cross-sectional axial view of the treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the open jaws state, viewed at the position AA' indicated in FIG. The ultrasonic probe 404 extends through the probe holder 700 and the sheath 304, which are joined together at the fulcrum 610 by the detents 804 and 806 on the jaws 402. Figure 8B As shown, the first pawl 804 and the second pawl 806 can be integrally formed with the jaw 402 or can be separate structures fixed to the jaw 402. Figure 8B Also shown are a slide 608 and a fulcrum 802 for opening and closing the upper jaw 402. Since it is not loaded, the ultrasonic probe 404 is forced toward and contacts the region 706 of the probe holder 700, such as the upper holding portion, for attenuating ultrasonic vibrations, including lateral vibrations, when the ultrasonic probe 404 is in an oscillating state. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic probe 404 is spaced apart from the probe holder 700 and the sheath 304 at a circumferential position of the ultrasonic probe 404 that is 180 degrees from the position where the ultrasonic probe 404 contacts the region 706, such as at Figure 8B In the region indicated by S in FIG. 4 , there is a space between the outer peripheral surface of the ultrasonic probe 404 and the probe holder 700 and the sheath 304 .

[0074] Figure 9A6 is a cross-sectional side view of the surgical treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the closed jaw position. The jaws 402 are closed using the slide 608, which acts on the fulcrum 802 to pivotally move the jaws 402 about the fulcrum 610 (not shown). In the closed position, the upper clamping surface 604 contacts the lower clamping surface 606 of the ultrasonic probe 404 and applies a force in a downward direction 902. Due to the downward force 902 applied by the jaws 402 to the ultrasonic probe 404, the entire ultrasonic probe 404 is displaced and pushed in a downward direction. Figure 8B The space indicated by S in the middle causes a gap (indicated by arrow G) to form between the surface of the ultrasound probe 404 and the probe holder 700. In particular, the surface of the ultrasound probe 404 no longer contacts the region 706 (e.g., the upper holding portion 706) of the probe holder 700. Since the region 706 is not in direct contact with the ultrasound probe 404 (and is not in direct contact with the probe 404), the probe holder 700 is not in direct contact with the probe 404. Figures 8A to 8B ), attenuation of ultrasonic vibrations does not occur using the probe holder 700. However, attenuation of the ultrasonic probe 404 still occurs through direct contact between the upper clamping surface 604 and the lower clamping surface 606, or direct contact between the lower clamping surface 606 and one or more biological tissues to be treated.

[0075] Figure 9B is Figure 9A FIG2 is a cross-sectional axial view of the treatment end 306 of the surgical treatment device 300 in a closed jaw position, as viewed at the position BB' indicated in FIG2. The jaws 402 are closed using a slider 608, which acts on a fulcrum 802 (not shown) to pivotally move the jaws 402 about a fulcrum 610. A gap G caused by the downward force 902 discussed above is illustrated between the ultrasonic probe 404 and the probe holder 700, specifically between the surface of the ultrasonic probe 404 and the region 702 (i.e., the upper retaining portion) of the probe holder 700. Because the upper retaining portion 706 does not directly contact the ultrasonic probe 404, attenuation of ultrasonic vibrations using the probe holder 700 does not occur. However, attenuation of the ultrasonic probe 404 may still occur through direct contact between the upper clamping surface 604 and the lower clamping surface 606, or through direct contact between the lower clamping surface 606 and one or more biological tissues to be treated.

[0076] Figure 10AThe internal configuration of the slider 608 and ultrasonic probe 404 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the open jaw position of the second embodiment is schematically illustrated. When the jaws 402 are open, the slider 608 moves proximally relative to the ultrasonic probe 404 (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow 1002). The slider 608 includes a damping feature 1004 (such as an elastic pad made of an insulating material such as rubber or resin that moves with the slider 608). The electrical insulation of the damping feature 1004 prevents current from shorting between the ultrasonic probe 404 and other parts of the treatment end 306 during the high-frequency current treatment process. The damping feature 1004 can have a square or rectangular shape and can be fixed to the slider 608 or can be integrally formed with the slider 608. In the open jaw position, when the damping feature 1004 is in direct contact with the thickened portion of the ultrasonic probe 404 or the transmission member 502, the lateral vibration that causes noise when the ultrasonic probe 404 is in an oscillating state is attenuated.

[0077] Figure 10B The internal configuration of the slider 608 and the ultrasonic probe 404 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the closed jaw state of the first embodiment is schematically illustrated. When the jaws 402 are closed, the slider 608 moves in the distal direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow 1006) relative to the ultrasonic probe 404. Since the damping feature 1004 moves away from the thickened portion of the ultrasonic probe 404 or the transmission member 502 as the slider 608 moves, the damping feature 1004 is spaced apart from and no longer in direct contact with the ultrasonic probe 404 or the transmission member 502, and will no longer attenuate lateral vibrations that cause noise when the ultrasonic probe is in an oscillating state. However, as Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, in the closed jaw state, attenuation of the ultrasonic probe 404 is achieved by direct contact between the upper clamping surface 604 and the lower clamping surface 606 or direct contact between the lower clamping surface 606 and one or more biological tissues to be treated.

[0078] Figure 11AThe internal configuration of the slider 608 and ultrasonic probe 404 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the open jaw state of the third embodiment is schematically illustrated. When the jaws 402 are open, the slider 608 moves in a proximal direction relative to the ultrasonic probe 404 (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow 1002). The slider 608 includes a damping feature 1004, such as an elastic pad, that moves with the slider 608. The damping feature 1004 can have a triangular shape and can be fixed to the slider 608 or can be integrally formed with the slider 608. This configuration allows the damping feature to contact the transmission rod and apply force in the radial direction, which can effectively attenuate lateral vibrations. In the open jaw state, when the damping feature 1004 directly contacts the tapered portion or transmission member 502 of the ultrasonic probe 404, the lateral vibration that causes noise when the ultrasonic probe 404 is in an oscillating state is attenuated.

[0079] Figure 11B The internal configuration of the slider 608 and the ultrasonic probe 404 of the surgical treatment device 300 in the closed jaw state of the third embodiment is schematically illustrated. When the jaws 402 are closed, the slider 608 moves in the distal direction (i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow 1006) relative to the ultrasonic probe 404. Since the damping feature 1004 accompanies the movement of the slider 608 away from the ultrasonic probe 404 or the relevant portion of the transmission member 502, the damping feature 1004 is spaced apart from and no longer in direct contact with the ultrasonic probe 404 or the transmission member 502, and will no longer attenuate lateral vibrations that cause noise when the ultrasonic probe is in an oscillating state. However, as Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, in the closed jaw state, attenuation of the ultrasonic probe 404 is achieved by direct contact between the upper clamping surface 604 and the lower clamping surface 606 or direct contact between the lower clamping surface 606 and one or more biological tissues to be treated.

[0080] While the present invention has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will appreciate that additions, deletions, modifications and substitutions not specifically described may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A surgical treatment device comprising: a transducer that generates ultrasonic vibrations; a transmission rod comprising a treatment probe, wherein a proximal end of the transmission rod is operatively connected to the transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibrations generated by the transducer to the treatment probe at a distal end of the transmission rod; and The treatment probe comprises a treatment surface and a jaw movable from an open position to a closed position relative to the transfer rod, wherein the surgical treatment device further comprises a damping feature that attenuates lateral vibrations generated in the transmission rod, When the jaws are in the open position, the damping feature contacts the transfer rod, and, When the jaws are in the closed position, the damping feature is spaced apart from the transfer rod, No contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at antinodes of the longitudinal vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

2. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping feature is made of an insulating material.

3. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping features are made of resin.

4. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping feature is made of rubber.

5. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping feature covers the transfer rod perpendicular to the treatment surface.

6. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping feature is positioned within half a wavelength of the ultrasonic vibrations in an axial proximal direction from the distal end of the treatment probe.

7. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping feature is positioned near the fulcrum of the jaws.

8. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The transfer rod is displaced in a direction in which the jaws are closed in the closed position.

9. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: No contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at nodes of the transverse vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

10. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: Contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at an antinode of the transverse vibration of the ultrasonic vibration.

11. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The treatment probe is configured to treat biological tissue.

12. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The treatment probe is configured as an electrode for treatment using a high-frequency current.

13. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The damping feature prevents short circuiting between the transfer rod and other parts of the handling device.

14. The surgical treatment device according to claim 1, wherein: The treatment probe has a curved shape.

15. A surgical treatment device comprising: a transducer that generates ultrasonic vibrations; a transmission rod comprising a treatment probe, wherein a proximal end of the transmission rod is operatively connected to the transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibrations generated by the transducer to the treatment probe at a distal end of the transmission rod; The treatment probe includes a treatment surface and a jaw movable from an open position to a closed position relative to the transfer rod; and, a slide member that moves in a direction parallel to the transmission rod, wherein the slider and the jaws are configured such that when the slider moves toward the proximal end of the transmission rod, the jaws move in an opening direction, and when the slider moves toward the distal end of the transmission rod, the jaws move in a closing direction; The slide includes a damping feature that contacts the transfer rod when the jaws are in the open position, and When the jaws are in the closed position, the damping feature is spaced apart from the transfer rod, No contact between the damping feature and the transmission rod occurs at antinodes of the longitudinal vibrations of the ultrasonic vibrations.

16. The surgical treatment device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The damping feature has a square or rectangular shape.

17. The surgical treatment device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The damping feature has a triangular shape.

18. The surgical treatment device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The damping feature moves integrally with the slider.

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