Insulation of electrosurgical instruments

Abstract

A device for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument, the device comprising a housing, the housing comprising: a first end; a second end; a hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the channel configured to receive an electrosurgical instrument, the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector articulatedly connected to a shaft by a distal end; a support structure inside the housing; the support structure configured to: support an insulating sleeve such that the insulating sleeve surrounds the electrosurgical instrument when the electrosurgical instrument is received by the channel; and release the insulating sleeve onto the electrosurgical instrument as the electrosurgical instrument is advanced through the channel from the first end to the second end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to insulation of electrosurgical instruments, and more particularly to means for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument. Background Technology

[0002] Electrosurgery is a surgical technique developed to replace traditional methods, using high-frequency current to generate heat that allows for the cutting, dissection, electrocautery, ablation, or reduction of organs and tissues. This approach offers several advantages, such as increased cutting precision and minimized blood loss. Electrosurgery can be performed in one of two modes: monopolar or bipolar. In monopolar electrosurgery, a single probe electrode is used to target the tissue, while bipolar electrosurgery uses bipolar devices, such as a pair of forceps.

[0003] Monopolar electrosurgery requires an excitation drive cable that conducts current from a power source to the end effector. In known monopolar electrosurgery systems, the end effector is supplied with current by the excitation drive cable that conducts current from the power source to the end effector. To energize the end effector, it must be electrically insulated from other components located at the distal end of the electrosurgical device. One solution for isolating the end effector from other electrical components is to encapsulate it in a molded overlay made of an electrically insulating material such as PEEK. A disadvantage associated with this overlay molding is that it restricts the range of motion of the end effector. This limits the end effector's ability to perform cold cuts, where the end effector is actuated without any heat applied by the current. Furthermore, the overlay molding design introduces high manufacturing complexity due to the alignment of the instrument shaft's metal portion on the plastic molded portion, leading to increased variability between parts.

[0004] There is a need for a new mechanism that overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings for electrically insulating electrosurgical instruments. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, an apparatus is provided for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument, the apparatus comprising a housing including: a first end; a second end; a hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the channel being configured to receive an electrosurgical instrument including an end effector distally hinged to a shaft; a support structure within the housing; the support structure being configured to: support the insulating sleeve such that the insulating sleeve surrounds the electrosurgical instrument when it is received by the channel; and release the insulating sleeve onto the electrosurgical instrument as it advances through the channel from the first end to the second end.

[0006] The channel may include a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is narrower than the second portion.

[0007] The proximal end of the support structure may be located on a flange that separates the first portion of the channel from the second portion of the channel.

[0008] The first portion of the channel may have a circular cross-section, and the first portion may also include an opening located on the flange of the support structure.

[0009] The support structure may include a plurality of protrusions surrounding the opening, the plurality of protrusions extending distally along an axis parallel to the axis along which the channel extends.

[0010] The plurality of protrusions may include a first group of protrusions and a second group of protrusions, wherein: each protrusion in the first group of protrusions extends to a first length; and each protrusion in the second group of protrusions extends to a second length shorter than the first length.

[0011] The length of each protrusion in the second group can be 45% to 50% of the length of each protrusion in the first group.

[0012] The protrusions of the support structure can be evenly positioned around the opening.

[0013] The first set of protrusions may include two protrusions with opposite diameters.

[0014] The second set of protrusions may include two protrusions with opposite diameters.

[0015] The housing may be formed of a first part and a second part, which are pivotally connected.

[0016] The internal mechanisms of the first part and the second part can be the same.

[0017] The device may further include a hinge connecting both the first portion and the second portion, the hinge enabling the first portion and the second portion of the housing to pivot relative to each other.

[0018] The device may also include a removable applicator, and the housing may also be configured to receive the applicator.

[0019] The applicator may include: a first end, which is connectable to a second end of the device; a second end, which is located at the first end of the device and configured to receive an end effector; and a shaft extending between the first end and the second end.

[0020] The first end of the applicator may include a lateral extension member for releasably engaging the first end of the housing.

[0021] The end effector may be a pair of pliers, and the second end of the applicator may include an orifice for receiving the tip of the pliers when the tip of the pliers is closed.

[0022] The diameter of the shaft of the applicator may be smaller than the diameter of the shaft of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0023] The shaft of the applicator may include a limiting ring, and the diameter of the limiting ring may be larger than the inner diameter of the insulating sleeve.

[0024] The protrusions can be angled such that the distance between two protrusions with opposite diameters is less than the axis of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0025] According to a second aspect, a method is provided for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument, the electrosurgical instrument including an end effector distally hinged to a shaft at a distal end of the instrument, the method comprising: applying the insulating sleeve to a support structure of a device, the device including a housing having a first end, a second end, and a hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the support structure being located within the housing and configured to engage with the insulating sleeve; advancing a shaft of the electrosurgical instrument through the hollow channel of the device; and engaging the shaft of the electrosurgical instrument with the support structure, thereby pushing the insulating sleeve away from the support structure and onto the electrosurgical instrument.

[0026] According to a third aspect, a method is provided for removing an insulating sleeve from an electrosurgical instrument, the electrosurgical instrument including an end effector distally hinged to a shaft at a distal end of the instrument, the insulating sleeve being applied to the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, the method comprising: positioning the electrosurgical instrument within a device including a housing having: a first end; a second end; a hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the channel being configured to receive the electrosurgical instrument; and a support structure within the housing, the support structure further configured to engage with the insulating sleeve; advancing the first end of the housing toward the distal end of the surgical instrument such that the insulating sleeve is brought into contact with the support structure; and applying a force to the housing such that, when the insulating sleeve is brought into contact with the support structure, the housing and the support structure of the housing advance together toward the distal end of the surgical instrument until the insulating sleeve is removed from the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 An electrosurgical instrument is shown that is intended to provide electrical insulation. Figure 2 An insulating sleeve for electrically insulating electrosurgical instruments is shown; Figure 3 It shows when applied to Figure 1 Electrosurgical instruments Figure 2 The arrangement of the insulating sleeves; Figure 4 A first view of a device for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument is shown. Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A view of the housing of the device shown; Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 The device has a removable applicator; Figure 7 It shows Figure 4 Device housing, Figure 6 The applicator and before assembling the insulating sleeve onto the electrosurgical instrument Figure 2 The arrangement of the insulating sleeves; Figures 8A-8E It shows the use of Figure 4-7 The process by which an insulating sleeve is applied to an electrosurgical instrument; Figures 9A-9E It shows the use of Figure 4 The process of removing the insulating sleeve from an electrosurgical instrument. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Figure 1 An example of the arrangement of a novel electrosurgical instrument 100 is shown. The instrument includes a shaft 102 and an end effector 104. The shaft 102 is coupled to the end effector 104 at its distal end and to a surgical robot at its proximal end, the surgical robot supplying power to the electrosurgical instrument 100 and controlling its movement. The surgical robot may include a console that allows the electrosurgical instrument 100 to be electrically manipulated by an operator. The surgical robot may also include a number of different electrosurgical instruments for both electrosurgical and non-electrosurgical purposes.

[0029] The end effector 104 is configured for insertion into the patient's body and for performing surgical procedures. Figure 1 In the example shown, the end effector 104 includes a pair of curved blades 104a, 104b forming a pair of forceps. The forceps can be used to cut a patient's organ tissue during a surgical procedure. It should be understood that, although... Figure 1The end effector is shown as a pair of pliers, but alternative end effectors can be used instead. The end effector 104 is connected to the shaft 102 by a hinge 106. The hinge 106 allows the pliers to rotate about the shaft 102 in at least one degree of freedom.

[0030] During an electrosurgical procedure, the electrosurgical instrument 100 is powered by a surgical robot. This power is supplied in the form of high-frequency alternating current. The current supplied to the end effector 104 passes through the shaft 102 and hinge 106 of the electrosurgical instrument. In known electrosurgical instruments, one or more drive cables located within the shaft are used to power the end effector. In contrast, for Figure 1 The arrangement shown energizes the entire electrosurgical instrument 100, including the shaft 102, when current is supplied to the end effector 104. The current heats the end effector 104, causing it to coagulate and dry when applied to organ tissue, thereby occluding blood vessels and stopping bleeding. The end effector 104 can also be used to penetrate and dissect tissue.

[0031] Because current is transmitted through the electrosurgical instrument 100, the entire instrument 100 becomes electrified; therefore, the shaft 102 and the hinge 106 must be electrically insulated to prevent burns to the patient via direct contact or capacitive means. To provide initial protection, the shaft 102 includes two insulating layers along its length. The first insulating layer is a powder coating 108. The powder coating 108 may be an ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE) powder coating. The powder coating 108 extends to cover all portions except the distal end 112 of the shaft. The second insulating layer includes a heat-shrinkable layer 110. The heat-shrinkable layer may be MT-1000 heat-shrinkable. The heat-shrinkable layer 110 terminates at the distal end of the shaft but is close to the end of the powder coating 108. The powder coating and heat-shrinkable insulation cannot be applied to the hinge 106 of the electrosurgical instrument 100, as this would limit the range of motion of the hinge. Furthermore, the distal end of the shaft 112 and the hinge 106 must be able to be effectively cleaned and sterilized between surgical procedures. Simultaneously, it is important that the distal end of the end effector 104 remains exposed. In the case where the end effector is a pair of pliers, it is important that the blades 104a, 104b of the pliers are exposed and capable of performing their full range of motion.

[0032] To provide electrical insulation to the distal end of shaft 112 and the hinge 106 of electrosurgical instrument 100, an insulating sleeve is provided. An example of the insulating sleeve 200 is shown in... Figure 2As shown in the diagram. The insulating sleeve includes a first end 202, a second end 204, multiple portions 206, 208, 210, and a distal fillet 212. The first end 202 and the second end 204 each include an opening, and a hollow shaft extends through the insulating sleeve 200 between these two openings. Each portion of the insulating sleeve is for engagement with a different portion of the electrosurgical instrument 100 and may include different inner and outer diameters. Alternatively, each portion of the sleeve may have the same inner and outer diameters and may be configured to stretch around a corresponding portion of the electrosurgical instrument configured to be covered. Figure 2 In the example shown, the insulating sleeve comprises three parts. The insulating sleeve is also shown in a cylindrical shape. It should be understood that alternative shapes of the insulating sleeve may be provided.

[0033] The insulating sleeve 200 is formed of a material such as silicon, which is resistant to the high temperatures generated during electrosurgery. Furthermore, the material of the insulating sleeve is fatigue-resistant to the expected strain range during end-effector movement. The material of the insulating sleeve 200 is also elastic, allowing it to expand to surround the electrosurgical instrument 100. The inner surface of the insulating sleeve 200 is coated to ensure a smooth finish. The coating on the inner surface is viscous. This allows the polished surface of the electrosurgical instrument 100 to adhere to the inner surface of the insulating sleeve 200. Therefore, high friction between the surface of the electrosurgical instrument 100 and the insulating sleeve 200 is ensured.

[0034] A first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve 200 is located at the proximal end of the sleeve. The first portion 206 is configured to engage with the powder coating 108 located on the outer surface of the shaft 102. The inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve 200 is configured such that, when not expanded, it is smaller than the outer diameter of the portion of the shaft including the powder coating 108. For example, if the outer diameter of the instrument shaft including the powder coating is 6.8 mm, the inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve could be 4.2 mm. When the insulating sleeve is made of an elastic material, the inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the sleeve can be stretched to expand its inner diameter, allowing it to be applied to an electrosurgical instrument.

[0035] The smaller inner diameter of the first portion 206, relative to the portion of the shaft including the powder coating 108, ensures a compression fit between the sleeve 200 and the instrument shaft 102. Therefore, the insulating sleeve 200 can be well positioned on the instrument shaft 102 during assembly, preventing displacement of the sleeve 200 relative to the shaft 102 during surgical use. This is advantageous because it minimizes the risk of the sleeve 200 falling onto the surgical site during use. The inner diameter of the first portion of the sleeve 206 can be between 60% and 63% of the diameter of the instrument shaft 102. The inner diameter of the first portion of the sleeve 206 can be between 80% and 88% of its outer diameter. In an example where the inner diameter of the first portion 206 is 4.2 mm, the outer diameter of the first portion can be 5 mm. In this example, the inner diameter of the second portion 206 will be 84% of the outer diameter of the second portion. The inner and outer diameters of the first portion 206 are chosen such that the thickness of its walls allows the first portion 206 to stretch and cover the shaft 102 without tearing.

[0036] The second portion 208 of the insulating sleeve 200 is connected to and located distally to the first portion 206 of the sleeve. The second portion 208 is configured to engage with the outer surface of the distal end of the shaft 112, excluding any alternative form of insulation. The inner diameter of the second portion 208 is larger than the inner diameter of the first portion 206. The inner diameter of the second portion 208 may also be larger than the outer diameter of the shaft 102. For example, if the outer diameter of the shaft is 6.8 mm, the inner diameter of the second portion may be 4.5 mm. Because its diameter is wider than that of the first portion 206, the second portion 208 (together with the third portion 210) is more easily positioned above the shaft after the first portion 206 has been positioned. The inner diameter of the second portion of the sleeve 208 may be between 65% and 68% of the diameter of the instrument shaft 102. The inner diameter of the second portion of the sleeve 208 may be between 78% and 84% of the outer diameter of the second portion 208 of the sleeve. In the example where the inner diameter of the second portion 206 is 4.5 mm, the outer diameter of the first portion may be 5.56 mm. In this example, the inner diameter of the second part 206 will be 81% of the outer diameter of the second part.

[0037] The third portion 210 of the insulating sleeve 200 is connected to and located distally to the second portion 208 of the sleeve. The third portion 210 is configured to engage with the hinge 106 of the electrosurgical instrument 100. Therefore, the third portion 210 has a larger inner diameter than both the first portion 206 and the second portion 208, allowing it to enclose the hinge 106. For example, if the inner diameters of the first and second portions are 4.2 mm and 4.5 mm respectively, the inner diameter of the third portion can be 5.9 mm. The inner diameter of the third portion of the sleeve 210 can be between 85% and 88% of the diameter of the instrument shaft 102. The inner diameter of the third portion of the sleeve 210 can be between 84% and 89% of the outer diameter of the third portion 210 of the sleeve. If the inner diameter of the third portion is 5.9 mm, its outer diameter can be 6.8 mm. In this example, the inner diameter of the second portion 206 will be 87% of the outer diameter of the second portion.

[0038] The distal end of the third portion 210 is also connected to a fillet 212. The fillet 212 is located distal to the third portion 210, with the second portion 208 located proximal to the third portion 210. The radius of the fillet decreases as it extends away from the third portion 210, such that the inner diameter of the distal end of the sleeve opposite the proximal end is narrower than the inner diameter of the third portion 210. In contrast, the thickness of the fillet 212 increases as it extends distally. The fillet 212 is configured to engage with the end effector 104 of an electrosurgical instrument. In the case where the electrosurgical instrument is a pair of forceps, the fillet 212 is configured to engage with the blades 104a, 104b of the forceps at its distal end. The increased thickness of the fillet 212 at its distal end results in a thicker ring around the electrosurgical instrument 100, which allows the insulating sleeve 200 to be attached to the instrument.

[0039] Figure 3 An exemplary arrangement of an insulating sleeve 200 placed on an electrosurgical instrument 100 is shown. In this arrangement, a first end 202 of the sleeve is in contact with the distal end of a heat-shrinkable sleeve 110 that insulates the shaft 102. A first portion 206 of the sleeve lies on and is in contact with a powder coating 108. A second portion 208 of the sleeve covers the distal portion 112 of the shaft. A third portion 210 of the sleeve covers the hinge 106, and a rounded corner 212 covers a portion of an end effector 104. In the case that the end effector is a pair of forceps, the rounded corner 212 covers a portion of the blade of the end effector 104.

[0040] The first portion 206 of the sleeve is not necessarily directly adjacent to the distal end of the heat-shrinkable 110. However, to ensure the operator of the electrosurgical instrument is protected from electric shock caused by the live system, it is important to maintain a creep distance and a clearance distance between the proximal end of the insulating sleeve 200 and the live portion of the shaft 102. The creep distance is the shortest distance between two conductive portions along the surface of a solid insulating material. The clearance distance is the shortest distance in air between two conductive portions.

[0041] To ensure both creep distance and clearance distance are maintained, proper positioning of the insulating sleeve 200 above the electrosurgical instrument 100 is necessary. This is because once the insulating sleeve 200 is placed on the instrument 100, repositioning it can be difficult. The insulating sleeve 200 can be manually positioned on the axis 102 of the instrument. However, this process requires significant time and effort. Manual positioning of the sleeve 200 may also result in the tip of the end effector 104 piercing the sleeve, or damage to the tip of the end effector if the sleeve is displaced.

[0042] A device is provided to ensure that an insulating sleeve is properly applied to a shaft. An example of such a device 400 is shown in... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. Device 400 includes a housing 402 configured to accommodate internal mechanisms. Housing 402 is small and ergonomically arranged so that it fits comfortably in a user's hand. Figure 4 In the example shown, the housing has a generally oval shape. The housing 402 of the device 400 may be formed of a thermoelastic polymer, such as polypropylene.

[0043] The housing includes a first end 404, a second end 406, and a hollow channel 408 extending between the first end 404 and the second end 406. The channel 408 is sized such that it is configured to, for example, receive... Figure 1 The electrosurgical instruments shown. (e.g.) Figure 1 As shown, the electrosurgical instrument 100 includes a shaft 102, a distal hinge 106, and an end effector 104 located distal to the distal hinge. Therefore, the minimum diameter of the channel 408 must be greater than the maximum diameter of the electrosurgical instrument 100.

[0044] The housing 402 also includes a support structure 410 located inside the housing. The support structure is configured to, for example, support... Figure 2 The insulating sleeve is shown. The support structure 410 is configured to mount the insulating sleeve 200 such that the sleeve surrounds the electrosurgical instrument 100 when the instrument is positioned within the channel 408. The housing 402 is arranged such that the insulating sleeve is released from the support structure 410 onto the instrument as the electrosurgical instrument 100 advances through the channel from the first end 404 to the second end 406. Figure 4 In the diagram, the insulating sleeve 200 is shown mounted on the support structure 410.

[0045] Figure 5 An alternative view of the housing 402 of the device 400 is shown. The housing 402 includes a first portion 502 and a second portion 504. Preferably, the internal mechanisms of the two portions 502 and 504 are identical. The two portions 502 and 504 are pivotally connected together. Figure 5In the device, two parts 502 and 504 are connected together by a hinge 506. The hinge 506 has a first axis 508, about which the first part 502 and the second part 504 are rotatable. By forming a housing 402 from the two parts 502 and 504, the housing 402 can be opened so that the electrosurgical instrument 100 can be removed from the housing once the insulating sleeve 200 has been applied to the instrument.

[0046] The first portion 502 and the second portion 504 can be connected together using a latching mechanism. The first portion 510 of the latching mechanism can be located on the first portion 502 of the housing 402, and the second portion 512 of the latching mechanism can be located on the second portion 504 of the housing 402. The latching mechanism can be secured when the two portions 502, 504 of the housing are rotated about a first axis 508 of the hinge 506 to interconnect. The latching mechanism can be released to separate the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 by applying a force to either the first or second portion of the latching mechanism. This force application may include sliding, pushing, or pulling the first portion 510 or the second portion 512 of the latching mechanism to separate these components from each other.

[0047] In one example, the first portion 510 of the latching mechanism includes a plurality of pins located in first positions within a portion of the device housing 402. In the same example, the second portion 512 of the latching mechanism includes a plurality of holes located at positions corresponding to the first positions of the pins in the first portion 402. Therefore, locking of the first portion 502 of the housing to the second portion 504 of the housing is achieved by inserting the pins into their corresponding holes. In another example, such as... Figure 5 As shown, both the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing include a plurality of pins and a plurality of holes corresponding to those pins.

[0048] The channel 408 of the housing 402 is formed by recesses located in both the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing 402. When these portions of the housing are interconnected, the channel 408 forms a closed channel within the housing 402. The channel 408 also includes a first portion 514 and a second portion 516. The first portion 514 of the channel extends along the length of the housing 402 from its first end 404 along the central axis 518. Figure 5In the diagram, axis 518 is shown intersecting channel 408 in the first portion 502 of the housing. However, it should be understood that when the housing 402 is closed, axis 518 is located between the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing. The second portion 516 of the channel extends along the length of the housing 402 from its second end 406 in a direction opposite to the extending direction of the first portion 514 of the channel. The first portion 514 and the second portion 516 of the channel intersect at flange 520. The first portion of flange 520 is located in the first portion 502 of the housing, and the second portion of flange 520 is located in the second portion 504 of the housing.

[0049] Flange 520 includes openings 522 for a first portion 514 and a second portion 516 of interconnecting channel 408. The cross-section of channel 408 may be circular, such that both the first portion 514 and the second portion 516 of the channel form cylinders. Alternatively, the first portion 514 and the second portion 516 may have cross-sections formed by any other geometry. The first portion 514 and the second portion 516 of channel 408 may have the same diameter. Alternatively, the diameter of the second portion 516 of channel 408 may be larger than the diameter of the first portion 514 of the channel.

[0050] The support structure 410 of the housing 402 is located on the flange 520 of the first portion 514 and the second portion 516 of the connecting channel. More precisely, the proximal end of the support structure 410 is located on and connected to the flange 520. The support structure 410 may be formed by a plurality of protrusions 524. The plurality of protrusions 524 may surround the opening 522 located on the flange 520. The proximal ends of the plurality of protrusions 524 may therefore surround the first portion 514 of the channel.

[0051] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, each of the plurality of protrusions 524 extends along an axis parallel to the channel axis 518. The plurality of protrusions 524 extend toward a second end 406 of the housing 402. The plurality of protrusions 524 also includes a first set of protrusions 526 and a second set of protrusions 528. Each of the protrusions in the first set extends from the flange 520 toward the second end 406 of the housing 402 to a first length. Each of the protrusions in the second set of protrusions 528 extends to a second length shorter than the first length.

[0052] The length of each protrusion in the second group of protrusions 528 can be between 45% and 50% of the length of each protrusion in the first group of protrusions 526. In one example, the length of each protrusion in the second group of protrusions 528 is 47% of the length of each protrusion in the first group of protrusions 526. The length of each protrusion in the first group of protrusions 526 can be between 20% and 25% of the length of the device housing 402. In one example, the length of each protrusion in the first group of protrusions 526 is 21% of the length of the device housing 402. The length of each protrusion in the second group of protrusions 528 can be between 8% and 13% of the length of the device housing 402. In one example, the length of each protrusion in the second group of protrusions 528 is 10% of the length of the device housing 402. The lengths of the first and second groups of protrusions relative to each other and the total length of the housing are selected to optimize the process of applying the sleeve 200 to the surgical instrument 100.

[0053] Each of the plurality of protrusions 524 in the support structure 410 can be uniformly positioned around the opening 522. That is, each of the first group of protrusions 526 can be uniformly spaced relative to the other protrusions in that group around the opening 522 in the flange 520. Correspondingly, each of the second group of protrusions 528 can be uniformly spaced relative to the other protrusions in that group around the opening 522 in the flange 520. As described above, the housing 402 is formed by a first portion 502 and a second portion 504. Preferably, the internal structure of the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 is identical. Therefore, the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 can include an equal number of protrusions. Thus, the protrusions can be equally spaced on the portion of the flange 520 formed by both the first portion 502 and the second portion 504.

[0054] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, both the first group 526 and the second group 528 protrusions include two protrusions. The first protrusion in the first group 526 is located on a portion of the flange 520 formed by the first portion 502 of the housing, and the second protrusion in the first group 526 is located on a portion of the flange 520 formed by the second portion 504 of the housing. Correspondingly, the first protrusion in the second group 528 is located on a portion of the flange 520 formed by the first portion 502 of the housing, and the second protrusion in the second group 528 is located on a portion of the flange 520 formed by the second portion 504 of the housing. In this example, the first and second protrusions in the first group 526 are diameter-opposing protrusions. The first and second protrusions in the second group 528 are diameter-opposing protrusions.

[0055] The protrusions in the plurality of protrusions 524 are configured such that they are angled inward as they extend longitudinally away from the flange 520. Therefore, the diameter formed by the distance between the tips of each protrusion in the first set of protrusions 524 is smaller than the diameter of the opening 522. Similarly, the diameter formed by the distance between the tips of each protrusion in the second set of protrusions 528 is smaller than the diameter of the opening 522. The diameter formed by the tips of each protrusion in the first set of protrusions 526 may be different from (i.e., smaller or larger than) the diameter formed by the tips of each protrusion in the second set of protrusions 528. Alternatively, the diameters of the protrusions in the first set of protrusions 526 and the second set of protrusions 528 may be the same.

[0056] The protrusions 524 are made of a flexible plastic material. Each of the protrusions may also include a step 530. The step may be located at the proximal end of each protrusion. The proximal end of each protrusion is the end closest to the flange 520. The step 530 of each protrusion provides an increased diameter of the protrusion at the location of the step, relative to the diameter of the remaining proximal end of the protrusion.

[0057] The function of the plurality of protrusions 526 is to position the insulating sleeve 200 on the housing 402 so that it is arranged to be placed on the electrosurgical instrument 100. When the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing 402 are arranged such that they intersect and the housing 402 is closed, the protrusions are arranged in a circular arrangement around the opening 522 on the flange 520 of the housing 402. Thus, each step 530 of the plurality of protrusions 524 provides a mounting surface on which the insulating sleeve 200 can be located. More specifically, the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve is positioned on the step of the plurality of protrusions. Thus, the position of the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve 200 is maintained by the plurality of protrusions 524.

[0058] The diameter of the circle formed by the distance between the multiple protruding steps 530 is larger than the inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve 200. Therefore, the multiple protrusions 524 can stretch the first portion of the sleeve, increasing this inner diameter. The inner diameter of the first portion 206 is stretched such that it is larger than the diameter of the shaft 102 of the electrosurgical instrument to which the insulating sleeve 200 is applied.

[0059] The housing 402 can be arranged to be ergonomically designed for operator use. The housing 402 may include one or more extruded portions 412 adapted to be held by a user's hand. As described above, the overall dimensions of the housing 402 are such that it fits comfortably in the user's hand. The housing 402 may also include a honeycomb structure 414 on its exterior. The honeycomb structure 414 provides enhanced grip during use of the device 400. The housing 402 may also include one or more auxiliary elements 532 to facilitate opening of the housing 402. Figure 5In the exemplary arrangement shown, these auxiliary elements are located near the second end 406 of the housing 402. However, it will be understood that these elements may be located at any alternative location along the edges of the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing 402.

[0060] The device 400 also includes a removable applicator for guiding the electrosurgical instrument 100 through the housing 402, allowing the sleeve to be supplied to the instrument. The removable applicator... Figure 6 As shown in the image.

[0061] Figure 6 The applicator 600 shown includes a first end 602, a second end 604, and a shaft 606 extending between the first and second ends. The first end 602 is configured to be engageable with the second end 406 of the housing 402. The second end 604 is configured to be located at the first end 404 of the housing 402 and to receive the distal end of the end effector 104 during its use.

[0062] The first end 602 of the applicator 600 includes a lateral extension member 608. That is, the lateral extension member 608 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the applicator shaft 606. The lateral extension member may be symmetrical on either side of the line formed by the longitudinal axis of shaft 606. The lateral extension member 608 is configured to releasably engage the second end 406 of the housing 402. Engagement between the second end of the housing 406 and the lateral extension member 608 is ensured when the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing 402 have intersected to close the passage 408 of the housing 402.

[0063] The applicator 600 also includes two latching members 610, 612. Latching members 610, 612 are located at each end of the lateral extension member 608 and extend toward the second end 604 of the applicator. Latching members 610, 612 are configured to engage with an opening located at the second end 406 of the housing 402. Therefore, the housing 402 may include a recess complementary to the shape of the lateral extension member 608.

[0064] The second end 604 of the applicator 600 may further include two portions 614, 616. Each of the two portions 614, 616 is preferably formed of rigid plastic and includes a proximal end connected to the shaft 606 and a distal end positioned opposite the proximal end. The two portions 614, 616 may be configured to be separated from each other at their distal ends. This separation of the portions provides an orifice 618 at the distal portion of the second end 604 of the applicator. The orifice 618 is configured to engage with the end effector 104 of the electrosurgical instrument 100. For example, in the case where the end effector 104 is a pair of forceps, the orifice 618 is configured to engage with and receive the distal end when the distal ends of the forceps blades 104a, 104b are closed. When the end effector 104 engages with the orifice 618, the longitudinal axis of the shaft 102 of the electrosurgical instrument 100 is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shaft 606 of the applicator 600. Therefore, when the applicator 600 is placed inside the housing 402 of the device and the end effector 104 engages with the orifice 618, the applicator 600 enables the electrosurgical instrument 100 to be guided through the housing 402 in alignment with the applicator. Thus, the electrosurgical instrument 100 can be accurately guided through the housing 402.

[0065] The diameter of the shaft 606 of the applicator 600 is smaller than the diameter of the shaft 102 of the electrosurgical instrument 100 to be used in combination with the applicator. The diameter of the shaft 606 of the applicator is similar to the diameter formed by the distance between the tips of each of the first set of protrusions 526 and the second set of protrusions 528. The shaft 606 is configured to pass through both the first portion 514 and the second portion 516 of the channel 408 of the housing 402 without interfering with the opening 522 of the housing 402 or the support structure 410. The diameter of the shaft 606 of the applicator is also smaller than the diameter formed by the distance between the tips of each of the first set of protrusions 526 and the second set of protrusions 528. Therefore, the shaft 606 of the applicator can advance through the housing 402 without changing the positioning of the protrusions.

[0066] The applicator 600 also includes a retaining ring 620 located on its shaft 606. The diameter of the retaining ring 620 is larger than the diameter of the shaft 606. The diameter of the retaining ring 620 is also larger than the inner diameter of the fillet 212 of the insulating sleeve 200. To position the insulating sleeve 200 on the applicator 600, the first end 204 of the sleeve slides onto the second end 604 of the applicator and is pushed upward along the shaft 606 until the fillet 212 abuts the retaining ring 620. When the fillet 212 abuts the retaining ring 620, the fillet can no longer slide further upward along the applicator 600. Therefore, the retaining ring 620 holds the insulating sleeve 200 in position on the shaft 606 before it is placed inside the housing 402. That is, due to temperature- or time-related deformation in the sleeve, the retaining ring 620 prevents the sleeve from shifting further along the shaft 606 toward the first end 602 of the applicator during storage. This is important because it ultimately ensures that the insulating sleeve 200 is placed in the desired position on the electrosurgical instrument 100.

[0067] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the housing 402, the removable applicator 600, and the arrangement of the insulating sleeve 200 prior to its application to the electrosurgical instrument 100. To form this arrangement, the insulating sleeve 200 is first placed on the applicator 600 such that its fillet 212 abuts the retaining ring 620. The applicator 600 is then inserted into the housing 402. The applicator can be used to align the insulating sleeve with the housing 402 when the insulating sleeve 200 is arranged circumferentially around the axis 606 of the applicator 600.

[0068] exist Figure 7 In the arrangement shown, the first end 602 of the applicator is coupled to the second end 406 of the housing 402. That is, the latching members 610, 612 engage with corresponding openings in the housing 402. The second end 204 of the insulating sleeve 200 engages with the limiting ring 620 of the applicator 600. The first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 abuts a step 530 on the first group 526 and the second group 528 of the plurality of protrusions 524. Thus, the insulating sleeve 200 is mounted on the housing 402. An aperture 618 located at the second end 604 of the applicator 600 is visible. The second end of the aperture 604 is located at the first end 404 of the housing 402. The aperture 618 is configured to receive the distal end of the end effector 104.

[0069] Figures 8A-8E It shows the use of Figure 4-7 The apparatus shown describes a method for applying an insulating sleeve 200 to an electrosurgical instrument 100. To begin this method, the insulating sleeve 200 is first arranged such that it is mounted on a support structure 410 of a housing 402. More specifically, the insulating sleeve 200 is mounted on steps 530 of a plurality of protrusions 524 of the support structure 410, such that a first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 is in contact with these steps. This arrangement... Figure 4 The overview of the device provided is shown in the document.

[0070] The insulating sleeve 200 can be mounted to the support structure 410 using the applicator 600. The insulating sleeve 200 can be initially mounted to the applicator 600 such that its second end 204 (i.e., the distal end of the fillet 212) engages with the surface of the retaining ring 620. The applicator 600 can then be positioned within the channel 408 of the housing 402 by pivoting the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 about the axis 508 of their hinge 506. The applicator 600 can be placed in a recess forming the channel 408 on either the first portion 502 or the second portion 504 of the housing, and the first and second portions can then be closed together. Thus, the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve 200 is positioned on the support structure 410. The second portion 208 or any other portion of the insulating sleeve 200 can also be positioned on the support structure 410. As described above, the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 should abut against a step 530 on one of the plurality of protrusions 524 of the support structure 410. When the insulating sleeve 200 is positioned in this manner, the lateral extension member 608 of the applicator 600 engages with the second end 406 of the housing. Therefore, the latching members 610, 612 engage with the second end 406 of the housing 402.

[0071] The method of applying the insulating sleeve 200 to the electrosurgical instrument 100 begins at step 8A when the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument 100 is introduced into the second end 604 of the applicator 600. More specifically, the end effector 104 of the electrosurgical instrument 100 can be introduced into the orifice 618 of the applicator 600. In the case that the end effector 104 is a pair of forceps, the closing blades 104a, 104b of the forceps can be inserted into the orifice 618. When the end effector 104 engages with the orifice 618, the longitudinal axis of the shaft 102 of the surgical instrument 100 is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the applicator 600.

[0072] As described above, the first portion 614 and the second portion 616 are preferably formed of rigid plastic, and the orifice 618 is provided by separating these rigid portions at their distal ends. In an alternative embodiment, the first portion 614 and the second portion 616 may be formed of flexible plastic. In this embodiment, when no end effector is applied to the applicator, the distal ends of the first portion 614 and the second portion 616 are adjacent to each other. Insertion of the end effector pushes the distal ends of these portions 614, 616 apart to expose the orifice 618.

[0073] In step 8B, the applicator 600 advances continuously through the housing 402 by pushing the shaft 102 of the electrosurgical instrument 100 along the longitudinal axis 518 of the channel 408. The insulating sleeve 200 and the housing 402 remain fixed. The advancement of the applicator 600 through the housing 402 can be done manually. Pushing the electrosurgical instrument 100 forces the applicator 600 forward through the housing 402 when the end effector 104 of the electrosurgical instrument 100 engages with the orifice 618 of the applicator 600. The diameter of the shaft 606 of the applicator 600 is configured such that the shaft of the applicator can pass through the inner diameter of the insulating sleeve 200 when the insulating sleeve 200 is positioned on the support structure 410 of the housing 402.

[0074] In step 8C, the second end of the applicator 604 passes through the opening 520 and the support structure 410. Up to this point, the insulating sleeve 200 remains positioned on the support structure 410. The shaft 102 of the electrosurgical instrument is significantly wider than the distance between the protrusions of the applicator 600 and the support structure 410; therefore, as the shaft 102 advances through the opening 520, it engages with and pushes the protrusions outward. This, in turn, enlarges the inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the sleeve positioned on the support structure 410. This expansion of the inner diameter of the first portion increases the friction that pushes the sleeve upward toward the second end 406 of the housing 402. As described above, the diameter formed by the distance between the tips of each protrusion of the first and second sets of protrusions is smaller than the diameter of the opening 520. Therefore, as the electrosurgical instrument 100 and the applicator 600 continue to advance through the housing 402, the insulating sleeve 200 is pushed away from the steps 530 of the plurality of protrusions 524 of the support structure 410 by the engagement of the support structure with the shaft 102, and pushed onto the shaft of the electrosurgical instrument 100. When the second end 604 reaches the fillet 212 of the insulating sleeve, the engagement between the second end and the fillet generates additional friction, which helps to complete the adhesion of the sleeve 200 to the instrument 100.

[0075] In step 8D, the insulating sleeve 200 has advanced such that its first end has passed the tip of the protrusion in the second set of protrusions 528. At this point, the insulating sleeve 200 is in contact with the support structure 410 only by means of the protrusion in the first set of protrusions 526. The force exerted by the protrusion in the first set of protrusions 526 on the insulating sleeve is less than the force exerted by the combination of the first and second sets of protrusions 524. Therefore, less force is required at this stage to continue advancing the electrosurgical instrument 100 through the housing 402. The inner diameter of the portion of the insulating sleeve 200 still attached to the support structure 410 is also reduced.

[0076] In step 8E, the insulating sleeve 200 advances further, removing it from the tip of the protrusion in the first set of protrusions 526. Thus, the sleeve 200 is fully applied to the electrosurgical instrument 100. The diameter of the sleeve 200 has been reduced, causing it to adhere to the electrosurgical instrument 100. After assembly by pulling on the first end 602 of the applicator, the applicator 600 can be removed from the insulating sleeve 200, forcing the first portion 613 and the second portion 616 of the applicator away from the inner diameter of the third portion 210 of the sleeve.

[0077] Once the insulating sleeve 200 has been applied to the electrosurgical instrument 100, the housing 402 can be removed from the instrument. This is achieved by releasing the latching mechanism of the housing and rotating the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing away from each other about the axis 508 of the hinge 506. The electrosurgical instrument 100 can then be manually removed from the housing 402. If necessary, the insulating sleeve can be manually adjusted on the electrosurgical instrument 100 after the application of the insulating sleeve 200 to ensure its correct positioning. The housing 402 can be retained for future use. The housing 402 can be applied to and removed from the electrosurgical instrument 100 when the instrument is coupled to the surgical robot.

[0078] As previously described, the plurality of protrusions 524 in the support structure 410 include a first set of protrusions 526 and a second set of protrusions 528. The protrusions of the second set of protrusions 528 are shorter than those of the first set of protrusions 526. This is advantageous because it allows the insulating sleeve 200 to be supported by all the protrusions of the support structure 410 before the electrosurgical instrument 100 passes through the sleeve. This means that a suitable amount of force is applied to the inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve, and that force can be maintained such that the inner diameter is wide enough for the shaft 606 of the applicator 600 to pass through. Once the shaft 606 has passed through the insulating sleeve 200, it is easier to continue pushing the electrosurgical instrument 100 by using a smaller number of protrusions. Thus, as the insulating sleeve 200 advances away from the support structure 410, its first end passes through the tips of the protrusions of the second set of protrusions 528 and is supported only by the ends of the protrusions of the second set of protrusions 526. In this way, a change in the amount of force applied to expand the inner diameter of the first portion 206 of the insulating sleeve 200 corresponds to the path of the insulating sleeve 200 when applied to the electrosurgical instrument 100.

[0079] The housing 402 of the device 400 can also be used to remove the insulating sleeve 200 from the electrosurgical instrument 100. Removal of the insulating sleeve 200 can be performed without using the applicator 600. The steps involved in removing the insulating sleeve 200 from the electrosurgical instrument 100 are as follows: Figures 9A-9E As shown in the image.

[0080] The removal process begins in step 9A, where the first portion 502 and the second portion 504 of the housing 402 are closed by the user around the axis 102 of the electrosurgical instrument 100. Thus, the electrosurgical instrument 100 is positioned within the housing 402. The insulating sleeve 200 is positioned on the axis 102 and at the distal end of the second end of the housing 402. In step 9B, the axis 102 remains fixed, and the housing 402 is advanced by the user toward the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument 100, i.e., toward the end effector 104.

[0081] In step 9C, the support structure 410 of the housing 402 engages with the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200. When the support structure 410 includes the first set of protrusions 526 and the second set of protrusions 528 as described above, multiple portions of the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 engage with the distal ends of the protrusions of the first set of protrusions 526. When the first set of protrusions 526 includes two protrusions, two portions of the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 engage with the distal ends of these protrusions. The tips of the protrusions exert resistance on the engaging portions of the insulating sleeve 200. Therefore, the portion of the insulating sleeve 200 engaging with the distal end of the protrusion is engaged with the distal end of the protrusion and moves with the housing as the housing 402 advances further toward the end effector 104.

[0082] In step 9D, a force is applied to the housing 402, causing it to advance further along the electrosurgical instrument 100, and a plurality of additional portions of the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 engage with the distal ends of the protrusions of the second set of protrusions. In the case where the second set of protrusions 528 comprises two protrusions, two portions of the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 engage with the distal ends of the protrusions. Therefore, twice the amount of the first end 202 of the insulating sleeve 200 is now subjected to resistance. Consequently, the user requires less force to continue advancing the housing 402 toward the end effector 104.

[0083] In step 9E, force is continuously applied until the electrosurgical instrument 100 moves past the tip of the protrusion of the support structure 410. The insulating sleeve 200 continues to move together with the housing 402 while the axis 102 of the instrument 100 remains stationary. Thus, when the housing 402 reaches the end effector 104, the insulating sleeve 200 separates from the electrosurgical instrument 100. The insulating sleeve 200 can then be discarded.

[0084] The applicant hereby independently discloses each individual feature described herein, as well as any combination of two or more such features, provided that such features or combinations can be implemented based on this specification as a whole according to common general knowledge of those skilled in the art, regardless of whether such features or combinations of features solve any problem disclosed herein, and without limiting the scope of the claims. The applicant notes that aspects of the invention can consist of any such individual feature or combination of features. In view of the foregoing description, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A device for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument, the device comprising a housing, the housing comprising: First end; The second end; A hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the channel being configured to receive an electrosurgical instrument, the electrosurgical instrument including an end effector distally hinged to a shaft; A support structure inside the channel, wherein the proximal end of the support structure is located on a flange that separates a first portion of the channel from a second portion of the channel, the proximal end of the support structure being the end of the support structure closest to the first end of the housing, the support structure being configured as follows: A supporting insulating sleeve is provided such that the insulating sleeve surrounds the electrosurgical instrument when the electrosurgical instrument is received by the channel; as well as As the electrosurgical instrument advances through the channel from the first end to the second end, the insulating sleeve is released onto the electrosurgical instrument.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the channel is narrower than the second portion of the channel.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first portion of the channel has a circular cross-section, and the first portion further includes an opening located on the flange of the support structure.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the support structure includes a plurality of protrusions surrounding the opening, the plurality of protrusions extending distally along an axis parallel to the axis along which the channel extends.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the plurality of protrusions comprises a first group of protrusions and a second group of protrusions, and wherein: Each of the first set of protrusions extends to a first length; and Each of the second set of protrusions extends to a second length that is shorter than the first length.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the length of each of the second set of protrusions is 45% to 50% of the length of each of the first set of protrusions.

7. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the protrusions of the support structure are uniformly positioned around the opening.

8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein each of the first set of protrusions and the second set of protrusions comprises two protrusions with opposing diameters.

9. The device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the housing is formed of a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being pivotally connected.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the internal mechanisms of the first part and the second part are identical.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a hinge connecting both the first portion and the second portion, the hinge being capable of pivoting the first portion and the second portion of the housing relative to each other.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the apparatus further comprises a removable applicator, and wherein, The housing is also configured to receive the applicator.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the applicator comprises: The first end is connectable to the second end of the device; The second end is capable of being positioned at the first end of the device and is configured to receive an end effector; as well as A shaft that extends between the first end and the second end.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the first end of the applicator includes a lateral extension member for releasably engaging the first end of the housing.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the end effector is a pair of pliers, and the second end of the applicator includes an aperture for receiving the tip of the pliers when the tip of the pliers is closed.

16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the diameter of the shaft of the applicator is smaller than the diameter of the shaft of the electrosurgical instrument.

17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the shaft of the applicator includes a retaining ring, and wherein the diameter of the retaining ring is greater than the inner diameter of the insulating sleeve.

18. The device of claim 8, wherein the protrusions are angled such that the distance between two protrusions with opposing diameters is less than the axis of the electrosurgical instrument.

19. A method for applying an insulating sleeve to an electrosurgical instrument, the electrosurgical instrument comprising an end effector distally hinged to a shaft at a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, the method comprising: The insulating sleeve is applied to a support structure of a device, the device including a housing having a first end, a second end, and a hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the support structure being inside the channel and configured to engage with the insulating sleeve, the proximal end of the support structure being located on a flange that separates a first portion of the channel from a second portion of the channel, the proximal end of the support structure being the end of the support structure closest to the first end of the housing; The axis of the electrosurgical instrument is advanced through the hollow channel of the device; as well as The axis of the electrosurgical instrument is engaged with the support structure, thereby pushing the insulating sleeve away from the support structure and onto the electrosurgical instrument.

20. A method for removing an insulating sleeve from an electrosurgical instrument, the electrosurgical instrument including an end effector distally hinged to a shaft at a distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, the insulating sleeve being applied to the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, the method comprising: The electrosurgical instrument is positioned within a device, the device comprising a housing having: a first end; and a second end; A hollow channel extending from the first end to the second end, the channel being configured to receive the electrosurgical instrument; And a support structure inside the housing, the support structure being configured to connect with an insulating sleeve; The first end of the housing of the device is advanced toward the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument, such that the insulating sleeve is brought into contact with the support structure; as well as A force is applied to the housing such that when the insulating sleeve is brought into contact with the support structure, the housing and the support structure of the housing advance together toward the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument until the insulating sleeve is removed from the distal end of the electrosurgical instrument.

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