Electrosurgical power connector

Abstract

An electrosurgical power connector (40) for transmitting power to a manipulation device (20) of an electrosurgical instrument (10), comprising: a proximal end (42) connected or connectable to a flexible conduit (90) for supplying power from a power source (100); a distal end (46); a power interface (50) at a distal end (46) of the electrosurgical power connector (40), directly mechanically and electrically connectable in a detachable manner to a corresponding power interface (30) of an operating device (20) of the electrosurgical instrument (10) for transmitting power to the electrosurgical instrument (10); and a manually operable user interface (60, 70) for controlling the provision of power at the power interface (50). The power interface (50) and the user interface (60) are configured as a single unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrosurgical power connector and an electrosurgical power cable for transmitting power to a manipulator of an electrosurgical instrument. Background Art

[0002] The control of electrosurgery, in particular the activation of the high frequency AC voltage required for electrocautery, is usually achieved with the aid of a foot switch. However, the actuation of the foot switch requires the medical staff to be trained to keep at least one foot in a predetermined position relative to the foot switch in a non-moving manner, for example, immediately in front of, adjacent to or on top of the foot switch, in order to actuate the foot switch. If this cannot be achieved, the foot switch needs to be found by touch before actuating it. Alternatively, the eyes are moved away from the surgical site or the monitor and pointed to the floor. Both interrupt the continuous action and indicate a potential source of error.

[0003] Some electrosurgical instruments include one or more buttons on the manipulator. In addition, Aesculap (Aesculap AG, Tuttlingen, Germany) provides a cable for supplying power to a manipulator of an electrosurgical instrument, which also has an actuation device attachable to the manipulator.

[0004] In all existing solutions, one challenge is to configure and design the actuation device in a way that is ergonomically advantageous for medical personnel, whether with particularly large or small hands, and for both left-handed and right-handed users. Another challenge is compatibility with existing systems, such as cables and steering devices, intended for actuation by means of a foot switch. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an improved electrosurgical power connector and an improved electrosurgical power cable for transmitting power to a manipulator of an electrosurgical instrument.

[0006] This object is achieved through the solution of the following technical scheme.

[0007] Other embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0008] An electrosurgical power connector for transmitting power to a manipulation device of an electrosurgical instrument, comprising: a proximal end portion, which is connected or can be connected to a pipeline for supplying power from a power source; a distal end portion; a power interface, which is located at the distal end of the electrosurgical power connector and can be directly mechanically and electrically connected to a corresponding power interface of a manipulation device of the electrosurgical instrument in a detachable manner for transmitting power to the electrosurgical instrument; and a manually operable user interface, which is used to control the provision of power at the power interface, wherein the power interface and the user interface are configured as a unit.

[0009] The electrosurgical power connector may be provided and configured to transmit power to a laparoscope or endoscope or other electrosurgical instrument, the power being generated by a power source and supplied to the electrosurgical power connector via a cable. The cable may be permanently connected to the proximal end of the electrosurgical power connector, that is, non-destructively separable therefrom at least without the use of tools. Alternatively, the cable may be non-destructively detachably connected to the proximal end of the electrosurgical power connector, for example via another power interface.

[0010] The power interface is, for example, a connector which may additionally be mechanically secured by a union nut, a swivel connection (also known as a bayonet connection, similar to a BNC connector) or a latch.

[0011] The control signal generated by the user interface is configured and designed to control the power provided by the electrosurgical power supply, in particular as an alternating voltage with an amplitude of several hundred volts and a frequency of several tens of kHz. For this purpose, the user interface is coupled to the electrosurgical power supply, in particular via an electrical or optical control signal line or via a radio link (e.g., WLAN, Bluetooth) or optically (e.g., IRDA). In particular, the power provided by the high-frequency and high-voltage generator of the electrosurgical power supply is controlled by means of the control signal. Alternatively, the control signal can control a power switch to electrically connect the high-frequency and high-voltage generator to the power output of the electrosurgical power supply.

[0012] Alternatively, the power switch (in particular designed as a button in the sense of electrical engineering terms) can be part of the electrosurgical power connector and mechanically integrated into the electrosurgical power connector. The power switch can be partially or completely integrated with the user interface, for example similar to a light switch. Alternatively, the circuit breaker can be integrated with another electrosurgical power connector, which is permanently or detachably connected or connectable to the electrosurgical power connector by a cable or a pipe. Thus, the user interface is integrated with the circuit breaker or is coupled to the circuit breaker by a signal line for transmitting control signals.

[0013] In particular, the power interface and the user interface are configured in a mechanically rigid unit. This can both simplify manufacturing and improve the mechanical robustness of the electrosurgical power connector. Alternatively, while the user interface is permanently (i.e. not non-destructively detachable or not non-destructively detachable without the use of tools) mechanically connected to the power interface, it is movable relative to the power interface, in particular rotatable or pivotable.

[0014] The configuration of the power supply interface and the user interface in a mechanically rigid unit can significantly simplify handling, especially when assembling a functional system. It can also reduce manufacturing costs and / or improve mechanical robustness.

[0015] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the user interface particularly includes a manually pivotable lever.

[0016] In particular, the joystick can be pivoted about a pivot axis defined by the joint. If the joint is formed by surfaces that slide relative to each other, the pivot axis is in particular an axis of symmetry of the surfaces that slide relative to each other, which are rotationally symmetrical at least in cross section. If the joint is formed by surfaces that roll relative to each other (e.g. by ball bearings), the pivot axis is in particular an axis of symmetry of one or more rotationally symmetrical surfaces. If the joint is a solid joint that enables movement of the joystick in a plane, such as a foil joint, the instantaneous pole of the movement is slightly offset during the pivoting, but remains within a small range. In this case, a straight line orthogonal to a plane passing through the small area can be considered to be an approximate pivot axis.

[0017] The joystick as a user interface can improve the ergonomic design for hands of different sizes. Medical staff with different hand sizes or different grip habits can touch and operate the joystick in different places.

[0018] In particular, in the electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the pivot axis of the control lever is orthogonal to the mating direction of the power interface.

[0019] The plugging direction is the direction in which the power interface at the distal end of the electrosurgical power connector can be connected to a corresponding power interface on the manipulator of the electrosurgical instrument. In the case of one or more contact pins, the mating direction is in particular the direction in which the contact pins extend. In the case of securing by means of a coupling nut or a bayonet, the mating direction is usually at the same time the axis of the screw or the axis about which the rotary connection rotates. In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the user interface in particular comprises at least one of a manually operable tactile pad or a touch-sensitive surface.

[0020] The manually operable touchpad may be held in a predetermined resting position by one or more springs or other elastic or magnetic restoring means. The resting position may be defined by one or more mechanical stops. The manually operable keypad may be guided by a scissor mechanism similar to the keys on a typical high quality computer keyboard. The manually actuatable keypad may be actuated by moving it from its resting position to an actuated position against a rebound restoring force. One or more electrical probes or other sensors may detect actuation of the manually actuatable keypad, i.e., its movement to the actuated position.

[0021] For example, a touch-sensitive surface may include one or more capacitive surfaces that detect the proximity or touch of one or more fingers of a hand.

[0022] In particular, in an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the control lever or sensing plate extends substantially parallel to the mating direction of the power interface.

[0023] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the user interface is particularly elongated and extends substantially parallel to the mating direction of the power interface.

[0024] A user interface is elongated if, for example, the user interface is rectangular or substantially rectangular and the ratio between its length and its width is at least 3:2 or at least 2:1 or at least 3:1 or at least 4:1. Furthermore, a user interface is elongated if, for example, the user interface is elliptical or substantially elliptical and the ratio between the major semi-axis and the minor semi-axis is at least 3:2 or at least 2:1 or at least 3:1 or at least 4:1.

[0025] In particular, when the angle between the main extension direction of the user interface (such as the long side of a rectangle or the long semiaxis of an ellipse) and the mating direction is no greater than 20° or no greater than 10° or no greater than 5°, the user interface, such as a joystick or touchpad, extends substantially parallel to the mating direction.

[0026] An extension of the user interface substantially parallel to the mating direction may enable a slim and ergonomically favorable design of the electrosurgical power connector.

[0027] In particular, in an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the power interface is substantially rotationally symmetric about an axis of symmetry, wherein the user interface is elongated and extends substantially parallel to the axis of symmetry of the power interface.

[0028] In particular, when the angle between the main extension direction of the user interface and the symmetry axis of the power interface is no greater than 20° or no greater than 10° or no greater than 5°, the user interface, such as a joystick or touchpad, extends substantially parallel to the symmetry axis of the power interface.

[0029] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the distal end of the user interface is particularly arranged near the distal end of the electrosurgical power connector or forms the most distal point of the distal end of the electrosurgical power connector.

[0030] In particular, if the distance between the distal end of the user interface and the distal end of the electrosurgical power connector does not exceed half of the maximum extension of the user interface or, for example, does not exceed one third or does not exceed one fifth of the distance between the free end of the joystick and the pivot axis of the joystick, the distal end of the user interface, for example, the free end of the joystick facing away from the pivot axis of the joystick, is configured to be close to the distal end of the electrosurgical power connector.

[0031] It can be ergonomically advantageous to extend the user interface, such as a joystick or a touchpad or a touch-sensitive surface, as far to the distal end as possible and thus as close as possible to the central area of ​​the operating device of the electrosurgical instrument, where the index or middle finger of the hand rests. In particular, this can simplify the operation of the user interface.

[0032] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the power interface, in particular, can be mechanically and electrically connected to a corresponding power interface of a manipulator of an electrosurgical instrument in a plurality of different angular positions.

[0033] The different angular positions differ in particular by a predetermined angle of rotation about the plug-in direction or the axis of symmetry of the power connection. For example, if two different angular positions differ by 180° (such as in the case of a power connection comprising two identical and parallel plug contacts), the manually operable user interfaces can be arranged in relative positions at different angular positions, for example one on the left side of the operating device and one on the right side of the operating device. This allows ergonomically favorable operation for both left-handed and right-handed users.

[0034] For example, in the case of a rotationally symmetric power interface having coaxially arranged contacts, any number of different angular positions may be possible within one or more predetermined angular ranges.

[0035] In particular, an electrosurgical power connector as described herein may be rotatable about an axis in a configuration that is mechanically and electrically connected to a corresponding power interface of a manipulation device.

[0036] In particular, the electrosurgical power connector can be rotated about an axis within one or more predetermined angular ranges. In particular, the axis corresponds to the mating direction and the symmetry axis of the power interface.

[0037] In the case of a mechanically rigid unit of power interface and user interface, the connectivity of the power interface of the electrosurgical power connector with the corresponding power interface of the manipulator of the electrosurgical instrument in several different angular positions enables the user interface to be configured in several different positions relative to the manipulator. This is particularly true when the electrosurgical power connector is rotatable about an axis in the configuration in which it is mechanically and electrically connected to the corresponding power interface of the manipulator.

[0038] If the power connection and the user interface do not form a mechanically rigid unit, the user interface can in particular be pivoted about an axis which can for example be parallel or identical to the plugging direction of the power connection so that the user interface can be configured in different positions.

[0039] In particular, the electrosurgical power connector as described herein also includes a resetter that is mechanically connected to or integrated with the user interface to generate a reset force to reset the user interface to an initial configuration assuming the absence of an actuation force, wherein actuation of the user interface requires overcoming the reset force of the resetter, the reset force of the resetter making it impossible to actuate the user interface solely by the electrosurgical power connector and the gravity of the electrosurgical instrument that is mechanically and electrically connected to the electrosurgical power connector.

[0040] In particular, the resetter comprises a spring or a silicone or elastomeric buffer or other rebounding means having one end connected to a user interface, such as a joystick, and the other end connected to or abutting a rigid part of the electrosurgical power connector. Alternatively, the resetter may comprise, for example, a pair of magnets that attract or repel each other, wherein one magnet is arranged on, in particular, the user interface, such as a joystick, and wherein the other magnet is arranged on a mechanically rigid part of the electrosurgical power connector. If the user interface comprises one or more solid state joints, the one or more solid state joints, in particular simultaneously, form one or more restorers by their elastic restoring forces.

[0041] In particular, the restoring force generated by the reset device is so great that actuation of the user interface cannot be achieved solely by the weight of the electrosurgical power connector. Alternatively, the restoring force generated by the reset device is so great that actuation of the user interface cannot be achieved solely by the weight of the electrosurgical power connector and the weight of any electrosurgical instrument mechanically and electrically coupled to the electrosurgical power connector, which electrosurgical power connector is approved within the scope of the Medical Devices Act.

[0042] In particular, an electrosurgical power connector as described herein includes a frame that surrounds and protrudes from a user interface.

[0043] In particular, the frame projects against the actuation direction of the user interface, ie against the direction in which one or more fingers approach the user interface and move it if necessary. The projecting frame can reduce the risk of accidental actuation.

[0044] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the user interface is specifically configured to control the supply of power to the power interface only when the user interface is actuated according to a predetermined pattern.

[0045] A predetermined pattern refers to a predetermined, non-conventional pattern that goes beyond a single actuation of a single simple actuating element, such as a single push of a button in a single direction or a single pivoting of a joystick about a single axis or a single movement of an actuating element along a straight path. For example, the predetermined pattern includes multiple actuations and / or actuation of multiple elements and / or the simultaneous or sequential application of multiple forces of different magnitudes and / or different directions.

[0046] The user interface may mechanically distinguish actuations according to a predetermined pattern, for example by means of a gate or similar to a ballpoint pen. Alternatively, the user interface may distinguish an actuation corresponding to a predetermined pattern from another actuation, for example by means of an electrical or electronic analog or digital circuit.

[0047] The predetermined mode can be selected from a plurality of predetermined modes and / or can be freely configured. In addition, it can be selected whether the provision of power should be controlled only when the user interface is actuated according to the predetermined mode or when it is actuated in a conventional manner, for example simply pressed or pushed or rotated or touched once.

[0048] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the predetermined mode specifically includes actuating multiple actuation regions of the user interface simultaneously or sequentially.

[0049] For example, using two or more fingers to touch, press, or move multiple joysticks, buttons, sliders, or other actuation areas simultaneously or continuously may correspond to a predetermined pattern.

[0050] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the predetermined mode specifically includes applying force to the user interface in a plurality of different predetermined amounts and in a plurality of different predetermined directions, either simultaneously or continuously.

[0051] For example, the predetermined pattern includes continuously applying different amounts and / or different directions of force to the same actuation area or actuation element.Alternatively or simultaneously, the predetermined pattern may include, for example, applying the same or different amounts and the same or different directions of force to multiple actuation areas or multiple actuation elements of the user interface at the same time.

[0052] One example is the flipping or tilting of a protective cap or the pivoting of a safety lever or the pushing of a safety latch, which then pushes, turns, pivots, pushes, pulls or otherwise moves another actuating element that triggers the power transfer. Another example is the movement of a lever or other actuating element along an unconventional path, such as a path defined by a door, which includes sections with different directions of movement.

[0053] In particular, the electrosurgical power connector as described herein further includes a sensor for sensing actuation of the user interface and a controller for controlling the supply of power to the power interface based on whether the actuation of the user interface sensed by the sensor corresponds to a predetermined pattern.

[0054] Controls may be partially mechanical and may include, for example, gates or mechanically implemented logic.

[0055] Alternatively, the control may comprise electrical or electronic circuitry, for example analog or digital. The predetermined mode is a non-conventional mode as described above. The sensor and controller may be partially or fully integrated.

[0056] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the predetermined pattern specifically comprises actuating twice within a time interval of a predetermined duration.

[0057] Thus, the predetermined pattern may be similar to the known double click when using a computer mouse to control a large number of computer programs.The predetermined pattern may comprise two or more actuations of different durations and / or different forces and / or different time intervals.

[0058] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, a controller is particularly arranged and configured to generate control signals for a power source in response to actuation of a user interface.

[0059] For this purpose, the controller is in particular designed to transmit the control signals to the power source via electrical or optical lines or radio lines or other wireless signal paths.

[0060] In an electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the power interface is specifically configured and constructed for mechanically and electrically connecting the electrosurgical power connector alone to an electrosurgical instrument manipulator.

[0061] Thus, the electrosurgical power connector does not have any other means for mechanically or electrically connecting to the steering device of the electrosurgical instrument, other than the power interface.

[0062] In particular, the electrosurgical power connector as described herein further comprises another power interface at the proximal end of the electrosurgical power connector for removably mechanically and electrically connecting to the distal end of the flexible circuit and for receiving power from the power source through the flexible circuit.

[0063] In the electrosurgical power connector as described herein, the power interface at the distal end and the other power interface at the proximal end of the electrosurgical power connector are configured to correspond particularly mechanically and electrically.

[0064] If, when two electrosurgical power connectors are exactly the same, the power interface at the distal end of one electrosurgical power connector can be mechanically and electrically connected to the other power interface at the proximal end of another electrosurgical power connector, and in addition, the other power interface at the proximal end of one electrosurgical power connector can be mechanically and electrically connected to the power interface at the distal end of another electrosurgical power connector, then the power interface at the distal end and the other power interface at the proximal end of the electrosurgical power connector are designed to correspond mechanically and electrically.

[0065] The corresponding design of the power interface at the distal end and the other power interface at the proximal end enables the interposition of the electrosurgical power connector between the manipulator of the electrosurgical instrument and the distal end of the power cable, which are conventionally directly connected to each other. Thus, by simply plugging the electrosurgical power connector into an otherwise unchanged electrosurgical system, additional functionality can be added, namely manual power control via a user interface directly on the manipulator of the electrosurgical instrument.

[0066] An electrosurgical power cable includes a flexible tubing having a proximal end that is mechanically and electrically connected or connectable to a power source, and an electrosurgical power connector as described herein at a distal end of the tubing.

[0067] The electrosurgical power cable may replace conventional power cables which have no user interface and no possibility of power transmission control.

[0068] In particular, the electrosurgical power cable as described herein has a Y-shaped topology, wherein an additional electrosurgical power connector for removably mechanically and electrically connecting to a power output of an electrosurgical power source forms a first proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable, and wherein a control signal output for removably mechanically and electrically connecting to a control signal input of the electrosurgical power source forms a second proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable.

[0069] Some electrosurgical power supplies have a control signal input that is conventionally connected to, for example, a pedal that enables foot control of the power supply. The electrosurgical power cable enables such conventional electrosurgical power supplies to be controlled via a user interface on the distal power connector and thus with the same hand that the medical professional holds the steering device.

[0070] In particular, in an electrosurgical power cable as described herein, at least one of a controller or a circuit breaker is arranged in the other power connector at the proximal end of the flexible cable.

[0071] In this case, in addition to electrical conductors for transmitting the power required for the electrosurgical effect, the line also includes one or more electrical or optical conductors for electrically or optically transmitting control signals from a user interface on the electrosurgical power connector at the distal end of the line to a controller in the other power connector at the proximal end of the line. Alternatively, for example, a wireless line can be provided for transmitting control signals from the user interface of the electrosurgical power connector at the distal end of the flexible line to a controller in the other power connector at the proximal end of the flexible line.

[0072] Alternatively, the controller and / or circuit breaker may be located in the power supply.

[0073] An electrosurgical power supply for providing power for electrosurgery comprises a control signal input for receiving a control signal, a high voltage generator for generating power, a controller coupled to the control signal input and to the high voltage generator for controlling the high voltage generator in response to the control signal received at the control signal input, and a power output coupled to the high voltage generator and connectable to an electrosurgical instrument via an electrosurgical power cable for providing power, wherein the controller is adapted to control the high voltage generator in accordance with whether an actuation of a user interface indicated by the control signal corresponds to a predetermined mode.

[0074] The electrosurgical power supply is provided and configured to form an electrosurgical system with an electrosurgical power cable and an electrosurgical instrument. In particular, a power interface at the distal end of the electrosurgical power cable is connected to a corresponding power interface at a manipulator of the electrosurgical instrument. The control signal input of the electrosurgical power supply can be integrated with a power output of the electrosurgical power supply, such as a common connector. In this case, a corresponding connector is provided at the proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable, which integrates a power input for receiving power provided by the electrosurgical power supply and a control signal output for transmitting control signals generated at a user interface to the electrosurgical power supply. Alternatively, the power output and the control signal input are separately formed on the electrosurgical power supply, for example as two separate, spatially spaced connectors. In this case, the electrosurgical power cable has a Y-shaped topology, in which the power input for detachably mechanically and electrically connecting to the power output of the electrosurgical power supply forms a first proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable, and the control signal output for detachably mechanically and electrically connecting to the control signal input of the electrosurgical power supply forms a second proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable. In particular, the electrosurgical power cable is an electrosurgical power cable as described herein or comprises, at its distal end, an electrosurgical power connector as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] In the following, the embodiments are described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings:

[0076] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an electrosurgical system having an electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical power connector;

[0077] Figure 2 Shown through Figure 1 A schematic enlarged view of a cross section of a portion of a manipulator and an electrosurgical power connector;

[0078] Figure 3 Shown through Figure 2 and Figure 3 Another schematic enlarged view of a portion of a manipulation device and a cross-section of an electrosurgical power connector;

[0079] Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 Another schematic enlarged view of a portion of the manipulator and an electrosurgical power connector is shown;

[0080] Figure 5 Shown through Figures 1 to 4 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of a manipulator and another electrosurgical power connector;

[0081] Figure 6 Shown from Figures 1 to 5 Partial area of ​​the control device and from Figure 5 Another schematic illustration of an electrosurgical power connector;

[0082] Figure 7 Shown through Figures 1 to 6 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of a manipulator and another electrosurgical power connector;

[0083] Figure 8 Shown through Figures 1 to 7 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of a manipulator and another electrosurgical power connector;

[0084] Fig. 9 Shown through Figures 1 to 8 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of a manipulator and another electrosurgical power connector;

[0085] Fig.10 Shown through Figures 1 to 9 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of a manipulator and another electrosurgical power connector;

[0086] Fig.11shows a schematic diagram of another electrosurgical system including an electrosurgical instrument, an electrosurgical power cable, and an electrosurgical power supply; and

[0087] Fig.12 A schematic diagram of another electrosurgical system including an electrosurgical instrument, an electrosurgical power cable, and an electrosurgical power supply is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] Figure 1 1 shows a schematic illustration of an electrosurgical system including an electrosurgical instrument 10. The electrosurgical instrument 10 has a proximal end 12, a shaft 14, and a distal end 16. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the distal end 16 of the electrosurgical instrument 10 is illustrated as two Figure 1 The drawing plane is orthogonal to the pivot axis of the pivoting jaw. The longitudinal and symmetry axis 18 of the rod 14 is also referred to as the main axis of the electrosurgical instrument 10.

[0089] The proximal end 12 of the electrosurgical instrument 10 is formed by a manipulator 20. The distal end 22 of the manipulator 20 can be permanently connected to the rod 14, more specifically to its proximal end, that is, in particular, non-destructively detachable at least without the use of tools. Alternatively, the distal end 22 of the manipulator 20 can be non-destructively detachable from the proximal end of the rod 14 without the use of tools. In the example shown, the distal end 22 of the manipulator 20 is represented as a wheel, which can be manually rotated to rotate the rod 14 and therefore the distal end 16 of the electrosurgical instrument 10 relative to the manipulator 20 about the longitudinal axis 18 of the rod 14 and the axis of symmetry 18.

[0090] The manipulator 20 also includes a fixed eyelet 24 through which one or more fingers of the hand can penetrate, and a manually movable eyelet 26, for example, which is provided for inserting a thumb. The manually movable eyelet 26 can be moved around the Figure 1 In particular, the manually movable eyelet 26 is mechanically coupled to the tool at the distal end 16 of the electrosurgical instrument 10 so that movement of the manually movable eyelet 26 relative to the remainder of the manipulator 20 is accompanied by an operational movement of the tool, such as an opening or closing movement of one or both jaws.

[0091] The manipulator 20 has a power interface 30 in the form of a connector. If the electrosurgical instrument is a monopolar instrument, the power interface 30 comprises in particular only one electrical contact. When the electrosurgical instrument 10 is a bipolar instrument, the power interface 30 comprises in particular two electrical contacts, which can be arranged, for example, side by side or coaxially. Additionally, the power interface 30 can have one or more contacts or optical interfaces for electrical or optical transmission of power, or control signals for a status display or camera, or image signals from a camera, or for other signals.

[0092] Figure 1 Further illustrated is an electrosurgical power connector 40, a flexible conduit 90, such as a power cable, and an electrosurgical power source 100. A proximal end 92 of the flexible conduit 90 is mechanically and more importantly electrically connected to the electrosurgical power source 100 to receive power from the electrosurgical power source 100. A distal end 96 of the flexible conduit 90 is mechanically and electrically connected to the proximal end 42 of the electrosurgical power connector 40. In the illustrated example, the electrosurgical power connector 40 and the flexible conduit 90 form a single unit, i.e., an electrosurgical power cable for transmitting power from the power source 100 to the electrosurgical instrument 10. In this regard, the distal end 96 of the flexible conduit 90 is permanently, i.e., non-destructively or non-destructively detachably connected to the proximal end 42 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 only with the use of a tool.

[0093] The distal end of the electrosurgical power connector 40 is Figure 1 The power supply 30 is not visible in the operating device 20 but is hidden in the power supply interface 30 of the operating device 20.

[0094] Figure 2 A portion of an electrosurgical instrument is shown. Figure 1 Schematic enlarged view of a cross section of an electrosurgical power connector 40. In addition to the entire electrosurgical power connector 40, the power interface 30 of the manipulation device 20 is also shown. Figure 1 The cross-section plane of the drawing plane shows the power interface 30 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 of the manipulator 20. The cross-section plane includes the axis of symmetry 38 of the power interface 30 of the manipulator 20.

[0095] In the example shown, the power interface 30 is coaxial and comprises an outer tubular first contact 32 and a pin-shaped inner second contact 34, both of which are rotationally symmetrical about the aforementioned symmetry axis 38 of the power interface 30. The contacts 32, 34 are connected, for example, via a rod tube on the one hand and a tie rod in the rod tube of the rod 14 on the other hand (see Figure 1 ) are conductively connected to two claw members at the distal end 16 of the electrosurgical instrument 10.

[0096] The outer first contact 32 of the power supply connection 30 is surrounded in a spaced manner by a tubular and also coaxially arranged outer insulating region 36. The outer insulating region 36 forms the power supply connection 30 of the operating device 20 which is visible from the outside and is therefore also Figure 1 The tubular insulating region 36 protrudes significantly beyond the contacts 32 , 34 in the direction of the electrosurgical power connector 40 .

[0097] The distal end 46 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 is formed by a power interface 50. The power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 is formed to correspond to the power interface 30 of the manipulation device 20 and is Figure 2 In the case shown, the mechanical and electrical connection is to the power supply interface 30 of the manipulator 20. Corresponding to the power supply interface 30 of the manipulator 20, the power supply interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 comprises an outer tubular first contact 52 and a sleeve-shaped inner second contact 54, which are rotationally symmetrical or largely rotationally symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry 58. The deviation from the rotational symmetry with reference to the axis of symmetry 58 involves, for example, longitudinal slots that enable elasticity of the contacts 52, 54. The outer first contact 52 of the power supply interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 corresponds to the tubular first contact 32 of the power supply interface 30 of the manipulator 20 and lies flatly thereon. The sleeve-shaped second contact 54 of the power supply interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 corresponds to the pin-shaped second contact 34 of the power supply interface 30 of the manipulator 20 and lies flatly against the latter.

[0098] The outer first contact 52 of the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 is surrounded by a tubular and likewise coaxially configured outer insulating region 56. The outer insulating region 56 forms the outer visible and therefore also outer portion of the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40. Figure 1 The outer insulating region 56 projects beyond the contacts 52 , 54 distally, for example toward the actuation device 20 .

[0099] exist Figure 2 In the configuration of the mechanical and electrical connection shown, the axis of symmetry 58 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 corresponds to the axis of symmetry 38 of the power interface of the manipulator 20. The axes of symmetry 38, 58 of the power interfaces 30, 50 simultaneously define a plugging direction along which the power interfaces 30, 50 can be connected and can also be disconnected again in the opposite direction. The rotational symmetry of the two power interfaces 30, 50 enables the electrosurgical power connector 40 to be connected in a rotational manner. Figure 2 The illustrated configuration is one in which the power connector 40 and the operating device 20 are mechanically and electrically connected, rotating about the axis of symmetry 38 , 58 relative to the operating device 20 .

[0100] The electrosurgical power connector 40 includes a joystick 60 as a manually operable user interface. The joystick 60 can be moved around a portion of the electrosurgical power connector 40 that is defined by the user interface. Figure 2 The joint 62 pivots about a pivot axis 68 orthogonal to the cross-sectional plane. The main extension direction 64 of the joystick 60 is substantially parallel to the symmetry axes 38, 58 and the insertion direction of the corresponding power supply interfaces 30, 50 of the manipulator 20 and the electrosurgical power connector 40.

[0101] The free end 66 of the joystick 60 facing away from the engagement portion 62 overlaps the power interfaces 30, 50. In the example shown, the free end 66 of the joystick 60 actually extends distally, i.e., toward the manipulator 20, beyond the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40, thereby forming the most distal point of the electrosurgical power connector 40.

[0102] The free end 66 of the control rod 60 extends distally sufficiently so that the control rod 60 can be rotated about the pivot axis 68 from Figure 2 Its initial or rest position, shown in solid lines, is pivoted to Figure 2 The actuated position is shown in dashed lines without contacting the operating device 20.

[0103] Alternatively, and in the case of deviation Figure 2 In the case of the illustration in FIG. 1 , the joystick 60, in particular Figure 2 Its free end 66 in the actuated position shown by dashed lines in FIG. 1 can make point contact, line contact or surface contact with one or more outer surface areas of the operating device 20.

[0104] The spring 72 is disposed between the control rod 60 and the rest of the electrosurgical power connector 40 to act as a restoring force. The elastic restoring force of the biased spring 72 forces the control rod 60 to reach Figure 2 The initial or rest position is shown in solid lines and is limited by a stopper not shown. The control lever 60 can be pivoted to overcome the elastic restoring force of the spring 72. Figure 2 The actuated position is shown by the dashed line.

[0105] The rebound restoring force of spring 72 is such that, even if a medical instrument having electrosurgical power connector 40 is accidentally placed on joystick 60 , the weight of the electrosurgical instrument and electrosurgical power connector 40 is insufficient to pivot joystick 60 to its actuated position.

[0106] In the example shown, the joystick 60 is directly mechanically coupled to a switch 86 as a sensor, which is connected to the electrosurgical power supply 100 via a control signal line (see Figure 1) and is therefore particularly part of a control circuit. The closed and open, switching states of switch 86 generate a control signal that controls the supply of power to electrosurgical instrument 10 in electrosurgical power supply 100. Specifically, power is supplied when switch 86 is closed, and power is not supplied when switch 86 is open.

[0107] In the example shown, the operating lever 60 and the switch 86 form a button in the sense of electrical engineering terminology, which only switches when the operating lever 60 is manually operated and pivoted to the position against the elastic restoring force of the spring 72. Figure 2 The circuit is closed only when the position is shown by the dotted line.

[0108] Deviation Figure 2 As shown in the figure, spring 72 and circuit breaker 86 can be partially or completely integrated. For example, spring 72 can be designed as a leaf spring, which is also part of the circuit and its free end is designed as a switch contact.

[0109] Figure 3 Shown through Figure 2 Another schematic illustration of a cross section of a portion of manipulation device 20 and electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown. Figure 3 The cross-sectional plane corresponds to Figure 2 cross-sectional plane. Figure 3 The diagram in Figure 2 The difference between the illustrations in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 is that the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 and the power interface 30 of the manipulator 20 are mechanically and electrically separated. Some features of the power interfaces 30, 50 can therefore be more easily identified and can be more easily associated with the manipulator 20 or the electrosurgical power connector 40.

[0110] Figure 4 Shows that already Figure 2 20 and other schematic illustrations of the electrosurgical power connector 40. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In contrast, a plan view is shown instead of a cross-sectional view. Figure 4 The drawing plane is parallel to Figure 2 and Figure 3 cross-sectional plane.

[0111] Figure 4 The construction shown is similar to Figure 2 A configuration is shown in which the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 is mechanically and electrically connected to the power interface 30 of the manipulator 20 . Figure 4 The construction shown is similar to the reference Figure 2The illustrated configuration differs in that the electrosurgical power connector 40 is rotated about the axis of symmetry 38, 58 of the power supply interface 30, 50 relative to the manipulator 20 by an angle of approximately 90°. The pivot axis 68 of the control lever 60 is thus parallel to Figure 4 The drawing plane is shown in FIG. 1 and the joystick 60 is positioned laterally to the power supply connections 30, 50 and thus to the side of the operating device 20. In the example shown, the flat, elongated rectangular shape of the joystick 60 can be seen.

[0112] For example, although Figure 2 The joystick 60 in the illustrated construction can be operated with the index finger of one hand gripping around the power interface 30, 50, but Figure 4 The joystick 60 in the illustrated configuration can be operated with the thumb of the right hand or the index finger of the left hand. The rotatability of the electrosurgical power connector 40 relative to the manipulator 20 enables suitable configuration for medical personnel with different hand sizes and / or different habits and preferences in operating the user interface, as well as right-handed and left-handed users.

[0113] Figure 5 Shown through Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of manipulation device 20 and an alternative embodiment of electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown. Fig.10 The cross-sectional plane corresponds to Figure 2 and Figure 3 cross-sectional plane. Figure 5 The construction shown corresponds to Figure 3 The configuration shown is one in which the power interfaces 30 , 50 of the manipulator 20 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 are mechanically and electrically separated and spaced apart, but oriented so that they can be mechanically and electrically connected by linear translational access.

[0114] Figure 5 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar in some features, characteristics and functions to the reference Figures 1 to 4 Electrosurgical power connector shown.

[0115] In particular, Figure 5 The electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown with Figures 1 to 4The electrosurgical power connector shown differs in that the control lever 60, in particular its free end 66, is surrounded in a U-shaped manner by a frame 76. The frame 76 is designed to be flexurally rigid and mechanically rigidly connected to the rest of the electrosurgical power connector 40, in particular being formed integrally or even monolithically with the housing of the power interface 50. The frame 76 projects relative to the control lever 60 in the direction in which the control lever 60 is pivoted for actuation. Thus, the frame 76 protects the control lever 60 to a large extent from unintentional actuation and makes such an actuation unlikely. In particular, even in the configuration mechanically connected to the electrosurgical instrument 10, the control lever 60 cannot be actuated simply by placing the electrosurgical power connector 40 on a flat surface.

[0116] Figure 6 Shows Figures 2 to 5 The partial area of ​​the operating device 20 shown and the Figure 5 4. However, with Figure 5 In contrast, a plan view is shown instead of a cross-sectional view. Figure 6 The drawing plane is parallel to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 cross-sectional plane.

[0117] Different from Figure 5 shown, and similar to Figure 4 As shown, Figure 6 A configuration is shown in which the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 is mechanically and electrically connected to the power interface 30 of the manipulator 20 . Figure 6 The construction shown is similar to the reference Figure 5 The illustrated configuration also differs in that the electrosurgical power connector 40 is rotated about the axis of symmetry 38, 58 of the power supply interface 30, 50 relative to the manipulator 20 by an angle of approximately 90°. The pivot axis 68 of the control lever 60 is thus parallel to Figure 6 , and the actuation lever 60 is positioned laterally of the power supply connections 30, 50 and thus laterally of the actuation device 20. The U-shaped configuration of the frame 76, which surrounds the actuation lever 60 with a small gap, can be seen.

[0118] Figure 7 Shown through Figure 1 and Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of manipulation device 20 and another alternative embodiment of electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown in FIG. Figure 7 The cross-sectional plane corresponds to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 cross-sectional plane. Figure 7 The construction shown in corresponds to Figure 3and Figure 5 , in which the power interfaces 30 , 50 of the manipulator 20 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 are mechanically and electrically separated and spaced apart, but oriented so that they can be mechanically and electrically connected by linear translation access.

[0119] Figure 7 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar in some features, characteristics and functions to the reference Figures 1 to 6 Electrosurgical power connector shown.

[0120] In particular, Figure 7 The electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown with Figures 1 to 6 The difference of the electrosurgical power connector shown is that the joint 62 of the control rod 60 is designed as a solid joint. In the example shown, the solid joint 62 is formed to be Figure 7 The solid joint 62 is a narrow strip-shaped thin area extending orthogonally to the cross-sectional plane and is therefore elastic when bent. In the case of an extremely narrow and thin construction of the solid state joint 62 and an ideally rigid construction of the remaining joystick 60, the solid state joint 62 simultaneously defines the pivot axis about which the free end 66 of the joystick 60 can pivot. The wider the solid joint 62 is formed and / or the less the bending elasticity of the rest of the joystick 60 relative to the solid joint 62 can be ignored, the less accurately the mobility of the joystick 60 is defined by the pivot axis. Alternatively, an instantaneous extreme position can be defined in each angular position of the joystick 60, which however is also located in the area of ​​the solid joint 62 or in an area close to the solid joint.

[0121] In the example shown, unlike the reference Figures 2 to 6 In the example shown, no spring is provided. The solid state engagement portion 62 generates a (largely) elastic restoring force and thus simultaneously serves as a restorer 72. The control lever 60, the engagement portion 62 and the restorer 72 are thus integrated into one component.

[0122] As reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The framework described in Figure 7 This is also optional in the embodiment shown and is therefore indicated by a dashed outline.

[0123] Figure 8 Shown through Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of manipulation device 20 and another alternative embodiment of electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown. Figure 8 The cross-sectional plane corresponds to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7cross-sectional plane. Figure 8 The construction shown corresponds to the reference Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The configuration shown is one in which the power interfaces 30 , 50 of the manipulator 20 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 are mechanically and electrically separated and spaced apart, but oriented so that they can be mechanically and electrically connected by linear translational access.

[0124] Figure 8 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar in some features, characteristics and functions to the reference Figures 1 to 7 Electrosurgical power connector shown.

[0125] In particular, Figure 8 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar to the Figures 1 to 7 The electrosurgical power connector shown differs in that a sensing plate 70 is provided instead of a joystick. The sensing plate 70 is arranged in a flat and open housing, the edges of which form a frame 76 that completely surrounds the sensing plate 70. The spring 72 forms a limiter that holds the touch plate 70 in place. Figure 8 shown in the rest position, and in particular by Figure 8 The touch pad 70 is limited by a mechanical stop not shown in the figure, as long as no further force is applied to the touch pad 70. Manual pressure can overcome the elastic restoring force of the spring 72 and actuate the sensing plate 70, i.e., move it toward the power interface 50. The switch 86 connected in parallel detects the actuation of the touch pad by closing the control circuit.

[0126] Figure 8 Two springs 72 are shown. Alternatively, only one or more than two springs 72 may also be provided. Figure 8 Two switches 86 are shown in FIG. Alternatively, only one or more than two switches 86 may be provided. Alternatively, the switches 86 may be connected in series so that the control circuit is closed only when the entire touch pad is fully moved.

[0127] Deviation Figure 8 As shown in FIG. , the spring 72 can be integrated with the touch pad 70 and / or a housing surrounding it and forming a frame 76, in particular, formed in one piece. Alternatively or additionally, the switch 86 can be partially or completely integrated with the spring 72.

[0128] In addition, in the deviation Figure 8 In the case shown in FIG. 1 , for example, a scissor mechanism may be provided to ensure parallel displacement of the entire touch panel 70 when actuated.

[0129] Fig. 9 Shown through Figure 1 and Figure 2A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of manipulation device 20 and another alternative embodiment of electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown. Fig. 9 The cross-sectional plane corresponds to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 cross-sectional plane. Fig. 9 The construction shown corresponds to the reference Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The configuration shown is one in which the power interfaces 30 , 50 of the manipulator 20 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 are mechanically and electrically separated and spaced apart, but oriented so that they can be mechanically and electrically connected by linear translational access.

[0130] Fig. 9 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar in some features, characteristics and functions to the reference Figures 1 to 8 Electrosurgical power connector shown.

[0131] In particular, Fig. 9 The electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown with Figures 1 to 8 The electrosurgical power connector shown differs in that the switch 86, which is directly mechanically coupled to the joystick 60, is designed as a power switch. Depending on the position of the joystick 60, the switch 86 interrupts or enables power from the power source 100 (see Figure 1 ) through the flexible conduit 90 to the power interface 50 of the electrosurgical power connector 40 and thus to the manipulator 20. Figure 2 In the initial or resting position of the joystick 60 shown in solid lines, the power switch 86 interrupts the transmission of power. Figure 2 In the actuated position of the joystick 60 shown in dashed lines, the circuit breaker 86 transmits power.

[0132] In the deviation Fig. 9 In the illustrated example of a bipolar electrosurgical instrument, the two poles can be switched. Fig. 9 In the case of the implementation method, similar to reference Figures 5 to 8 In the example shown, a frame 76 may be provided to prevent unintentional actuation. Fig. 9 The diagram in , similar to the reference Figure 7 In the example shown, the joint 62 may be formed as a solid joint. Fig. 9 The diagram in , similar to the reference Figure 8 In the example shown, a touch pad may be provided instead of the joystick 60 .

[0133] Fig.10Shown through the reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a cross section of a portion of manipulation device 20 and another alternative embodiment of electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown. Fig.10 The cross-sectional plane corresponds to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figures 7 to 9 cross-sectional plane. Fig.10 The construction shown corresponds to the reference Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figures 7 to 9 The configuration shown is one in which the power interfaces 30 , 50 of the manipulator 20 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 are mechanically and electrically separated and spaced apart, but oriented so that they can be mechanically and electrically connected by linear translational access.

[0134] Fig.10 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar in some features, characteristics and functions to the reference Figures 1 to 9 Electrosurgical power connector shown.

[0135] In particular, Fig.10 The electrosurgical power connector 40 is shown with Figures 1 to 9 The electrosurgical power connector shown differs in that, instead of a spring or other elastic means, two mutually repelling magnets 74 are provided as restoring means for the control rod 60. One of the two magnets 74 is mechanically rigidly connected to the control rod 60, and the other magnet 74 is mechanically rigidly connected to the remainder of the electrosurgical power connector 40, i.e., its outer insulating region 56.

[0136] Fig.10 The electrosurgical power connector 40 shown is similar to the Figures 1 to 9 The electrosurgical power connector shown is also different in that the switch 86 mechanically connected to the joystick 60 as a sensor for sensing the actuation of the joystick 60 is not directly connected to the power supply 100 via the control signal line. Instead, the switch 86 is connected to the controller 88. Figure 5 The switch 86 shown in the figure may be provided, for example, with a Hall sensor for detecting the magnitude and / or direction of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 74 on the joystick 60, wherein the magnet 74 may also be Fig.10 84 is exemplarily represented as a microprocessor. The controller 88 receives the sensor signal and generates a control signal for the electrosurgical power supply. The controller 88 can be configured to trigger the power supply to be provided not every time the joystick 60 is actuated, but only when the actuation of the joystick 60 corresponds to a predetermined pattern. For example, the predetermined pattern includes two separate actuations of the joystick within a time interval of a predetermined duration.

[0137] Sensor 82, controller 88, and circuit breaker 86 may be partially or completely integrated, for example, in a single component or on a single semiconductor crystal (die).

[0138] Fig.10 Both variations described in can be implemented on an electrosurgical power connector independently of one another. Figures 1 to 9 The electrosurgical power connector shown may also have a pair of repelling magnets 74 as a reset mechanism. Figures 1 to 9 In an electrosurgical power connector such as those shown, a controller 88 may be provided that receives a sensor signal from the switch 86 or other sensor and generates a control signal for the power supply based on, for example, whether actuation of the user interface 60, 70 corresponds to a predetermined pattern.

[0139] and Fig.10 Unlike the illustrated embodiment, the controller 88 may control one or more circuit breakers that may be integrated into the electrosurgical power connector 40, or into a conduit connected to the electrosurgical power connector 40, or into another electrosurgical power connector at a proximal end thereof.

[0140] Fig.11 shows some characteristics, features and functions similar to those shown by reference Figure 1 A schematic illustration of a portion of another electrosurgical system of the system is shown. Fig.11 The electrosurgical system shown particularly includes Fig.11 An electrosurgical instrument not shown in the drawing has a steering device at its proximal end, as shown by reference to Figures 2 to 8 and Fig.10 The flexible conduit 90 has a proximal end 92 that is specifically configured as a connector and is directly connected to a corresponding connector of the power source 100 in the example shown.

[0141] Fig.11 The power supply 100 of the electrosurgical system shown includes a high voltage generator 104 and a controller 108. In particular, the controller includes a microprocessor. The controller 108 receives a control signal generated by the switch 86 or other sensor for sensing the actuation of the user interface via the flexible conduit 90 and the connector at its proximal end 92 and controls the high voltage generator 104. Controlled by the controller 108, the high voltage generator 104 provides power in the form of a high frequency alternating voltage with a frequency of tens of kHz and an amplitude of hundreds of volts. The power is transmitted to the electrosurgical instrument through the flexible conduit 90 and the electrosurgical power connector 40 at its distal end 96.

[0142] The controller can be configured to trigger the provision of power by the high voltage generator not every time the user interface on the electrosurgical power connector 40 is actuated, but only when the actuation corresponds to a predetermined pattern. Such a predetermined pattern corresponds, for example, to actuation twice within a time interval of a predetermined duration. The power supply 100 can enable medical personnel to select a predetermined mode from a plurality of predetermined modes or a configuration of predetermined modes. To this end, the power supply can include, for example, a user interface or be connected to an external user interface.

[0143] Flexible tubing 90 having electrosurgical power connector 40 at its distal end forms an electrosurgical power cable.

[0144] Fig.12 shows similarities in some properties, features and functions to Figure 1 The system shown and in particular similar to Fig.11 A schematic illustration of components of another electrosurgical system is shown.

[0145] In particular, Fig.12 The electrosurgical system shown is similar to the Fig.11 The electrosurgical system shown is different in that the control signals generated by the user interface at the electrosurgical power connector 40 and transmitted through the flexible conduit 90 and the power generated by the high voltage generator 104 are not transmitted through a common connector integrating contacts for both. Instead, the electrosurgical power supply has, in particular, a power output 102 at which power is provided, and a control signal input 106 at which control signals are received, in two different and spaced-apart connectors. Many conventional electrosurgical power supplies have these two different and spaced-apart connectors, with the control signal input 106 conventionally typically connected to a foot pedal to control the delivery of power with the foot.

[0146] The flexible tubing 90 comprises a Y-shaped topology having two proximal ends 92, 94. One proximal end 92 of the flexible tubing 90 is configured as a power input (particularly in the form of a connector) and is mechanically and electrically connected to a power output 102 of the electrosurgical power supply 100. The other proximal end 94 of the flexible tubing 90 is configured as a control signal output (particularly in the form of a connector) and is connected to a control signal input 106 of the electrosurgical power supply 100.

[0147] The flexible conduit 90 having the electrosurgical power connector 40 at its distal end, the power input at one proximal end 92, and the control signal output at the other proximal end 94 forms an electrosurgical power cable having a Y-shaped topology. When the electrosurgical power cable is used with a conventional power supply intended to be controlled by a pedal and a steering device on an electrosurgical instrument that is also conventional, it enables the control of the supply of power by means of a user interface near the steering device.

[0148] Description of Reference Numerals

[0149] 10Electrosurgical instruments

[0150] 12 The proximal end of the electrosurgical instrument 10

[0151] 14 Rod of the electrosurgical instrument 10

[0152] 16 The distal end of the electrosurgical instrument 10

[0153] 18 The longitudinal and symmetric axis of the rod 14 and the main axis of the electrosurgical instrument 10

[0154] 20. Manipulator of electrosurgical instrument 10

[0155] 22 The distal end of the manipulator 20

[0156] 24 Eyelet for fixing the operating device 20

[0157] 26 Manually movable eyelet of the operating device 20

[0158] 30 Power supply interface of operating device 20

[0159] 32 First contact of the power supply interface 30 of the operating device 20

[0160] 34 Second contact of the power supply interface 30 of the operating device 20

[0161] 36 Tubular outer insulating area of ​​the power interface 30 of the operating device 20

[0162] 38 Axis of symmetry and plugging direction of power supply interface 30 of operating device 20

[0163] 40 Electrosurgical power connector for electrosurgical instrument 10

[0164] 42 Proximal end of electrosurgical power connector 40

[0165] 46 The distal end of the electrosurgical power connector 40

[0166] 50 power interface 50 at the distal end 46 of the electrosurgical power connector 40; 2 first contact 54 of the power interface 50 at the distal end 46 of the electrosurgical power connector 40; 3 second contact 56 of the power interface 50 at the distal end 46 of the electrosurgical power connector 40; 4 external tubular insulator of the power interface 50 at the distal end 46 of the electrosurgical power connector 40;

[0167] Marginal Area

[0168] 58 The axis of symmetry of the electrosurgical power connector 40 and the plugging direction 60 serve as a joystick for a manually operable user interface of the electrosurgical power connector 40

[0169] 62 Joint portion of the control lever 60

[0170] 64 Main extension direction of the control rod 60

[0171] 66 The free end of the control rod 60

[0172] 68 The rotation axis of the control lever 60 defined by the joint 62

[0173] 70 Touchpad

[0174] 72 Spring as returner

[0175] 74 Mutually repelling magnets as reset elements

[0176] 76 frame surrounding the control lever 60

[0177] 82 sensor for detecting the position or movement of the joystick 60

[0178] 86 Switch

[0179] 88 Processor as a control element

[0180] 90 A flexible conduit for transmitting power from a power source to the electrosurgical instrument 10

[0181] 92 The proximal end of the flexible pipe 90 in the form of a connector as a power input portion

[0182] 94 The proximal end of the flexible pipe 90 in the form of a connector as a control signal output portion

[0183] 96 The distal end of the flexible pipe 90

[0184] 100 Electrosurgical Power Supply

[0185] 102 A power supply interface as a power output portion of the electrosurgical power supply 100

[0186] 104 High voltage generator of electrosurgical power supply 100

[0187] 106 Control signal input unit of the electrosurgical power supply 100

[0188] 108 A control element of the electrosurgical power supply 100, in particular a processor

Claims

1. An electrosurgical power connector (40) for transmitting power to a manipulator (20) of an electrosurgical instrument (10), comprising: a proximal end (42) connected or connectable to a conduit (90) for supplying electrical power from a power source (100); a distal end (46); a power interface (50) located at the distal end (46) of the electrosurgical power connector (40) and capable of being directly mechanically and electrically connected to a corresponding power interface (30) of the manipulator (20) of the electrosurgical instrument (10) in a detachable manner for transmitting power to the electrosurgical instrument (10); as well as a manually operable user interface (60, 70) for controlling the provision of power at the power interface (50), The power interface (50) and the user interface (60) are configured as a unit.

2. The electrosurgical power connector (40) of claim 1, wherein the user interface comprises a manually pivotable joystick (60).

3. The electrosurgical power connector (40) of claim 1, wherein the user interface comprises at least one of a manually operable touch pad (70) and a touch-sensitive surface.

4. The electrosurgical power connector (40) of claim 3, wherein the user interface (60, 70) is elongated and extends substantially parallel to a mating direction (58) of the power interface (50).

5. The electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein The power interface (50) is substantially rotationally symmetric about an axis of symmetry (58), The user interface (60, 70) is elongated and extends substantially parallel to the axis of symmetry (58) of the power interface (50).

6. An electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the distal end (66) of the user interface (60, 70) is located near the distal end (46) of the electrosurgical power connector (40) or forms the most distal point of the distal end (46) of the electrosurgical power connector (40).

7. An electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the power interface (50) can be mechanically and electrically connected to a corresponding power interface (30) of the manipulation device (20) of the electrosurgical instrument (10) at a plurality of different angular positions.

8. An electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrosurgical power connector (40) is capable of rotating about an axis (38, 58) in a configuration mechanically and electrically connected to the corresponding power interface (30) of the manipulation device (20).

9. The electrosurgical power connector (40) of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Resetter (72; 74), the resetter is mechanically coupled to the user interface (60, 70) or integrated with the user interface (60, 70) for generating a reset force to reset the user interface (60, 70) to an initial configuration assuming the absence of an actuation force, wherein actuation of the user interface (60, 70) requires overcoming the restoring force of the reset device (72; 74), The restoring force of the restorer (72; 74) makes it impossible to actuate the user interface (60, 70) solely by the weight of the electrosurgical power connector (40) and the electrosurgical instrument (10) mechanically and electrically coupled to the electrosurgical power connector (40).

10. An electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the user interface (60) is configured to control the supply of power to the power interface (50) only when the user interface is actuated according to a predetermined mode.

11. An electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the power interface (50) is configured and constructed to mechanically and electrically connect the electrosurgical power connector (40) solely to the manipulation device (20) of the electrosurgical instrument (10).

12. An electrosurgical power cable (90), comprising: a flexible conduit (90) having a proximal end (92) that is or can be mechanically and electrically connected to a power source (100); An electrosurgical power connector (40) according to any one of the preceding claims at a distal end (94) of the conduit (90).

13. The electrosurgical power cable (90) of claim 12, wherein The power cable (90) has a Y-shaped topology. A further electrosurgical power connector (92) for removably mechanically and electrically connecting to a power output (102) of an electrosurgical power source (100) forms a first proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable (90), A control signal output (94) for removably mechanically and electrically connecting to a control signal input (106) of the electrosurgical power source (100) forms a second proximal end of the electrosurgical power cable (90).

14. An electrosurgical power cable (90) according to claim 13, with reference to claim 10, wherein at least one of a controller (88) and a power switch (86) is arranged in a further power connector at the proximal end (94) of the flexible cable (90).

15. An electrosurgical power supply (100) for providing power for electrosurgery, comprising: A control signal input unit (106), the control signal input unit being used to receive a control signal; a high voltage generator (104), the high voltage generator being used to generate electric power; a controller (108) coupled to the control signal input (106) and to the high voltage generator (104) for controlling the high voltage generator (104) in response to a control signal received at the control signal input (106); and a power output (102) coupled to the high voltage generator (104) and connectable to an electrosurgical instrument (10) via an electrosurgical power cable (90) for providing power, The controller (108) is configured to control the high voltage generator (104) according to whether the actuation of the user interface (60) represented by the control signal corresponds to a predetermined mode.

Images