Input attachment, surgical apparatus, intraoperative device and use of input attachment

Abstract

The invention relates to an input attachment for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece by means of an external surgical device coupled to the input attachment, the input attachment comprising: an input device designed to receive a user input; a control device designed to generate a control signal for controlling the surgical handpiece as a function of a received user input; an electrical interface for transmitting the generated control signal to a surgical device; and a mechanical component interface designed to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece in the assembled state of the input attachment in such a way that the input attachment assembled with the surgical handpiece can be manipulated as a one-piece handpiece. Furthermore, the invention relates to a surgical device, to an apparatus for intraoperative use, and to the use of an input attachment according to the invention for intraoperative nerve monitoring (IOM).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an input accessory for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece by means of an external surgical device coupled thereto, a surgical device, a device for intraoperative use, and the use of a corresponding input accessory. Background Art

[0002] For intraoperative nerve monitoring (IOM), surgical handpieces such as stimulation probes or mapping aspiration devices are used during a surgical procedure, and a doctor can stimulate a nerve with small electrical pulses by means of the surgical handpiece. For this purpose, the handpiece must be sterile so as not to cause any contamination to the surgical site. For this purpose, it is advantageous to have an adjustable current intensity for stimulating the nerve, and at the same time an indicator for the stimulation response. Often, the smaller the current intensity required to trigger a signal, the closer the area to be protected. Adjusting the current intensity is often achieved only by connecting an external device to the handpiece. On the other hand, EP 1 804 911 B1 describes a stimulator handpiece that includes a switch capable of being used to adjust an electrical signal. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of the above background art, an object of the present invention is to provide a simple control option for a doctor in respect of a large number of different surgical handpieces.

[0004] According to the present invention, this object is achieved by an input accessory having the features of claim 1, a surgical device having the features of claim 25, a device having the features of claim 27, and / or the use of an input accessory having the features of claim 31.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides:

[0006] An input accessory for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece by means of an external surgical device coupled to the input accessory, wherein the input accessory includes: an input device configured to receive a user input; a control device configured to generate a control signal for controlling the surgical handpiece according to the received user input; an electrical interface through which the generated control signal is sent to the surgical device; and a mechanical component interface configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece in an assembled state of the input accessory such that the input accessory assembled with the surgical handpiece can be manipulated as an integral handpiece.

[0007] A surgical device includes a first electrical device interface having a first interface and a second interface, wherein the first interface is configured to receive a control signal from an input accessory according to the present invention, the input accessory being coupled to the surgical device via the electrical device interface; and wherein the second interface is configured to send a stimulation signal to a surgical handpiece coupled to the surgical device based on the received control signal.

[0008] A device for intraoperative use, comprising: an input accessory according to the present invention; a surgical device according to the present invention; and a surgical handpiece.

[0009] Use of an input accessory according to the present invention for intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IOM).

[0010] The basic idea of the present invention is to develop an accessory with an input function that can be easily placed and attached to the handpiece of a surgical instrument or a surgical handpiece. This enables the doctor to adjust parameters such as current intensity during the operation without having to move away from or turn away from the surgical site. Further, if needed, the same accessory can be mounted on another handpiece and the parameters can be adjusted there in the same way.

[0011] With the accessory in place, the doctor can easily control the surgical instrument or the surgical handpiece from the sterile area. This is important because the connected surgical device is often not sterile and the doctor would have to turn away from the operating table.

[0012] Therefore, the input accessory can be used with different surgical instruments. Here, various probes are included, such as for the brain surface or deep brain regions, high-frequency devices or scalpels. For this purpose, the input accessory should be mounted on the instrument that the doctor replaces the least during the operation.

[0013] In this way, surgical handpieces such as stimulation probes or mapping aspiration devices can be more easily configured for simple procedures without a controller. Since the input accessory has a lower risk class, the development of high-risk probes is unnecessary. The input accessory can also be implemented as a disposable product. This also eliminates the need for any time-consuming reprocessing of the accessory.

[0014] The input accessory records the inputs of the treating doctor, converts them into control signals, and sends them to the connected surgical device. For this purpose, it uses an electrical interface configured to send electrical signals. For example, these inputs can be implemented using one or more buttons or keys, control knobs or slide controls.

[0015] The medical surgical device belonging to the input accessory has a suitable interface to convert the control signal sent by the input accessory into a stimulation signal or another output and then send it to the surgical handpiece coupled to the surgical device.

[0016] Thus, a device is constituted by three components, namely an input attachment, a surgical device, and a surgical handpiece. Then, this device can be used in a variety of surgical fields, such as intraoperative nerve monitoring. Such uses include, for example, motor mapping and speech mapping in neurosurgery, as well as applications in spinal surgery and peripheral surgery, especially for tumor resection.

[0017] In motor mapping, for example, tissue is stimulated to localize the structures in the brain that control movement. If the stimulus-evoked potential can be shown in the corresponding characteristic muscle, the protected function must be located near the stimulated area. These include, for example, subcortical mapping according to Raabe for tumor resection in neurosurgery, or mapping of the primary motor cortex and pyramidal tract, where the latter mapping requires special probe shapes and parameters.

[0018] The probes used are mainly monopolar probes with spherical tips, fork probes, mapping aspiration devices, small bipolar concentric probes (BCS), or micro fork probes.

[0019] Tumor surgery can be performed in otolaryngology surgery, general surgery, visceral surgery, endocrine surgery, or oral and maxillofacial surgery. The current intensity is mainly used as the controlled parameter. For example, the invention is used for tumors on the facial nerve, thyroid, or rectal cancer. Here, the nerve can be distinguished from the surrounding tumor tissue based on its lower current threshold for triggering a response signal.

[0020] The one-piece handpiece is a medical tool or instrument that can be held with one hand and is usually usable by a surgeon during a surgical operation. Even though it includes at least two components, namely a surgical handpiece with an attached input attachment, due to the firm and non-slip attachment of these components, the one-piece handpiece is no different in its manipulation from an instrument that includes only one component.

[0021] The non-sliding / non-skid connection means that the two components being connected - in this case, the surgical handpiece and the input attachment - are attached to each other in such a way that the relative position of the two components does not change, even when only a slight force is applied during the normal use of the handpiece. This means that as long as too much force is not used - and such force does not occur during normal use - the two components will not slide relative to each other.

[0022] Advantageous embodiments and other configurations can be derived from the dependent claims and the description with reference to the views in the drawings.

[0023] According to a further preferred embodiment, the component interface includes a receiving area. The receiving area is configured to form a form-fit and / or force-fit connection between the input attachment and the surgical handpiece when the input attachment is placed on the surgical handpiece. In this way, an anti-slip handpiece that can be manipulated integrally can be realized between the input attachment and the surgical handpiece.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment, the form-fit and / or force-fit connection includes at least one of the following connection methods: at least one clip for clamping the receiving area to the surgical handpiece; at least one magnet for magnetically coupling to opposite-polarity magnets on the surgical handpiece; an adhesive connection between the receiving area and the surgical handpiece; a bonding connection for bonding the receiving area to the surgical handpiece; or, a dovetail connection or a dovetail-like form-fit connection that is form-fitted to the surgical handpiece. Each of these connections provides a firm, anti-slip, and reliable one-piece handpiece for use in surgery.

[0025] According to a further preferred additional embodiment, the form-fit and / or force-fit connection can be released again. This enables the input attachment and the surgical handpiece to be replaced and reused. The interchangeability of the input attachment allows the input attachment to be attached to other surgical handpieces without using another attachment.

[0026] According to a further preferred additional embodiment, the receiving area of the component interface is configured to insert the surgical handpiece into the inner area of the receiving area and surround it through the receiving area in the unassembled state, and to clamp the surgical handpiece in the inner area of the receiving area in the assembled state so that it cannot slide. This further embodiment can also realize a fixed and reliable one-piece handpiece, which is particularly suitable for attachment to larger devices, such as mapping aspiration devices.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip connection is configured to use anti-slip elements provided in the receiving area. The anti-slip elements make it more difficult for the input attachment to slip off the surgical handpiece after assembly, and particularly prevent the input attachment from slipping off the surgical handpiece.

[0028] According to a further preferred other embodiment, the anti-slip connection is configured by protrusions provided in the receiving area. The protrusions engage into the entrance of the surgical handpiece in the assembled state, and at least make it more difficult for the input attachment to slip off the surgical handpiece, and particularly prevent the input attachment from slipping off the surgical handpiece. The protrusions are configured to be sufficiently deformable to be able to engage into the entrance on the one hand and make it more difficult for the attached input attachment to slide or prevent the attached input attachment from sliding on the other hand.

[0029] According to another preferred further development example, the electrical interface includes a bipolar electrical connection. Through this connection, input signals can be directly received by the surgical device, and response signals from the surgical device can also be received. Thus, the response signal is typically a response, such as a stimulus response to a stimulus, or an output signal from the surgical handpiece to a treatment site to be treated, such as brain tissue. This connection enables fast and delay-free signal transmission.

[0030] According to another preferred further development example, the electrical interface is configured to couple the surgical handpiece to the input accessory via a direct cable connection. The cable connection enables, for example, a firm and stable data exchange with the surgical device.

[0031] According to a preferred further development example, the electrical interface is configured to wirelessly couple the surgical handpiece to the input accessory via an air interface. This connection enables, for example, a participating person such as a doctor to have increased freedom of movement without having to worry about another cable.

[0032] According to another preferred further development example, the air interface is an optical connection. The optical connection can be configured as an infrared connection. The connection can also be configured as a radio connection, such as a WLAN or mobile radio connection, and / or a Bluetooth connection. Depending on the requirements of the specific application, these connections enable sufficiently reliable and fast data transmission.

[0033] According to another preferred further development example, the electrical interface is provided in the area of the mechanical component interface. In addition, the mechanical component interface is configured to be coupled to the corresponding electrical interface of the surgical handpiece in the assembled state, so that in this way, input signals can be sent to the surgical device and response signals can be received from the surgical device via the surgical handpiece. In this way, signals traveling between the surgical handpiece and the input accessory can be sent and received via the same connection, such as a cable connection with only one cable. This simplifies the complexity of the device.

[0034] According to another further development example, the input device includes at least one button, a keyboard, a touchpad, a knob, and / or a roller, through which user input can be recorded. This allows a doctor to control the surgical handpiece in a simple and flexible manner.

[0035] According to another further development example, the input device is configured to output haptic feedback through user input. In this way, for example, when a doctor successfully completes an input, a haptic signal can be output so that the doctor knows that the input has been received. This improves the safety of using the handpiece.

[0036] According to another further expansion example, the input device and the control device are configured to record input parameters for stimulation in the field of intraoperative nerve monitoring as user input and convert it into a corresponding control signal. In this case, the parameters are in particular the current intensity or the frequency, which are parameters that are frequently changed. However, the parameters can also be: pulse width; energy; stimulation frequency, such as 1 Hz or 30 Hz; pulse shape; or the switching from a monopolar signal to a bipolar signal; or simply turning the stimulation on and off. The latter is preferred when using a mapping aspiration device. In this way, the surgical handpiece can be effectively used in intraoperative nerve monitoring.

[0037] According to another further expansion example, the input device and the control device are configured to select at least one parameter from a set of parameters, receive the selected parameter as user input, and convert it into a corresponding control signal. The set of parameters can also be automatically switched according to the steps already completed in the workflow. In this way, the surgical handpiece can be used in a particularly flexible and user-friendly manner in intraoperative nerve monitoring (IOM).

[0038] According to another further expansion example, the control device is configured to use the control signal to control at least one device-specific parameter of the surgical handpiece or the surgical device. These include in particular notes, workflow, volume, baseline, switching back and forth in the workflow, opening the note menu and then setting standardized notes, or other parameters related to the working environment. In this way, an improved working environment can be created for the doctor, which reduces treatment errors.

[0039] According to another preferred further expansion example, a display device is provided, which is configured to output a response signal. The response signal is received by the surgical handpiece and sent directly or indirectly to the input accessory, for example via the surgical device, where it is converted into a corresponding response signal. Such a response signal can in particular be an optical response signal. This is clearly visible to the doctor, enabling him or her to quickly notice the response of the stimulated nerve, for example, and accordingly quickly adjust the treatment.

[0040] According to another further expansion example, the display device is configured to display the received response signal, which is based on the response to the stimulation or output by the surgical handpiece and on the user input. Thus, the response signal provides information about the response generated by the control signal in, for example, the stimulated area of the patient.

[0041] According to another further expansion example, the display device includes a display for outputting a response signal and / or at least one LED (light-emitting diode). The LED can be configured as an RGB (red, green, blue) LED to display different colors, particularly according to a traffic signal pattern. In addition, the LED can be designed for flashing and static lighting. In particular, the display can be configured as a mini display, optionally a mini display with tactile feedback. This type of display is particularly easy to identify and flexible to use.

[0042] According to another further expansion example, the display device is configured to display at least one selected parameter, and / or parameter value, and / or parameter range, and / or optical alarm signal. In this way, useful information can be provided to the doctor.

[0043] According to another further expansion example, the display device is configured to display parameters of at least one of a surgical handpiece, a surgical device, and / or a third-party device connected to the input accessory. When navigating the probe of the surgical handpiece using the corresponding device, the response can be displayed in association with the current position. In this way, the surgeon can identify the magnitude of the parameters currently being used and continue the treatment accordingly. In this way, the surgeon can identify the appropriate parameter range, thereby improving the safety and precision of the treatment.

[0044] According to another further expansion example, the display device is designed to output tactile feedback and / or sound response signals. In this way, the special attention of the treating surgeon can be attracted. For example, this can be utilized if the parameter range is exceeded. Overall, this both expands the parameter setting and improves the safety during the treatment process.

[0045] According to another further expansion example, the display device is coupled to a control device, and the display device can be controlled through the control device. In this way, the display of various response signals can be flexibly and personalized set for the doctor, which improves the applicability and usability of the input accessory.

[0046] According to a further expansion example, the surgical device is configured as an intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IOM) device. This enables the development of neurological applications, such as stimulating brain tissue, for example, performing mapping within the brain to locate regions in the brain that control language or motor functions. Alternatively, the surgical device can also be a radio frequency (RF) device or a cryotherapy device.

[0047] According to a further expansion example, the surgical device is electrically connected to the input accessory and the surgical handpiece to send and receive signals. Therefore, the input performed through the input accessory can first be sent as a control signal to the surgical device, and then from this device, for example, the corresponding stimulation signal can be sent to the surgical handpiece.

[0048] In addition, the surgical handpiece can be mechanically attached to the input attachment in such a way that the input attachment is attached at a position corresponding to the receiving area of the input attachment on the surgical handpiece. The integrated handpiece assembled in this way is particularly easy to operate, which is necessary when treating patients.

[0049] According to a further expansion example, the surgical handpiece is configured as a monopolar stimulation probe or a bipolar stimulation probe. According to another further expansion example, the surgical handpiece is configured as a monopolar mapping aspiration device or a bipolar mapping aspiration device. These devices can achieve more effective intraoperative nerve monitoring.

[0050] The above embodiments and modifications can be combined with each other in any reasonable way. In particular, all features of the input attachment and the surgical device can be transferred to the said device, and all features of the input attachment can be transferred to the use of the input attachment for intraoperative nerve monitoring, and vice versa. Further feasible embodiments, further configurations and implementations of the present invention also include combinations of the features of the present invention described in the above or below related exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned. In this regard, those skilled in the art will particularly add individual aspects as improvements or supplements to the corresponding basic forms of the present invention. Description of the Drawings

[0051] The present invention will be explained in more detail below using examples given in the schematic views of the drawings, where:

[0052] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a device having an input attachment, a surgical handpiece and a surgical device according to a first embodiment;

[0053] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing an input attachment of another embodiment;

[0054] Figure 3 Showing Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the input attachment;

[0055] Figure 4 Showing in Figure 2 and Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the surgical handpiece with the input attachment in place;

[0056] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing an input attachment of another embodiment;

[0057] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the input attachment of another embodiment;

[0058] Figure 7 Is Figure 5 or Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the surgical handpiece with the input attachment in place;

[0059] Figure 8 Schematic diagram showing a device including an input accessory, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to another embodiment;

[0060] Figure 9 Schematic diagram showing a device including an input accessory, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to another embodiment;

[0061] Figure 10 Schematic diagram showing a device including an input accessory, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to another embodiment;

[0062] Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing a device including an input accessory, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to another embodiment; and

[0063] Figure 12 Schematic diagram showing a device including an input accessory, a surgical handpiece, and a surgical device according to another embodiment.

[0064] The accompanying drawings are used to express a further understanding of the embodiments of the present invention. They illustrate the embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the present invention. Referring to the accompanying drawings, other embodiments and many of the mentioned advantages will be apparent. The elements shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale relative to each other.

[0065] Unless otherwise noted, in these views of the drawings, the same elements, features, and components having the same function and acting in the same manner are each denoted by the same reference numeral. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0066] Figure 1 Schematic diagram showing a device 100 including an input accessory 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to a first embodiment.

[0067] Figure 1 Shows the device 100 used during surgery. The device includes an input accessory 1, a surgical device 3 electrically connected to the input accessory 1, and a surgical handpiece 2 connected to the surgical device 3. During surgery, the input accessory 1 and the surgical handpiece are sterile. The input accessory 1 is configured to control at least one function of the surgical handpiece 2 through the surgical device 3.

[0068] The input accessory 1 includes an input device 4, such as a button or a rotary controller. The input device 4 is configured to receive user input and send it to a control device 5 of the input accessory 1. The control device 5 is configured to generate a control signal for controlling the surgical handpiece 2 according to the received user input. The control signal is sent to an electrical interface 6, and the control signal is sent to the surgical device 3 through the electrical interface 6.

[0069] The electrical interface 6 includes a monopolar electrical connection through which an input signal can be sent to the surgical device 3. In this embodiment, this is achieved by a first connection 12 configured as a cable connection.

[0070] The input attachment 1 further includes a mechanical component interface 7. The mechanical component interface 7 is configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state of the input attachment 1 in such a way that the input attachment 1 assembled with the surgical handpiece 2 can be manipulated as an integral handpiece.

[0071] The component interface 7 includes a receiving area 8 configured to form a form-fit and / or force-fit connection between the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2 when the input attachment 1 is placed on the surgical handpiece 2.

[0072] In this embodiment, the mechanical connection is configured as a form-fit connection and includes at least one clip for clamping the receiving area 8 to the surgical handpiece 2. In other embodiments, the form-fit and / or force-fit connection includes at least one magnet for magnetically coupling to an opposite-polarity magnet on the surgical handpiece 2, an adhesive connection between the receiving area 8 and the surgical handpiece 2, a bonding connection for bonding the receiving area 8 to the surgical handpiece 2, a form-fit dovetail connection or a dovetail-like form-fit connection with the surgical handpiece 2.

[0073] In particular, the form-fit and / or force-fit connection is configured to be detachable.

[0074] Figure 1 The illustrated medical surgical device 3 has an electrical device interface 9 which includes a first interface 10 and a second interface 11.

[0075] The first interface 10 is configured to receive a control signal from the input attachment 1 coupled to the surgical device 3 through the electrical device interface 9. The second interface 11 is configured to send a stimulation signal to the surgical handpiece 2 coupled to the surgical device 3 through the electrical device interface 9 based on the received control signal. This is achieved by a second electrical connection 13 which is configured as a cable connection in this embodiment. Thus, it is possible to convert the input entered by the doctor at the input attachment into a stimulation signal or output in the surgical handpiece and output it.

[0076] The input device 4 and the control device 5 are configured to receive input parameters for stimulation in the field of intraoperative nerve monitoring as user input and convert them into corresponding control signals. Specifically, the parameter is current intensity. In other embodiments, the parameter is frequency, pulse width, pulse shape, voltage, energy, or on / off switching of a function.

[0077] The input device 4 and the control device 5 are also configured to select at least one parameter from a set of parameters, receive the selected parameter as a user input, and convert it into a corresponding control signal. Thus, it can switch back and forth between different parameters, for example, between current intensity or frequency.

[0078] Figure 2 Schematic view of the input attachment 1 showing another embodiment.

[0079] In this embodiment, the input device 4 includes at least one button 14 through which user input can be received. In other embodiments, the input device includes a keyboard, a touchpad, a knob, and / or a roller. In addition, the input device 4 is configured to output haptic feedback through user input. This is accomplished here by vibrating the button 14 during input.

[0080] The receiving area 8 of the mechanical interface 7 is configured here as the rounded corner of the cylindrical surgical handpiece 2.

[0081] In this embodiment, the input attachment further includes a display device 24 configured to output a response signal. The response signal output here is output as a light response signal through two LEDs (light-emitting diodes) 15.

[0082] Figure 2 The electrical interface 6, not shown, is configured to receive a response signal from the surgical device 3. The display device 24 is configured to display the received response signal. Here, the signal is received and displayed as a reaction to a stimulation signal or output emitted by the surgical handpiece 2 and is based on user input.

[0083] The display device 24 is coupled to the control device 5 and is controllable or adjustable through the control device 5, which is also not shown here.

[0084] In other embodiments, the display device 24 includes a display.

[0085] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the input attachment 1.

[0086] It can be seen that the engaging protrusion 16 is for engaging into a corresponding groove on the outside of the surgical handpiece 2. Thus, a firm, anti-slip, and detachable mechanical connection is established between the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2.

[0087] Figure 4 Shows in Figure 2 And Figure 3 Schematic view of the surgical handpiece 2 with the input attachment in place.

[0088] In this embodiment, the surgical handpiece 3 is configured as a monopolar stimulation probe. In other embodiments, the surgical handpiece 3 is configured as a bipolar stimulation probe. Thus, the surgical handpiece includes a probe 17 that is angled at its tip. In other embodiments, the probe is angled at a different angle. Depending on the application area, it can also be a shorter or longer probe.

[0089] The input attachment 1 is for intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IOM). Figure 4 The assembled state of the input attachment and the surgical handpiece 2 can be clearly seen in. In particular, it can be seen that in the assembled state of the input attachment 1, the mechanical component interface 7 is configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece 2, such that the input attachment 1 assembled with the surgical handpiece 2 can be manipulated as a simple and particularly practical integrated handpiece.

[0090] Figure 5 A schematic view of the input attachment 1 showing another embodiment is presented.

[0091] In this other embodiment of the input attachment 1, the receiving area 8 of the component interface 7 is configured to insert the surgical handpiece 2 into the inner area 18 of the receiving area 8 and surround it within the receiving area 8 in the unassembled state, and to clamp the surgical handpiece 2 within the inner area 18 of the receiving area 8 in the assembled state such that it does not slip.

[0092] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the input attachment showing another embodiment is presented.

[0093] In this embodiment of the input attachment 1, the non-slip connection is configured by an anti-slip element 19 provided within the receiving area 8, which at least makes it more difficult for the input attachment 1 to slip off the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state and practically prevents the input attachment 1 from slipping off the surgical handpiece 2 during normal use. The anti-slip element 19 can be configured from a material such as plastic, for example. Here, the anti-slip element 19 is implemented as an entrance to the surgical handpiece 2.

[0094] In other embodiments, the non-slip connection can be configured to include protrusions provided within the receiving area that engage into the entrance of the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state and at least make it more difficult for the input attachment to slip off the surgical handpiece 2, particularly preventing the input attachment from slipping off the surgical handpiece 2.

[0095] Figure 7 A schematic view showing Figure 5 or Figure 6 the surgical handpiece 2 with the input attachment 1 in place is presented.

[0096] In this embodiment, the surgical handpiece 2 is configured as a monopolar mapping aspiration device. In other embodiments, the surgical handpiece 2 is configured as a bipolar mapping aspiration device. Thus, in such an embodiment, the input attachment 1 is for intraoperative nerve monitoring (IOM).

[0097] Similar to the input attachment 1 being configured for use with a stimulation probe Figure 4 Here, it can be clearly seen the assembled state of the input attachment 1 configured for the mapping aspiration device with the surgical handpiece 2. It can be seen that the input attachment 1 assembled with the surgical handpiece 2 can be manipulated as an actually usable integrated handpiece.

[0098] Figure 8 Schematic diagram showing a device 100 including an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to another embodiment.

[0099] The input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece are connected to the surgical device 3, and the surgical device 3 is configured as an intraoperative nerve monitoring (IOM) device.

[0100] The surgical device 3 is electrically connected to the input attachment 1 and the surgical handpiece 2 to send and receive signals through the first and second electrical connections 12 and 13, and both the first and second electrical connections 12 and 13 are configured as cable connections here. The surgical handpiece 2 is mechanically attached to the input attachment 1 in such a way that the input attachment 1 is attached to a position corresponding to the receiving area 8 of the input attachment 1 on the surgical handpiece 2. Thus, a handpiece that is easy for a doctor to manipulate is formed.

[0101] In this embodiment, the control device 5 is further configured to control at least one device-specific parameter of the surgical handpiece 2 or the surgical device 3 using a control signal. For example, the annotation or workflow of the surgical device 3 can be controlled here. For example, the annotation can be set to a thyroid surgery, such as "start surgery", "before left resection", "after left resection", or the workflow or wizard or device navigation can be switched back and forth between different action steps.

[0102] In other embodiments, the electrical interface 6 is configured to couple the surgical handpiece 2 to the input attachment 1 through a direct cable connection.

[0103] Figure 9 Schematic diagram showing a device 100 including an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to another embodiment.

[0104] In this embodiment, the electrical interface 6 is configured to wirelessly couple the surgical handpiece 2 to the input attachment through an air interface.

[0105] The air interface is configured as a radio connection in the form of a Bluetooth connection. In other embodiments, the air interface is configured as an optical connection, in particular an infrared connection. In other embodiments, the radio connection is configured as a WLAN or mobile radio connection.

[0106] Figure 10 Schematic illustration of a device 100 including an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to another embodiment.

[0107] In such a device 100, the surgical device 3 is configured to map a suction device. A surgical suction device 20 is connected to the surgical handpiece 2 to suck away tissue, for example, during a surgical procedure, through a tube 21.

[0108] The display device 24 is configured to display at least one parameter of a third-party device connected to the input attachment 1, such as the surgical suction device in this case.

[0109] Figure 11 Schematic illustration of a device including an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to another embodiment.

[0110] In this embodiment, the first electrical connection 12 is again configured as a Bluetooth connection. Other embodiments use other wireless connection methods, as already described above in Figure 9 as described.

[0111] Figure 12 Schematic illustration of a device 100 including an input attachment 1, a surgical handpiece 2, and a surgical device 3 according to another embodiment.

[0112] In this embodiment, the electrical interface 6 of the input attachment 1 is provided in the region of the mechanical interface. The electrical interface 6 is configured to be coupled to a corresponding electrical interface 22 of the surgical handpiece 2 in the assembled state, and in this way, send an input signal to the surgical device 3 via the surgical handpiece 2 and receive a response signal from the surgical device 3. Thus, the communication of the first and second electrical connections 12 and 13 between the surgical handpiece 2 and the input attachment 1 on the one hand, and between the surgical handpiece 2 and the surgical device 3 on the other hand, is carried out via a common cable 23.

[0113] Although the present invention has been fully described above based on preferred exemplary embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto, but can be modified in various ways.

[0114] List of reference numerals

[0115] 1 Input attachment

[0116] 2 Surgical handpiece

[0117] 3 Surgical device

[0118] 4 Input device

[0119] 5 Control device

[0120] 6 Electrical interface of the input accessory

[0121] 7 Component interface

[0122] 8 Receiving area

[0123] 9 Device interface of the surgical device

[0124] 10 First electrical interface of the surgical device

[0125] 11 Second electrical interface of the surgical device

[0126] 12 First electrical connection

[0127] 13 Second electrical connection

[0128] 14 Button

[0129] 15 LED

[0130] 16 Engaging protrusion(s) / protrusion(s)

[0131] 17 Probe

[0132] 18 Internal area of the input accessory

[0133] 19 Anti-slip element

[0134] 20 Surgical aspiration device

[0135] 21 Tube

[0136] 22 Receiving area of the surgical handpiece

[0137] 23 Common cable

[0138] 24 Display device

[0139] 100 Device

Claims

1. An input attachment (1) for controlling at least one function of a sterile surgical handpiece (2) by means of an external surgical device (3) coupled to the input attachment (1), the input attachment (1) comprises: an input device (4) configured to receive a user input; a control device (5) configured to generate a control signal for controlling the surgical handpiece (2) based on the received user input; an electrical interface (6) through which the generated control signal is sent to the surgical device (3); and a mechanical component interface (7) configured to form a non-slip connection with the surgical handpiece (2) in an assembled state of the input attachment (1) in such a way that the input attachment (1) assembled with the surgical handpiece (2) can be manipulated as an integral handpiece.

2. The input attachment according to claim 1, wherein the component interface (7) comprises a receiving area (8) configured to form a form-fit and / or force-fit connection between the input attachment (1) and the surgical handpiece (2) when the input attachment (1) is placed on the surgical handpiece (2).

3. The input attachment according to claim 2, wherein the form-fit and / or force-fit connection comprises at least one of the following connection methods: at least one clip for clamping the receiving area (8) to the surgical handpiece (2); at least one magnet for magnetically coupling to opposite-polarity magnets on the surgical handpiece (2); an adhesive connection between the receiving area (8) and the surgical handpiece (2); a bonding connection for bonding the receiving area (8) to the surgical handpiece (2); a form-fit dovetail connection or a dovetail-like form-fit connection with the surgical handpiece (2).

4. The input attachment according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the form-fit and / or force-fit connection can be released again.

5. The input attachment according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the receiving area (8) of the component interface (7) is configured to insert the surgical handpiece (2) into an inner area of the receiving area (8) and surround the surgical handpiece (2) through the receiving area (8) in an unassembled state, and to clamp the surgical handpiece (2) in the inner area of the receiving area (8) in a non-slip manner in an assembled state.

6. The input attachment according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the non-slip connection is formed by anti-slip elements (19) provided in the receiving area (8), which at least makes it more difficult for the input attachment (1) to slip off the surgical handpiece (2) in an assembled state, and in particular prevents the input attachment (1) from slipping off the surgical handpiece (2).

7. The input attachment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The anti-slip connection is formed by a projection (16) provided in the receiving area (8), which engages into the inlet of the surgical handpiece (2) in the assembled state and at least makes it difficult for the input accessory (1) to slip off the surgical handpiece (2), and in particular prevents the input accessory (1) from slipping off the surgical handpiece (2).

8. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical interface (6) comprises a bipolar electrical connection through which an input signal can be sent to the surgical device (3) and a response signal can be received by the surgical device (3).

9. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical interface (6) is configured to couple the surgical handpiece (2) to the input accessory (1) by means of a direct cable connection.

10. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical interface (6) is configured to wirelessly couple the surgical handpiece (2) to the input accessory (1) by means of an air interface.

11. The input accessory according to claim 9, characterized in that the air interface is: an optical connection, in particular an infrared connection; a radio connection, such as a WLAN or a mobile radio connection; and / or a Bluetooth connection.

12. The input accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that the electrical interface (6) is provided in the region of the mechanical assembly interface (7) and is configured to be coupled to the corresponding electrical interface of the surgical handpiece (2) in the assembled state, in such a way as to send an input signal to the surgical device (3) via the surgical handpiece (2) and to receive a response signal from the surgical device (3).

13. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input device (4) has at least one button (14), a keyboard, a touchpad, a knob and / or a roller, and a user input can be received by means of the at least one button (14), the keyboard, the touchpad, the knob and / or the roller.

14. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input device (4) is configured to output haptic feedback in response to a user input.

15. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input device (4) and the control device (5) are configured to receive, as a user input, an input of parameters for stimulation in the field of intraoperative nerve monitoring, in particular the current intensity or the frequency, and to convert it into a corresponding control signal.

16. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input device (4) and the control device (5) are configured to select at least one parameter from a parameter set, to receive the selected parameter as a user input, and to convert it into a corresponding control signal.

17. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The control device (5) is configured to control at least one device-specific parameter of the surgical handpiece (2) or the surgical device (3) using a control signal, in particular an annotation or a workflow.

18. The input accessory according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a display device (24) is provided, the display device (24) being configured to output a response signal, in particular an optical response signal.

19. The input accessory according to claim 18, characterized in that the display device (24) is configured to display the received response signal, the response signal being based on a stimulus response output by the surgical handpiece (2) and on the user input.

20. The input accessory according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the display device (24) has a display and / or at least one LED for outputting the response signal.

21. The input accessory according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that the display device (24) is configured to display at least one selected parameter, and / or parameter value, and / or parameter range, and / or an optical alarm signal.

22. The input accessory according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that the display device (24) is configured to display parameters of at least one of the surgical handpiece (2), the surgical device (3) and / or a third-party device connected to the input accessory (1).

23. The input accessory according to any one of claims 18 to 22, characterized in that the display device (24) is designed to output a tactile feedback and / or an acoustic response signal.

24. The input accessory according to any one of claims 18 to 23, characterized in that the display device (24) is coupled to the control device (5), and the display device (24) can be controlled by the control device (5).

25. A surgical device (3) comprising a first electrical device interface (10), the first electrical device interface (10) having a first interface (10) and a second interface (11), wherein the first interface (10) is configured to receive a control signal from the input accessory (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24, the input accessory (1) being coupled to the surgical device (3) via the electrical device interface; and wherein the second interface (11) is configured to send a stimulation signal to a surgical handpiece (2) coupled to the surgical device (3) via the electrical device interface (9) based on the received control signal.

26. The surgical device according to claim 25, characterized in that the surgical device (3) is configured as an intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IOM) device.

27. A device for intraoperative use, wherein the device comprises: at least one input accessory (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24; a surgical device (3) according to claim 25 or 26; and at least one surgical handpiece (2).

28. The device according to claim 27, characterized in that The surgical device (3) is electrically connected to the input attachment (1) and the surgical handpiece (2) to send and receive signals, and the surgical handpiece (2) can be mechanically fastened to the input attachment (1) in such a way that the input attachment (1) is fastened to a position of the surgical handpiece (2) corresponding to the receiving area (8) of the input attachment (1).

29. The device according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the surgical handpiece (3) is configured as a monopolar stimulation probe or a bipolar stimulation probe.

30. The device according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the surgical handpiece (3) is configured as a monopolar mapping aspiration device or a bipolar mapping aspiration device.

31. Use of an input attachment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 24 for intraoperative neuro-monitoring (IOM).

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