Surgical handle assembly and surgical instrument having handle assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a surgical handle assembly (6) of a surgical instrument (2) or for a surgical instrument, and to a surgical instrument (2), in particular an electrosurgical instrument (2) of the minimally invasive handle structure type, having a handle assembly (6), the handle assembly (6) has a proximal axial stop (36, 50, 52, 74), which is accommodated axially displaceably on the instrument handle (12) and is axially preloaded in the distal direction, for limiting a proximally directed axial movement of the insulating cover (16) relative to the instrument handle (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a handle assembly for a surgical instrument, particularly an electrosurgical instrument of the minimally invasive handle structure type. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a surgical instrument having such a handle assembly. Background Technology

[0002] (Electro)surgical instruments, particularly those of the minimally invasive type, are known from the prior art. These instruments, especially multi-piece instruments constructed of two movable, pivotable, or scissor-shaped, clamp-shaped, forceps-shaped, or tweezer-shaped tool branches / tool ​​elements, achieve the cutting, grasping, holding, and / or clamping of body tissue in order to coagulate, embrittle, or sever the tissue by applying a high-frequency voltage, either unipolarly or bipolarly. Such instruments are known, for example, from EP 3 033 022 A1.

[0003] Instruments having a surgical handle assembly are also known from DE 10 2010 016 538 A1, the surgical handle assembly having a tubular instrument handle and an insulating cover made of plastic that is movable relative to the handle and surrounds the instrument handle.

[0004] Here, the tool is hinged (or hingeable) at the distal end (away from the surgeon or near the patient) of the instrument or handle assembly, particularly at the instrument handle of the handle assembly, and for manipulation, the tool is coupled to a handle at the proximal end (away from the surgeon or patient) of the instrument or handle assembly via a transmission mechanism, preferably in the form of a pull / push lever arranged inside the instrument handle, particularly longitudinally movable. The handle has actuating elements corresponding to the manipulation of the tool (e.g., in the form of a handle lever / pull-out lever, button, knob, scissor handle), whose (especially manual) manipulation / actuation results in corresponding shifts in the movement of the tool branch in the insertion / use position, such as cutting / grasping / holding / clamping movements and / or rotational / pivoting movements in or on the patient tissue.

[0005] Electrosurgical instruments of this type typically use a so-called pistol handle, which has a rigid / immovable handle housing, particularly in the form of a (transmission mechanism) housing and a fixed handle element. This housing extends from distal to proximal, essentially along the handle axis of the instrument. The handle element extends at an angle / transverse to the distal-proximal direction and is either integrated / directly constructed on the housing at its proximal end section or fixed to it (as a separate, fixedly connected component). A particularly manually operable, preferably finger-guided or finger-guided lever ( / trigger frame / trigger tongue) is pivotally hinged to the handle housing. This lever is held, for example, in a monkey-grip manner by multiple fingers of the surgeon's / operator's hand and can be manually pulled toward the handle housing, particularly the handle element, for manipulation. The pulling / operating motion of the lever / trigger frame is transmitted via a transmission mechanism housed in the (transmission mechanism) housing to a transmission device within the handle of the instrument, which is coupled to or can be coupled to the handle, and thus to the tool or instrument, so as to move / operate the instrument accordingly. Furthermore, a type of switch is preferably installed on the pistol-type handle, by means of which a high-frequency voltage can be applied to the tool.

[0006] At least one of the two tool branches may be equipped with an electrode or electrode array, through which a high-frequency voltage may be optionally introduced into the grasped patient tissue. In this case, there exists a monopolar electrosurgical instrument in which the patient is placed, for example, on a metal plate through which the high-frequency voltage is delivered. Alternatively, however, both opposing tool branches may also be equipped with corresponding electrodes or electrode arrays or be made of conductive material, such that the high-frequency voltage is applied only in the gap between the branches. In this case, there exists a bipolar electrosurgical instrument.

[0007] Electrical connection to or connection to the tool can be achieved via an instrument handle (or a pull / push rod disposed within the instrument handle), particularly constructed of metal, preferably steel, and a high-frequency connector disposed on the proximal end of the handle assembly. To avoid electrical contact between the instrument handle and the patient, the instrument handle is preferably completely radially (electrically insulated) covered (enclosed / surrounded) by an insulating cover ( / tube) on the circumferential side. For this purpose, the insulating cover is particularly constructed of plastic, preferably PEEK.

[0008] In order to enable the (re)use of the handle assembly or instrument, the handle assembly, especially its patient-contact components (such as the insulating cover), and the tools hinged thereto must be sterilized before (each) use. Sterilization can be achieved, in particular, by means of heat, whereby the individual components of the handle assembly expand differently according to their material-related thermal expansion behavior. The handle assembly or instrument is sterilized in its (final) installed state to avoid subsequent contamination due to the installation of the handle assembly. Therefore, a movement clearance must exist between the interconnected, differently expanded components of the handle assembly to allow / realize different expansions and prevent damage to these components. In particular, the instrument handle and the insulating cover housed on the instrument handle expand to different degrees due to their different materials in terms of thermal expansion behavior, thus the insulating cover is arranged axially movable on the instrument handle. However, due to this axially movable arrangement (and because the insulating cover is not forced to retract to its initial position before heating during cooling after sterilization), (axial) sliding of the insulating cover relative to the instrument handle may occur. Here, especially at the distal end of the handle assembly, an axial gap may be created between the instrument handle and the insulating cover, which must be absolutely avoided. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a handle assembly for a surgical instrument or for a surgical instrument, and a surgical instrument having such a handle assembly, said handle assembly being sterilizable and meeting high safety requirements.

[0010] This task is accomplished by surgical instruments having the features of the independent claims, or surgical handle assemblies for surgical instruments, especially electrosurgical instruments, and / or by surgical instruments having the features of the co-claims, especially electrosurgical instruments. Advantageous improvements are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0011] This task is addressed, in particular, by a handle assembly for surgical instruments, especially electrosurgical instruments.

[0012] The tool can be hinged or hinged at the distal end ( / working end) of the handle assembly or instrument, and a handle for operating the tool can be hinged or hinged, especially through the handle assembly, at the proximal end ( / operating end) of the handle assembly or instrument.

[0013] The handle assembly has an instrument handle, particularly made of metal, preferably steel, and an insulating cover (or tube) made of a material different from the instrument handle (regarding thermal expansion behavior), particularly plastic, preferably PEEK. This insulating cover is arranged to be axially movable on the instrument handle and preferably completely covers (encloses / surrounds) the instrument handle on the radially outer side of the electrically insulating side of the instrument handle.

[0014] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the handle assembly includes a proximal axial stop that is axially movably received (or arranged) on the instrument handle and axially preloaded in a distal direction, for limiting the proximal axial movement of the insulating cover relative to the instrument handle. That is, the axial stop (like the insulating cover) is axially movable relative to the instrument handle, and the insulating cover abuts against the axial stop on its proximal side and is therefore limited in its proximal direction in terms of axial displacement (or axial expansion) (via the axial position of the proximal axial stop). Here, a distal preload / axial force acts on the axial stop (and thus on the insulating cover), thereby compressing the axial stop (and thus also the insulating cover) in the distal direction ( / in the direction toward the tool). This closes the axial gap formed by the sliding of the insulating cover.

[0015] In other words, the core of this disclosure is that the proximal axial stop, especially in the case of thermal expansion of the insulating cover or due to such expansion, can move axially against the preload in the proximal direction on the instrument handle so that (then) especially in the case of contraction / retraction of the insulating cover due to cooling and the resulting slippage / uncontrolled displacement, it can move back in the distal direction by preload and thereby move the insulating cover to its original installation position.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a distal axial stop to limit the distal axial movement of the insulating cover relative to the instrument handle. Preferably, the distal axial stop is axially fixedly connected to the instrument handle. This has the advantage that the insulating cover has a defined end stop for movement in the distal direction and therefore cannot move too far, i.e., beyond its initial mounting position, by the axially pre-tightened proximal axial stop.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a disc, preferably annular, with a proximal axial stop, particularly accommodated on the instrument handle. For example, the inner diameter of the (annular) disc may be (slightly) larger than the outer diameter of the instrument handle. Thus, the guided but axially loose receptacle of the proximal axial stop can be structurally very simple to achieve.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a pressure element, particularly in the form of a spring, preferably a coil spring, for axial preload proximal to the axial stop. The pressure element may be arranged axially between the proximal axial stop and a spring stop that is axially fixed to the instrument handle or directly / indirectly constructed on the instrument handle. Thus, axial preload can be applied to the proximal axial stop.

[0019] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the pressure element can be abutted against the disc or directly against the insulating cover. Thus, the pressure element can apply axial preload to the disc, which acts as an axial stop, and therefore indirectly to the insulating cover, which is advantageous in terms of uniform force application. Alternatively, the axial preload can be applied directly to the insulating cover and thus itself (or its axial end face) acts as an axial stop, which is advantageous in terms of reducing the number of components.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a capsule-shaped adapter that is preferably axially fixed to the instrument handle, particularly housed on the instrument handle, and preferably electrically insulated from the outer side of the instrument handle, with a proximal axial stop, particularly a disc and / or pressure element, arranged (radially) inside the adapter. This has the advantage that the proximal ends of the axial stop and therefore the insulating cover are encapsulated and thus do not come into contact with the surrounding environment.

[0021] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the adapter may have a distal (disc) stop, particularly in the form of a radially inwardly extending segment, to limit the distal axial movement of the proximal axial stop (which can be axially displaced), i.e., particularly the disc and / or pressure element. This has the advantage that the proximal axial stop has a defined end stop for movement in the distal direction and therefore cannot move too far in the distal direction by means of the axially preloaded proximal axial stop, but is instead positioned at a predetermined location.

[0022] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the axial position of the distal (disc) stop can be determined based on the thermal expansion behavior of the insulating cover and / or the instrument handle. In particular, the axial position can be determined such that the proximal end of the insulating cover is located within the adapter in the cooled state, or that the insulating cover, in the cooled state, abuts against not only the distal axial stop (especially relative to the instrument handle) but also the proximal axial stop (and for example, no axial gap is generated between the insulating cover and the distal or proximal axial stop in such a way that the proximal stop cannot be pushed sufficiently far in the distal direction due to its distal (disc) stop).

[0023] According to an improved preferred embodiment, the adapter may have a receiving shell with an insertion opening for inserting a proximal axial stop, i.e., particularly a disc and / or pressure element. Here, the insertion opening can be constructed on the proximal or distal side of the adapter. Preferably, the insertion opening may have an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the proximal axial stop, i.e., particularly the outer diameter of the disc and / or pressure element. This ensures that the proximal axial stop can be installed.

[0024] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred embodiment, the adapter may have a cover with a distal stop, constructed particularly separately from the receiving housing, which can be plugged into (or plugged into), and particularly screwed into (or screwed into) the receiving housing from the distal side. The multi-piece construction provides structural advantages in terms of functionality and installability.

[0025] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the distal stop can alternatively be constructed directly / integratedly on the distal side of the receiving housing. That is, the proximal axial stop, i.e., in particular the disc and / or pressure element, is pushed into the receiving housing from the proximal side (through an insertion opening arranged on the proximal side) and (directly / indirectly) abuts against the wall of the receiving housing. This has the advantage that a simple design of the adapter is possible.

[0026] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the adapter may have a distal opening / through-hole whose outer diameter substantially corresponds to the outer diameter of the insulating cover, and the insulating cover and the instrument handle can pass through the distal opening / through-hole. Alternatively, the adapter may have a central opening / through-hole and a second through-hole, the outer diameter of the central opening / through-hole substantially corresponding to the outer diameter of the instrument handle, and the instrument handle can axially pass through the central opening / through-hole, while the insulating cover (for contacting the proximal axial stop) can axially pass through the second through-hole. This ensures the functionality of the proximal axial stop arranged within the adapter.

[0027] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the distal opening can alternatively be constructed (directly / integrally) at the inner diameter / inner circumference of the receiving shell. This has the advantage that the distal side of the receiving shell can be constructed substantially (except for the distal / central opening) integrally closed (or sealed).

[0028] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the adapter may have an axial cover that closes the insertion opening and has a distal / central opening formed on its inner circumference. This has the advantage that the distal side of the receiving shell is substantially closed (except for the distal / central opening), preventing the interior from contacting the environment.

[0029] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the axial cover can be formed by a proximal axial stop, that is, in particular a disc. This allows for functional integration and thus a reduction in the number of components.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have two proximal axial stops (axially movably accommodated on the instrument handle and axially pre-tightened in the distal direction), wherein a first proximal axial stop is used to restrict the axial movement of the insulating cover with a first (smaller, e.g., 5 mm) diameter and a second proximal axial stop is used to restrict the axial movement of the insulating cover with a second (larger, e.g., 10 mm) diameter. This has the advantage that the (same) handle assembly is compatible not only with insulating covers with smaller diameters but also with insulating covers with larger diameters. That is, the handle assembly can be used universally and modularly. In particular, the handle assembly can always be used using only one insulating cover.

[0031] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a first pressure element, in the form of a spring, preferably a helical spring, which is axially preloaded on the proximal side of a first axial stop, and a second pressure element, in the form of a spring, preferably a helical spring, which is axially preloaded on the proximal side of a second axial stop.

[0032] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the first pressure element and the second pressure element can have different spring stiffnesses. Therefore, a preload force adapted to the corresponding axially preloaded movement of the insulating cover can be achieved. Preferably, the spring stiffness of the second pressure element (for a larger insulating cover) can be greater than the spring stiffness of the first pressure element (for a smaller insulating cover).

[0033] According to an improved preferred embodiment, the first pressure element and the second pressure element can be arranged nested radially. This allows for a space-saving arrangement. Preferably, the first pressure element can be arranged radially inside the second pressure element. This has the advantage that, since larger spring stiffness often requires larger pressure elements, the first pressure element can be more easily arranged inside the second pressure element, and vice versa.

[0034] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a preferred annular first disc that forms a first axial stop on the proximal side and a preferred annular second disc that forms a second axial stop on the proximal side.

[0035] According to an improved preferred embodiment, the first and second discs are arranged sequentially, particularly close to each other, in the axial direction. Preferably, the second disc can be arranged near the first disc. This allows for a space-saving arrangement.

[0036] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the axial cover can be formed by a disk arranged proximally, particularly a second disk. In this way, the function of the axial cover can be integrated into the disk arranged proximally.

[0037] According to an improved embodiment of the preferred method, the disk arranged on the far side may have an inner diameter or a through hole (in its annular section), and the insulating cover may axially pass through the inner diameter or through hole with a corresponding diameter to axially abut against the disk arranged on the near side (or to contact the corresponding axial stop on the near side). Thus, although the disks are arranged sequentially, it is ensured that each disk can be contacted by the insulating cover with a corresponding diameter.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle assembly may have a proximal third axial stop for restricting the axial movement of the insulating cover with a third (average, for example, 8 mm in diameter) diameter. According to an improvement, the third pressure element, particularly in the form of a spring, preferably a helical spring, with the axially preloaded proximal third axial stop, may have a different spring stiffness than the first and / or second pressure elements. In particular, the third pressure element may have a greater spring stiffness than the first pressure element and / or a smaller spring stiffness than the first pressure element. According to an improvement, the third pressure element may be arranged radially nested with the first and / or second pressure elements. In particular, the third pressure element may be radially arranged outside the first and / or second pressure elements (or radially arranged between the first and second pressure elements). According to an improvement, the third disc forming the proximal third axial stop may be arranged proximal to the first and / or second discs, axially arranged between the first and second discs, or distal to the first and / or second discs. In particular, the third disc may be axially arranged between the first and second discs.

[0039] The task of this disclosure is also achieved by a surgical instrument having the aforementioned handle assembly, particularly an electrosurgical instrument of the minimally invasive handle structure type. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 A perspective view of the apparatus according to this disclosure is shown;

[0041] Figure 2 A perspective view of the distal portion of the instrument is shown.

[0042] Figure 3 An enlarged stereoscopic view of the proximal portion of the instrument is shown.

[0043] Figures 4 to 11 The structure or housing of the insulating cover of the instrument is shown;

[0044] Figure 12 A longitudinal sectional view of the handle of the instrument is shown;

[0045] Figure 13 and 14 A longitudinal sectional view showing the handle in the fully open or closed position (or in the manipulated and unmanipulated position) of the instrument.

[0046] Figure 15 and 16 This demonstrates the overload protection function of the device;

[0047] Figure 17 A longitudinal sectional view of the handle of the device in the loading position is shown;

[0048] Figure 18 A longitudinal sectional view showing the distal end region of the instrument; and

[0049] Figure 19 A cross-sectional view is shown in the area of ​​the disassembly button on the instrument. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Figure 1 A perspective view of the surgical instrument 2 according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 2 and 3 Enlarged perspective views of the distal or proximal portion of instrument 2 are shown respectively. Instrument 2 is particularly configured as an electrosurgical instrument and is intended for use in minimally invasive surgery or endoscopy, particularly laparoscopy. Instrument 2 is particularly configured as a minimally invasive handle-type instrument 2.

[0051] Instrument 2 has a tool 4 disposed distally, a handle assembly 6 disposed proximal to the tool 4, and a handle 8 disposed proximal to both the tool 4 and the handle assembly 6. That is, the tool 4 can be coupled or coupled to the distal end (working end) of the handle assembly 6, and the proximal end (operating end) of the handle assembly 6 can be coupled / coupled or coupled / coupled to the handle 8 distally. Here, proximal and distal are defined with reference to the surgeon (operator / user) of instrument 2.

[0052] The instrument 2 has a tool 4 (distally arranged). The tool 4 is constructed in a multi-piece manner and may be constructed, for example, from two scissor-shaped, clamp-shaped, pliers-shaped, or tweezer-shaped tool branches ( / elements) 10 that are movable relative to each other / relative to each other, and especially pivotable relative to each other. When manipulating the tool 4, the tool branches 10 pivot relative to each other, thereby opening or closing the tool branches. The tool 4 or tool branches 10 can be used to cut, grasp, hold, and / or clamp body tissue. The tool branches 10 are particularly rotatably hinged to the handle assembly 6 about a tool pivot axis, such that at least one tool branch 10, preferably two tool branches 10, can pivot relative to the handle assembly 6 and therefore also relative to the corresponding other tool branch 10. The tool pivot axis is oriented particularly laterally or perpendicularly to the distal-proximal direction. The distal-proximal direction corresponds particularly to the longitudinal axis of the handle assembly 6 (hereinafter referred to only as the handle axis). The tool 4 is rotatably coupled to the handle assembly 6, particularly about its longitudinal axis, so that the tool 4 can rotate (integrally) with the handle assembly 6. Tool 4 is made of metal, preferably steel.

[0053] Instrument 2 or handle assembly 6 has an instrument handle (or tube handle) 12, the longitudinal axis of which corresponds particularly to the handle axis. The instrument handle 12 is preferably translatably fixed and, more preferably, rotatably received about the handle axis. Tool 4 can be coupled to the instrument handle 12 such that rotation of the instrument handle 12 (about the handle axis) causes (forces / acts) rotation of tool 4 (about the handle axis). In particular, tool 4 and instrument handle 12 can preferably be directly connected to each other without relative rotation about the handle axis. The instrument handle 12 is particularly made of metal, preferably steel.

[0054] The instrument 2 or handle assembly 6 has a transmission mechanism, preferably a pull / push rod 14 supported (received / arranged) inside the instrument handle 12, whose longitudinal axis (rod axis) corresponds particularly to the handle axis or substantially to the distal-proximal direction. The transmission mechanism (pull / push rod 14) can be translated, preferably axially / longitudinally movable, i.e., translatably movable along the handle axis and preferably rotatably fixed. The tool 4 can be coupled to the transmission mechanism (pull / push rod 14) such that translational movement (along the handle axis), especially longitudinal movement, causes (forces / acts) the manipulation of the tool 4, especially the pivoting movement (or opening and closing) of the tool branch 10 (about the tool pivot axis). In particular, the tool 4 and the pull / push rod 14 can preferably be interconnected via a coupling mechanism. In other words, the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod in the distal / push direction causes (forces / acts) the tool 4 or tool branch 10 to open (or close) and causes (forces / acts) the tool 4 or tool branch 10 to close (or open) in the proximal / pull direction. The pull / push rod 14 is made of metal, preferably steel.

[0055] The instrument 2 or handle assembly 6 has an insulating cover 16, particularly arranged on the instrument handle 12, the longitudinal axis of which corresponds particularly to the handle axis. The insulating cover 16 can be axially / longitudinally movable / movable, i.e., translationally movable along the handle axis, and preferably (freely) rotatably accommodated, particularly relative to the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14. The insulating cover 16 is constructed as hollow, preferably tubular, and is used for (radial) electrical insulation of the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14, particularly between the distal and proximal end regions of the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14. The insulating cover 16 is constructed of a different material than the instrument handle 12, particularly of a plastic material, preferably of PEEK. The construction or accommodation of the insulating cover 16 is described in more detail below.

[0056] The instrument 2 or handle assembly 6 has a cover 18, preferably annular in cross-section, particularly arranged on the instrument handle 12. The instrument handle 12, pull / push rod 14, and / or insulating cover 16 can axially pass through the (central) opening of the cover 18. The cover 18 can be accommodated, particularly relative to the instrument handle 12, in a translationally fixed and preferably rotatably fixed manner. The cover 18 serves as an axial stop for the handle assembly 6 on the handle 8.

[0057] The instrument 2 has a handle 8 (arranged proximally). The handle 8 is constructed, in particular, in the form of a pistol handle. The handle 8 has a transmission mechanism housing 20, which extends, in particular, from the distal to the proximal direction, that is, along the distal-proximal direction or substantially parallel to / along the handle axis.

[0058] Furthermore, the handle 8 has a fixed handle element 21. The handle element 21 extends at an angle to the distal-proximal direction, i.e., it extends laterally in the distal-proximal direction. The handle element 21 can be fixed to the proximal end section of the transmission mechanism housing 20 or can be constructed on the transmission mechanism housing 20, i.e., integrated with the transmission mechanism housing 20. In particular, the transmission mechanism housing 20 and the handle element 21 are fixedly connected to each other.

[0059] Furthermore, the handle 8 has a control lever 22 hinged to the transmission housing 20, particularly guided or capable of being guided by fingers. The control lever 22 is particularly manually operable and has an actuating position for applying a control force (by the surgeon). The control lever 22 may have a preferably closed or substantially annular ring for accommodating the surgeon's finger (preferably not the thumb), which forms the actuating force position. The control lever 22 may be pivotally accommodated. The control lever 22 is particularly rotatably hinged to the transmission housing 20 about a control lever pivot axis, thereby enabling the control lever 22 to pivot relative to the transmission housing 20, i.e., toward or away from the handle element 21. The control lever pivot axis is particularly transverse to or perpendicular to the handle axis, i.e., in a distal-proximal direction. By manually operating the control lever 22, i.e., by applying a control force at the actuating force position, particularly on the ring, a pivoting movement of the control lever 22 is caused (forced / actuated) (relative to the transmission housing 20). The pivoting movement of the lever 22 toward the handle element 21 (which is actuated, for example, by closing the surgeon's hand / compressing the lever 22 and the handle element 21) is hereinafter referred to only as pivoting / pivoting movement in the direction of manipulation or manipulation of the lever 22. The pivoting movement of the lever 22 away from the handle element 21 (which is actuated, for example, by opening the surgeon's hand / pushing the lever 22 and the handle element 21 away from each other) is hereinafter referred only as pivoting / pivoting movement in the direction of reset or reset of the lever 22.

[0060] The instrument 2 or handle 8 has a transmission mechanism 24 that converts the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 (actuated by manual operation) into the translational motion of the transmission device, particularly the longitudinal motion of the pull / push rod 14. This means that the transmission mechanism 24 couples the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 with the longitudinal motion of the pull / push rod 14 (and thus indirectly with the operation of the tool 4 or the opening and closing of the tool branch 10). In other words, the operation of the operating lever 22 actuates the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14 in the pushing direction (or pulling direction), and the resetting of the operating lever 22 actuates the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14 in the pulling direction (or pushing direction), which in turn causes the operation (or opening or closing) of the tool 4. The transmission mechanism 24 is preferably arranged mostly or completely inside the transmission mechanism housing 20 or covered outwards from the transmission mechanism housing 20. The construction of the transmission mechanism 24 will be described in more detail below.

[0061] The instrument 2 or handle 8 has a rotating star 26, particularly arranged at the distal end of the handle 8, whose longitudinal axis (or star axis) corresponds particularly to the handle axis. The rotating star 26 can be preferably translated and fixed relative to the transmission housing 20 and preferably rotatably oriented about the handle axis. The instrument handle 12, pull / push rod 14, and / or insulating cover 16 axially pass through or can pass through the (central) opening of the rotating star 26. The rotating star 26 can be coupled or coupled to the instrument handle 12 such that rotation of the rotating star 26 (about the handle axis) causes (forces / acts) rotation of the instrument handle 12 (about the handle axis), which in turn causes rotation of the tool 4. In particular, the rotating star 26 and the instrument handle 12 can preferably be connected to each other directly or via a member (fixedly) connected to the instrument handle 12 in a way that resists relative rotation about the handle axis.

[0062] The instrument 2 or handle 8 has a release button 28 that, when operated (or pressed), detaches the handle assembly 6 and the handle 8, that is, the handle assembly 6 can be decoupled from the handle 8. The construction of the release button 28 will be described in more detail below.

[0063] Instrument 2 or handle 8 has a high-frequency connector, particularly an HF pin 30, through which a high-frequency voltage can be applied to tool 4, particularly tool branch 10. The HF pin 30 can be housed, particularly relative to the transmission housing 20, preferably translationally fixed and preferably rotatably fixed. The HF pin 30 can contact or be introduced into the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14 to transmit the high-frequency voltage to tool 4 through the material of the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14. The HF pin 30 can be configured as a bipolar or unipolar HF pin.

[0064] The handle 8 has a locking mechanism 32, which can fix the pivot position of the operating lever 22 in a predetermined locking position. The locking mechanism 32 can be composed of a locking bow-shaped member (fixedly) mounted on the handle element 21 and a locking member (fixedly) mounted on the operating lever 22.

[0065] The handle 8 has a button 34, which can be used to trigger the application of a high-frequency voltage to the tool 4. Alternatively, the button 34 can be used to unlock the locking mechanism 32.

[0066] Construction or containment reference for insulating cover 16 Figures 4 to 11 describe. Figure 4 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the accommodating portion near the insulating cover 16 according to the first embodiment is shown. Figure 5 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the accommodating portion near the insulating cover 16 according to the second embodiment is shown. Figure 6 and Figure 7 An exploded view of the various portions of the proximal receiving portion of the insulating cover 16 according to the second embodiment is shown. Figure 8 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the accommodating portion near the insulating cover 16 according to the third embodiment is shown. Figures 9 to 11 Different embodiments of the distal section of the insulating cover 16 and the distal receiving portion of the insulating cover 16 are shown.

[0067] As described above, the insulating cover 16 is axially movable ( / free-floating) accommodated on the instrument handle 12. A proximal axial stop 36 is constructed on the instrument 2 to limit the proximal axial movement of the insulating cover 16 (in the direction toward the handle 8).

[0068] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the proximal axial stop 36 is axially movably received / arranged on the instrument handle 12. Here, the proximal axial stop 36 is axially pre-tightened distally / in the distal direction. That is, the proximal axial stop 36 applies a distal axial force to the insulating cover 16 or the proximal axial stop 36 is pressed distally / in the distal direction by axial pre-tightening.

[0069] In the cooled state, the insulating cover 16 is in its installed position and axially abuts against the proximal axial stop 36. Due to heating, such as during the sterilization of the instrument 2 and / or the handle assembly 6, the insulating cover 16 and the instrument handle 12 expand to different degrees due to their different coefficients of thermal expansion, causing the insulating cover 16 to slide axially on the instrument handle 12. The proximal axial stop 36 is displaced in the proximal direction by the expansion of the insulating cover 16, thereby increasing the axial preload on the proximal axial stop 36. When the insulating cover 16 cools down and contracts again, the insulating cover 16 is pushed back into its installed position by the axial preload of the proximal axial stop 36.

[0070] Figure 4A first embodiment of the construction of the proximal receiving portion of the insulating cover 16 is shown. The proximal axial stop 36 is preferably constructed on an annular disc 38, particularly received on the instrument handle 12 (e.g., inserted / placed on the outer periphery of the instrument handle 12). Axial preload of the proximal axial stop 36 is preferably achieved by an axial preload pressure element, particularly arranged on the instrument handle 12, preferably a spring 40 in the form of a coil spring. The spring 40 may preferably rest directly against the disc 38. Alternatively, the spring 40 may preferably rest directly against the insulating cover 16, such that the axial end face of the spring 40 forms the proximal axial stop 36. The proximal axial stop 36 (i.e., the disc 38 and / or the spring 40) may preferably be arranged inside a capsule-shaped adapter 42, particularly received on the instrument handle 12. The adapter 42 may be used for (radially) electrical insulation of the instrument handle 12 and / or the pull / push rod 14 from the outside. The adapter 42 is preferably axially fixedly connected to the instrument handle 12.

[0071] The adapter 42 preferably has a distal stop 44 to limit the distal axial movement (towards the tool 4) of the axially movable proximal axial stop 36 (i.e., disc 38 and / or spring 40). Here, the axial position of the distal stop 44 can preferably be determined based on the thermal expansion behavior of the insulating cover 16 and / or the instrument handle 12. In particular, the axial position can be determined such that the insulating cover 16, in a cooled state, axially abuts against the proximal axial stop 36 (and the distal axial stop 80 described later) (i.e., the insulating cover 16 does not retract distally due to its thermal expansion behavior more than the proximal axial stop 36 is pushed distally by the distal stop 44). The distal stop 44 can be particularly constructed on a radially inwardly extending section of the adapter 42 (particularly extending further inward beyond the outer periphery of the proximal axial stop 36 / disc 38).

[0072] The adapter 42 preferably has a receiving housing 46 with an insertion opening for (axially) inserting / pushing / penetrating the proximal axial stop 36, particularly the disc 38, and / or the spring 40. The insertion opening is particularly capable of having a larger outer diameter than the proximal axial stop 36, particularly than the disc 38, and / or the spring 40. The insertion opening is preferably constructed on the proximal side of the adapter 42. The receiving housing 46 can preferably have the distal stop 44 constructed directly / integratedly.

[0073] The adapter 42 may preferably have a distal opening 48, which is substantially the same size as (or slightly larger than) the outer diameter of the insulating cover 16 to ensure the axial mobility of the insulating cover 16, through which the insulating cover 16 (as well as the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14) is axially guided or can be guided through the distal opening. The distal opening 48 may be (directly / integratedly) constructed at the inner circumference (diameter) of the receiving housing 46.

[0074] Figures 5 to 7 A second embodiment of the construction of the proximal receiving portion of the insulating cover 16 is shown. The proximal receiving portion according to the second embodiment can be used for insulating covers (two) of different diameters. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is particularly that there are two proximal axial stops 36. The first proximal axial stop 50 is used to restrict the axial movement of the insulating cover 16 having a first (smaller) diameter, while the second proximal axial stop 52 is used to restrict the axial movement of the insulating cover 16 having a second (larger) diameter, wherein the first proximal axial stop 50 and the second proximal axial stop 52 are each structurally substantially corresponding to the proximal axial stop 36 of the first embodiment.

[0075] The proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52 are preferably constructed on an annular first disc 54 or second disc 56, particularly accommodated on the instrument handle 12 (e.g., inserted / placed on the outer periphery of the instrument handle 12). Axial preload of the proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52 is preferably achieved by an axial preload pressure element, particularly arranged on the instrument handle 12, preferably a first spring 58 or a second spring 60 in the form of a helical spring. The first or second spring 58, 60 may preferably rest directly against the first or second disc 54, 56, respectively. Alternatively, the first or second spring 58, 60 preferably rests directly against the first or second insulating cover 16, such that the axial end faces of the first or second spring 58, 60 respectively form the proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52.

[0076] In particular, only the first or second insulating cover 16 is always inserted in the proximal receiving section. Figure 6 An exploded view (viewed from left to right) of an insulating cover 16 is shown, which has a first (smaller) diameter, a second disc 56 (forming a second axial stop 52 on the proximal side), a second spring 60, a first disc 54, and a first spring 58. Figure 7 An exploded view (viewed from left to right) of an insulating cover 16 is shown, which has a second (larger) diameter, a second disc 56 (forming a second axial stop 52 on the proximal side), a second spring 60, a first disc 54, and a first spring 58.

[0077] Preferably, the first spring 58 and the second spring 60 can have different spring stiffnesses. In particular, the second spring 60 can have a greater spring stiffness than the first spring.

[0078] Preferably, the first spring 58 and the second spring 60 can be arranged to be radially nested / embedded in each other. In particular, the first spring 58 can be radially arranged within the second spring 60.

[0079] Preferably, the first disc 54 and the second disc 56 can be axially abutted against each other. In particular, the first disc 54 can be arranged near the second disc 56.

[0080] Preferably, the first disc 54 and the second disc 56 can have different inner diameters. In particular, the discs 54 and 56 arranged distally (here, the second disc 56) can have a larger inner diameter than the discs 54 and 56 arranged proximally (here, the first disc 54), so that the corresponding insulating cover 16 can axially pass through the discs 54 and 56 arranged distally (here, the second disc 56) to axially abut against the discs 54 and 56 arranged proximally (here, the first disc 54). Alternatively, the discs 54 and 56 arranged distally can have through holes through which the corresponding insulating cover 16 can axially abut against the discs 54 and 56 arranged proximally.

[0081] The first or second axial stops 50, 52 on the proximal side (that is, the first or second discs 54, 56 and / or the first or second springs 58, 60) can preferably be arranged inside a capsule-shaped adapter 62, particularly housed on the instrument handle 12. The adapter 62 can be used to electrically insulate the instrument handle 12 and / or the pull / push rod 14 (radially) on the outside. The adapter 62 can preferably be axially fixedly connected to the instrument handle 12.

[0082] The adapter 62 may preferably have a distal stop 64 to limit the distal axial movement (towards the tool 4) of the axially movable proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52. Here, the axial position of the distal stop 64 may preferably be determined based on the thermal expansion behavior of the insulating cover 16 and / or the instrument handle 12. In particular, the axial position may be determined such that the insulating cover 16, in a cooled state, axially abuts against the proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52 (and the distal axial stop 80 described later) (i.e., the insulating cover 16 does not retract distally due to its thermal expansion behavior more than the proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52 are pushed distally due to the distal stop 64). The distal stop 64 may be particularly constructed on a radially inwardly extending section of the adapter 62 (particularly extending further inward beyond the outer periphery of the proximal first or second axial stops 50, 52).

[0083] The adapter 62 may preferably have a receiving housing 66 with an insertion opening for (axially) inserting ( / push-in / inserting) a proximal first or second axial stop 50, 52, particularly a first or second disc 54, 56 and / or a first or second spring 58, 60. The insertion opening may have a larger outer diameter than the proximal first or second axial stop 50, 52, particularly than the first or second disc 54, 56 and / or the first or second spring 58, 60. The insertion opening may preferably be constructed on the distal side of the adapter 62.

[0084] The adapter 62 may preferably have a distal opening 68, the outer diameter of which is substantially larger than (or slightly larger than) the outer diameter of the insulating cover 16 to ensure the axial mobility of the insulating cover 16, through which the insulating cover 16 (and the instrument handle 12 and / or pull / push rod 14) is axially guided or can be guided through the distal opening. Alternatively, when the insulating cover 16 passes through the through-hole to contact the distally arranged discs 54, 56, here the first disc 54, the distal opening 68 may be substantially the same size as the outer diameter of the instrument handle 12.

[0085] The adapter 62 has a cover 70 preferably constructed separately from the receiving housing 66, which can be inserted into, and in particular screwed onto, the receiving housing 66 from the distal side. The cover 70 may preferably have a distal stop 64 constructed directly / integratedly. The adapter 62 may preferably have an axial cover 72 that closes the insertion opening on the receiving housing 66 and has a distal opening 68 constructed (directly / integratedly) on its inner circumference ( / diameter). The axial cover 72 may preferably be formed of a first disc 54 or a second disc 56, particularly of discs 54 and 56 arranged proximally, in this case, the second disc 56. Alternatively, when the insulating cover 16 passes through a through-hole in the cover 70 to contact the distally arranged discs 54 and 56, in this case, the first disc 54, the distal opening 68 may be constructed (directly / integratedly) on the inner circumference ( / diameter) of the cover 70.

[0086] Figure 8 A third embodiment of the proximal receiving portion of the insulating cover 16 is shown. The proximal receiving portion according to the third embodiment can be used for (three) insulating covers 16 of different diameters. The structure of the proximal receiving portion according to the third embodiment is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment. Furthermore, a proximal third axial stop 74 is provided, which is formed by a third disc 76 and is axially preloaded in the distal direction by a third spring 78. The three discs 54, 56, and 76 are axially abutting each other. The three springs 58, 60, and 78 are arranged radially nested.

[0087] Figures 9 to 11 Different embodiments of the distal section of the insulating cover 16 and the distal receiving portion of the insulating cover 16 are shown.

[0088] A distal axial stop 80 is constructed on the instrument 2, particularly on the instrument handle 12 (or the component connected to it in an anti-translational manner), to limit the distal axial movement of the insulating cover 16 (in the direction toward the tool 4). The distal axial stop 80 can be axially fixedly received relative to the instrument handle 12, particularly axially fixedly connected to or constructed on the instrument handle 12. Figure 9 The middle insulating cover 16 abuts against the distal axial stop 80 with a first (smaller) diameter. Figure 10The middle insulating cover 16 tapers from the second (larger) diameter to the first (smaller) diameter at its distal end, and... Figure 11 The middle insulating cover 16 abuts against the axial stop on the far side with the second (larger) diameter.

[0089] Figure 12 A longitudinal sectional view of the handle 8 is shown, which provides a more detailed explanation of the construction of the transmission mechanism 24. As described above, the transmission mechanism 24 is configured to convert the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 into the translational motion of the transmission device, particularly the longitudinal motion of the pull / push rod 14. This means that the transmission mechanism 24 couples the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 (actuated by manual operation) with the longitudinal motion of the pull / push rod 14 (and thus (indirectly) with the operation of the tool 4 or the pivoting motion of the tool branch 10).

[0090] Here, the pivot axis of the control lever (around which the control lever 22 is rotatably hinged to the transmission housing 20) is arranged, in particular, between the translation axis of the translational movement of the transmission device, especially the handle axis (that is, the longitudinal axis of the instrument handle 12 or the pull / push rod 14) and the proximal end region of the control lever 22 (that is, the position where the control force is applied). In other words, the pivot axis of the control lever (when the instrument 2 is used in the vertical direction) is located below the handle axis.

[0091] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the transmission mechanism 24 is configured such that the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 toward the handle element 21 is converted into a translational motion of the transmission device 14 in the proximal direction. That is, the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 toward the handle element 21 (operation of the operating lever 22) is converted into a longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14 toward the proximal direction (pulling motion of the pull / push rod 14).

[0092] The transmission mechanism 24 is particularly of a two-piece or multi-piece construction. Preferably, the transmission mechanism 24 forms a force transmission path (from the operating lever 22 to the transmission device (pull / push rod 14)).

[0093] The force transmission path has a first rotating element ( / adjusting lever) 82. The first rotating element 82 is effectively engaged with the operating lever 22. That is, the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 is coupled to the rotation of the first rotating element 82. The first rotating element 82 is rotatably hinged to the transmission housing 20 about a first axis of rotation. The first axis of rotation is particularly transverse to or perpendicular to the handle axis. The first rotating element 82 is constructed particularly separately from the operating lever 22, but alternatively it can also be constructed on the operating lever (that is, on a section of the operating lever 22), although this is not shown.

[0094] The force transmission path has a second rotating element ( / accommodating element / closing element) 84. The second rotating element 84 is effectively engaged, preferably meshed, with the first rotating element 82 when their rotation directions are reversed. That is, the rotation of the first rotating element 82 is coupled to the rotation of the second rotating element 84, and the first rotating element 82 and the second rotating element 84 rotate in different directions. The second rotating element 84 is rotatably hinged to the transmission housing 20 about a second rotation axis. The second rotation axis is particularly transverse to or perpendicular to the handle axis. The second rotation axis is preferably offset parallel to the first rotation axis. The second rotating element 84 preferably has a coupling section 86 for the transmission device ( / pull / push rod 14). The coupling section 86 is effectively engaged with or can enter into effective engagement with the transmission device ( / pull / push rod 14). That is, the rotation of the second rotating element 84 is coupled or can be coupled to the translational movement of the transmission device, particularly the longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14, through the coupling section 86.

[0095] For this purpose, the first rotating member 82 and the second rotating member 84 can have teeth that mesh with each other. The teeth can be configured, for example, as involute teeth. Through meshing, the first rotating member 82 and the second rotating member 84 rotate in different directions of rotation. This causes the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 in the operating direction to cause the pull / push rod 14 to move longitudinally in the pull direction, and the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 in the reset direction to cause (force / actuate) the pull / push rod 14 to move longitudinally in the push direction.

[0096] Preferably, the handle 12, in the coupled state, can be used as a stop for the pivoting movement of the lever 22, that is, as a pivoting limiter for the lever 22, or as a rotation limiter for the first rotating member 82 and the second rotating member 84, or as a translational limiter for the transmission mechanism, especially as a longitudinal limiter for the pull / push rod 14. In other words, the lever 22 can pivot (only) within a pivoting region preferably defined on both sides, or the first rotating member 82 and the second rotating member 84 can pivot (only) within a rotational region preferably defined on both sides, or the transmission mechanism (pull / push rod 14) can move longitudinally within a translational region (longitudinal region / working area) preferably defined on both sides, that is, it has a maximum stroke of longitudinal movement. Through the coupling between the transmission device (pull / push rod 14) and the transmission mechanism 24 (especially the second rotating member 82), the force transmission within the transmission mechanism 24 (especially the second rotating member 82 and the first rotating member 82), and the coupling between the transmission mechanism 24 (especially the first rotating member 82) and the operating lever 22, the stop on the instrument handle 12 can be used for all coupled (or couplerable) movements.

[0097] Figure 13 and 14The end position of the translation area / working area of ​​the transmission device is shown, in which tool 4 is fully open or closed.

[0098] Preferably, the transmission mechanism 24 can have a 1:1 transmission ratio. In particular, the teeth of the first rotating member 82 and the second rotating member 84 can be arranged on the same diameter. Alternatively, the teeth of the first rotating member 82 and the second rotating member 84 can be arranged on different diameters to achieve deceleration or acceleration, although not shown.

[0099] Preferably, the teeth of the first rotating member 82 and / or the second rotating member 84 may be constructed (only) in circumferential sections, that is, not on the entire circumference. Here, the number of teeth of the first rotating member 82 and / or the second rotating member 84, i.e., the size of the circumferential section construction, is preferably determined based on the limited longitudinal region of the maximum stroke / pull / push rod 14 of the longitudinal movement. The first rotating member 82 and / or the second rotating member 84 may in particular have two to five teeth, preferably two, three, or four teeth. Alternatively, the teeth of the first rotating member 82 and / or the second rotating member 84 may be constructed on the entire circumference, although this is not shown.

[0100] Preferably, the coupling section 86 of the second rotating member 84 can be configured as an axially recessed recess 88 into which the transmission device (pull / push rod 14) is axially recessed or can be fitted, so as to couple the rotation of the second rotating member 84 with the translational motion (or the longitudinal motion of the pull / push rod 14). For this purpose, the pull / push rod 14 may have a radially thickened portion (enlarged relative to the axially adjacent region) on its proximal end (end region), particularly in the form of a spherical pressure member 90, which is axially recessed into the recess 88 of the second rotating member 84.

[0101] Preferably, the transmission mechanism 24 may have a guide spindle 92 (rotatably) hinged to the second rotating member 84. The guide spindle 92 is rotatably hinged to the second rotating member 84, particularly about a spindle rotation axis, so that the second rotating member 84 and the guide spindle 92 can twist relative to each other. The spindle rotation axis is particularly transverse to or perpendicular to the handle axis. Preferably, the spindle rotation axis may be offset parallel to the second rotation axis (and / or the first rotation axis). The guide spindle 92 is longitudinally guided, that is, movably housed in the transmission mechanism housing 20 (only) along its longitudinal axis. Here, the longitudinal axis of the guide spindle 92 may be offset parallel to the handle axis. Preferably, the guide spindle 92 is spring-preloaded in the transmission mechanism housing 20 by a spring 94. Preferably, the spring preload of the guide spindle 92 reacts to the pivoting movement (i.e., manipulation) of the operating lever 22 toward the handle element 21.

[0102] Preferably, the handle 8 may have an outer handle 96 and an inner handle 98 fixedly connected to the outer handle 96, for example, by screwing. Preferably, the inner handle 98 may be covered externally by the outer handle 96. In particular, the second rotating member 84 may be rotatably hinged to the inner handle 98. In particular, the guide spindle 92 may be rotatably hinged to the inner handle 98. Furthermore, the guide spindle 92 may be longitudinally guided and received in a recess 100 in the inner handle 98.

[0103] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the transmission mechanism 24 has a first rotating member 82, particularly (rotatably) hinged to the transmission mechanism housing 20, and an elastic overload protection element 102 (see also see) that couples the pivoting motion of the operating lever 22 with the rotation of the first rotating member 82. Figure 15 and 16 In other words, the overload protection element 102 is arranged in the force flow / force transmission path between the operating lever 22 and the first rotating member 82. The overload protection element 102 can be constructed in particular as a spring element, preferably as a helical spring.

[0104] Preferably, the operating lever 22 and the first rotating member 82 are pivotable or rotatably hinged to the transmission mechanism housing 20 about the same axis. That is, the pivot axis of the operating lever preferably corresponds to the first rotation axis.

[0105] Preferably, the operating lever 22 may have a recess 104 in which the overload protection element 102 is housed. In particular, the overload protection element 102 may be completely arranged inside the recess 104. That is, the overload protection element 102 is preferably covered outward by the operating lever 22.

[0106] The overload protection element 102 is preferably loosely accommodated in the recess 104, that is, it is not fixedly connected to the operating lever 22 and / or the first rotating member 82. The overload protection element 102 is particularly longitudinally guided, that is, it is movably, elastically compressible, or bendably accommodated in the recess 104 (only) along its longitudinal axis.

[0107] As described above, the control lever 22 can be actuated in the control direction (that is, in the direction from the control lever 22 toward the handle element 21) for example by closing the surgeon's hand / squeezing the control lever 22 and the handle element 21, and in the reset direction (that is, in the direction from the control lever 22 away from the handle element 21) for example by opening the surgeon's hand / pushing the control lever 22 and the handle element 21 apart, i.e., manipulated and reset.

[0108] Here, the overload protection element 102 is preferably arranged such that it acts (only / solely) in the actuation direction (not in the reset direction). That is, the overload protection element 102 only limits / buffers the pivoting movement of the operating lever 22 relative to the handle element 21 / protects the pivoting movement from overload. In particular, the actuation transmission surface 106 and the reset transmission surface 108 of the operating lever 22 can be constructed separately from each other, that is, constructed on different surfaces. That is, the operating lever 22 and the first rotating member 82 are not fixedly connected to each other, the force transmission when operating the operating lever 22 is carried out through the actuation transmission surface 106 coupled to the first rotating member 82 via the overload protection element 102, and the force transmission when the operating lever 22 is reset is carried out (directly) through the reset transmission surface 108 coupled to the first rotating member 82.

[0109] Furthermore, the overload protection element 102 is preferably arranged and sized such that the initial force transmission (in the sense of operation, i.e., from the pivoting motion in the unoperated position of the operating lever 22) has a substantially linear transmission characteristic through the overload protection element 102 between the operating lever 22 and the first rotating member 82. That is, the coupling through the overload protection element 102 is to some extent rigid / inelastic during the initial force transmission, especially during force transmission in the "normal" working area (and in the absence of resistance on the tool 4).

[0110] In particular, the overload protection element 102 is preferably arranged and sized such that the overload protection element is only compressed from the operating force greater than 200 N, preferably greater than 300 N, applied by the operating lever 22 (but at most from the operating force of 1000 N applied by the operating lever 22).

[0111] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the instrument handle 12 can be coupled or coupled to the handle 8 and, in the coupled state, serves as a stop for the pivoting movement of the operating lever 22 (and the component coupled thereto in the force transmission path). That is, in the coupled state, the instrument handle 12 serves as a pivot opening limiter for the operating lever 22, and as a translation limiter for the transmission mechanism or a longitudinal limiter for the pull / push rod 14, and thus as a stroke limiter for the tool 4. In other words, in the decoupled state, the stop function for the pivoting movement of the operating lever 22 and the translation limiter for the transmission mechanism or the longitudinal limiter for the pull / push rod 14 are eliminated, and thus the stroke limiter for the tool 4 is eliminated, so that the movablely guided or hinged components of the force transmission path of the transmission mechanism 24 or the instrument 2 can move freely (with respect to their degrees of freedom / the movement possible due to their respective supports / accommodations or installations).

[0112] Here, the instrument handle 12 can be used as a stop, making the decoupling of the transmission device ( / pull / push rod 14) from the transmission mechanism 24 possible only when the instrument handle 12 is decoupled from the handle 8, since the stop function of the instrument handle is eliminated. This means that when the instrument handle 12 is coupled to the handle 8, the decoupling of the transmission device ( / pull / push rod 14) from the transmission mechanism 24 is prevented due to the stop function of the instrument handle.

[0113] As described above, the stop formed by the handle 12 can preferably be configured as an axial stop that limits the translational movement of the transmission device ( / longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14) particularly on both sides.

[0114] For example, the stop can be formed such that the transmission device (pull / push rod 14) has a bolt 110, which is received in a groove 112 on the instrument handle 12, such that when the bolt 110 abuts against the edge of the groove (in the direction of the groove edge), further translational movement is prevented (see...). Figure 18 Preferably, the stop can be constructed on the distal end region of the instrument handle 12.

[0115] Preferably, the transmission mechanism 24 may have a second rotating member 84 effectively connected to the operating lever 22, the rotation of which may be coupled or coupled to the translational movement of the transmission device ( / longitudinal movement of the pull / push rod 14) via a (first) axial form-locking connection. The first axial form-locking connection is constructed in particular by an axially recessed recess 88 in the second rotating member 84, in which the spherical pressure member 90 of the transmission device, in particular the pull / push rod 14 (in the coupled state of the instrument handle 12 and therefore the pull / push rod 14), is axially recessed into the recess.

[0116] Preferably, the transmission device ( / pull rod 14) can be translated to such an extent, especially longitudinally, in the decoupled state of the instrument handle 12, and (due to the coupling between the transmission device and the second rotating member 84 or transmission mechanism 24) in particular the second rotating member 84 can rotate to such an extent in the decoupled state of the instrument handle 12 that the axial form-locking connection between the transmission device and the second rotating member 84 is releasable. This position of the second rotating member 84 is also referred to below as the dismounted position of the second rotating member 84 or the loading position of the instrument 2 (see especially...). Figure 17 In particular, the transmission mechanism (pull / push rod 14) (together with the instrument handle 12 or the entire handle assembly 6) can be pulled in the distal direction (outward from the handle 8).

[0117] Furthermore, the second rotating member 84 can be spring-preloaded and housed in the handle 8, particularly the transmission mechanism housing 20. Here, the spring preload of the second rotating member 84 can press it into a disengaged position, in which the first axial form-locking connection between the transmission device (pull / push rod 14) and the second rotating member 84 is detachable. The spring preload can be achieved, in particular, by preloading the spring 94 of the guide spindle 92. The disengaged position can correspond to the unoperated, overstretched position of the operating lever 22, that is, to a position in which the operating lever 22 is positioned further away from the handle element 21 than in the unoperated position.

[0118] In particular, the instrument handle 12 can be axially fixedly coupled to the handle 8 in the coupled state and can be axially movable relative to the handle 8 in the decoupled state. That is to say, the coupling between the instrument handle 12 and the handle 8 is particularly in relation to an axially fixed connection.

[0119] As described above, the instrument 2 or handle 8 preferably has a disengagement button 28, which, when operated (or pressed), disengages the handle assembly 6 / instrument handle 12 and the handle 8; that is, the handle assembly 6 / instrument handle 12 is decoupled from the handle 8. The disengagement button 28 is particularly manually operable. By operating the disengagement button 28, the instrument handle 12 can be axially decoupled from the handle 8. In other words, the disengagement button 28 can prevent axial movement of the instrument handle 12 relative to the handle 8. In other words, when the disengagement button 28 is operated, the instrument handle 12 and the handle can move freely axially relative to each other and are axially connected or already connected when the disengagement button 28 is not operated.

[0120] Preferably, the release button 28 may have a (longitudinal) movably accommodated closing slide 114 in the handle 8, the longitudinal axis of which corresponds particularly to the radial direction of the instrument handle 12. That is, the closing slide 114 may move laterally or perpendicular to the handle axis. The closing slide 114 may preferably be coupled or coupled to the instrument handle 12 via a second axial shape-locking connection. Here, the second axial shape-locking connection is preferably disengaged by (longitudinal) movement of the release button 28 (relative to the handle 8).

[0121] In particular, the closing slider 114 can be spring-preloaded and accommodated in the handle. Here, the (second) axial shape-locking connection is preferably reversible from the spring preload of the closing slider 114. That is, the spring preload of the spring 116 presses the closing slider 114 into the unoperated position or into the engagement with the axial shape-locking mechanism handle 12.

[0122] For example, the second axial shape-locking connection can be formed by an elongated groove 118 constructed in the closing slider 114. The instrument handle 12 (when the release button 28 is actuated) disengages from the axial shape-locking engagement with this groove and can therefore pass axially through the groove 118 and (when the release button 28 is not actuated) is in the axial shape-locking engagement and therefore cannot move axially relative to the groove 118 (and therefore relative to the handle 8). For this purpose, the instrument handle 12 preferably has a radial groove 120 (e.g., surrounding the circumferential side), the end region / groove edge of the groove 118 engages in the radial groove in the unacted position of the release button 28 (and thereby prevents axial movement of the instrument handle 12 (in the direction of passing through the groove)) and in the actuated position of the release button 28 ( / longitudinal movement position) is accommodated in the central region / groove center of the groove 118 (see Figure 19 ).

Claims

1. A surgical handle assembly (6) for a surgical instrument (2), particularly an electrosurgical instrument (2) of a minimally invasive handle structure type, wherein a tool (4) is coupled or may be coupled at the distal end of the surgical handle assembly, and a handle (8) for manipulating the tool (4), particularly a pistol-type handle, is coupled at the proximal end of the surgical handle assembly, the surgical handle assembly having - Especially the handle of the instrument, preferably made of metal or steel (12); and - An insulating cover (16) constructed of a different material from the instrument handle (12), particularly plastic, preferably PEEK, the insulating cover being axially movably arranged on the instrument handle (12) and completely covering the instrument handle (12) radially outside the electrical insulation of the instrument handle (12), preferably on the circumferential side. Its features A axially movably accommodated on the instrument handle (12) and axially pre-tightened in the distal direction of the proximal axial stop (36, 50, 52, 74) is provided to limit the proximal axial movement of the insulating cover (16) relative to the instrument handle (12).

2. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 1, characterized in that... Preferably, an annular disc (38, 54, 56, 76) forms the proximal axial stop (36, 50, 52, 74).

3. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that... The pressure element (40, 58, 60, 78) in particular in the form of a spring, preferably a helical spring, is used to axially preload the axial stops (36, 50, 52, 74) on the proximal side. The pressure element is preferably attached to the disc (38, 54, 56, 76) or directly to the insulating cover (16).

4. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pressure elements (40, 58, 60, 78) are attached to the discs (38, 54, 56, 76).

5. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pressure element is directly attached to the insulating cover (16).

6. The handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that... A capsule-shaped adapter (42, 62) preferably axially fixed to the instrument handle (12), and particularly accommodated on the instrument handle (12), wherein the proximal axial stops (36, 50, 52, 74) are arranged inside the adapter.

7. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The adapters (42, 62) have distal stops (44, 64) in the form of particularly radially inwardly extending segments to limit the distal axial movement of the proximal axial stops (36, 50, 52, 74).

8. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The axial position of the distal stops (44, 64) is determined based on the thermal expansion behavior of the insulating cover (16) and / or the instrument handle (12).

9. The handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The adapter (42, 62) has a receiving shell (46, 68) with an insertion opening for inserting the axial stop (36, 50, 52, 74) on the proximal side.

10. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The insertion opening is constructed on the proximal side of the adapter (42).

11. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The insertion opening is constructed on the distal side of the adapter (62).

12. The handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The adapter (62) has a cover (70) that can be inserted from the distal side into, and in particular screwed into, the receiving housing (68) to construct the distal stop (64).

13. The handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that, The distal stop (44) is integrated on the distal side of the receiving shell (46).

14. The handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that Two proximal axial stops (50, 52), wherein the first proximal axial stop (50) is used to restrict the axial movement of the insulating cover (16) having a first diameter and the second proximal axial stop (52) is used to restrict the axial movement of the insulating cover (16) having a second diameter.

15. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 14, characterized in that... A first pressure element (58) for axially pre-tightening the first proximal axial stop (50) and a second pressure element (60) for axially pre-tightening the second proximal axial stop (52).

16. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first pressure element (58) and the second pressure element (60) have different spring stiffnesses.

17. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The first pressure element (58) and the second pressure element (60) are arranged in a radially nested manner.

18. The handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that... A first disc (54) for constructing the first proximal axial stop (50) and a second disc (56) for constructing the second proximal axial stop (52).

19. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first disk (54) and the second disk (56) are arranged sequentially and closely together in the axial direction.

20. The handle assembly (6) according to claim 19, characterized in that, The disk (56) arranged on the far side has an inner diameter or a through hole through which the insulating cover (16) can axially pass to abut against the disk (54) arranged on the near side.

21. A surgical instrument (2), particularly a minimally invasive handle-structure type electrosurgical instrument (2), having a handle assembly (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

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